1. System Overview

PatchMaster Pro is a cable-management system designed to maintain accurate port mapping during 48-port network switch replacements. It supports both RJ45 and SFP connections and uses a four-plate architecture to manage cable routing direction.

Included components:

• Two Standard 24-Port Plates (Interchangeable)
  Each plate contains 24 numbered RJ45 latch slots. Patch cables clip into the plates using the RJ45 tab. Either plate may be used as an upper or lower plate.
• Two Case-Integrated 24-Port Keeper Sets
  These keeper slots are built into the top and bottom case halves. They provide additional positions for staging cables according to routing direction.
• SFP Keeper Slots
  Dedicated SFP keeper locations maintain correct SFP cable alignment and port mapping.
• ThumbSaver tab tools
• Velcro utility straps
• PETG construction for heat and impact resistance

2. Purpose and Function

The system is designed to maintain correct cable-to-port mapping during switch removal and installation, separate cables by routing direction, and prevent cable tension from obstructing switch removal. It provides structured staging positions for both RJ45 and SFP cables and works in environments where cables enter the switch from above, below, or both.

3. Plate Assignment and Directional Logic

The patch cables entering a switch may come from above, below, or both. Correct plate assignment ensures unobstructed switch removal and maintains accurate port order.

3.1 Single-Direction Routing

If all cables enter from one direction:

• Below → use both standard plates as lower plates.
• Above → use both standard plates as upper plates.
• SFP cables should be placed in the SFP keeper slots matching their port positions.

3.2 Mixed-Direction Routing

If patch cables enter from both above and below, all four plates are used:

• Use the standard plates for the direction with the majority of cables.
• Use the case keeper slots for the direction with the minority of cables.
• Place SFP cables in their corresponding SFP keeper locations based on direction and port number.

Although the system contains 96 total keeper slots, no more than 48–52 will be used at once, corresponding to the switch’s actual cable load.

4. Operating Procedure

Step 1 — Identify Cable Routing Directions

Determine whether cables (RJ45 or SFP) enter from above, below, or both. Prepare standard plates, case keepers, or all four plates based on routing.

Step 2 — Insert Cables Into Standard Plates

Hold the standard plate flush against the switch’s front. Insert each RJ45 connector into the matching numbered slot, allowing the latch to secure. Insert SFP-connected patch cables into the dedicated SFP keeper slots.

Step 3 — Insert Remaining Cables Into Case Keepers (If Needed)

For mixed-direction routing:

• Top-fed cables → top case keeper
• Bottom-fed cables → bottom case keeper
• SFP cables → corresponding SFP keeper location

This maintains directional separation and prevents cable tension from obstructing switch removal.

Step 4 — Remove the Switch

Once all cables are staged in either standard plates or case keepers, support the bundles as needed and remove the switch from the rack. Directional separation ensures the switch is not pinned by cable tension.

Step 5 — Install the Replacement Switch

Position the new switch, align standard plates with the switch ports, and transfer all cables directly into their corresponding ports. Transfer cables from case keepers as required and ensure SFP cables return to their correct SFP slots.

5. Summary of Key Principles

• Standard plates are interchangeable and can serve as upper or lower plates.
• All RJ45 cables latch securely into plates using the RJ45 tab.
• Dedicated SFP keeper slots maintain correct SFP port mapping.
• Mixed-direction routing requires use of all four plates.
• The system maintains port alignment regardless of cable entry path.
• PETG construction ensures stability and heat resistance during field use.