Network Ideas | Progressive Office Cabling

Properly Planning the Cabling of Your New Office – Part 2

4 Mar 2019

As discussed in Part 1, relocating your company to a new office can be quite challenging and costly. This article will discuss several factors to be considered while properly planning the cabling of your new office. Part 2 will discuss Health & Safety, Future Expansion, Structured Cabling, and Early Consultations.

Health & Safety

An important consideration is the wiring layout methods used in terms of the safety and mobility of employees and visitors in the new office location. Tangles of wires connecting equipment or lying on the floors uncovered will be hazards. Improperly stored cabling can block emergency exits and block the ventilation for cooling server rooms. Check with a professional cabling firm regarding compliance with regulations.

Future Expansion

After studying market projections, you may anticipate your company growing and expanding, so your team will need to prepare for accommodating more bandwidth, computers, servers, phones, power usage, data storage, and upgrades. Consideration should be given regarding your existing setup and how the new office can be configured to allow flexibility for revisions and expansion in the future.

Structured Cabling

Improvised installations of cabling for data, networking, and communications by several different contractors will likely prevent the creation of an efficient and integrated IT infrastructure. In addition, the costs for the management and maintenance will be more expensive because of the various systems and mixture of equipment.

A structured cabling system will be much easier to utilize, maintain, reconfigure, and repair. This is made possible by using best practices for the configurations and connections for cabling, power, and communications. Adaptability is one of the great advantages of structured cabling because it allows the future proofing of infrastructure.

Early Consultations

Holding early consultations with engineers, cooling technicians, communications and network experts, and cabling contractors will be necessary because there will be numerous projects and tasks to properly plan and coordinate while meeting deadlines and staying within the budget.

Progressive Office Cabling

Founded in 1986, Progressive Office’s success has been a direct result of years of commitment to seeking solutions on behalf of our clients. Efficiently working together, Progressive teams get cabling installed and operating as fast as possible while minimizing disruption and downtime. Call our toll free number (800) 614-4560 today.

How to Get Your Small Business Network Up and Ready

21 Jan 2019

Stu Kushner

Cat6 Fiber Cabling Company Pittsburgh The creation of a small business network begins with a foundation of routers and switches. Below is a simple overview that will help you make a plan for what your company’s network will require.

Differentiating Between Switches and Routers

Creating a small business network will require two types of equipment: switches and routers. Although they appear alike, these two devices have different roles.

Switches will provide the connections between several devices, such as computers, servers, and printers, on a network inside a facility. A switch allows devices that are connected to share information and communicate with each other. Your network will not be able to function if there aren’t any switches to connect devices to each other.

Routers link several networks. When creating a small business network, one or more routers will be required. A router provides the connection to the Internet for networked computers. It allows them to share one Internet connection, performing as a dispatcher and selecting the best routes for the transmittal of information. A router links your company to the rest of the globe, protecting data from cyber security threats. It is also capable of prioritizing a network’s computers.

Solid Foundation

Below are basic steps that will help you build a solid foundation for your small business network.

Purchase only business-grade routers and switches for dependable data transmissions and communications. Home or mass consumer network equipment will be unable to cope with commercial requirements as your business expands.

Your small business network should be capable of scaling, allowing the addition of functions and features as your organization grows. Features that you may add in the future may include CCTV, VoIP, internal messaging, and wireless apps.

Ease of installation, reliability, and redundancy should be emphasized to make changes and upgrades easier, and to promote growth in the future.

Progressive Office Cabling

How to Optimize your Company’s Data Center – Part 2

22 Dec 2018

Stu Kushner

Fiber Cabling Company DC Pittsburgh PA Atlanta GA As discussed in Part 1, companies that process significant volumes of data are constantly searching for methods that will maximize their existing data centers. Part 2 will cover Physical-Layer Management and Transitioning to Optimized Infrastructure.

Physical-Layer Management

Data centers can also optimize their operations by employing physical-layer management for cabling, patch panels, and fiber frames. Physical-layer management revolves around the utilization of cabling with intelligent patch panels, fiber frames, and patch cords for registering the connection state and type of each circuit and updating database records.

A physical-layer management system deploys an embedded chip on every patch cord which interfaces with managed patch panels or fiber frames. These chips transmit data about the connecting components, including the unique ID number for every cable assembly and component, performance ratings, assembly lengths, cable colors, polarity, part numbers, and manufacturer locations and dates. Upon connecting a patch cord, the physical-layer management system begins transmitting and documenting to advise the operator regarding the connected equipment.

