Garry Sholl | Your Business Communications Expert! » Data Cabling

The Advantages of Fiber Optic Cable

Garry Sholl — Fri, 29 Apr 2011 07:46:54 +0000

Fiber optic cable is very popular for today’s use. Compared to standard electrical cables, this cable offers you more advantages. Therefore, this cable is highly preferable since it is able to provide security and low attenuation rates. In every day life, this cable is mostly used for telephone connection and internet.

The first advantage which this cable offers is the security. It offers you more secure communications since it is highly resistant to radio frequency jamming and interference and tapping. With this cable, you will not experience of getting interfered while communicating. In addition, the Department of Defense has used this type of cable for over 25 years.

The second advantage is its inexpensive price. Compared to copper wire, this optical cable is available at lower price. It will be more economical option for you. In addition, it also allows you to transmit data over a large distance.

The third advantage you can take is that it is free from any electrical interference. It will make this cable particularly more valuable in locations with high voltage and lightening. Another important thing is that it does not need electricity so that it does not pose to a fire hazard.

The fourth advantage which you can take from optic cable is that it has low attenuation. It means that this cable has very little data loss even in a long distance. The light of the cable will travel through the fiber which makes it experience no attenuation or intensity loss over time.

Another great advantage of this cable is that it is space saver. With the great capacity which this cable is able to handle, you don’t need to install a lot of cable for your various needs. With less cable installation, you can save space in your building or some other small space. Source

Use Cable Management to Fireproof Your Cables

Garry Sholl — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 03:00:55 +0000

Effective cable management is essential for any business that makes use of electrical and electronics items (which would be all). Jumbled up and tangled cables are a safety hazard to all, both, due to the danger posed by people tripping over them, as well as due to the fire hazard they pose. Most cable jackets are made of materials prone to fire. If a fire starts in the server room or in equipment near the cables, it would easily spread to the cables if you do not manage them well. Not only this, the cables themselves can start fire and it will be quite widespread if the cables are in a disarray.

Cable management, like any other management, starts at the beginning. If you take care of your cable placement while installing your devices, then you will not have to worry about things afterward. If possible, use cables with fire proof jackets. Design your equipment placement and cable routes in such a way that the individual cables have plenty of space and look neat as well. Take care of the cable factor while adding equipments and servers. You may even use wire tacks or metal conduits (metals are fire resistant, after all) to cover up cables, as well as keep everything neat and fireproof. The tacks should be fire resistant.

If you already have a messed up server room, then you will have to look at other cable management options. You could use accessories such as cable trays, cable trunking, and cable baskets for the purpose. Cable trays, made of metal (aluminum, steel, or galvanized steel) are commonly used in industrial and office settings to manage cables. The trays could be either ventilated, which allow for air circulation, or solid bottom, which gives maximum protection but would require additional fittings or cutting for cable to get in or out. Plastic trays are also available, but these are not be fire resistant.

Cable baskets are meshed conduits (which look like baskets) that can contain your cables and keep them out of the way. They are even useful with desk equipments, such as your computers or television monitors. They are not permanent and are probably among the easiest and cheapest cable management systems. Cable trunking is similar in the sense that it is a common name given to most of these cable conduits (permanent), cable wraps, and cable organizers (which cover cables on three sides). Source

Removing Many of the Cables on Your Computer Desk

Garry Sholl — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 03:46:10 +0000

For anyone who has an interest in computers and has more than a couple of devices, a computer table can be an unfortunate maze and mess of cables going in every direction. Not only is it unsightly, but it can also be confusing when you need to plug or unplug something as it’s easy to grab the wrong cable and unplug something that is turned on! Many people are frustrated by the growing mess of cables and are choosing to adopt some of the increasing popular wireless technologies that are available today.

The easiest thing is to get a wireless keyboard and mouse. This will eliminate two cables on your desk. Most of the keyboard and mice that don’t have wires work over bluetooth these days and will require a bluetooth adapter in your desktop or laptop.

It’s also easy to eliminate your ethernet network cable by using a wireless network. In most cases, a wireless network is just as fast as a normal wired network and much more convenient. Some printers will even allow you to print over the wireless network or via bluetooth networking as well.

