When we talk about Optical Distribution Frame VS Patch Panel, It seems they are quite different. The truth is that Optical Distribution Frame (short for ODF) often also called as fiber optic patch panel which is designed for fiber optic communications center room to develop fiber optic wiring devices, cable fixing and protection features fiber optic cable end of contract function, line control function, fiber optic cable core, and fiber optic pigtail protection function. In simple terms, fiber optic patch panel’s function is to terminate the fiber optic cable and provide access to the cable’s individual fibers for cross connection.
The difference is sometimes fiber optic patch panel is part of Optical Distribution Frame, It can be categorized by its adapters types for different patch cords or pigtails. They are as below:
SC fiber optic patch panel
LC fiber optic patch panel
FC fiber optic patch panel
ST fiber optic patch panel
E2000 fiber optic patch panel
They can be also categorized by its capacity. The most common types fiber optic patch panel are as below:
6 ports fiber optic patch panel
8 ports fiber optic patch panel
blank fiber optic patch panel
A basic Optical Distribution Frame is typically made up of a metal frame that encloses the adapter panels, the connector coupler and a splice tray. The fiber optic cables connect to the panels through the coupler. One side of Optical Distribution Frame is usually fixed, meaning the cables aren’t disconnected at any point. The other side of the panel is reserved for cables that can be connected and disconnected to arrange the wire circuits as needed. The splice tray allows cables to be neatly arranged in the Optical Distribution Frame.
ODFs are commonly use fiber optic management unit. When you install and manage the fiber optic links, you may encounter hundreds or even thousands of fiber optic cables and cable connections. There are two types of Optical Distribution Frame: wall-mounted and rack-mounted. Wall mount fiber optic patch panel use the inside fiber optic adapters and patch cables, fiber optic pigtails to realize the function of optical fiber distribution. They are also used for protective connections for the fiber cables and pigtails. Wall mount fiber patch panels are mainly used in fiber optic cabling and user terminal applications. Rack mount fiber optic patch panels are used to terminate and distribute optical fiber cables, they are convenient equipment to organize and connect the fiber optic links. Except this, Fiber optic patch cable also can be divided into different types according to different connectors, such as MTRJ patch panel, ST fiber patch panel, SC fiber patch panel, LC fiber patch panel… or can be divided to 6, 8, 12, 24, 48, 96 port fiber optic patch panel.
Not all fiber network cables use the same type of cables or connectors, so fiber optic panels usually have several adapter types to accommodate for this. If the fiber optic panel doesn’t provide the type of adapter, one will have to be added between the adapter on the panel and the cable with the different adapter type. This can be done using either a conversion cable or a hybrid adapter. A conversion cable is simply a cable with the two different types of adapters on either end, and the hybrid adapter is one piece that connects directly to the panel. Fiber optic panels usually have several adapter types built in, and higher-end panels often have the majority of the hybrid adapters already installed.
Finally, if you still have some problems about it or you want to have a test about this product, Please feel free to contact us by fiberfibre.com/contact
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