Abstract: A lightweight extremely versatile cross-connect frame and associated stand-off brackets are presented. This cross-connect frame comprises few components with integrally designed hole patterns to retain communication connector blocks and other standard products that require the dimensions of an EIA standard relay rack. The enhanced manufacturing and assembly produce clean sturdy frames which can be mounted either directly or with compatible stand-off brackets to a wall or 19" EIA relay rack. Additionally, these frames, with or without stand-off brackets, minimize the mounting space required by being both an even RMS (Rack Mount Space) in length and end stackable.

Abstract: A low cost wire stripping tool is presented which comprises a section to remove a portion of the outer insulation jacket covering two, three or four pairs of a new telephonic cable and a second section of the wire stripping tool which is capable of straightening (or flattening) a twisted pair and then capable of separating the straightened, flattened pair by cutting the webbed section of the individual pair.