Organizing cables in AV racks and server rooms is essential but can be quite challenging without the right tools and accessories. A messy rack full of tangled and disorganized cables is not only an eyesore but also makes troubleshooting and maintenance a nightmare. In this blog post, we will discuss some must-have cable management essentials that can help you get your AV rack in perfect order.
Cable Ties and Straps
Cable ties, also known as zip ties, are one of the most basic yet useful tools for cable management. They come in different sizes for bundling cables of various thicknesses together. Nylon cable ties are durable and can hold tight for years. Choose ties rated for outdoor or indoor use depending on your environment. Releasable vinyl cable ties are also a good option as they can be undone and reused.
Cable straps are similar to cable ties but come pre-attached to mounting points for strapping cables to racks, conduits, and cabinets in an organized fashion. Use cable straps at regular intervals along racks and walls to prevent cables from sagging. Consider heat-shrink tubing over cable ties in high vibration areas to prevent wires from being cut.
Cable Conduits and Racks
Cable conduits provide protective pathways for routing cables neatly and safely. Plastic or metal conduits used on walls, ceilings, and floors keep cables together and away from foot traffic. Conduits mounted vertically on racks or cabinets separate power cables from data and video cables to reduce electromagnetic interference.
Cable racking systems, D-rings, and J-hooks attach directly to server racks or cabinets for horizontal and vertical cable management. They provide defined paths for routing cables in racks in an organized layered fashion for easy access and tracing. Rack-mounted cable managers channel wires neatly along the sides and back of racks.
Cable Combs
Cable combs, also called cable organizers or wire combs, are essential tools for combing out and organizing bundled cables. They come labeled to sort cables by type - network, power, video, etc. Comb bundled cables regularly to prevent rat nests from forming over time. Laser etched or labelled combs also aid in troubleshooting and maintenance by identifying individual cables.
Labeling Supplies
Proper cable labeling helps tremendously in identification and management. Use permanent cable markers, labels, or sleeves for clear identification of cables and wires by function and termination points. Heat shrink tubing works well for protecting cable labels in high traffic areas. Consider labeling supplies that are weatherproof, UV resistant, and survive harsh environments. Brady Cable labels are a popular choice.
Labeling best practices include labeling both ends of each cable clearly. Serial or asset numbering schemas and color coding further aid in quick identification. Permanently record cable runs details in an asset management database for reference during troubleshooting or upgrades.
Other Essentials
In addition to above core tools, consider smaller accessories that add efficiency to cable management:
Cable wrap disks and coils wrap loose cables neatly when not in use.
Cable hangers attach cables securely to walls, ceilings, and pipes without using ties/straps.
Hook and loop ties are reusable alternatives to cable ties for temporary bundling.
Cable pull string inserts in empty conduits for future runs.
Cable pass-through bushings prevent cable damage at wall/rack penetrations.
Cable clips, clamps and clamps secure cables to racks, walls neatly.
Cable shoes prevent cable jacket cuts at sharp rack edges.
Cable testers help troubleshoot cable/wire faults quickly.
Implementation and Maintenance
Proper implementation and ongoing maintenance are critical to sustain effective cable management:
Map out cable runs before installation and label at both ends.
Install longest cable runs first and secure vertically on racks before horizontal runs.
Dress cables neatly in straps/conduits all along runs from source to termination.
Retie or replace worn out ties regularly and combat cable creep over time.
Periodically comb bundled cables to prevent knots and inspect for damage.
de-clutter by removing obsolete cables during system upgrades.
Record and update documentation of changes to cable infrastructure.
Conclusion
Effective cable management maintains organization and improves performance of an AV rack system in the long run. The right tools, accessories, labelling practices and consistent implementation and maintenance help prevent cable nightmares and maximize usable rack space. Implementing cable management best practices ensures smooth operations, rapid troubleshooting and future scalability of the AV infrastructure.
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