Shop network faceplates, surface-mount boxes and related work-area hardware for installing modular jacks and connectivity modules in structured-cabling systems. Wallco offers mounting solutions for creating organized, accessible network connection points in commercial, industrial and communications applications.
Compare products by port count, mounting style, module compatibility, gang configuration and installation location. Select hardware that matches the modular jacks or connectivity inserts used in your network system.
Network faceplates and surface-mount hardware provide the finished mounting point for modular jacks, couplers and other connectivity modules used throughout a structured-cabling system. These components help organize network connections at workstations, equipment locations and other points where permanent cabling transitions to an accessible outlet.
Faceplates are commonly used with wall boxes or other recessed mounting systems, while surface-mount boxes provide an option for locations where installing the connectivity hardware inside a wall is not practical. Both approaches can support modular network connectivity when the mounting components and inserts are physically compatible.
A faceplate should be selected according to the number and type of connectivity modules required as well as the mounting arrangement already installed at the work area.
A surface-mount box can provide a convenient network outlet where recessed wall installation is unavailable or undesirable. Instead of placing the jack inside a wall cavity, the box mounts directly to an accessible surface and provides a housing for compatible connectivity modules.
Surface-mount solutions may be useful in existing buildings, equipment rooms, temporary installations and locations where network cabling is routed along walls, raceways or other exposed pathways.
When selecting a surface-mount box, consider the number of required ports, cable entry direction, available mounting space and compatibility with the intended modular jacks or couplers.
Faceplates and modular jacks are typically selected together. The jack provides the actual network connection and cable termination, while the faceplate holds the jack securely and provides the finished work-area interface.
Many network components use a keystone-style modular format, but physical compatibility should still be verified before mixing components from different product families. A product described as a modular jack does not automatically guarantee compatibility with every plate or mounting system.
The cable category is determined primarily by the connectivity and cabling components rather than by the faceplate itself. When installing Category 5e, Category 6 or Category 6A networks, make sure the jacks and other signal-carrying components meet the requirements of the cabling system.
Some modular faceplates and surface-mount boxes can accept feed-through Ethernet couplers rather than punch-down termination jacks. This approach can be useful where pre-terminated network cables need to pass through a finished outlet without terminating individual cable conductors at the work area.
When using a coupler, verify its Ethernet category and shielding configuration in addition to its physical mounting compatibility with the plate or box.
Work-area outlets should provide enough ports for the connected equipment while considering reasonable future requirements. A workstation may initially require only one network connection but later need connections for additional computers, phones, access points or other Ethernet devices.
Choosing suitable port capacity during the initial installation can make later additions easier. At the same time, unnecessarily large faceplates or boxes may be undesirable where mounting space is limited.
Faceplates and surface-mount connectivity hardware may be used in applications including:
Before ordering work-area hardware, identify the connectivity modules that will be installed and the mounting arrangement available at the location. Verify the number of required ports, modular opening format, gang size and installation method.
For existing installations, comparing the current faceplate, box and jack dimensions can help identify compatible replacement hardware. If you are building a new structured-cabling system, consider the faceplates, modular jacks and other work-area components together.