Physical-layer management systems are capable of working independently or integrating via middleware with other network-management systems or data center infrastructure management (DCIM). As a result, the network management team will not be required to become familiar with a new interface or tool for managing the data center.

Transitioning to Optimized Infrastructure

Deciding on what needs to be upgraded and when to do so are critical steps. As previously mentioned, standardizing infrastructure and implementing physical-layer management will be required for full optimization. However, the process can be accomplished in incremental stages. Perhaps standardization can commence one component at a time as determined by the resources available to an organization.

The expansion or construction of a data center must be considered by management in light of its remaining capacity. Tools that measure the performances of standardized infrastructure and physical-layer management will allow technicians to accurately evaluate current capabilities and assess how much optimization is possible.

Progressive Office Cabling

Founded in 1986, Progressive Office’s success has been a direct result of years of commitment to seeking solutions on behalf of our clients in the Washington, D.C. and New York City areas. Efficiently working together, Progressive teams get cabling installed and operating as fast as possible while minimizing disruption and downtime. Call our toll free number (800) 614-4560 today.

How to Optimize Your Company’s Data Center – Part 1

12 Dec 2018

Stu Kushner

Office Cat6 Cabling Pittsburgh PA Companies that process significant volumes of data are constantly searching for methods that will maximize their existing data centers. User demand is projected to increase rapidly due to the booming growth of video and mobile device usage for business. Optimization can be accomplished through a number of methods.

Virtualization

Virtualization optimizes server and switching infrastructure through the placement of frequently used servers and switches in the same location. The placement of cooling resources there will also increase cooling efficiency and conserve power. Other methods that minimize costs involve co-location and cloud storage.

Passive Infrastructure Standardization

Perhaps underutilized for data center optimization is passive infrastructure standardization. Passive infrastructure is comprised of the products needed to support a data center’s active equipment. This includes copper and fiber cabling, cabinets, racks, and pathway solutions. Structured cable management is crucial for standardizing passive infrastructure, so technicians must properly route patch and trunk cables. Below are four aspects of employing standardized passive infrastructure.

Fiber – When considering fiber structured cabling, management must decide whether to select single-mode or multimode fiber. Less costly, multimode fiber is ideal for shorter runs, such as those between racks in the same row or within the same rack. However, for longer runs spanning mega data centers or between several data centers, the preferred practice is using single-mode fiber.

Operations – In constant flux, data centers frequently undergo changes, additions, and moves. Technicians who perform tasks with standardized infrastructure can finish their tasks faster and with less effort. Moreover, a standardized infrastructure will be less costly.

Reliability – Standardized infrastructure with proper cable management reduces the potential for bent or broken fibers because there’s a proper place for every cable.

Cooling Costs – Using the correct diameter cabling will often increase airflow surrounding active equipment. Smaller diameters will decrease cooling and energy costs, with cooling costs representing the greatest expense in running a data center.

Part 2 will discuss Physical-Layer Management and Transitioning to Optimized Infrastructure.

Progressive Office Cabling

Founded in 1986, Progressive Office’s success has been a direct result of years of commitment to seeking solutions on behalf of our client. Efficiently working together, Progressive teams get cabling installed and operating as fast as possible while minimizing disruption and downtime. Call our toll free number (800) 614-4560 today.

10 Trending Reasons for Upgrading Network Cabling

8 Dec 2018

Stu Kushner

Network Switch Cabling Company Atlanta GA Expert professional providers of network cabling are attuned to the current trends regarding the needs of their customers. They have noted that their clients are becoming increasingly motivated to upgrade network cabling because of the rapid growth of data and its business usage. The following is a list of their 10 trending reasons for upgrading network cabling in 2019.

Access Control & Time and Attendance – Increasingly, these two systems are network connected. The ability to monitor people on premises from a central location enhances safety and security.

CCTV Upgrades – IP CCTV systems are becoming the standard, and are connected to a network to allow both internal and external communications.

Consolidation – Transferring staff or networked machinery from several facilities to one location may require more network outlets.

Display Screens – Efficiently distributing informational video to staff, clients, customers, and partners will mean display screens require network connectivity.

Expansion – May result in a growing number of employees or networked machinery, requiring more network outlets.

Inventory Control – Stock management is usually performed with barcode scanners connected to servers via Wi-Fi. Thus, wireless access points require connectivity to network outlets.

Reliability & Performance Problems – Improper installation of existing cabling systems may require a comprehensive network upgrade supported by documentation or certification to cope with the exponential growth of data and to remain competitive.

