An assembly for permitting “Power-over-Ethernet” (PoE) connection between a PoE control device and the components of a cabling network includes a patch panel or conventional design. The patch panel includes on a front face thereof a plurality of first sockets that are each open on the front face such that a plug inserted into the first socket is connectable to a data cable via a data transmission path forming part of the patch panel. The assembly includes a distribution matrix that is securable onto the front side of the patch panel, the distribution matrix including a plurality of through-going apertures corresponding in number and location to the first sockets of the patch panel such that when the matrix member is secured on the patch panel a said aperture is functionally in register with each of the first sockets. The distribution matrix includes a power bus supported thereby. The assembly includes one or more connector devices, and the power bus is connectable to a PoE controller.