Structured-Cabling,Data Cabling

Essential Issues in Design of Structured Cabling Systems

13 Jan 2015

Structured-Cabling,Data CablingStructured cabling systems (SCS) refers to the local area network  cabling system designed exclusively to fit a company's requirements. It combines data, voice, video, and management systems sometimes including alarm and security. SCS insures that all of this information is transmitted promptly and efficiently. The structured cabling system normally includes transmission products with engineering design rules that create a stable transmission system.



Network Foundation


The structured cabling system is said to be the groundwork of a successful building and office setup. It is also the fundamental foundation on which all other equipment relies on.

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Network cabling, NetworkTopologies.

Essential Facts About Cabling System

14 Dec 2014

Network cabling, NetworkTopologies.Your office cabling system is costly and complicated investment. It's also a commitment to an office design and structure that is not easy to modify. If you add more workstations later, new cabling might be needed.


Most offices have a structured cabling topology that hardwires the cables from wallplate to patch panel. With this system, modifications are less likely because the initial installaiont includes a planning process that should anticipate some expansion. By pre-wiring potential locations in an existing or newly-constructed building, future moves, additions or alterations are avoided. You can just transfer patched cables in the wiring closet. Also, it is critical to number the wallplates to match the corresponding patch panel number. This will make it much easier to relocate a workstation or to troubleshoot a connectivity problem.



There are several sub-systems to consider:



  • The Demark refers to the point where the Internet Service Provider's (ISP) data line comes to an end and hooks up with the cabling in the building.

  • The equipment room serves as storage for all apparatus and wiring integration points.

  • Backbone cabling are high-speed cables (typically Cat6 or fiber) that connect various floors or wall closets.

  • The horizontal cabling for links up the network space to individual wallplates. These are done through conduits and ceiling spaces on every level.

  • The telecommunications enclosures are wall or floor mounted cages that hold the network equipment; primarily the patch panels ands switches but also sometimes the server and Uninterruptible Power Supplies (UPS) too.


Installation and design of structured cabling is regulated by standards that identify the following:



  • Network data switches

  • Offices layout for voice & data communications for Cat5e or Cat6 cable

  • Fiber Optic cables for backbones

  • Modular connectors at the wallplate


These components will guide the layout of cables in order to fulfill the data access requirements of your office. All of the cables start at the patch panel on a mounted rack (about 19 inches wide) in the wall closet. From there, they traverse through the drop ceiling and down the walls to individual wallplates. Quite often a wallplate will host 2 or more connections. At the wallplate a short patch cable, usually 7 to 14 feet in length wil connect the computer, phone, printer or other networked device.


All cabling standards require that all of the eight conductors in Cat5, Cat5e and Cat6 cables are inter-connected in a precise color-coded pattern. The network cable connects each device but some devices can share a single cable. This is true for VoIP phones. Most VoIP phones have a jack for the network cable and then a jack on the phone for connecting the computer. This pass-thru enables the two devices to share one connection.

Network Cabling Data Cabling

Fundamentals of Structured Cabling Systems

15 Nov 2014

structured cabling,  Network Cabling, Data CablingThe structured cabling system is a comprehensive structure of wiring and the related hardware involved. This system ensures a complete and reliable telecommunications infrastructure. This network has several  but mostly for providing telephone services or conveyance of data over a  computer network. This type of cabling system also connects to the internet at the demarcation point.



A quality structured cabling installation has these common elements:



  • It must fir the architectural configuration of the building that hosts  cabling installation

  • It made up of cable and connection fixtures

  • It connects equipment that cabling is setup to support

  • Can be designed to enable retrofitting and upgrading

  • Meets the objectives and requirements of the business

  • Is backed by a guarantee by the manufacturer and the installer


As installers, we use standardized techniques in the completion and upkeep of cabling systems. This is important to guarantee satisfactory system performance on a technically complicated infrastructure. The benefits of adhering to these standards are that they insure stability of connectivity after setup.



