C318 VP360 Connecting Hardware Design Guide Sep 11

SYSTIMAX® Solutions
VisiPatch® 360 Connecting Hardware

Design Guide
www.commscope.com
Contents
Contents
Contents 2
Overview 3
Product Overview 4
VisiPatch 360 System Components 5
Accessories for the VisiPatch 360 Range 8
VP360 Termination Tools 9
Code Requirements & Power Separation 10
Sizing Fields 11
Administration and Labeling 12
Design Guidelines 13
Determining a Mounting Configuration 15
Cable Routing and Design 16
Cable/Cord Length for GigaSPEED X10D & GigaSPEED XL 17
Cable/Cord Length for GigaSPEED Xpress 18
Cord and Cable Guidelines GigaSPEED X10D 19
Work Area & Data Center Channel Models 20
Arranging the Patching Field Cross-connect Design with Horizontal Fields 25
Arranging the Patching Field Cross Connect Design with Vertical Fields 29
Use of Micro Cable Managers 32
Rackmount Interconnect Configurations 33
Zone Cabling and Consolidation Points 34
Repair Replace or Add Cables to Wiring Blocks 35
Testing VP360 with the Fluke DTX 1800 36
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Overview
This document covers the design, installation and wall field planning of the SYSTIMAX
VisiPatch® 360 (VP360) System. It details the components and offers “best working practices”
to provide solutions to ensure easy administration of the patching field.
The VP360 system can be utilized as part of the GigaSPEED® Xpress, GigaSPEED XL or
GigaSPEED X10D cabling solutions. Each of these solutions, when combined with the
appropriate channel components will provide a SYSTIMAX cabling system that meets the
requirements of the CommScope 20 year warranty.
Components for the GigaSPEED X10D solution may include:
• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 System

• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED X10D MGS600 Information Outlets
• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 Patch Cords
• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED X10D 91B Series Cable
Components for the GigaSPEED XL solution may include:

• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED XL MGS400 Information Outlets
• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 Patch Cords
• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED XL Series Cable
Components for the GigaSPEED Xpress solution may include:

• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED X10D MGS600 Information Outlets
• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 GSXP Patch Cords
• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED Xpress 88 Series Cable
Additional information for design purposes can be found in the following documents:
• SYSTIMAX Structured Connectivity Solutions Performance Specifications

• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED X10D Solution Design & Installation Guidelines
• SYSTIMAX PowerSUM & GigaSPEED XL Cabling Installation Guidelines
• SYSTIMAX GigaSPEED Xpress Solution Guide Design Guidelines
• Instruction Sheet 860 387 108 - VisiPatch 360 Wall Mounted Panel System
• Telecommunications cabling and associated standards published by organizations such as
the American National Standards Institute and Telecommunications Industry Association (e.g.,
TIA-568-C, TIA-569-B, TIA-942), International Standardization Organization/International
Electrotechnical Commission (e.g., ISO/IEC 11801, ISO/IEC FDIS 24764), and Comite
European de Normalisation Electrotechnique (CENELEC; e.g.EN 50173 and EN 50174
series).
• National and local codes such as the National Electrical Code (NEC) in the US, or
equivalent documents
• BICSI Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual
• This information as well as support software and Application guides for system- and vendor-
specific practices (e.g. SYSTIMAX 1000BASE-T Application Guide) can be found by visiting
the CommScope web site at www.commscope.com.
www.commscope.com 3
Product Overview
VisiPatch 360 System Components

The SYSTIMAX VP360 system is a generation of patching systems that seamlessly incorporates
patching and integrated cable management to deliver an ergonomically designed and
aesthetically pleasing solution that saves time, space and money.
VP360 utilizes a unique reverse patching technology that allows the patch cord to be projected
away from the user and into the patching field. This design improves cord management by
reducing the “spaghetti” cord clutter associated with poorly installed RJ45 systems and makes
reading the labeling information easy, facilitating future moves, adds and changes.
Patch Cord: Front of Connector Patch Cord: Rear of Connector
Labeling
area
Contacts to
Release mate with
tab connecting
block
Both port density and usable density are increased in VP360. The system is designed to
maximize usable density by minimizing cable and cord congestion. One of the most important
parts of planning the installation of the VP360 is to ensure the patching fields are carefully
designed from the beginning. A plan should be carefully drawn up by the designer to ensure
the cable entries are well positioned and cables routed correctly and efficiently into the back
frames. This should account for the sequence of system installation and application patching,
preventing interference and overflow in cable and cord spaces.
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VisiPatch 360 System
Components
The six key components that make up the VP360 are carefully designed to work together to
create a simple and custom installation. This modular nature of the system also means future
expansion is easy and cost-effective.
Component 1: Back Panel

The back panel is made of structural foam and serves as the framework for the system.
The back panels are ergonomically designed to simplify installation as well as future expansion.
• Two sizes are available: either 7.12 in (18.19 cm) height which will hold 4 wiring blocks or
21 in (53.34 cm) to hold 12 wiring blocks. Both types can be stacked together to create a
seamless back frame.
• When ordered as part of the vertical cable management solution, a spacer is included to
increase the width of the back panel
• Designed to accommodate all SYSTIMAX cable
• Space between the wiring blocks equals to 1U (1RMU)
• Top and bottom guides allow for quick easy stacking
Component 2: Wiring Block

Several key features are provided for performance and ease-of-use.
• Accommodates up to eight 4-pair ports per wiring block for high density
• Eight port count to match server/switch configuration
• Open back and channel guides for easy cable management
• One-touch finger releases for simple detaching and re-latching of the wiring block
• Quarter-turn cam fasteners provide an alternative method for detaching the wiring block
• One-piece cover for quick, easy installation
• Label holder on front edge
Component 3: Connecting Block