Other cables are going to be harder to eliminate. A power cable is necessary unless you are running off of battery power. External hard drives also need a USB or Firewire connection. Devices like a scanner and anything else that plugs in via USB will also require wires. Even though you can’t eliminate these cables, you can organize them by running them in an organized fashion and by bundling up the extra cable so that it doesn’t create a big confusing pile of colorful wires. Source

Importance Of Sound Voice And Data Cabling System

Garry Sholl — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 03:52:28 +0000

Voice data cabling is responsible for transmitting all types of information throughout the organization’s communication structure. Indeed, these cables form the backbone of a sound business communication infrastructure, and, therefore, maintaining them becomes a task of paramount importance for every businessman. Fortunately, there are several cabling networking companies based across Toronto that render quality services pertaining to the maintenance of these cables. The BICSE certified personnel of these firms hold expertise in handling all variants of cat cable like Cat 5, Cat 6 etc. Such cables are used for transmitting data (video, audio, images, text) as well as voice (for VoIP calls) within as well as outside the organization.

The organizations that are engaged in this line of work render quality services pertaining to the assessment of the cable. The evaluation of Ethernet network cable, carried out by these firms, checks whether the requisite data is being transferred at an acceptable rate and not being lost in the process. These firms advise the clients whether the whole system or parts of it need to be upgraded or not. If up-gradation is required, then they also procure cables, design the installation layout and then install them as per the requirements of the clients. They also render maintenance service that ensures the proper functioning of the premise wiring structure at all instances of time.

Apart from these activities, such voice data cabling Toronto companies also perform installation services for telephone cables and jacks. They also expand the business communication network of clients in case they are moving into a new facility or taking up extra space in the vicinity. Such firms can install all hardware pertaining to the legacy as well as Voice over internet protocol enabled phones that are extensively used for business communication. They also replace the conventional (legacy) phones with VoIP enabled pieces to streamline the whole process.

The firms that are experts in this field conduct their tasks proficiently to make sure that the voice cabling installed by them is secure and poses no security hazard, as all business data is strictly confidential. They carry out these jobs in a variety of premises, such as occupied offices, warehouses, residences, high-rise construction sites and industrial areas, among others. All premises are taken care of professionally, and by keeping in mind the objective of providing best in class services to the clients at all times. The computer cabling Toronto services rendered by leading firms are praised by all organizations, since they enhance the efficiency of business communication systems considerably. Source

Computer Cabling Systems

Garry Sholl — Sat, 26 Mar 2011 07:59:49 +0000

Computer networks are essential to most businesses, even those businesses with just a few employees. Before installing computer cabling systems, however, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and make a few preparations.

Getting ready for the installation

Depending on how your offices are arranged, putting in computer cabling systems can be a long, messy, and complicated process. Here are some important things to keep in mind before, during, and after the installation:

Employee downtime: During the installation, there will be long stretches where your employees will not be able to use their computers, so plan accordingly. For most businesses, the ideal time to put in computer cabling systems is the weekend (Friday evening through Sunday evening).
Physical requirements: Installing computer cabling systems may involve running cables under the office floor and through the ceiling. If your in-house staff does not have experience with this type of work, you may need to hire outside contractors.
Backups and disaster recovery: Even a well-planned installation can go wrong at times, so it’s advisable to backup and archive all critical data in the days before the installation. If possible, set up an auxiliary computer system that you can use in case the installation takes longer than expected. You can also work with a remote backup dealer to ensure you protect your data for this installation and beyond.
Know your system requirements: Network cables come in different flavors, and each one is suitable for different applications. If you are just upgrading the phone system, unshielded twisted pair copper cables are a good choice. For faster data needs, fiber optics are a better choice for companies that need room for a network to grow.
Testing: At various points during the installation process, it’s critical to test the network to verify that each cable and component works properly. Once the network is back up and running, perform what is known as an “end-to-end” test to make sure that the employees are able to perform all of their critical job functions.

Structured computer cabling systems

When planning for an installation, you may want to consider using a structured approach to computer cabling systems instead of simply having the installers add additional cables to the network. This means following a set of standards and procedures set up by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) and the Electronics Industry Alliance (EIA).

Structured cabling takes a little more time and may cost more money, but this type of network setup makes future expansion and maintenance easier and more cost-effective. Source

Which Cabling Network Installer is Best for You?

Garry Sholl — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 10:09:45 +0000

If it is time for your company to replace the old network, then it is also the high time that you should find a best cabling installer. If you think that they are just out there, go and pick one, then you should think again. There are a variety of available cable network companies for you to choose, so picking one that satisfies all the business requirements is tough if you do not have much experience in this field.