 Structured cabling installations may include:



  • Entrance facilities

  • Perpendicular and horizontal backbone conduits or cables

  • Horizontal lanes

  • Work area facilities

  • Equipment areas

  • Telecommunications racks and cabinets


A cabling connector refers to the mechanical device used in connecting a cable to a device or from one cable to another. The connector provides the coupling device that can minimize losses.  For fiber, it permits light signals to move from one connector to another. On the other hand, copper enables electrical impulses to be conveyed. It is important to properly align these  connectors to prevent connectivity breaks. Likewise, it should insure the efficient transmission of data. Connectors are crucial to the reliability of the total telecommunications network.


There are six subsystems in the structured platform. These are entrance facilities, equipment rooms, backbone cabling, telecommunication rooms and enclosures, the cabling, and the work area.  The first consists of cables, network boundary, hardware for connection, security devices, and equipment attached to the network cabling. Backbone cabling consists of subsystems that provide inter-connection between telecommunication, network equipment and access facilities.  Quite often these are the higher speed cabling components such as Cat6 and fiber that connect among the switches of an office.


Horizontal cabling connects from the desktops and phones to the telecommunications rooms and enclosures. The maximum horizontal cable length should be at no more than 100 meters. These desktop components extend out from the wall plate connection end of the horizontal cabling system to the equipment in the wall closet.


Call us if you need troubleshooting or if you have a need for cabling at your office due to expansion or relocation of your firm. We do free on-site surveys and quotes.

network cabling,cat6 cable

What are the advantages and disadvantages of Cat6 cabling?

7 Nov 2014

network cabling,cat6 cableAs the price of Cat6 cable has come down, the answer is yes. You get 500% more speed for about a 25% higher price. Unless you really just don't need more speed, go with Cat6.


Category6 or Cat6 cables have established standards for the Gigabit Ethernet. This variety is backward compatible with Category 5 and 5e as well as Category 3 cable. Cat6 facilitates computer networks by providing high-speed data transfer rates. Performance can be described as optimal if other components within the network are also running at gigabit speeds.



What are the upsides?


Cat6 is fast. It has the capability to handle maximum speed performance of 250 MHZ. The network includes Gigabit Ethernet along with 10-Gigabit Ethernet. With complementary routers, interface cards, switches, and patch panels a complete gigabit network is possible. Information Technology professionals are aware that Cat6 cable provides exceptionally fast network performance and gigabit speeds.


The composition is similar to Cat5 Cable. There are eight wires which are coiled together forming four pairs. With Cat6, each pair of wires is designed to be insulated from the others so it can produce twice the communications capacity of Cat5 and Cat5e. Cat6 cables plugs and ports are compatible to Cat5 and Cat5e. It may not have the same maximum speed of the computer cable but it will still function.


You can upgrade to Cat6 cable if your current network is not performing at a productive speed in retrieving and saving your data files. Even small enterprises are now thinking of installing this model because it is fast emerging as the industry standard.


However,  Cat6 cable is  more expensive. It will surely be a waste of resources in cases where greater data speeds are not needed. That is why some users opt for Cat5e which is less expensive while still providing splendid performance.


At the same time, you are not guaranteed 100 percent full speed. Sometimes, there is a misconception that purchasing a Cat6 cable will offer users the whole gigabit bandwidth on your network. The truth is Cat6 cable will only generate full speeds if all of the components in the network can function at gigabit speed. In case a single part (network card, patch panel, switch or connector) is not gigabit rated, the network may work at the slowest speed of the slowest component device.


You might be persuaded to buy Cat6 without really understanding if it will really produce the desired impact on the network. This is why it is essential to learn everything about the product before you make a decision.


Call us at 202-462-4290 before you decide so that you can get a free on-site analysis that will pinpoint your network cabling needs.


 
Network Cabling Data Cabling

Distinguishing between Cat5 and Cat6 Network Cables

12 Jun 2014

Network cablesCAT 5,Network Cabling Data Cabling connect and transmit information between personal computers, storage area networks and routers. You can now find various models of cables. Your choice may depend on configuration and topology of the system’s architecture. The most common variety is known as twisted pair cable in local area networks. Numerous Ethernet networks use this type of cable. It is composed of four pairs of fine wires or conductors. Each pair is entwined several times to prevent obstruction from other cables and devices.