The VP360 connecting block has been developed to provide a small footprint allowing for
a high density of cables per wiring block.
• Offset IDC and parasitic rings for improved electrical performance

• Aligning pin for accurate and easy installation
• Color coded to ensure correct pair order
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Component 4: Patch Cords
Designed with ergonomics and appearance in mind, the patch cords offer easy access to
plug ends.
• Compact, ergonomically designed plug is easy to grab and patch

• GigaSPEED X10D, GigaSPEED XL, and GigaSPEED Xpress versions
• VP360 – VP360 cords
• VP360 – Plug cords
• VP360 – Unterminated
• VP360 – VisiPatch cords
• 4-pair and 1-pair patch cords available
• Integrated anti-snag design for frustration free installation and moves adds and changes post
installation
• Labeling area makes future MACs much simpler
• Accommodates data, analog, digital and power circuits
Component 5: Vertical & Horizontal Cable Management

The innovative cable management system fully integrates robust vertical and horizontal spaces
to increase ease-of-use.
• Vertical cable management uses the same back panel as the wiring blocks with an
additional spacer module, providing 11.8 in depth and 10 in width for efficient cord /
cable management
• Macro cable/cord retainers are part of the cable management kit and help retain cables /
cords in the vertical cable trough
• Horizontal cable managers provide support and routing for horizontal cables / cords in the
patch field and are available in 19 in, 27 in, 29 in and 37 in kits
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Component 6: Vertical Trough Cover
The vertical cable management is concealed by a brushed aluminum door.
• Double-hinged doors allow for convenient right or left opening without removal or awkward
handle rotation
• Door can be easily removed by lifting both handles
• Ergonomic, sleek and fully-integrated polished handles minimize snagging on clothing or
cables
• Available in 12U to accommodate wall-mount applications
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Accessories for the
VisiPatch 360 Range
Side Panels
Side panels are used at the end of the rows and provide a trim panel to the wall-mounted
panels. They secure to the end panel by locking into the cut-outs on the side of the back panel
and can also be secured to the wall using conventional fixings. The side panels are reversible
and can be used at either end of the panels.
Micro Cable / Cord Retainers and Managers

Cord retainers are an essential part of the control of the cabling inside the vertical cable
manager. The micro cable managers are plastic straps that fit in the back of the vertical
management and hold the cables in position providing better routing. More details on using
these are provided in the “Use of Micro Managers” at the end of this document.
Rack Mount Brackets

Rack mount brackets are available for 19” Cabinets or Racks to allow the mounting of the
VP360 back frames. They are fitted with dual sets of hooks allowing the back panels to lock-on
and are designed to be used at either the top or the bottom of the cabinet or in the middle
where two back-frames would join together.
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VP360 Termination Tools
VP360 One-Pair Impact Tool Bit

The VP360 One-Pair Impact Tool blade is required to terminate the VP360 wiring block. It fits
the standard 110 Impact tool and seats and trims off the scrap ends of the two wires of a
conductor pair wires concurrently.
NOTE: The standard 110 Impact tool blade cannot be used as it will damage the
wiring block.
VP360 4-Pair Tool Bit

The 4-pair tool bit shown below fits in the 788 tool and when used provides termination of the
wiring blocks, seating and cutting off the scrap ends of 4-pairs concurrently.
NOTE: The 4-Pair Tool Bit should not be used to install the VP360 4-pair blocks is it can
damage the block.
VP360 Head
The VP360 head must be used in the 788 tool to seat the 4-pair connecting blocks into the
wiring block. The VP360 head does not provide any cutting facility and is purely a shaped
locating block ensuring the 4-pair blocks are securely located.
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Code Requirements &
Power Separation
Power Separation
Refer to the SYSTIMAX Power Separation Guidelines for SYSTIMAX Installations. The ANSI/
TIA-942 Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard for Data Centers and addenda has Data
Center guidelines that should also be considered. Also refer to TIA-568–C for general cabling
guidelines.
Always check with applicable codes and standards, and consult with authorities having
jurisdiction before submitting final designs. Applicable local or national safety regulations take
precedence whenever their required separation distances are larger or other requirements
conflict with those specified in this document. For example:
• In the UK, BS 6701 and BS 7671

• In the USA, NEC
• In Europe, EN 50174-2
• In Australia & New Zealand AS/ACIF S009:2006
Bonding and Grounding

Always check with applicable codes and standards, and consult with authorities having
jurisdiction before submitting final designs. Applicable local or national safety regulations take
precedence whenever their requirements conflict with those specified in this document.
The proper bonding and grounding of the telecommunications cabling, pathways, equipment,
and connecting hardware is critical to achieve optimal cabling performance, reduce
electromagnetic interference (EMI), protect equipment, and maintain safety for building
occupants and maintenance personnel. Refer to the ANSI-J-STD-607-B, ISO/IEC 60364
or AS/ACIF S009:2006 for accepted industry practices. Requirements for grounding and
bonding include:
• A ground reference for telecommunications and equipment within the telecommunications

entrance facility (EF), telecommunications rooms (TR), and equipment rooms (ER), and at all
equipment locations and racks within a computer room.
• Bonding and connecting cable pathways, cabling, and connecting hardware at the TRs,
ERs, and EF. Ground and bond backbone cables at both ends.
The telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure also has interconnectivity

to other building grounding systems (e.g., electrical, water piping, lightning protection)
and is also bonded to the metal framework of a building. The primary components of a
telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure include:
• Telecommunications Main Grounding Busbar (TMGB) - located at the telecommunications

