The Cisco® ONS 15216 Exposed Faceplate Mux/Demux 40-Channel Patch Panel is a standalone unit that contains both a 40-channel optical multiplexer and a 40-channel optical demultiplexer, precabled within the unit's housing. Two models are available: 15216-EF-40-ODD includes the odd-numbered frequencies as defined by ITU G.694.2, while 15216-EF-40-EVEN includes the even-numbered frequencies. The two units can be combined using the Cisco ONS 15216 48 Channels 50 GHz De-Interleaver with Coupler for an in-service capacity upgrade from 40 to 80 channels.

The Cisco ONS 15216 Exposed Faceplate Mux/Demux 40-Channel Patch Panel is identical to the existing Cisco ONS 15216 Mux/Demux 40-Channel Patch Panel, with the exception of a simpler fiber management system. This is achieved by replacing the moving parts and door with lateral clips and tie wraps for fiber and USB cable management

The physical arrangement of the ports also differs from that of the Cisco ONS 15216 40-Channel Mux/Demux Patch Panel. Instead of 10 columns and 4 rows to accommodate the 40 channels, ports are now arranged in 8 columns and 5 rows. The placement of the clips provides optimal fiber routing, facilitating the addition of fibers in an incremental manner and resulting in a simple design that is easy to maintain and troubleshoot. A separate tie wrap is provided for fastening the USB cable used for passive inventory management.