Having a reliable cabling system for everything from data to voicemail is an important part of establishing a commercial business. But when you're working on designs for a structured cabling system that will deliver dependable results, you will need to work adaptability and efficiency into the equation as well. A structured cabling system couples all of your data and communication demands in one unit that must be able to grow over time with new technology and operational needs. So if you're ready to integrate a dependable, adaptable, and efficient structured cabling system into your commercial layout, here's what you should first consider.

A Commitment To Space

If you understand the six subsystems of structured cabling, you'll then know that you need to create space to facilitate the equipment and maintenance needs of your system. If you have a large commercial business, or one that works heavily in communications and customer service, you'll definitely have to commit space just for telecommunications and general cabling equipment beyond the work areas. Equipment rooms should ideally be climate-controlled, easily accessible, and large enough to house the cross-connecting part of your system.

Expectations For The Future

Having an efficient structured cabling system is important, but you shouldn't forget to include communication cabling and hardware that can meet technological improvements over time. Including "just enough" outlets in work areas will hinder you later on, when there's a demand for more communications capabilities with commercial growth. So you need to look at either installing the maximum number of outlets at each desk or station, or incorporating multi-user interface assemblies in general work areas.

Cabling Basics

If you're having cabling installed by a professional, then you should understand what type of cabling is being installed and what load capacities each cable includes. Cat5e, Cat6, or even Cay7 cables are used for commercial applications, due to both code installation requirements and the need for adaptability later on. Higher categorical cabling indicates better transmission and adaptability to tech improvements down the road, like fiber optics, but it can cost more in permanent horizontal runs.

If you have a large business that expects growth, better cabling early-on can help you shift with technology and data demands, but if you're smaller and want to save, lower categorical cabling may offer a more affordable up-front option. Beyond the type of cable, you should also know that horizontal cabling from each information outlet to telecommunications center is limited to 90m with an additional 10 optional as patch cords, because transmission diminishes over greater distances.

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