SIP Phone System Upgrade – More network outlets are usually necessary to provide connectivity to the new phones. Frequently, savings from the SIP installation can cover the infrastructure upgrade costs.

Tooling & Machinery Upgrades – New plant equipment will typically be “smart” and require network connectivity, which may require more network outlets in close proximity.

Wi-Fi Upgrade – The rapid growth of wireless devices for business use will require faster Wi-Fi with improved coverage. More wireless access points will be necessary.

Progressive Office Cabling

Structured Cabling Network Design Installation NYC NY

Three Most Important Reasons for a Network Upgrade

30 Nov 2018

Stu Kushner

Structured Cabling Network Design Installation Businesses continually are finding their networks to be growing in importance. As a result, some companies are finding that an upgrade for their older networks will be necessary in order to meet current and future demands. This article will discuss the three most important reasons for performing a network upgrade

Performance

Perhaps the most efficient way to improve a network’s performance is the improvement of LAN performance. Sound architecture will revolve around the deployment of 100-Megabit or Gigabit Ethernet switches with VLAN and Layer 3 capabilities. These network devices are emerging technologies that will be very important for network components like VoIP, which require a greater standard of performance.

Unlike the past, future networks will not be plug-and-play. Both latency and switching performance are increasingly growing in importance. As a greater number of features become layered upon the IP network, teams will find it more crucial to deploy switches and a network core that is capable of support.

Reliability

As organizations begin utilizing unified and multimedia communications over IP, including phones, video, and IM, the reliability of Internet connection from a top-performing, high-quality router will be essential. Its default settings can be later adjusted and fine-tuned to effectively control a company’s traffic to the Internet.

Security

As traffic will be carried over the same pipe and becoming increasingly unified, ensuring your organization has a dedicated firewall will become increasingly important. There are numerous network devices that are available in the market that feature an integrated firewall and router. However, a proven and sound practice that is gaining traction is acquiring a Cisco PIX or other firewall to focus on a specific purpose. In this kind of deployment, the firewall can concentrate on processing various types of traffic and the growing number of cyber threats that are coming over the network.

Progressive Office Cabling

Guide to Proper Cable Management at Your Business

20 Nov 2018

Stu Kushner

Structured Cabling,Data Cabling Most companies depend on cabling for data and electricity, but its management is often overlooked. However, safety, functionality and organization are important, no matter what type of business you have. The following will discuss how your company can benefit from proper cable management.

Safety

Management is responsible for ensuring that their facilities are up to code and their company areas are safe for customers and employees. Companies should deploy cable floor cord covers to prevent liability issues and to protect cables from crushing foot traffic.

Reduce Maintenance Time

Staff can reduce cabling maintenance time by being able to quickly and easily differentiate types of wiring. Otherwise precious time and labor costs are wasted in untangling and sorting through strands of cables. Best structured cabling practices call for properly classifying and labeling cables while consulting with professionals regarding proper implementation.

Conserve Resources

Proper cable management will give your workplace a tidier and organized appearance. A benefit from this practice is maximizing the service lives and performance of the cables of your network. If cables are piled up on the floor or left hanging behind racks, they are more vulnerable to being damaged. The introduction of an efficient and market-proven cable management system will allow you to conserve financial resources and delay the replacement of network cables by extending their lifespan.

Clean Work Environment

One aspect of proper cable management that is rarely discussed is the need to clean cables regularly. A clean work environment will not only be healthier and safer for employees, it will give your company an image of professionalism. Consult with an experienced cabling expert regarding highly-rated products in the market that will help to efficiently organize cables in your workplace so they can be easily cleaned.

Progressive Office Cabling

Five New Approaches for Data Center Cabling – Part 2

15 Nov 2018

Stu Kushner

Network Cabling Computer Company Pittsburgh PA As discussed in Part 1, a properly designed network infrastructure is a prerequisite for being able to adapt emerging technology and support crucial systems cost effectively. Part 2 will discuss Modular Design, Optimized Network Infrastructure, and Virtualization.

Modular Design

An approach that has recently gained traction is building new data centers capable of supporting the demand for excellent networking capability. Companies are increasingly participating during the construction phase by becoming more involved in decisions that help decrease costs. Specially designed and portable, modular data centers utilize engineered modules and components that offer the ability to scale and allow the creation of a converged infrastructure where necessary. Such modular designs are described as portable modular data centers or containerized data centers. Structured cabling is the foundation for every modular data center.