The best way to start is to really just ask around to other businesses about which cabling installer they used to set up their network. You could always just open your local phonebook to, but you probably won’t find too many of this niche business listed. You are really better off getting some recommendations from other business people that you trust.

Once you have the names of a few companies from your trusted business associates, it is time to take the next step in your research. You should probably spend a little time trying to find out what you can about each company online. Look at their websites and see if you can find a list of customers. You should also look to see if they have an “about us” section so you can learn more about the company in terms of their philosophies and management.

After you feel as though you have a pretty good idea of each company you should consider bringing each company you’re still considering in for a face to face meeting. You need the opportunity to meet the company representatives so that they can find out more about your needs and so you can get a better feel for them.

During your meeting you should clearly outline what you feel your needs are and what your expectations of their work would be. You want to have some basic information about your company ready so you can answer their questions too. Be prepared to discuss the size of your company in terms of customers and employees. You will also want to be able to accurately discuss the type of technology you are currently using in your business, how many computers, what kind, etc.

You will also want to discuss their services and find out how they think they can help you. You need to know what sets them apart from their competitors in the market. You will of course want to get a bid on the job from all the companies you are considering, but you can’t let price completely dictate your decision. The interview is a good way to see if you think you can work with a company on a long project. Source

Computer and Network Cabling Solution from Small to Large Companies

Garry Sholl — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:28:15 +0000

Some Kinds of Computer Cabling For Networking

The aim of twisted pair copper computer cabling is to transmit data from the Internet service provider to your home. Cable to be labeled as a set category is a strict standards reqiured by The Telecommunication Industry Association. You know that the most basic computer cabling is Cat 5 which comes in both unshielded and screened twisted pairs. The inside of the cable is composed of the two twisted copper wires and the external covering of the cable is created to help the lines avoid interruptions of communication signals.

Cat 5 is available in two forms. The solid Cat 5 is best for situations where you must run the cable over long distances. Most people use stranded Cat 5 for patching up small areas of space between existing cable lines. Cat 5e is the newest type of Cat 5 cable, and performs much better than the older version. Cat 6 is the highest performing computer cabling. It has a separator that spaces the pairs of twisted wire. This is a huge benefit because it prevents the twisted pairs from cross communicating.

Cat 6 is more expensive than the other alternatives, but it provides faster data transfer and nearly double the bandwidth capabilities of the Cat 5 and Cat 5e.When choosing the best type of computer cable to meet your needs, it is important to consider your future technology plans. While Cat 6 is the most costly option, it is the only one of the three types that can be worked in with any other category of network cable should you need to have a patch.

It is typically best to purchase a larger quantity of computer cabling when you plan to do work on your existing wiring. Small quantities of any of the network cable categories will run you more per foot than buying in bulk. Chances are very good that you will need to make repairs or changes to your current installation sometime in the future, and buying large quantities will definitely save you money down the road. Because Cat 6 is considered so future friendly, it is expected to mesh with future installations well.

Source

Details of Computer Cabling, Computer Cabling Sydney, Computer Cabling Melbourne, Australia Computer Cabling

Garry Sholl — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 08:22:31 +0000

Details of Computer Cabling

Thanks to computers and internet, today people are easy to shop, study, research, and entertain. To maintain a fast quality connection, computer networks require certain types of cabling, such as Ethernet or USB, which can be bought at an electronics, office supply, or department stores. Ethernet wires are very popular but not cheap. Some of the more well-known manufacturers of wiring are Belden and Belkin. When you do some research and buy your own equipment, home networking can be done for free.

Ethernet cables (resembling a large telephone wire) connect computers to modems, routers, and other peripherals and come in various categories. They’re several feet long and can be further lengthened by using various connectors, adapters, or crossover cables. Ethernet crossover cables are used to connect computers directly to their network servers, or other computers, without using a router or hub. Patch cables, also called patch cords, can also e used to connect peripherals to the computer and route signals. To avoid purchasing the wrong cable, research the matter before shopping. Some geeks and professionals use non booted cables which cost less and take up less space. However, for those not tech-savvy, purchase regular booted cables. After all, boots do protect the fragile wiring on the ends of computer cabling.

