If you’re using flat-faced patch panels or network switches that cable from above or below, horizontal cable management is essential to complete the pathway for patch cords between the cabling section and the connection points on your equipment. This solution not only organizes cables within the rack but can also be used to create efficient rack-to-rack pathways.
Selecting the right style of horizontal cable management depends on the overall design of your system. The goal is to complement your existing vertical cable management system, ensuring optimal capacity and organization.
Key Considerations for Horizontal Cable Management
As a best practice, plan for 1U of horizontal cable management for every 2U of connectivity, with cable fill reaching at least 50% of the port capacity. This ensures you leave room for growth and easy access to cables for maintenance or future expansions.
Here are a few factors to keep in mind when selecting the right solution:
- Airflow and Cooling: Ensure the cable management system does not impede airflow, as restricted airflow can cause overheating and potential system failures.
- Cable Capacity: Plan for sufficient space to accommodate the cables you need now and in the future. It’s ideal to plan for around 50% of the maximum fill value to leave room for expansion.
- Ease of Access: Choose a system that allows for quick access to cables for maintenance and reconfigurations without disturbing the overall setup.
- Flexibility: Your cable manager should be adaptable to various environments, whether you need to route cables between racks or connect them to equipment within a confined space.
CPI Horizontal Managers at a Glance
At Chatsworth Products (CPI), we provide reliable and efficient cable management solutions tailored to meet the demands of today’s dynamic IT environments. From data centers to telecom rooms and enterprise IT spaces, our goal is to help businesses keep their infrastructure organized, secure, and future-ready.
Our horizontal cable managers are designed to improve airflow, enhance accessibility, and protect valuable equipment. With features like T-shaped cable guides for organizing patch cords and snap-on covers for a clean installation finish.
Designed to work with Evolution Cable Management g1, g2, and g3 vertical systems. Features a snap-on cover, top and bottom cable openings, and three rear openings for patch cords, enabling efficient front-to-rear cable management. Available in 1U, 2U, and 3U heights in single-sided versions.
Compatible with Velocity Cable Management vertical systems, this model also features a snap-on cover and top and bottom cable openings for patch cords. It offers front-to-rear cable management through two rear openings and is available in 1U, 2U, and 3U heights in single-sided versions.
Fiber-friendly option that features include a snap-on door that swings up or down for easy cable access. Available in both solid chassis and versions with cable pass-through ports for efficient front-to-rear cable routing. Available in 1U, 2U, 3U, and 4U heights with options for black or white plastic fingers.
Designed for use with CCS and MCS vertical cabling sections, this manager includes top and bottom cable openings for patch cords and allows for front-to-rear cable routing through a rear opening. Available in 1U, 2U, and 3U heights, including deeper versions for double-sided MCS vertical sections.
Perfect for use with VCS vertical cabling sections, this open ring-style manager offers a 1.5” (38 mm) standoff from the rack, includes cable spools for controlled cable exit, and is available in 1U and 2U heights.
Small ring-style managers attach to a flush rack-mount panel with a compact 1.5”D (38 mm) profile, ideal for use within cabinets and enclosures. Available in 1U and 2U heights in single-sided versions.
This 6”D (150 mm) manager attaches to a flush rack-mount panel, suitable for use above or below large network switches with vertical modules. Available in 2U height in single-sided versions.
Open trays that help create rack-to-rack pathways for patch cords, or are used below switches or fiber patch panels to catch patch or jumper cords. Available in 3” or 6” depths (80 mm or 150 mm) in 2U height, single-sided versions.
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