As communication networks are becoming more complex - as organizations are becoming more dependent on computer networks and as the need for faster access to information is growing – cabling system is the most important element that lays the foundation of the high-performance network.
It is not uncommon to hear from IT administrators that network is down due to some or the other reason. In many cases, inferior cabling systems are responsible for this downtime. The installation of “standard compliant” cabling system can significantly reduce much of this problem. Another important point to consider is that structured cabling system not only “outlive” other components of network system but only account for less than five percent all costs associated with it.
The structured cabling is what we need to contend with needs of telephone and data communication today and in future. It is a systematic approach that can handle entire cabling system for all types of traffic like voice, video, data, etc. If you want to create a network that supports adaptability, flexibility, and longevity then you will have to start with structured cabling.
To design high-performance computer networks through structured cabling, the entire infrastructure is divided manageable blocks. All cables originate from different work locations are easily identifiable due to simple labeling and coloring scheme.
One of the most important reasons why structured cabling can be helpful is that enterprise computer networks are subject to change to adopt future changes in demand and requirements of services. Therefore, cabling architecture should be flexible enough to support those changes with minimal inconvenience. The Central Administrative Panel makes it easy to do changes, moves, and additions. Changes can be adopted through simple “switch over” of patch cords.
The universally accepted standard ANSI/TIA/EIA-568 specifies the minimum requirements for structured cabling. The standard also divides it into six functional subsystems.
Structured cabling system is defined based on transmission speed and bandwidth.
In plain words, it is Category 5 cable`s enhanced version. It is capable of handling the gigabyte traffic that simple Cat 5 cannot do. With bandwidth up to 100MHZ, it can be used for the maximum length of 100 meters. It is the most commonly used cable type in structured cabling.
It is a standardized twisted pair cable type that is used for structured cabling. it is 23 gauges cable with backward compatibility to Cat5, 5e, and Cat 3 cable standards. In comparison with Cat 5 and Cat 5e, it offers better performance regarding speed and quality. It supports 1 Gigabit/sec speed.
It is also 23 gauge and is thicker than Cat 6 and Cat 5 cables. This thickness is due to the tighter winding of cables inside it that create more copper per inch. This type of cable supports 10 Gigabit/Sec of the data rate for up to 100 meters. It also performs better regarding reduced cross talks and noise. It is a good choice for the people who want to future proof their networks without much increase in costs.