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Written by Craig B

Types of Network Cabling

 

Types of Network Cabling

There are four different types of network cabling.

A network cable serves as a conduit for information to go from one network device to another. The size, topology, and method of a network all influence the type of cable used. The backbone of the network infrastructure is made up of many types of network cables.

Because enterprise network administrators use new technology, choosing the right type of network cabling can have an impact on a variety of company activities. One of the most important aspects of networking in numerous businesses is the type of network cable utilized in any network infrastructure.

Cable Coaxial

In the middle, there is a single copper conductor. Between the braided metal barrier and the center conductor, a plastic layer offers insulation. Outer interference from motors, fluorescent lights, and other computers is blocked by the metal barrier. Although it is difficult to install, coaxial cabling is particularly resistant to signal blockage. When compared to twisted pair cable, it can accommodate much longer cable lengths between network devices. Thin and thick coaxial cables are the two varieties of coaxial cables.

STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) Cable

It’s a type of copper telephone wiring that’s employed in commercial settings. The usual twisted pair telephone lines are given an exterior shield that serves as a ground. If you want to run the cable through an area where there is a chance of interference and danger to the electrical current in the UTP, shielded twisted pair can be the way to go. Shielded cables can also be used to increase the distance between cables.

Cable made of fiber optics

A main glass core is surrounded by multiple layers of protective materials in fiber optic cabling. By delivering light rather than electronic signals, it eliminates the problem of electrical blockage. This makes them ideal for environments where there is a lot of electrical interference. Because of its resistance to lighting and moisture, it has become the industry standard for linking networks between buildings.

Twisted Pair Unshielded

It is the world’s most admired type of network cable. Both traditional telephone and computer networking employ UTP cable.

The following are the many UTP wiring schemes:

  • CAT1 is a type of telephone cable. CAT2 supports up to 4 Mbps and is commonly used in token ring networks.
  • Token Ring networks use both CAT3 and CAT4 for better network speeds.
  • CAT5 wire has been replaced by CAT5e designs, which have a higher crosstalk specification and can sustain rates of up to 1 Gbps. It is the world’s most widely used network cabling specification.
  • CAT6 supports 1 Gbps for distances up to 100 meters and 10 Gbps for distances up to 55 meters. Organizations that employ CAT6 cabling should acquire a thorough test report from a qualified cable analyzer to guarantee that the CAT6 guidelines and standards were followed throughout the installation.
  • CAT7 is a new copper cable pattern that can accommodate 10Gbps speeds and runs for up to 100 meters.

Understanding the different types of cable and how they affect other components of a network is critical for the construction of a successful network in an organization.

Wired IT Group is a full-service information technology (IT) vendor, based in Phoenix, AZ. Our team is capable of designing, installing and maintaining all of your IT solutions from network systems to security systems and low voltage cabling.

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Written by Craig B

Difference Between High and Low Voltage Cabling

What is the Difference Between High- and Low-Voltage Cabling?

The arteries that keep a business operating are the bundles of cables, pipes, and cabling that flow across ceilings, beneath walls, and into your server room. All industries use high-voltage wiring. A high-voltage cable is one that is used to transmit high-voltage electric power. Electricity is delivered to power outlets, fixtures, and switches using this sort of cabling, however the high voltage poses a risk of electrocution. As a result, high-voltage wiring is subject to strict laws and regulations, and it should only be done by a licensed or master electrician.

Low-voltage cabling, on the other hand, is electrical wiring and trim that uses less current to power infrastructure technology including phones, security wires, fire alarms, intercoms, and the internet. Low-voltage wires are not subjected to the same level of scrutiny during inspections as standard (high-voltage) wires since the open wire does not provide the same risk of electrocution.

Low-Voltage Wiring’s Importance

Because they manage the majority of a company’s IT infrastructure, low voltage wire is critical. Because low voltage cabling does not necessitate the services of a master electrician, rash organizations frequently try to install all structured wiring in-house using a “Do-It-Yourself” (DIY) method. Unfortunately, this is a short-sighted strategy that frequently results in long-term headaches. It’s easy to become caught up in a tangled web of computer networks, client interaction, HD video, audio, and Wi-Fi cabling since low voltage wire handles so many essential functions.