• EF and connected to the electrical EF or building grounding electrode system.
• Telecommunications Bonding Backbone (TBB) - ties TMGB to TGBs (typically No. 6 AWG).
• Telecommunications Grounding Busbar (TGB) - located in the TRs and EFs and is also
connected to the metal framework of a building.
• Grounding Equalizers (GE)- tie multiple TBBs together.
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Sizing Fields
The VP360 cross-connect system has wiring blocks that can accommodate 8 four pair
cables (32 prs) that fit into the 12 slot (12U) back panels. This means each back panel can
accommodate 96 four pair cables or 384 prs. The back panels are also stacked together three
high, to support 288 four pair cables or 1152 pair connections.
See “Determining a Mounting Configuration” below for building up large back frame
configurations from multiple back panels and vertical managers.
The 4-pair connecting blocks can be used for 1 or 4-pair modularity as required. Where
VP360 is used for voice applications using multi-pair 25-pair cables, one 25-pair cable is
terminated per wiring block, leaving 7 unused pairs on the right hand side of the block. This
method of terminating multi-pair cables makes it easier to manage, as panels of 25 equate to
one binder or one multi-pair each.
Administration and Labeling
VisiPatch 360 Labeling and Administration

The VP360 wiring blocks have clear label holders on the front. These are designed to allow
each administration area to be identified primarily by the color of the label and then secondly
the detail to the outlet. Cabling administration and labeling is an important cabling element
that allows for easy maintenance and management of the telecommunications cabling
system. Product labeling Word templates for SYSTIMAX panels are available by visiting the
mycommscope part of the website at www.commscope.com.
An online label set creation tool can also aid in filling out label templates. This will allow
automatic generation of labeling sequences for SYSTIMAX cables, connecting hardware and
faceplates. Label sheets for these products include 8-1/2 x 11 inch or A4 format.
Color-coded labels for termination fields can be implemented as follows:
Table 2: Color Coding of Connecting Hardware Fields

Please note the color codes shown here are the recommended ones for use in identifying
the different areas on the patch field. The colors refer to the labeling design and not to
patch cord colors which can be to any customer combination.
Cabling Element Color Code

Backbone Riser White
Backbone Riser Tie cables Gray
Backbone Campus Brown
Horizontal Blue
Equipment Purple
Network Interface (Cust Side) Green
Network Interface (CO Side) Orange
Auxiliary Circuits Yellow
Key Telephone Systems Red
Cables should also be identified at both ends with labels suitable for wrapping. The labels
should be made of a durable material such as vinyl, use a white printing surface, and wrap
around the cable so that a clear label end self-laminates the printed area. If a cabling element
contains mixed categories of cabling, such as the horizontal, they should be identified by
enhanced color-coding (i.e., white stripes on blue label to differentiate higher performance
cabling) or suitable markings. Refer to the TIA-606-B Administration Standard for the
Telecommunications Infrastructure of Commercial Buildings for proper administration and
labeling practices.
Design Guidelines
The following design guidelines are used to determine the number of wiring blocks required for
each wall field color present in the Telecommunications Room (TR)
Blue - Horizontal Subsystem

The Horizontal Subsystem consists of 4-pair cables running between a work area and the
Equipment Room (ER) or TR. Each cable represents a TO attached to the work area end of the
cable. Eight 4-pair cables representing eight TO’s can be terminated on one wiring block.
The table below shows the TO capacities.
Qty of 4- Cables Qty Wiring Blocks 4U Back Frames 12U Back Frames
8 1 1 1
96 12 3 1
192 24 6 2
288 36 9 3
The Blue field always requires 4-pair modularity so you will need as many outlet jacks as you
have 4-pair wires terminated.
White - Backbone/Riser Subsystem

For Backbone/Riser cables, the wall field sizing is based on providing the number of blocks/
back panels required to terminate all of the pairs contained in the selected cable size. If
terminating 4-pair cables refer back to the Blue subsystem table. For multi-pair cables, it is
recommended that one VP360 wiring block is used per 25-pair binder group. This calculates
as 12 25-pair binder groups per back frame or 36 to a single wall field vertical column.
Grey - Tie Backbone Cables

For tie cables, sizing the field is based on selecting the number of blocks/back panels required
to terminate all of the pairs contained in the selected cable size. If terminating 4-pair cables
refer back to the Blue subsystem table. For multi-pair cables, it is recommended that one VP360
wiring block is used per 25 pair binder group. This calculates as 12 25-pair binder groups per
back frame or 36 to a single wall field vertical column.
CommScope recommends the same block/back-panel sizing for tie cables as was used with
the backbone/riser cables.
Purple - Common Equipment Circuits

For common equipment circuits terminated on VP360 hardware, wall field sizing is based on
two factors, the quantity of circuits and pairs per circuit (Circuit Modularity)
Pairs-per-Circuit (Circuit Modularity) Max. Circuits-per-Wiring Block

1-pair 32
4-pair 8
25-pair 1
Purple label inserts should be used for the required circuit modularity.
Brown - Campus Cables
For campus cables, sizing the field is based on selecting the number of blocks/back panels
required to terminate all of the pairs contained in the selected cable size.
Depending on the application being transmitted through the cable, circuit modularity for
campus cables ranges from 1-pair to 4-pair.
CommScope recommends the same block/back panels sizing for tie cables as was used with
the backbone/riser cables.
Yellow - Auxiliary Circuits

Not commonly found or used.
Determining a Mounting
Configuration
Once the quantities of cables have been ascertained, the number of wiring blocks and back
panels can be calculated. Into this calculation, spare capacity also needs to be considered.
This plan should include a rough draft ensuring all areas can be patched together as required
using the shortest possible patch leads but also allowing flexibility. The VP360 system allows for
many different designs and combinations of back panels and management.
18.5“ (470 mm) 27“ (686 mm)
4U Horizontal 4U 4U Horizontal
Panel Cord Manager Kit Panel Panel Cord Manager Kit
VP360-HCM-KIT-19 VP360-HCM-KIT-27
VTK VTK
12U 12U 12U
VP360 Side Panel
Panel Panel
Panel Kit
6’-5“ VTK VTK

