Why 66 Block Is The Grand Daddy Of Patch Panel
In the past, organizations used 66 block patch panels when analog technology was all the rage. Some early networking equipment also relied on the 66 block standard.
The 66 blocks used to have two sides. On a hand, there’s a side that connects the cables coming from the devices. On the other, there’s a side that links the wires to the phone network.
The fundamental difference between the 66 blocks and the 110 blocks is that the 66 blocks didn’t have modular connectors. So, 66 blocks didn’t support RJ11 for phones nor RJ45 for networks.
They used to connect through older-style wires that you punch in with a dedicated punch-down tool.
Are 66 blocks still in use? Maybe. They’re ancient by today’s standards, but some telecom companies might still use them today for phone networking.
66 and 110 blocks are two types of punch-down blocks that are commonly used to connect copper wires in networking systems. In a punch-down block, individual copper wires are pressed down into open-ended slots using a punch-down tool, causing two sharp metal blades in the slot to cut into the insulation of the wire, thus achieving electrical connectivity. The 66 block is so named because of its model number, but it actually provides slots to accommodate 25 pairs, or 50 split pairs of copper wire. 66 blocks are often used for voice/telephone cabling. 110 blocks are an upgraded version of the 66 block, providing increased slot density and meeting newer standards of twisted-pair copper cables, thus allowing these blocks to accommodate …
Cabling: The Importance Of Block 110 & Patch Panels
In a work environment that’s becoming more digitized by the minute, there’s an urgent need for reliable cabling.
To keep this world well-connected, you need wiring schemes such as 66 Blocks, 110 Blocks, and Patch Panels.
Before employees can sit down to do their work, their equipment needs to connect to the network through these wires and cables.
They need to connect to the patch panels that connect to the Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF) that connects to the Main Distribution Frame (MDF).
A patch panel is an umbrella term that describes several types of wiring schemes.
The 110 block is a popular patch panel that may or may not contain RJ45 connectors to connect ethernet cables.
Users need to connect to the 110 blocks, which anchor their devices to the behind-the-scene network infrastructure.
Why are patch panels like 110 block convenient? They centralize the cabling in one place called a closet. You only need to connect the devices to the patch panel to create a streamlined work environment. The patch panel connects to the primary network equipment by stealth.
When a new employee joins the company, it’ll be easier to connect their workstation to the primary server. When an employee switches desks, it’ll be easier to change their cables to the serviceable patch panel.
It’ll also be easier to upgrade the panel, make design changes, and move the entire network when necessary.
Patch panels evolved over the decades to what they’re today, but let’s take a trip down to memory lane and recall old patch panels. It’ll help you understand how 110 block and patch panels compare.
FAQ
What is the difference between 66 and 110 block?
What is the main reason to use 110 blocks?
Are 66 blocks still used?