End-to-end links – Modular plug terminated link (MPTL)

28.06.2023 | Wherever telecommunication outlets and patch cords are unwanted, electronic devices are connected to the horizontal cable. Modular plug terminated links (MPTLs), direct attach cabling (DAC) and end-to-end links (E2E links) have proven their worth. This article and the next two ones focus on these three link types in detail.

In lobbies and carefully designed reception areas visible telecommunication outlets and patchcords are highly unwanted. The same applies to security applications, where connections have to be protected from unauthorized access. Building services equipment and industrial automation are using sensors that are connected to the horizontal cable. MPTL, direct attach cabling and E2E links have become a useful alternative to classic structured cabling design.

In MPTLs one end of the horizontal cable is terminated in a patch panel in the distributor as usual. Electronic devices, however, are not connected to a telecommunications outlet using a patch cord but to the horizontal cable using a modular plug. To give an example, the horizontal cable can enter the the protective housing of an IP camera and is terminated with a field-installable modular plug. The connection cannot be accessed from outside and is so effectively protected against unauthorized access. MPTLs are recognized by the global technical report ISO/IEC TR 11801-9910:2020 and by the American standard ANSI/TIA-568.2-D.

MPTLs are also common to connect WiFi access points to the network. In staircases, underground parking, waiting zones, hallways, lobbies and meeting rooms outlets and loosely hanging patch cords are avoided for aesthecial reasons and to prohibit unauthorized access. The access point is installed in front of the cable exit in the wall, the horizontal cable is terminated with a field-installable plug which is plugged into the network port of the access point. Depending on the housing design of the access point, particularly short connectors or connectors with an angled cable entry are needed. Field-installable connectors with a cable exit that can be determined on-site and even changed later come in very handy.

The next two issuses of the column “Quickly Explained“ will introduce Direct Attach Cabling (DAC) and the end-to-end link (E2E link).

Author:

Dirk Traeger

Technical Solutions Manager DataVoice