(1.95 m) VTK = Vertical Trough Kit
Typical 12U 12U 12U
for all Panel Panel Panel
Installation of the VP360 Side
Configurations
Panel Kit is highly recommended
Shown
on all configurations where a
VTK will be on the outside edge.
Each kit includes 3 panels.
VTK VTK
12U 12U 12U
Panel Panel Panel
Horizontal Horizontal
4U 4U 4U
Cord Manager Kit Cord Manager Kit
Panel Panel Panel
19-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration 27-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration

(Use with XL Cordage Only)
28.5“ (724 mm) 37“ (940 mm)
VTK VTK VTK VTK

12U 12U 12U
Panel Panel Panel
VTK VTK VTK VTK
VP360 12U VP360 Side VP360 12U 12U VP360 Side

Side Panel Panel Kit Side Panel Panel Panel Kit
Panel Panel
Kit Kit
VTK VTK VTK VTK

12U 12U 12U
Panel Panel Panel
29-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration 37-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration
Each of the configurations above is different but all have horizontal management at the top and
bottom of the columns. The flexibility of the VP360 system also allows horizontal management
between each 12U back panel. The height shown above includes only top and bottom
Horizontal Manager Kits. It is important to work out how the patching will take place between
the fields in order to account for fill and achieve a neat and flexible system.
VP360 is designed to maximize usable density by minimizing cable and cord congestion.
The following guidelines outline the proper routing of patch cables within the VP360 system.
These will optimize the system’s ability to support a high volume of cordage and ease the
administration of the circuits.
Cable Routing and Design
The VP360 system is a high density cabling administration system. Running cables through the
back panels for distribution to the wiring blocks requires a high level of design together with the
cables can feed in practical issues of containment available on the site.
from top of column
Each 12U of back panel can accommodate 96 4-pair cables. That means for each vertical
row, if all the cables come in at the same position there will at one point need to be 288
cables in the back panel.
4U
Panel Cables can be run in from either the top or the bottom of the back frame, or both if containment
allows. To make termination of the wiring blocks easier, the cables should be run loose inside
the back frame and manually spaced out to provide minimum compression of the cables.
VTK
12U
Panel
All Cables Entering From the Same End
For full height back frames with all cables from a single end, the cables should be placed so
the long runs to the opposite end are in the back, and layered with shorter runs in front.
VTK
With top entering cables, the bottom wiring block should have the cables run in first then in
12U order all the way up to the top of the back panel. When terminating the panels it must be done
Panel
in this order too, until the top wiring block is complete. With bottom entering cables, the top
wiring block should have the cables run in first then in order all the way down to the bottom of
the back frame. Again termination should be done from the bottom upwards
VTK
12U Cables Entering From Both Ends
Panel
If coming in from both directions, cables coming into the back frame from the top will typically
serve the top back panels, and the cables coming in from the bottom, the lower back panels.
4U In this way, congestion is easily avoided.
Panel
cables can feed

in from bottom of
column
Underneath Cabling Overhead Cabling
Cable/Cord Length for
GigaSPEED X10D & GigaSPEED XL
Channel guidelines call for no more than 90 meters of 71 or 91Series cable and 10 meters
of GigaSPEED VisiPatch® 360 cord/cordage length. However, site guidelines may alter
this, provided the site guidelines are effectively documented and followed. Often, additional
cordage length is called for, with a corresponding decrease in cable distance.
Total Cord Length in meters ≤ (102-Horizontal)/1.2

Horizontal Length in meters ≤ 102 – 1.2 (Total Cord Length)
Table 3: ALTERNATE MAXIMUM LENGTHS FOR CABLE AND CORDAGE

Maximum Length of Horizontal Cable Maximum Combined Length
of all Cordage and Cords
90 m (295 ft) 10 m (33 ft)
85 m (279 ft) 14 m (46 ft)
80 m (262 ft) 18.3 m (60 ft)
75 m (246 ft) 22.5 m (74 ft)
70 m (230 ft) 26.7 m (87 ft)
Cable/Cord Length for
GigaSPEED Xpress
The GigaSPEED Xpress Solution supports 10GBASE-T operation over channel length
up to 60 meters. Design and installation guidelines call for no more than 50 meters of
1088B/2088B/3088B cable and 10 meters of GSXP cord/cordage length. However, site
guidelines may alter this, provided the site guidelines are effectively documented and followed.
Often, additional cordage length is called for, with a corresponding decrease in cable
distance.
There is no “15 meter” rule or minimum length requirements on cable or cords.

Cords can be ordered to any length required VP360 to VP360 or hybrid VP360 to plug.
There are several motivations for such a tradeoff. Cordage to a Consolidation Point is a
coordinated design replacement for cable. Additional length of Work Area Cords for Multi-
User Telecom Outlet Assemblies requires the same coordination. Data Center Cords might
need additional cord length to span large Equipment Distribution Areas. These changes are
coordinated so that strict attenuation limits are preserved. The following formula and table,
adopted from The TIA-568-C series standards may be used to determine alternate maximum
cordage lengths useable with reduced cable length. These may be applied to any of the
configurations outlined within this document.
Total Cord Length in Meters = (62 – Horizontal) / 1.2

Horizontal Length in Meters ≤ 62 – 1.2 (Total Cord Length)
Table 4. Alternate maximum lengths for cable and cordage

