So, you want to learn about structured cabling. Well coming to your dedicated IT partners website is probably a good first step.
At Bubble IT structured cabling is probably one of the areas of our business that we are most enthusiastic about. We get to look after your business servers by offering assistance and 24/7 support whenever you need it. We love to help introduce new people to structured cabling and its many advantages that allow us to keep your business ahead of the rest.
So it is safe to say that we are pretty experienced with this process so we get asked a lot of questions about what we do. In this blog, we will cover some of the most frequently asked questions we get asked at Bubble IT.
What is data cabling?
Data cabling (or network cabling) is designed to transmit data as electronic signals between devices.
In other words, it’s the cables that allow devices to communicate with each other and the wider internet; including:
- Computers
- Servers and data centres
- TV screens and projectors
- Speakers and music systems
- Printers, scanners and photocopiers
- WiFi access points
- CCTV security cameras
Whether you’re sending and receiving emails, uploading or downloading files, processing transactions, communicating via videoconferencing, or any number of other networking applications; you’re relying on network cabling to make it happen.
Certain data cable types can also support landline telephones (known as voice over internet protocol or VoIP) and transfer electrical power as well as data signals (known as Power over Ethernet or PoE).
Data cables are just one component in a complete networking setup – see ‘What is structured cabling?’ directly below.
What is structured cabling?
If data cabling is the technology that can offer data transfer and communications, structured cabling is the design and installation of a complete network cabling system.
A structured cabling system (SCS) includes not only data cables but also routers, switches and other standardised components; arranged in a unique structure that can provide reliable, consistent network coverage to all devices across your premises.
Why install structured cabling?
As well as providing all the infrastructure to run your organisation’s current networking activities, structured cabling also provides a solution for your future networking needs.
A location’s networking needs can evolve over time; so a well-structured cabling system will be designed with flexibility and adaptability in mind:
- A typical structured cabling system uses the same ‘twisted pair’ Ethernet cables and 8P8C connectors/sockets (often known as RJ45 connectors) across the entire system; creating a modular network system that will be compatible with most network devices and can be adjusted and adapted easily.
- Network hardware can be upgraded for higher data usage (or bandwidth) and faster networking speeds as technology moves on.
- New devices and future equipment can easily be connected to your network as your business grows.
- Equipment can be rearranged around your premises without losing network access.
We hope that any misconceptions about structured cabling have been cleared up and that you have had your questions answered. Perhaps you are interested in investing in structured cabling or one of our other services?
Whatever your reason for reading this blog we are happy that you did and if you are interested in reading more please consider visiting our blog page here.