The CAT5 or Category5 is an example of twisted pair cable

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Data Cabling,Structured Cabling,Washington DC

Advantages Of Hard-wired Cabling Over Wireless Networks For Database Applications

5 Jun 2014

 Network Cabling Data CablingCorporate organizations need to share information efficiently. There are two options for them when it comes to setting up database applications; it is a choice between hard-wired cabling and a wireless network. Wireless systems provide users with more mobility. However, the majority of enterprises prefer the wired model for more control, security, consistency and speed. These are the major upsides of going for physical connections. It is comparatively economical since the cost of cabling, even with the lengths needed to cover a standard office space, is generally cheap.

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Structured cabling,Network Cabling, Washinton DC

Continued Dominance of Structured Copper Cabling Systems

28 May 2014

Copper cablingNetwork Cabling ,Data Cabling,copper cabling system will remain dominant in the structured cabling systems industry. This conclusion is based on analysis and forecasts made by several cabling installation companies worldwide. Both copper and optic fiber cabling are used for key structured cabling systems applications like LAN, data centers, and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP). Optic fiber is gradually gaining in popularity, but copper cable still seems to be the major preference of most companies.

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cable testing, Network Cabling ,Data Cabling

Cable Testing And Certification

12 May 2014

cable testing, Network Cabling ,Data Cabling Cable testing and certification are obviously complicated terminologies that may be difficult for laypeople to understand. Nonetheless, it is important to become familiar with these functions since they have become common fixtures in your homes. It does not matter whether you are simply making repairs or installing new cables, testing always plays an essential role. Testing offers a degree of assurance that the links provide the necessary transmission capacity that supports data communications.


Cable testing implements have been designed with multiple features for a variety of tasks. However, these differ in terms of costs, performance and applications. Testing can be classified into certification and verification. Certification is vital because it ensures conformity of the cabling system to industry benchmarks. Certification instruments decide whether a particular connection complies with ISO or TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) guidelines. In fact, it is the final step completed by structured cable manufacturers before granting warranties for new installations.


In this technology domain, certification is acknowledged as proof of professional status. The Fiber Optic Association (FOA) oversees adherence to certification requirements and authorizes schools to grant training that meets its standards. FOA programs are created and maintained by experts in the fiber optic enterprise.


Certification indicates that you have accomplished specific performance criteria established by the certifying organization. It includes knowledge, skills and abilities either through training or through experience acquired over the years.
Certification is not simply an ordinary license; it is official consent to do business within a particular jurisdiction. The majority of states in the country require licensing for service providers installing communications cabling. Be sure to check your local area and find out the requirements for licensing. Testing and Certification are the foremost steps in the cable installation process, and it is imperative that all components are tested carefully.


It is not enough to plug in the network equipment set-up and find out if it works properly. Certification is needed to prevent unnecessary and costly improvements or refurbishment in the future. Network examination and certification of all new installations as well as existing networks are provided for the whole infrastructure.


Incidentally, you also need to learn that in communications cabling, standards delineate the kinds of cabling, yardsticks that define cabling, connections, cabling architecture, and testing prerequisites. These standards can minimize downtime and installation costs. At the same time, standards capitalize on system availability and prolong the life span of cabling systems. Lastly, paradigms allow manufacturers to create systems that will accommodate current technologies and equipment without difficulty. The bottom line is to find the company that can do these things for you efficiently.

cable testing, Network Cabling ,Data Cabling ,cat6-cabling

Benefits of Copper Cabling Solutions

4 May 2014

cable testing, Network Cabling ,Data Cabling ,cat6-cablingThe conventional process of copper cabling has been used for several years and is still preferred by many network cable providers and end-users. Companies like Progressive Office Cabling offer a complete range of cabling solutions in Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6a and Cat6, providing clients with high-quality cable as well as connectivity components. Progressive Office Cabling makes use of highly effective cable management systems and well-trained technicians for installation jobs. It also employs a web-based online project management system to guarantee proper implementation and monitoring of any project.




How Does Copper Cabling Work?