Maximum Length of Horizontal Cable Maximum Combined Length of all Cordage and
Cords
50 m (164 ft) 10 m (33 ft)
45 m (148 ft) 14 m (46 ft)
40 m (131 ft) 18 m (59 ft)
35 m (115 ft) 23 m (75 ft)
30 m (98 ft) 27 m (89 ft)
Cord and Cable Guidelines
GigaSPEED X10D
Table 5 and 5a provide the minimum length and configuration guidelines for the GigaSPEED
X10D Solutions that are applicable to the work area and data center channel models shown in
Figures 1 to 10.
Table 5: VP360 GigaSPEED Channel Configurations with

Minimum Cord and Cable Lengths
Channel 2-Connection 3-Connection 3-Connection 4-Connection
Configurations Model (Figure 1) Model (Figure 2) Model (Figure 3) Model (Figure 4)
Equipment Cord 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB)
3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR)
Cross-connect Not Applicable 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) Not Applicable 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB)
Cord 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR)
Horizontal Cable 15 m (NR)
CP Cord Not Applicable Not Applicable 5 m (RB) 5 m (RB)
Work Area Cord 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB)
3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR)
Table 5a: VP360 GigaSPEED Data Center Channel Models –

Minimum length and Configuration Guidelines
Channel 2-Connection 3-Connection 3-Connection 4-Connection 4-Connection
Configurations Model Model Model Model Model
(Figure 6) (Figure 7) (Figure 8) (Figure 9) (Figure 10)
Equipment Cord 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB)
3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR)
Cross-connect Not Applicable 2 m (RB) Not Applicable 2 m (RB) 2 m (RB)
Cord 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR)
Horizontal Cable 15 m (NR)
CP Cord Not Applicable Not Applicable 5 m (RB) 5 m (RB) Not Applicable
Remote 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 2 m (6.6 ft) (RB) 3 m (9.7 ft) (RB)
Equipment
Cord 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 3 m (9.7 ft) (NR) 4 m (13.1 ft) (NR)
Notes:
• NR: No Restriction, i.e. cables or cords may be neatly combed and laced in a bundle or
routed independently. See “Bundling and Alien Crosstalk.”
• RB: Restricted from bundling, or routed separately, i.e. cables must not be bundled in a
combed arrangement as allowed with NR. This is typical of cross-connect cords where cords
have random connections, and of office cords that are routed separately.
Work Area & Data Center
Channel Models
There are several different channel models that cover both work area and data center design. In the
TIA-568-C Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard and ISO/IEC IS 11801
Information Technology - Generic Cabling for Customer Premises there are defined configurations
containing up to four cabling connections. A connection is where two cabling segments come
together. These models are also commonly applied in Backbone Cabling subsystems, although
the configurations like the Data Center Channel Models would also be used.
Two Connection Model

The most basic Channel Model has only 2 connections and is typically referred to and tested
(without the cords) as a Permanent Link. The Horizontal with the cords is tested as a Channel.
Figure 1. Two Connection Model, Interconnection

to Telecommunications Outlet
HYBRID EQUIPMENT Horizontal Work Area cord
CORD VP360 PLUG Cable
VP360 Telecom outlet
Three Connection Models

A third connection can support two different Channel Models, a Cross-connection or a
Consolidation Point. At large sites or sites with a high density of switching equipment or where
space constraints might otherwise dictate, the Horizontal Distribution Area can be configured with a
cross-connection. This configuration is typically referred to and tested (with the cords) as a Channel.
This configuration can also be applied to Backbone cabling with a Main Cross-connect.
Figure 2. Three Connection Model: Cross-connection

to Telecommunications Outlet
HYBRID EQUIPMENT CORD Horizontal Work Area cord
VP360 PLUG Cable
VP360 VP360
CROSS-CONNECT Telecom outlet

& VP360 CORD
Where open office spaces may have a high turnover or where installation may be staged, the
Horizontal Cable can be terminated at a Consolidation Point. This is often done for supporting
modular office designs, allowing easy cabling changes from the Consolidation point to the
Telecom Outlet that follow changes made to the open office space. This configuration is
typically called a Permanent Link. It may be tested without the cords as a Permanent Link, or
with the cords as a Channel. Terminations to a VP360 consolidation point are typically done
using unterminated cords that are field terminated to the consolidation point.
Figure 3. Three Connection Model: Interconnection

to a Consolidation Point
HYBRID EQUIPMENT Horizontal VP360 Work Area
CORD VP360 PLUG Cable CONNECTOR cord
CORD
VP360 CONSOLIDATION Telecom

INTERCONNECTION POINT outlet
Four Connection Model
At large open office sites where administration flexibility calls for it, four connections are
often used in Channels. This configuration offers flexibility and protection at both ends of the
Horizontal cabling, providing the advantages of cross-connection in the Telecommunications
Room and the flexibility of the Consolidation Point for modular office design. This configuration
is typically referred to and tested (with the cords) as a Channel. Terminations to a VP360
consolidation point are typically done using unterminated cords that are field terminated to the
consolidation point.
Figure 4. Four Connection Model: Cross-connection with

a Consolidation Point
HYBRID EQUIPMENT CORD Horizontal VP360 Work Area
VP360 PLUG Cable CONNECTOR cord
CORD
VP360 CROSSCONNECT CONSOLIDATION Telecom

CORD POINT outlet
Data Center Computer Rooms
Data center cabling is an excellent application for the GigaSPEED X10D Solution, allowing
data center operations upgrades when 10GBASE-T equipment becomes available. The
following pages show configurations for supporting TIA-942 Telecommunications
Infrastructure Standard for Data Centers and ISO 24764 Information Technology-Generic
cabling systems for data centers. The standardized channel configurations were developed
based on those in the TIA-568-C series because data centers utilize much of the same LAN
equipment that was designed for these channels. However, data center equipment has
become specialized and is typically deployed in high density. The cabling design must be
tightly coordinated with other system designs, such as the electrical and HVAC. Security and
operations also become significant design factors. Consult these standards for additional
information and details.
Figure 5. DATA CENTER CABLING
Office & Management

