July 19, 2007 -- L-com Connectivity Products has introduced its "shark fin" style patch cables, which feature snagless boots especially designed to be easily depressed. The company says it expects the new product to become preferred style of patch cords for high-density patch panel applications.

Snagless boots are used on RJ45 modular connectors to ensure the connector latch does not snag when the patch cable is being pulled through conduit, behind walls, or on cable ladders. Unfortunately, notes the company, many typical snagless boots are difficult to depress due to a combination of poor design and material selection.

L-com says its shark fin boots are made of more flexible material and are designed for easy latch depression. According to the company, the low profile boot also allows for easy patch cable connection in high-density patch panels, since the boot is the same width as the plug. The new series is fully compliant with Category 5E specifications for performance.

The cables come in nine standard colors and lengths from 3 to 100 feet. Custom length cables are also available upon request and with modest minimum order quantities.