24PT STP HIDNS CAT6 .5U PCHPNL

The Eaton Tripp Lite series N252-024-HU-SHK is a shielded 24-port patch panel for organizing Cat5/5e and Cat6 copper network connections. It combines RJ45 female ports with Krone IDC punchdown terminations in a space-efficient 0.5U rackmount design. Rated for 5 Gbps speeds when managing Cat6 cable, the panel supports EIA/TIA T568A and T568B wiring standards and is intended for high-density Ethernet applications.

Ideal Use Cases

This patch panel is suited to installations that require numerous Ethernet connections without consuming a full rack unit. It mounts in an EIA-standard 19-inch rack and provides 24 ports within 0.5U, making it appropriate for high-density network racks where available space must be used efficiently. Support for Cat5/5e and Cat6 cabling allows the panel to integrate with network infrastructure using either technology. Its TAA-compliant status also makes it suitable for qualifying GSA Schedule purchases and other installations that require compliance with the Federal Trade Agreements Act.

Why Choose This Model

The N252-024-HU-SHK brings several clearly defined installation features into one panel: shielded construction, 24 RJ45 female ports, Krone IDC terminations, dual T568A/B wiring support and a 0.5U rack height. Each RJ45 port is numbered, labeled and color-coded, helping installers identify individual cable connections during termination, maintenance and later changes. The punchdown panel style provides a fixed termination point for structured copper cabling, while the included grounding wire supports installation of the shielded panel.

Installation and Integration

The panel mounts into 0.5U of an EIA-standard 19-inch rack. Rear Krone IDC connections accommodate punchdown termination, and support for both EIA/TIA T568A and T568B standards gives installers the flexibility to follow the wiring scheme specified for the site. The front-facing RJ45 female connectors provide 24 clearly identified network ports. Eaton includes four screws, 24 cable ties, a grounding wire and an installation guide with the patch panel. The supplied cable ties can be used during cable organization, while the numbered, labeled and color-coded ports make it easier to coordinate front connections with rear terminations. The unit measures 19.7 inches in length/depth, 3.8 inches in width and 1.6 inches in height, with a listed product weight of 3 pounds.

Performance Highlights

The N252-024-HU-SHK is rated for speeds up to 5 Gbps when managing Cat6 cable in high-density Ethernet applications. It also supports Cat5 and Cat5e technology, providing compatibility across the listed copper cabling categories. The connector arrangement consists of RJ45 female ports on the front and Krone IDC terminations on the rear. Shielded construction, industrial-grade designation and a dedicated grounding wire distinguish the panel’s physical configuration, while its punchdown format provides an organized point for terminating installed network cable.

What Makes It Different

The defining feature of this model is its combination of 24 shielded ports and a half-rack-unit footprint. Many network terminations can therefore be consolidated within 0.5U rather than requiring a full rack unit. Krone IDC punchdowns, support for both T568A and T568B wiring, and individually numbered, labeled and color-coded RJ45 ports address the practical requirements of termination and identification. TAA compliance further differentiates it for purchasing environments where Federal Trade Agreements Act eligibility is required.

Final Assessment

The Eaton N252-024-HU-SHK is a focused choice for shielded Cat5/5e and Cat6 rack cabling. Its 24 RJ45 ports, Krone IDC punchdowns, 5 Gbps Cat6 rating and 0.5U form factor provide a clearly specified foundation for high-density Ethernet connections. Included mounting screws, cable ties, grounding wire and installation guide complete the listed package, while T568A/B support and TAA compliance broaden its installation and procurement compatibility.