Cabling
Entrance Facility
(Backbone And Horizontal
Cabling Per TIA/EIA 568)
COMPUTER ROOM
Main
CORE SWITCHS
Crossconnect
BACKBONE
CABLING
LAN,
Horizontal Horizontal SAN, &
Crossconnect Crossconnect BACKEND
SWITCHES
HORIZONTAL
CABLING
Equip Equip Equip Equip

Dist Dist Dist Dist
Area Area Area Area
Data Center Channel Models
The following illustrations identify various channels between different areas within a data
center’s computer room. These standards-defined configurations contain up to four connections.
A connection is where two cabling segments come together, while the connections on the end
equipment are not counted in the models.
Two Connection Model

The most basic channel model has only 2 connections and is typically referred to and tested
(without the cords) as a permanent link. The horizontal with the cords may also be tested as a
channel.
Figure 6. Two Connection Model, Interconnection

to Interconnection
HYBRID EQUIPMENT Horizontal or REMOTE HYBRID EQUIPMENT
CORD VP360 PLUG Backbone Cable CORD VP360 PLUG
VP360 INTERCONNECTION VP360 INTERCONNECTION
Three Connection Model

A third connection can support two different channel models, a cross-connection or a
consolidation point. At large sites or sites with a high density of switching equipment or where
space constraints might otherwise dictate, the horizontal distribution area can be configured
with a cross-connection. This configuration is typically referred to and tested (with the cords) as
a channel. This configuration can also be applied to backbone cabling with a main cross-
connect.
Figure 7. Three Connection Model, Cross-connection

to Interconnection
HYBRID EQUIPMENT Horizontal REMOTE HYBRID
CORD VP360 PLUG Cable EQUIPMENT CORD
VP360 VP360 VP360 VP360 PLUG
VP360 CROSSCONNECT Equipment

CORD Interconnect
Where a site administrator may need flexibility or where installation may be staged, the
horizontal cable can be terminated at a consolation point. It might be used for example
to terminate a horizontal bundle at the middle of a row of equipment, and allow the site
administrator to apportion horizontal cables between sections of the row as needed. This
configuration is typically called a Permanent Link. It may be tested without the cords as a
permanent link, or with the cords as a channel.
Figure 8. Three Connection Model, Interconnection with

a Consolidation Point
HYBRID EQUIPMENT Horizontal CP REMOTE HYBRID
CORD VP360 PLUG Cable Cord EQUIPMENT CORD
VP360 VP360 VP360 VP360 PLUG
INTERCONNECTION CONSOLIDATION Equipment

POINT Interconnect
Four Connection Model
At large data centers the cabling administration is typically consolidated at cross-connects, and
four connections would be used in channels. These configurations are typically referred to and
tested (with the cords) as a channel. There are two configurations, a crossconnection with a
consolidation point and a double cross-connect. The consolidation point configuration (Figure
9) allows for two levels of administration to the server equipment as in Figure 8 on the previous
page, but also provides a cross-connect for the switching equipment. The consolidation point
may be useful for flexibility allocating horizontal capacity to many small customers that mustbe
independently maintained.
Figure 9. Four Connection Model, Cross-Connection to

