Modular Plug Terminated Link (MPTL) - Direct Connect Cabling Technology

Simplify network installations with MPTL direct connect cabling - eliminate outlets and patch cords while maintaining compliance with transmission requirements and reducing overall installation costs.

Modular Plug Terminated Link

Modular Plug Terminated Link (MPTL)

The Modular Plug Terminated Link (MPTL) is a new “direct connect” link model where a horizontal cable is terminated and directly attached to a modular plug or a tool-free field termination plug. MPTL shall comply with the permanent link transmission requirement. So, for both MPTL and permanent link, the maximum length of the horizontal cable shall not exceed 90 meters.


Channel, Permanent Link, MPTL

A channel is composed of any patch cord, any horizontal cable, and any connecting hardware (patch panels or connectors) that connect from the switch to the end device. A permanent link is a fixed portion within a channel. A permanent link (PL) includes the horizontal cable and the connecting hardwares (no patch cords) because a permanent link is expected to stay in place for a long period of time. A modular plug terminated link (MPTL) is a permanent link without the installation of any outlet or any patch cord, and the horizontal cable in a MPTL connects directly to the end device.

Difference Between Permanent Link and MPTL

The biggest difference between a permanent link and a modular plug terminated link is how the horizontal cable is terminated. In a channel or a permanent link, ANSI/TIA-568.2-D requires a horizontal cable to be terminated on a telecommunications outlet to provide a flexible access to users. But, for the MPTL use, ANSI/TIA-568.2-D allows the horizontal cable to be directly terminated with a male connector (especially a field termination plug because it is much easier to work with and terminate on a thick horizontal cable with large OD). Because of this, the implementation of a MPTL eliminates the use of outlets and patch cords, which can decrease installation costs.

MPTL Applications

Although ANSI/TIA-568.2-D requires that a horizontal cable be terminated on a telecommunications outlet to provide a flexible access to users. However, in certain cases, there may be a need for a direct connection of a horizontal cable and a device where the cable is directly plugged into a device and connects it to the network. The MPTL test greatly simplifies above-ceiling device installation. Devices that are often used in MPTL are LED lights, security cameras, building automation controls, and Wi-Fi access points. Other devices that are IP enabled and connected to copper horizontal cabling infrastructure are also suitable for the use of the MPTL test.

How to Run MPTL Test on a Fluke DSX-8000

This configuration shows how to set up for a TIA Cat 6A MPTL (+PoE) test using a patch cord test adapter and a permanent link adapter.

1. Make Sure Test Limit is "MPTL (+POE)" or "MPTL"

Please select "Test Limit: TIA Cat 5e/6/6A/8 MPTL (+PoE)", and you can go ahead and test it. If the Test Limit is shown otherwise, please see the following steps that will help you find the MPTL setting. Note that, to ensure the accuracy of the test results, please calibrate your cable tester before going onto the next step.

2. Edit Test Setup

Click on the test name. Then, select “Edit” to add the MPTL test as the default test.

3. Choose the Test Limit on the Fluke Cable Analyzer

Click on “Test Limit” and go to “More”.

4. Use the Right Limit Groups and Category For Your Cable

We normally use “TIA” and choose the cable category, which should be the same as your cable.

5. Select "MPTL (+POE)"

After choosing “MPTL” or “MPTL (+PoE)”, you should see the same screen in the first step. Then, you will be able to test the cable with the Fluke for the TIA MPTL autotest.

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How can we reduce installation costs while maintaining network performance standards for above-ceiling device deployments?

MPTL technology eliminates the need for telecommunications outlets and patch cords by directly terminating horizontal cables to modular plugs, significantly reducing material and labor costs. EXW's certified field termination plugs and direct connect solutions are tested and verified to comply with ANSI/TIA-568.2-D transmission requirements, ensuring reliable performance while simplifying your installation workflow. With 36 years of manufacturing expertise and Fluke-tested quality assurance, our MPTL solutions provide the cost savings and reliability your projects demand.

EXW's MPTL cabling solutions distinguish themselves through rigorous quality assurance, including Fluke testing and advanced automated production processes that ensure reliable performance. By implementing MPTL technology, network infrastructure professionals can significantly decrease installation costs through the elimination of outlets and patch cords while maintaining full compliance with ANSI/TIA-568.2-D standards. Whether you're deploying IP-enabled devices across copper horizontal cabling infrastructure or managing complex above-ceiling installations, EXW provides the certified field termination plugs and direct connect cabling expertise needed to optimize your network infrastructure deployment. Contact our sales team today to explore how MPTL solutions can enhance your next structured cabling project.