The Do’s And Don’t Of Data Cabling
Cable infrastructure- It is imperative to understand how important the correct data cabling infrastructure is, not only for the elimination of errors and high noise levels. Proper cabling also allows for quick and easy problem solving and overall management. Once installed the installation should also tested extensive to make sure that there are no lurking infrastructural problems which can cause major headaches unlike equipment faults which are normally easy to repair or replace.
Determine your needs- You or your cabling installer should give serious consideration and do a physical survey to the construction type employed, exact location of the wire closet or main server room, determine if an intermediate points from the main distribution point will be necessary (usually a must for larger company’s or spaces), take measurements of the various cable runs and any special cable requirements including fibre optics.
Environment- The network environment plays an essential part in determination of cabling type. The installation should undoubtedly suit the environment as some networks are just plain incompatible with either optic fibre or copper installations. If you require very low noise levels, copper installations are the preferred choice as optical fibres, Cat5e and Cat6 have a greater tendency for transmission problems in the form of electromagnetic and radio frequency interferences.
Network traffic analyze- Network traffic analysis is done by means of a network analyzers or monitors. These tools give installers inside info into broadcast traffic on certain network segment and transmitter packages. Network bandwidth requirements are determined by usage of a network analyzers. These analyzers check the transmission of data over several day and at different times of the day.
Growth- Your network should have the ability to adapt smoothly with business growth. This is mainly why future bandwidth usage assessments are conducted. It is highly recommended that you rather implement too much cabling infrastructure than too little. Keep your network administrator updated on any expansion plans for the business as he or she needs to take this into consideration for any network changes.
Cost- If you are interested in Cat5e, Cat6 or optical fibre connections you should get ready for some serious budgeting as the costs can shoot sky-high for these cabling options. However a lot of money can be wasted on incorrect conveyance media choices. If the network requires Cat5e, Cat6 or optical fibers it is important to install it. Avoid the thought of getting away with cheaper alternatives. Your network environment as well as future and current bandwidth requirements are absolutely essential to save costs in the long-run. Of course do-it-yourself cabling is the cheapest choice but not always recommended as you may not have the knowledge and ability to tackle the task all by your lonesome. Get multiple quotes from multiple installers as pricing can vary significantly, dependant upon each individual cabling company.
Quality inspections and test- Quality control in the form of regular inspections is very important to make sure that the installer only uses quality cables, connections and cords. Bit rate error, bandwidth reservation, application identification and differentiations as well as web interfacing tests are absolutely essential.
Complete installation- Proper installation of data cabling infrastructure will ensure highest functionality. Your cable installer should also certify the installation.