Consolidation Point
HYBRID EQUIPMENT Horizontal REMOTE HYBRID
CORD VP360 plug Cable EQUIPMENT CORD
VP360 plug
VP360 VP360 VP360
VP360 CROSSCONNECT CP
CORD Cord
Arranging the Patching Field
Cross-connect Design with
Horizontal Fields
It is important for the designer to consider cable management very carefully in any design.
With VP360 this is extremely important because if management is not planned properly from
the start, there are likely to be administration issues that will be difficult to correct in operation.
VP360 has plenty of provision for vertical cable management so the designer should build it in
and then arrange the fields horizontally allowing patching to be as straightforward as possible.
If the designer arranges the switches together vertically and all the servers together vertically
as well, it will require more horizontal patching and lead to congestion in the horizontal cable
managers.
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Primary
Server
Connections
Switch SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Connections
Secondary
Server
Connections
The frame layout above is very popular as it allows for the majority of connections to be “up
and down” rather than “left to right” This shortens the average length of patch cord being
used and plays to the management strengths of VP360, the vertical cable management
troughs. Additionally, the shorter the length between two connection points, the less impact on
congestion; therefore the shortest path between two connection points is recommended. The
“Switch Connections” field would be color coded PURPLE, The “Primary Server Connections”
would be color coded BLUE (as they are effectively outlets) and the “Secondary Server
Connections” could be color coded LIGHT BLUE to differentiate from the Primary server
connections (Strictly speaking they would also be BLUE, but the different color allows for
distinction between the server connections.)
In the previous scenario, as in most cases, the shorter the patch cord, the less impact on
congestion as a result of excess slack. The shortest path between two connection points is
recommended. In most cases, patch cords are sized conservatively so as to ensure that the
cords will have ample length to complete the required patch. Excess slack is stored via a “drip-
loop” method within the vertical managers. Excessive slack may also be spread out / stored
by routing cords via horizontal managers so as to minimize the amount of slack that is stored
within the vertical managers. The drawing below demonstrates some examples of routes that
may be utilized when patching circuits from the switch field to the server fields.
Example 1: Patch cord routing within a wall mount VP360
wall field cross-connnect
SYSTIMAX
3 SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Primary
Primary
Server
Server
Connections
Connections
2
Switch
Switch SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Connections
Connections 4
Secondary
Secondary
Server
1SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
5
SYSTIMAX
Server
Connections
Connections
Cord (1) demonstrates the proper routing guideline for a cross-connect cord that connects from
the left-side switch termination panel (in a dual column termination configuration) to a left-side
server termination panel, within the same termination column. Cords are routed to the left, and
slack stored in the left-side vertical management channel.
Cord (2) demonstrates the proper routing guideline for a cross-connect cord that connects
from the right-side switch termination panel (in a dual column termination configuration) to a
right-side server termination panel. Cords are routed to the right, and slack stored in the left-side
vertical management channel.
a right-side switch termination panel to a left-side server termination panel that is located in a
different column. In this case, cord is routed through both vertical as well as top (or bottom)
horizontal troughs (depending on which server termination field is being patched).
Cord (4) demonstrates a cross-connect cord that connects a switch termination panel to a server
termination panel that is in a different column, but not physically distanced from one another
(i.e. right-side termination panel in a left-hand column connecting to a left-hand termination
panel in a right-hand column). Cord slack is stored in the intersecting vertical management
trough.
Cord (5) is a similar scenario to cord (4) but the switch termination is from the right-side
termination panel, with an excessively long cord. Again, vertical and horizontal troughs are
used to store excessive slack.
Example 2: Patch cord routing within a wallmount VP360 wall
field cross-connect
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
Primary
Primary
Server
Server
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Connections
Connections
4
1 SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
3 SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
Switch
Switch
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Connections
Connections
5
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Secondary
Secondary
Server
2
Server
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Connections
Connections
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
the left-side switch termination panel (in a dual column termination configuration) to a left-side
server termination panel, within the same termination column. Cords are routed to the left,
and slack stored in the left-side vertical management channel. Cords routing from the right-side
termination panels and patching to other termination fields on the right-side should be run in a
similar fashion.
Cord (2) is a similar scenario to cord (1), however it routes to the secondary field.
Cord (3) demonstrates a cord that is patched from a switch termination panel to a server
termination panel in an adjacent termination column. In this case, the cord is routed up (or
down) via the vertical managers, and across to the adjacent patching field via the mid-field
horizontal management channel. It is then routed up through the closest vertical management
channel to the server termination panel.
Cord (4) is a similar scenario to cord (3), however the server destination patch is at the “upper”
portion of the termination panel, therefore the patch cord is routed up through the vertical
manager and across the top horizontal management channel, and then down through the
closest vertical management channel to the server termination panel.
Cord (5) is a similar scenario to (2) and (3) however in this case two columns of patch field
are crossed and both the switch and server connections are closest to the lower horizontal
management channel, therefore the cord is routed through this channel. In this scenario, if you
are using a cord with excess lengths, you may also route the cord down through a vertical
management channel and across the bottom horizontal management channel to the vertical
channel nearest to the destination termination field.
Where a wallmount VisiPatch field has horizontal managers in between termination panels, as
well as at the top and bottom of the field, it is important to distribute patch cord slack equally
through all channels to eliminate high congestion areas in junctions where horizontal and
vertical management troughs meet.
Where cords cross a horizontal trough, they should be fed into the vertical trough management
behind the horizontal trough brackets. Cords should not run vertically across the front of
horizontal management.
Arranging the Patching Field Cross
Connect Design with Vertical Fields
An alternative design philosophy is to arrange fields vertically. Typically in this scenario, the
main source field (in this case PURPLE) would be in the centre and the patch cords would
predominantly be routed “left to right” utilizing the integrated horizontal management and any
additional horizontal pathways that may be designed into the layout, either at the top, the
bottom or in the middle or a combination.
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
1 SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
3
2
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Primary Server
Primary Switch
Switch Secondary
Secondary
Connections
Server Connections
Connections Server
Server
Connections
Connections Connections
the central switch termination panel (in a dual column termination configuration) to a left-side
primary server termination panel. Looking at this arrangement may seem straightforward but it
will soon become evident that every connection to the first row of panels will need to be routed
either via the top or bottom trough. Cords are routed over the top and slack will need to be
stored in either of the vertical management channels.
Cord 2 shows a cross-connect cord running between the central switch termination panel and
the first row of the secondary server connection panel. Again slack will need to be left in the
vertical cable management
Cord 3 demonstrates running to the far right secondary server panels with the cable being run
through the lower horizontal cable management.
Arranging the Patching Field Cross-Connect Design
When comparing the two options of laying out the fields either horizontally or vertically,
patching flexibility is greatly reduced when utilizing the vertical management scenario. There
are a total of 576 4pr connections on the diagram below. All of them can be interconnected
using cords through the adjacent vertical cable management. The fields can be extended on
either end still allowing flexibility of connections.
Example 1: Patch cord routing within a wall mount VP360 wall

field cross-connect with horizontal wall-fields
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Primary
Primary
Server
Server
Connections
Connections
Switch
Switch
Connections
Connections
Secondary
Secondary
Server
Server
Connections
Connections
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
Example 2: Patch cord routing within a wall mount VP360 wall
field cross-connect with vertical wall-fields.
Primary Switch Secondary

Server Connections Server
Connections Connections
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX
SYSTIMAX SYSTIMAX
This example shows that if vertical fields are utilized, only half of the interconnecting panels are
directly accessible. Any new panels added to the frame would require long patch cords to the
switch connections. This would create congestion in the horizontal management.
Use of Micro Cable Managers
Micro Cable Managers should be installed in all vertical managers. Patch cord bundles can
be “pulled back” into the rear of the vertical manager troughs via the fasteners, thereby fully
utilizing the full depth of the vertical manager to accommodate patch cord volumes.
The micro cable managers also provide support to “hang” excess cordage slack, which
distributes slack loops to both upper and lower sections of a vertical management channel
(rather than allowing all patch cord slack loops to hang at the “bottom” section of a vertical
manager).
Rackmount Interconnect
Configurations
VP360 may also be installed in a standard 19” network rack by installing two termination panels
side-by-side within the 19” rails, using a VP360-RMBKT rack mount bracket.
Additional density may be accomplished by installing the VisiPatch panels “back-to-back” on

