The NextSTEP MINUS1U Patch Panel consolidates fiber-cable-management and active equipment in the same 1RU of rack space. This panel divides 1RU of rack space into a NextSTEP chassis on one side along with a reserved space on the other side to receive active network equipment including hubs, routers, and switches. The Wirewerks design makes technician scheduling and the overall installation process simpler and more efficient for the benefit of both customers and network providers alike.

Judge’s comment: “This well-thought-out innovation is a particularly valuable find for a technician who has run out of rack space. It also makes for smoother project administration in cases when scheduling and managing the cabling and networking trades poses a challenge.”

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