Technocom Blog

News, information and updates from Technocom.

We Listen. We Deliver.

Get In Touch. Call: 1.503.682.4195

Connecting It All Together

Voice and data networks, carrier services, and wireless, security, surveillance, phone, audio/visual, and paging systems all require different low voltage cabling infrastructure.

Category 3 (Cat3) cable is no longer used in data networks because of its limited bandwidth capacity. It is still used for paging systems and 2-line phone systems.

Category 5e (Cat5e) cable is used in structured cabling for computer networks such as Ethernet, and to carry telephone and voice signals. Cat5e cable superceded Cat5 cable, which is no longer recognized by TIA/EIA (Telecommunications Industry Association and Electronic Industries Alliance).

Category 6 (Cat6) cable is used for Gigabit Ethernet and other network physical layers, and features more stringent specifications for crosstalk and system noise. It is backwards compatible with Cat5e, Cat5 and Cat3 cable.

Co-axial (co-ax) cable is used for connecting audio/video equipment. Cable TV companies also use it to deliver broadband internet and dial tone services.

Fiber Optic cable is used for very high Gigabit transmission, and to provide connectivity between buildings in a campus environment. CenturyLink, Integra Telecom and other network services carriers use fiber to deliver high capacity bandwidth to locations such as business parks.

With each of these options there are a myriad of other considerations. Does the cable need to be riser rated or plenum rated? Should fiber be single mode or multi mode? Are appropriately compatible jacks and other connection devices being used? What are the local building codes and sesimic regulations? Wire management is often needed to route cables and keep them neat, organized and individually identifiable. Racks may be needed to hold cable trays and patch panels. Have these been engineered into your solution?

Most electrical contractors can install low voltage infrastructure. However, there are very few who provide the systems the wiring will be connected to, understand how the infrastructure will work with those systems, and provide post-installation support. Technocom does. Adherence to TIA/EIA standards is essential in assuring network integrity. Also critical is attention to details such as maintaining the correct length and bend radius of cable, the type of materials used to bundle and support cable, and proper labeling. Such attention to physical infrastructure details comes from specialization and experience.

Whether you need to install a single cable, are expanding or upgrading your network, moving to a new location, or contructing a new building, Technocom has the experience to install the right low voltage solution and keep it working. Our journeyman technicians have an average of 16 years of industry experience. Our engineers know the standards, compatibility issues and building codes to design a fully integrated, functional system. Our service team will keep everything running smoothly.

Because Technocom is a provider of phone, security, surveillance, and other business communication systems, we can design and install a total solution to meet your needs now and in the future. Call us at 503.454.7310 to learn more or schedule a no-cost consultation.

This post is in: Voice & Data Cabling | Be the first to comment!