either a 12” deep channel rack (i.e. CommScope RK12-45A) or on an open 4-post network
rack (i.e. CommScope RK4P45-29A).
In both of these solutions, vertical managers are installed on the outside channels of the network
racks and patch cords are guided into these channels through the cable management “fingers”
that are integrated into the vertical cable managers. VisiPatch is designed such that the
horizontal troughs located between the wiring blocks (for patch cord flow) integrate with the 1U
fingers on the CommScope vertical managers.
Zone Cabling and Consolidation
Points
Zone cabling is a popular option due to the possibility of reduced installation costs when
integrating services (e.g., voice, data, video, BAS, power, etc.), and the cost savings
associated with moves, adds, and changes. The key component in zone cabling is the
Consolidation Point (or CP), which can provide modular flexibility and create a reusable
horizontal infrastructure.
A 4U VP360 patch field can be used as the base component for the Consolidation Point. If the
space is non-plenum, the back frame can be mounted to the end of a cable tray or to a column in
the ceiling. The CP then becomes the patch field that serves the zone in which it is installed.
When designing with consolidation points, it is important to remember that space should be left
for growth. If extra cables are pulled in to the CP at the same time as the main installation, this
will accommodate future connections to TO’s or BAS devices.
When CP’s are used in the channel, the 100 meter rule still applies, but all cords in the
channel must be taken into account. (See Cable/cord length for GigaSPEED X10D and
GigaSPEED XL)
Repair Replace or Add Cables
to Wiring Blocks
If VP360 wiring blocks need to be removed from the back frame, this can be done easily with
a flat-blade screwdriver. On either side of the wiring block is a locking cam that when turned,
pushes against the sprung latching assembly allowing the wiring block to be pulled forward. It
may be necessary though in a crowded patch-field to also remove an adjacent panel to gain
some slack in the cables.
Testing VP360 with the
Fluke DTX 1800
Full testing guidelines are available on the CommScope website.
For testing with the Fluke DTX1800 it is important that the correct Permanent Link Adapters and
personality modules are used. A PLA001 should be used at the VP360 panel fitted with either
the PM19A or PM19B (TIA 568A or 568B) personality module. This module is exclusively used
for connecting into the VP360 wiring connectors.
At the remote end a PLA002 that is fitted as standard with the aluminum long life jack test plug
should be used.
The Fluke DTX1800 is now ready to start testing a VP360 channel.
www.commscope.com
Visit our Web site or contact your local
CommScope representative for more information.
© 2011 CommScope, Inc. All rights reserved.
All trademarks identified by ® or ™ are registered trademarks
or trademarks, respectively, of CommScope, Inc.
This document is for planning purposes only and is not
intended to modify or supplement any specifications or
warranties relating to CommScope products or services.
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SYSTIMAX® Solutions

VisiPatch® 360 Connecting Hardware

Components for the GigaSPEED X10D solution may include:

• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 System

Components for the GigaSPEED XL solution may include:

• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 System

Components for the GigaSPEED Xpress solution may include:

• SYSTIMAX VisiPatch 360 System

• SYSTIMAX Structured Connectivity Solutions Performance Specifications

VisiPatch 360 System Components

Patch Cord: Front of Connector Patch Cord: Rear of Connector

Component 1: Back Panel

Component 2: Wiring Block

Component 3: Connecting Block

• Offset IDC and parasitic rings for improved electrical performance

• Compact, ergonomically designed plug is easy to grab and patch

Component 5: Vertical & Horizontal Cable Management

Micro Cable / Cord Retainers and Managers

Rack Mount Brackets

VP360 One-Pair Impact Tool Bit

VP360 4-Pair Tool Bit

• In the UK, BS 6701 and BS 7671

Bonding and Grounding

• A ground reference for telecommunications and equipment within the telecommunications

The telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure also has interconnectivity

• Telecommunications Main Grounding Busbar (TMGB) - located at the telecommunications

VisiPatch 360 Labeling and Administration

Color-coded labels for termination fields can be implemented as follows:

Table 2: Color Coding of Connecting Hardware Fields

Cabling Element Color Code

Blue - Horizontal Subsystem

White - Backbone/Riser Subsystem

Grey - Tie Backbone Cables

Purple - Common Equipment Circuits

Pairs-per-Circuit (Circuit Modularity) Max. Circuits-per-Wiring Block

Yellow - Auxiliary Circuits

18.5“ (470 mm) 27“ (686 mm)

6’-5“ VTK VTK

19-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration 27-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration

28.5“ (724 mm) 37“ (940 mm)

VTK VTK VTK VTK

VTK VTK VTK VTK

VP360 12U VP360 Side VP360 12U 12U VP360 Side

VTK VTK VTK VTK

29-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration 37-Inch Wide Nominal Configuration

cables can feed

Underneath Cabling Overhead Cabling

Total Cord Length in meters ≤ (102-Horizontal)/1.2

Table 3: ALTERNATE MAXIMUM LENGTHS FOR CABLE AND CORDAGE

There is no “15 meter” rule or minimum length requirements on cable or cords.

Total Cord Length in Meters = (62 – Horizontal) / 1.2

Table 4. Alternate maximum lengths for cable and cordage

Table 5: VP360 GigaSPEED Channel Configurations with

Table 5a: VP360 GigaSPEED Data Center Channel Models –

Two Connection Model

Figure 1. Two Connection Model, Interconnection

VP360 Telecom outlet

Three Connection Models

Figure 2. Three Connection Model: Cross-connection

CROSS-CONNECT Telecom outlet

Figure 3. Three Connection Model: Interconnection

VP360 CONSOLIDATION Telecom

Figure 4. Four Connection Model: Cross-connection with

VP360 CROSSCONNECT CONSOLIDATION Telecom