Rack for a communication system

Abstract

A rack for a communication system as, including a backboard having a first side, a second side, a connector capable of being connected to an electrical communication cable, and a plurality of through apertures. A first side panel has an open slot and a closed slot. The first side panel is connected to the first side of the backboard while a second side panel having a grooved slot is connected to the second side of the backboard. A rear panel has a first flange for detaining the first side panel, a second flange for detaining the second side panel, and first and second longitudinal detaining units for positioning strips perforated by columns of holes aligned with through apertures. The first and second longitudinal detaining units are located at sides of the rear panel. The strips are insertable into one of said strip detaining units. A plurality of guide plates have guide pins and a rear side. The guide plates, when installed, are inter-locked with the first side panel, the second side panel, the backboard, and the rear panel, with the guide pins projecting from the rear and passing through the through apertures of the backboard and into the holes in the corresponding strips, thereby attaching the rear panel to the backboard. The guide pins detain the backboard so as to maintain distance between the guide plates.