Dos & Don’ts of Data Cabling

Computers & Technology

  • Author Chris Gill
  • Published February 27, 2011
  • Word count 510

A data cable permits base-band transmissions to occur from a transmitting to a receiving component. Anyone who has ever used a computer or printer has seen one of these cables before. Medium and large scale companies often have entire rooms dedicated to computer servers and all the cables that run into them. Setting up a computer network is no small feat and data cabling should only be done by a skilled professional.

When establishing a data network, there are certain things that should and should not be done during the data cabling process. One of the most vital things to do is establish a home-run location where all cables terminate. Making this unit large enough to house the current network as well as any future expansion is a wise idea. This prevents the business from having to find other space within the building or do a build-out.

The best data cabling providers will cross cables only at 90-degree angles, preventing any substantial interference. Labeling the cables is something that should be done as each one is strung. This will allow network support professionals to quickly identify which room or office the cable is designated for and how it must be terminated. As the number of cables in the area grows, this task becomes even more essential to efficient operations.

Professional installers run Ethernet cables everywhere during the data cabling process. This is made easier when access to open walls is available during the construction process. It is best to have the cables in as many locations as possible so they can be easily accessed. Even rooms that have only one Ethernet port can incorporate a router that allows more at a future time.

Using mud rings is something else these companies will do because these are low voltage, eliminating the need to terminate the cables. Mud rings are the most practical for coaxial and telephone Ethernet cables. These inexpensive items are designed for mounting a wide range of low voltage devices. Unused positions are often filled with a blank strap and then covered using wall plates, resulting in a clean installation.

As far as what these companies should never do, mixing the color scheme of the data cabling tops the list. One color should be used for each purpose, such as white for telephone, blue for data, and so forth. Professionals will also never run a Cat5 cable alongside a power cable because this often results in interference. Lastly, though different types of cables can be run together, they should not be bundled too tightly. If the turns are not soft, a kinked cable could result and negatively impact the network.

As you can see, there is a lot to consider when doing data cabling and this is not a job for those who are inexperienced. Hiring a professional to perform this service can save a lot of time and headaches for any business. As the organization grows, the professional service provider can be called to expand the cabling. Using a professional means minimal down time and optimum network performance.

The Pendulum Group is a Toronto based leading provider of Data Network Cabling, Data Cabling Solutions and communication systems installations. We also specialize in Toner cartridges, printer repair and managed print services.

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