Patent ID: 8344900
Filing Date: 2013-01-01
Classification: G08B,H04Q

Abstract:
1. A communications patching system, comprising: a patch panel having a plurality of connector ports on a side thereof; and a sensor module secured to the patch panel side, wherein the sensor module comprises a housing and a plurality of pairs of IR emitters and sensors within the housing, wherein the sensor module is secured to the patch panel such that each emitter/sensor pair is located adjacent to a respective one of the connector ports, wherein each pair is configured to detect insertion and removal of a patch cord connector from a respective connector port, wherein the housing comprises a separate unobscured passageway between each IR emitter and sensor pair and each connector port, and wherein each passageway is configured to block IR light scattering and to block unwanted IR signals and/or reflections from a source external to the patch panel.