Patent ID: 7508297
Filing Date: 2009-03-24
Classification: H04L

Abstract:
1. A patch panel and power distribution system for use in association with a rack and first and second network transmission media, the system comprising: a chassis mountable to the rack; a first connector assembly, supported at least in part by said chassis, the first connector assembly including a first plurality of contacts for electrically connecting to the first network transmission media, a second plurality of contacts for electrically connecting to the second network transmission media and a plurality of conductors for receiving power to be supplied to one or more network devices through the first network transmission media, the first connector assembly further including circuitry for coupling the first plurality of contacts to the second plurality of contacts and for coupling the plurality of conductors to the first plurality of contacts; a power supply assembly, supported at least in part by the chassis, the power supply assembly including a power supply for receiving input power and having an output port for supplying output power; and a controller, coupled to the output port of the power supply, for providing, in response to information indicating that one or more network devices is to receive power through the first network transmission media, the power to be supplied to the one or more network devices through the first network transmission media.