Installation technicians have to follow specific policies and standards, particularly when it comes to building structure concerns. There are several steps to follow with regard to installation. First, the cable should have the appropriate covering or insulation, which is normally made of PVC, Plenum, Ultra-Violet, or mold-resistant varieties. The cable is cut according to the needed length, and outer covers are removed before connectors are attached. Use the appropriate stripping tools for this purpose. Cables should be mounted as orderly as possible.


There are instances when installers have to use ladder trays and J-hooks, which are made for network cabling, or shoot nails into concrete ceilings using a tool that literally propels nails like bullets into the concrete surfaces. Network cables must be installed away from electric power lines, fluorescent lamps and industrial machines; the risk of electrical coupling can increase dependent on proximity and voltage factors.



Different Benefits


Copper cabling has multiple benefits and is the most effective conductor out there. Copper cables are flexible, which is especially advantageous if you are using electrical wires. It is necessary to bend the wire during installation, so you need something durable that will not easily break after a lot of twisting. Copper does not easily melt, so even if a sudden surge of current or overload takes place, there is no risk of burning or melting. At the same time, copper is not difficult to work on. The majority of electricians opt for copper wires because they can be stripped easily or pulled through rigid spots.


With regard to structured copper cabling, there is the Power over Ethernet benefit. This means that it is possible to run power through devices such as Wireless Access Points, surveillance cameras, and power phones. There is an emergency power supply that continues to power mission-critical devices even if electrical power conks out. Copper cabling supports modern technologies and facilitates the convergence of different applications. Hence, it is important that copper cabling is optimized for your requirements. That is why you should make sure to get the services only of experienced and trustworthy providers in the industry. Choose the provider that ensures customer satisfaction and warranty after installation.

Network Cabling ,cat5 cat6 cabling

How Does Structured Cabling Work?

10 Nov 2023

CablingNetwork Cabling, Data Cabling,cat5 cat6 cabling is an essential component in your network. It also has a long life span, from 15 to 20 years, so it may be necessary to replace your network equipment at least three times during the life of the cabling configuration. Cable installation is roughly 15 percent of the total network outlay. So it is advisable to invest in premium cabling systems, particularly to reduce maintenance costs and downtime while also achieving improved network performance. Entrepreneurs are always advised to look at the long-term scenario and acquire the best cable installation available.



Uninterrupted Flow of Information


There is no doubt regarding the importance of a structured cabling system in the operations of a business organization. This complete system with related hardware provides far-reaching telecommunications; it has a broad range of uses like supplying phone services or transmitting information through a network of computers. Each structured cabling system is unique depending on a number of factors, including the architectural formation of edifices that houses cabling installation, cable and connection components, equipment variety that cabling supports, configuration including upgrades and retro-fitting, requirements of clients, and manufacturers’ warranties.


The assembly that has been planned carefully and installed according to this plan ensures an unbroken network of information and communications. Aside from this advantage, structured cabling facilitates sharing of resources, enables smooth operations, and adapts to evolving technology. In fact, it is expected to last longer than computer servers and network switches. The types of network installations are the Local Area Network (LAN), Metropolitan Area Network (MAN) and Wide Area Network (WAN).


Cabling installation firms design and install LAN systems consisting of data and voice as well as support equipment for computer networks and mainframe programs of PCs. All installations must comply with state and city codes together with manufacturers’ specifications.



Other Benefits


Structured cabling offers users more flexibility. It takes the place of multiple wiring systems with a single and cohesive infrastructure. This conveys data in various formats ranging from voice to video. You only need to plug the correct adapter into the socket whether you want to connect a computer, telephone or fax machine.


It affords users peace of mind since each cabling comes with full on-site warranty, covering component or performance faults. It is also possible to make changes in a matter of minutes. This built-in ensures that your organization can be very cost-effective. Furthermore, structured cabling has the capacity to hold high bandwidth, guaranteeing that you've invested in a solution that fully supports new applications. In other words, your cabling infrastructure will not become obsolete within the next few years.


Take care to deal only with cabling companies that employ highly competent technicians and make use of superior cable management equipment.