Optimized Network Infrastructure

According to data center providers, copper and fiber technology are sufficient for current networking infrastructure. However, there is a greater demand for more speed and streamlined connectivity for PCs, servers, and data storage. Optimizing data cabling is the method for achieving both. Optimized network infrastructure typically uses component standardization, including copper and fiber cabling, racks, and cabinets. Teamed with a physical-layer cable-management system, this approach results in a network that is both accessible and organized.

Virtualization

Research has found that more than half of small and medium-sized enterprises have their workloads running on virtual machines. In addition, more than 9 in 10 data center providers are now offering virtualization services to businesses. Proven to be scalable and cost-effective, virtualization technology is being commonly used for these four functions: desktop, server, network, and storage. As the popularity of IT infrastructure virtualization increases, ensuring that your organization has well-designed structured cabling will grow in importance.

Progressive Office Cabling

Why Your Company Should Avoid CCA Cabling – Part 2

30 Oct 2018

Stu Kushner

Cat6 Office Cabling Dallas TX Pittsburgh PA As discussed in Part 1, companies that have a limited budget for network infrastructure may end up buying copper clad aluminum (CCA) cabling to save money. Although marketed as a sufficient substitute for solid copper cabling, CCA cables are far from being the right answer for trimming budgets. Part 2 will continue discussing CCA cabling related issues and counterfeit copper cabling.

Shortened Cable Runs

As lengthier CCA cable runs approach the 100-meter maximum, there will be a decrease of signal strength in comparison to solid copper CAT5e cabling. Reduced signal strength can result in data loss because increased packets of data must be retransmitted.

Unsuitable for Power Over Ethernet (PoE)

Since CCA wires have a higher DC resistance (about 55% greater) than solid copper, its conductors may need to be 60% larger than solid copper to compensate. Without resistance compensation, the drop in voltage will be greater for any channel length.

Longer cable runs of 65 meters or more will surpass TIA’s channel DCR requirements, limiting the available voltage for the device. In addition, higher resistance will result in a faster buildup of radiant heat, which may damage the device.

How to Identify CCA Cabling

CCA wire is also much more brittle than solid copper wire. Identifying CCA is easy because all you need to find is the silver color of the tip of the conductor. Another way is scraping away the thin copper surface of the conductor to reveal the aluminum.

CCA cables also weigh much less than solid copper cables. Go to the CCCA website for the CableCheck™ mobile app (http://cccassoc.org/news/free-apps/), which provides the approximate correct box weights to help detect CCA conductors being used to fraudulently substitute for solid copper conductors.

When a CCA cable is labeled as a Category 5e, 6 or 6A cable or CMP or CMR rated, it is counterfeit cable. It will also be non-compliant with industry performance standards and will pose a hazard by being unable to pass UL fire safety testing.

Progressive Office Cabling

Why Your Company Should Avoid CCA Cabling – Part 1

22 Oct 2018

Stu Kushner

Cabling Network Cable Twisted Pairs If your company has a limited budget for network infrastructure, your team may be tempted to find numerous way to economize. Unfortunately, this may lead to buying CCA cabling in order to save money. Although marketed as a sufficient substitute for solid copper cabling, CCA cables are far from being the right answer for trimming budgets.

Definition of CCA

CCA stands for copper coated aluminum. A CCA cable’s core is an inner aluminum conductor that is coated with copper. As a result, it weighs considerably less than solid copper cables.

A CCA cable can be made at a significantly reduced cost than the solid copper version. This gives a manufacturer an increased profit margin and a significant competitive edge over those companies who continue making solid copper cable.

CCA cables may look similar and are advertised to function just like standard CAT5e or CAT6 cabling, but they have serious flaws that could result in network issues, business continuity problems, and safety hazards as discussed below.

Non-Compliant

CCA twisted pair cables are non-compliant with UL and TIA standards, which require solid or stranded copper conductors. The National Electrical Code (NEC) also does not provide CCA cabling a valid safety listing. Thus, CCA cables cannot be installed legally if the facility requires CM, CMG, CMP, CMR, or CMX rated cables.

Inflexible

As CCA conductors are brittle and easily break, just transferring a faceplate or patch panel can result in failures. CCA wires have low tensile strength, and they are known to break from shearing or pulling, which can happen during packaging or delivery. Moreover, CCA cables have a very limited bend radius.

Oxidation

Aluminum begins oxidizing very rapidly when it is exposed to air. This oxidation and the resulting corrosion may lead to failed terminations inside the network infrastructure, resulting in connectivity issues.

Part 2 will continue discussing CCA cabling related issues and counterfeit copper cabling.

Progressive Office Cabling

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