Low-voltage data cable lines also have slight spec variances that might cause infrastructures to slow down. Imagine paying for a gigabit per second internet connection but only getting a fraction of that speed owing to poor wiring. While hiring a master electrician to run low voltage cables may be prohibitively expensive, you may easily connect with an experienced technology firm that specializes in cabling logistics. Certified specialists who lay neat and fully customized wiring and account for past, present, and future technology infrastructure difficulties should be provided by partners.

 

Enlist the assistance of a cabling expert


“A chain is only as strong as its weakest link,” as the proverb goes. “Technology infrastructure is only as strong as its most faulty wire,” says this theory, which is particularly applicable to enterprises. Technology systems often become increasingly sophisticated as businesses grow. The cabling infrastructure layout may need to handle variable capacity across numerous facilities in different states in some circumstances. The requirement for several offices to work seamlessly across different locations or even countries can provide logistical issues. It just takes one location’s systems to be mismanaged for an entire firm to experience outages.

These problems can be avoided by working with a reputable technology project management firm. We use FlexForce-certified technicians all around the United States at BLM Technologies. These technology experts have the greatest equipment, techniques, and training to ensure that your company’s cabling is set up for maximum success.

 

Don’t try to save money by cutting corners.


The security, dependability, and speed of a company’s operations are all determined by low-voltage cabling installation. As a result, organizations seeking to implement, improve, or update their structured wiring systems should seek professional assistance. “The most expensive cable that can be placed is the one that was not installed [properly] in the first place,” says CEDIA, a global trade group for companies that design, manufacture, and integrate technology. Structured wiring is like the hydra in cable management: remove one cable, and two more appear. As businesses grow, more data cables are needed, and basic cable installations become more complicated. While taking a DIY approach may seem enticing, hopefully this article has demonstrated the value of working with a partner who specializes in low-voltage wire management, installation, and continuing support.

Wired IT Group is a full-service information technology (IT) vendor, based in Phoenix, AZ. Our team is capable of designing, installing and maintaining all of your IT solutions from network systems to security systems and low voltage cabling.

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Written by Craig B

What is High Voltage Wiring?

Low Voltage Wiring

A typical high voltage power cable requires the following:

  • A conductor
  • Insulation that can be used for underground and under the water
  • Cable and joints to ensure that the high voltage impact is controlled and doesn’t lead to its insulation breaking down

Different types of high voltage cables cater to various applications. Some are crucial for instruments, alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) power transmission, and systems for ignition. The idea behind having a high voltage power cable system is to prevent any contact between other objects or living beings with a high voltage conductor. Moreover, its leakage current must be aptly controlled and monitored.

The insulation of a high voltage power cable must be regulated even when there’s a spike in high voltage owing to ozone-produced electric discharges in the air. Each cable terminal and joint must have a layer of a metallic shield on the insulation, connected with the ground. This metallic shield is used to equalize the di-electric stress layer that contains the insulation.

Features 

  • High voltage power cables are special in nature, working with specific switching and distribution panels.
  • They enable control rooms to switch and be controlled remotely or manually for the testing of individual supply systems.
  • Sub-stations for high voltage power cable can lower the voltage in a bid to distribute it to local areas.
  • The semiconducting layers must be seamless and should be a few micrometers. Any fission or space between the fusion of the layers and insulation can be very dangerous.

Maintenance

It is crucial to ensure that the high voltage power cable you install for the underground transmission electric power should be of the highest of quality.

While purchasing the right high voltage power cable, ensure that it is durable enough to withstand extreme conditions. Considering such cables deal with high voltage and can cause serious electric shocks, the materials should be made of superior quality and must include a number of energy-efficient technology.

Find IT Services in Phoenix, AZ

Wired IT Group is a full-service information technology (IT) vendor, based in Phoenix, AZ. Our team is capable of designing, installing and maintaining all of your IT solutions from network systems to security systems and low voltage cabling.

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Written by webtechs

What is Low Voltage Wiring?

Low Voltage Wiring

The Low-Down on Low Voltage Wiring

A lot of today’s homeowners can’t see their home not having high speed Internet and Wi-Fi, in-home automation controls used for lighting, entertainment, HVAC and state of the art security systems. That’s the reason a lot of home builders are turning installation of structured cabling in new buildings the standard or offering it as an alternative. And whereas some of the fundamentals are comparable, the installation of low voltage wiring is an entirely different animal. When you’re overseeing an electrical project or you own a home, this guide is going to help get a better comprehension of the way low voltage wiring works and how electrical contractors can help.