In the past, most Ethernet connections used category 5 (Cat 5) Ethernet cables, consisting of twisted wires shielded within a cable jacket. Cat5 has frequencies up to 100 MHz. The wires are twisted to aid in noise rejection. After that, Cat5e was touted as a better computer cabling because it was “supposedly” tested up to frequencies of 350 MHz to 550 MHz. Many critics said that claim was a money-making ploy to charge more for Cat5e cables. When the Cat6 and Cat6a arrived featuring a promised 250 MHz performance level, people began to realize that anything over the Cat5 performance level was just a “promise”. Eventually the Electronics Industries Alliance/Telecommunications Industry Association spoke up and said that only the Cat5e TIA/EIA-568-B.2-2001 could be “guaranteed” its performance level. In any event, for regular Ethernet hooks, a Cat 5 or Cat6 will usually do the job. Source

History of the Ethernet Cable, featured by FixTel

Garry Sholl — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 06:47:14 +0000

The Ethernet cable became widely used in the early eighties. Ethernet cable originally was 10BASE5 cable, which is what most people refer to as coaxial cable. Most people identify coaxial cable as the cable that connects the television set to the cable TV connection. Generally, coaxial cable is very thick and quite inflexible. One of the nicknames that technical people use to refer to coaxial is Thicknet. Thicknet was somewhat restrictive and difficult to work with. In the mid-eighties a solution to thicknet was born; 10BASE2 cable. 10BASE2 cable offered pliability and was much thinner and easier to work with. The advances over its predecessor 10BASE5 were remarkable, earning 10BASE2 the nickname of Thinnet.

Ethernet was developed by Robert Metcalfe of Xerox in their Palo Alto Research Center (PARC) in 1972. Metcalfe needed something that was fast and could connect many computers together within an office. Ethernet was developed as a frame based computer networking technology. The idea of Ethernet is based around supporting a local area network. Ethernet was originally intended as a method to share media technology. Originally in this environment, all of the work stations compete to get access to the common transmitter station. However, as technology evolved this limitation was removed. In the a newer versions of Ethernet, technology was developed where stations are not competing for transmission resources.

What Travels over the Ethernet Cable

The Ethernet cable carries data in a variety of ways:

Auto Negotiation is when the network devices figure out whether both on either end of an Ethernet cable are capable of transmitting data.

Full Duplex is the method where the data can travel both ways simultaneously.
Half Duplex is when the data can only has the capability to travel in one direction.

This method is slower than full duplex. In addition to a reduction of speed and capabilities, the half duplex method is very unreliable, often times failing to connect at all.

Much of the advances in Ethernet technology created the need for advancements in Ethernet cable. The Ethernet cable is the cable that is used to connect computers, hubs, switches, and routers to a network. An Ethernet cable is actually a piece of computer equipment. The cable resembles a phone line or data cable. Ethernet Cables connect computers to a network for a many different reasons. You use these cables to connect to modems or routers as they transmit data using the Ethernet protocol. Source

Enjoy Benefits of Structured Cabling

Garry Sholl — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 04:49:28 +0000

Do you own a large firm or a campus of building? If yes, then you must get structured cabling installed in the premises of your firm or buildings. Now, you might be thinking that what is it? It is arrangements of cables that help large firms and buildings to communicate across the campus or premises. There are pre-defined standards for this kind of cabling, and these might vary from a country to country. However, there is one thing which is consistent, which is that you can transmit voice, data and images from one area to the next if you when you have installed a good network cabling system in place.

Moreover, you are required to think about various things when you consider to get structured cabling done. First of all, look at the clients’ your business caters to, and after that consider what kind of information you are going to transmit. These steps are followed by the evaluation of the area you are trying to cover. Without getting answers of these questions, it would not be an easy task to decide the perfect data networking solution that can meet your company’s needs.

Apart from all this, there is one more thing that needs to be considered in order to get the perfect network cabling in place, namely – whether you are an entrance facility or a facility with equipment rooms. An entrance facility interfaces with the world around it, and a facility with equipment rooms supports users of a particular building. There are telecom rooms also, and the equipment kept in these rooms connects the backbone and horizontal wiring systems. Backbone cabling system connects all kinds of facilities including telecom and equipment rooms along with the entrance facilities. However, horizontal cabling system connects telecom rooms to the outlets on various floors.

And, once you are able to determine your needs, you would be well aware of the system that will suit your requirements. After getting aware of your needs, you must discuss all this with a reputable structured cabling company to get the ideal cabling setup in place. There are various companies that offer best cabling services like recommending, manufacturing and installing structured cables to provide the best data networking solution. Moreover, it is always better to discuss with more than one firm in order to get the best advice and services in affordable prices. Source