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Patch Panel Spreadsheet Template ##TOP##
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How to Create a Patch Panel Spreadsheet Template for Your Network
A patch panel spreadsheet template is a useful tool for documenting and managing the physical connections between your network devices. It can help you keep track of which ports are used, which devices are connected, and how to configure the port descriptions on your switches. In this article, we will show you how to create a patch panel spreadsheet template using Microsoft Excel and some online resources.
Step 1: Define the Data Fields
The first step is to decide what data fields you want to include in your spreadsheet. This may depend on your specific network environment and requirements, but some common data fields are:
Type: The layer-1 and layer-2 media and protocols used on the wire, such as RJ45, OM2 (SC), Ethernet, PPP, etc.
Source Device Hostname & Port: The hostname and port information of the source device, using the port name as it is seen in the configuration terminal of the device.
Patch Panel Fabric & Port: The patch panel and port information of the infrastructure cabling used between the source and destination device.
Destination Device Hostname & Port: The hostname and port information of the destination device, where the connection terminates.
Destination Device Notes: Any additional notes about the destination device, such as its role, purpose, or if the link is part of an aggregated group (port-channel).
Scripting Columns: Optional columns that can be used to generate configuration scripts for updating the port descriptions on the switches.
Step 2: Collect the Data
The next step is to collect the data for each port on each device in your network. You can use various methods to do this, such as:
Using a network discovery tool or a network management system that can scan your network and provide detailed information about each device and port.
Using a cable tester or a tone generator to trace the physical connections between devices and patch panels.
Using a label maker or a marker to label each cable, port, and patch panel with a unique identifier.
Using a floor plan or a diagram that shows the location and layout of each device and patch panel.
Once you have collected the data, you can enter it into your spreadsheet template. You can also use formulas or macros to automate some tasks, such as generating scripting columns or validating data consistency.
Step 3: Use Online Resources
If you need some help or inspiration for creating your patch panel spreadsheet template, you can use some online resources that provide examples or templates for different types of network devices and patch panels. Some of these resources are:
Structured Cabling Spreadsheet for New Installation: A forum post on Spiceworks that discusses how to create a detailed spreadsheet for tracking locations, patch panel numbers, validation info, and other details of data cabling.
Network Documentation Series: Port Mapping: A blog post on Packet Pushers that explains how to create and maintain a physical port mapping spreadsheet that can also generate configuration scripts for Cisco switches.
Label Templates for CommScope Structured Cabling Products: A website that provides label templates for various CommScope products such as patch panels, wiring blocks, outlets, faceplates, and cable labels.
Conclusion
A patch panel spreadsheet template is a handy way to document and manage your network connections. By following these steps, you can create your own template that suits your needs and preferences. You can also use online resources to get some ideas or examples of how others have done it. Remember to keep your spreadsheet updated and accurate as your network changes over time. aa16f39245