Making & Mending - DIY Install - Wall Mount Brackets & Patch Panels
While many data centers and other tech rooms use large racks and cabinets to hold equipment, sometimes a more compact solution is needed. A full-fledged rack or cabinet can be overkill for installing something as simple as a single patch panel. To save space and keep the installation easy, a bracket is often the best option.
Installing a bracket is a fairly easy project once a good spot has been picked out for it. The bracket itself will come with the screws, washers, and wall anchors that will be needed. Beyond that, just a few simple tools will are used for an install.
For this guide, we will be using a basic 1 RU (rack unit) wall mount bracket with a 6” depth and installing an ethernet patch panel. Rack units are the standard of measurement used for racks, cabinets, and brackets. For width, any rack, cabinet, or bracket should be 19” across. For length, the number of RUs determines the size with 1 RU equal to 1.75”. Patch panels, shelves, and other attachable pieces of equipment should be rated with a number of RUs so users know how much space will be needed.
A video version of this guide can be found at the bottom of the article.
Step 1: Gathering the Tools
Since the bracket comes with all the small pieces needed for the installation, getting the tools together will be the only other prep work. Users will need a drill with a 5/16” drill bit, a hammer, a screwdriver, a level, and a pencil.
Step 2: Leveling the Bracket
Hold the bracket up to the wall and use the level to find the level point. This will ensure the bracket is perfectly straight and does not look crooked once installed.
Step 3: Marking the Drill Holes
While the bracket is still leveled, use the pencil to mark the screw holes on the back of the bracket.
Step 4: Drilling the Holes
Use the drill with the 5/16” drill bit to drill through the pencil marks on the wall.
Step 5: Securing the Wall Anchors
Insert the wall anchors that came with the bracket into the holes. The anchors will need to be hammered into place to ensure they are tightly secured.
Step 6: Attaching the Bracket
Put the washers over the wall screws that came with the bracket. Hold the bracket up to the wall, lining up the screw holes on top of the wall anchors. Insert each screw into one of the anchors and tighten them down with the screwdriver.
Step 7: Installing the Patch Panel
Use the small rack screws to attach the patch panel to the bracket, tightening with a screwdriver for a secure connection.
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