MPTL: New Test Procedure for Today’s Converged Infrastructure

Mark Mullins
With the Internet of Things (IoT) and the development of sensor technology, more and more devices are becoming IP enabled and connecting to the copper horizontal cabling infrastructure. Most of these devices such as LED lights, security cameras, building automation controls, and Wi-Fi access points include an integrated RJ45 port for connecting to the network.

There may be scenarios where a typical four-connector channel is not used when connecting these types of devices– especially those that reside in the ceiling space where it is impractical to install a faceplate. Instead, there is just one patch cord in the telecommunications room and the permanent link is terminated at the other end with a plug so it can plug directly into the device, essentially eliminating the equipment cord. This creates what is now known as a Modular Plug Terminated Link, or MPTL, and as this application becomes more common and shows up in industry standards, it’s good to get a handle on how to test it today.

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