What is structured cabling?
Structured cabling is the design and installation of a cabling system that will support multiple hardware uses and be suitable for today’s needs and those of the future. With a correctly installed system, current and future requirements can be met, and hardware that is added in the future will be supported.
Structured cabling design and installation are governed by a set of standards that specify wiring data centers, offices, and apartment buildings for data or voice communications using various kinds of cable, most commonly category 5e (Cat 5e), category 6 (Cat 6), and fiber optic cabling and modular connectors. These standards define how to lay the cabling in various topologies in order to meet the needs of the customer, typically using a central patch panel (which is normally 19-inch rack-mounted), from where each modular connection can be used as needed. Each outlet is then patched into a network switch (normally also rack-mounted) for network use or into an IP or PBX (private branch exchange) telephone system patch panel.
Regardless of the size or type of business, you need to have an efficient and reliable telecommunication system, installing the right hardware is certainly key to running the system smoothly, but achieving efficiency without establishing a solid network is impossible. Data and communications have become unforgiving and cannot tolerate a lot of errors. However, it is important that you have appropriate network cabling knowledge to not just install a fully functional network, but also to safeguard the integrity of your business.
1. Overlooking the future needs
As long as your organization continues to grow, you may require an upgraded network to meet your growing needs for high-speed applications and technologies, keep in mind that you should go for at least Cat5e cables or Cat6, you need to be mindful of your future needs when installing cabling system.
2. Running cables parallel with electric wires
Data cabling comprises a magnetic field that may become disrupted when running parallel with electric wires. The disruption may cause noise and slow transmission of data across the network income cases, the transmission may not even make it from point A to point B, leading to failure.
3. Ignoring cabling codes and laws
Threats to safety may appear when ignoring cabling codes and laws. As an example, PVC emits toxic fumes upon burning, and thus, may put firefighter and other safety personnel at risk when navigating the area during an emergency.