Low Voltage Wiring in Short

How is installation of structured cabling different from the installation of standard electrical cabling? A lot of wall outlets run 120 volt or 240 volts of electricity. However, low voltage wiring does not carry the equivalent current as power outlets, wall fixtures and/or switches that usually get installed in homes. Low voltage wirings are designed for carrying 50 volts or less of electricity. General low voltages are 12-volt, 24 volt and 48 volts. Low voltage wiring is typically used for Smart doorbells, phones, garage door opener controls, HVAC thermostats, landscaping lighting, alarm system sensors and controls entertainment wiring, internet networks and/or Wi-Fi, and LED’s and/or low voltage lighting. The foundation on which low voltage wiring functions is known as structured cabling. Structured wiring systems are built on a different network from most of a home’s typically wiring. In a lot of cases, the home’s primary electrical system gets installed first, then the low voltage wiring. Ideal performance for a structured cabling system depends on a good design. A good design takes into consideration airflow and cooling issues, permits for redundancy, opts for the proper cabling for the project, and projects the cabling patch-ways. Many of the more typical kinds of cables utilized in low voltage wiring comprise of:

  1. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) cable – Cat 6 or 6a cable are the kinds typically used in today’s homes
  2. Fiber optic cable – Utilized for longer distance runs. It’s challenging to work with and needs special crimping devices and connectors.
  3. Coaxial cable (coax) – The most general type of cable utilized in homes
  4. Speaker wiring – Utilized for whole-home entertainment applications.
  5. Security system wiring – Typically in 18 and 24 American wire gauge, having two or four conductors
  6. Thermostat wiring – The most common thermostat cabling is 18/5 since 5 conductors usually provide enough functionality

Structured cabling systems are streamlined, proficient, forward adjustable, and systematic. Particular wires can be located quickly. It’s also adjustable and easy to modify or add to. They can carry data at high-rates, at the same time decreasing power and maintenance expenses. You aren’t able to pull low voltage wire the way you pull standard electrical wire. Low voltage wiring is very delicate. Aggressive handling could damage it, pulling out it’s twist, and impacting cable performance. A maximum of 25 lbs. of pull strength is suggested, although each manufacturer will have its own standard in which you need to follow. Another important factor to heed is that low voltage wire, like fiber optic cable, isn’t able to bend at a 90° angle. when you require to turn it in a different direction, you are going to have to create a loop. Once more, examine the manufacturer’s standards to find out the maximum radius of their loop. Cable fibers are inclined to kink or break, in which could compromise the signal. Low voltage wiring is required to be installed a foot away, at least, from the home’s primary electrical wires, running the same direction with each of the cabling. Because the high voltage from electrical cables, they could produce signal hindrance that may impact the data cables. When there is no way to stay away from installing low voltage wires over electrical wires, they will need to be installed at a 90° angle. And, usually, copper cabling should not surpass 100 meters, even though there are some exceptions.

 A Great Growth Opportunity

The worldwide structured cabling market is foreseen to reach $17,181.2 million by 2022. The market is particularly lucrative in the US because of the high demand for Internet connectivity, in addition to so many technology giants are located here. This produces and ideal business opportunities for electrical contractors. Whereas there is intense competition from other cable installers like electronic system contractors, alarm systems installers, and home entertainment system installers, electrical contractors are in a better position in a lot of ways to benefit from this profitable opportunity. Why? General contractors prefer to work with companies that they are familiar with and companies that they’ve appreciated a good working experience with on previous projects. General contractors know how important business relationships built on trust are. Additionally, electrical contractors are a big part of projects and are already on the job site installing the primary electrical components. For example, they cannot be replaced by an alarm system installer. One other reason general contractor chooses to hand over the cable installations to electrical contractors comes down to the final result. With an electrical contractor as a singular contact instead of having to deal with several installers could save general contractors up to 20 % on the electrical installation expense of the project.

Find IT Services in Phoenix, AZ

Wired IT Group is a full-service information technology (IT) vendor, based in Phoenix, AZ. Our team is capable of designing, installing and maintaining all of your IT solutions from network systems to security systems and low voltage cabling.

More Articles About Security

Low Voltage Cabling
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