3 Factors To Consider When Installing Data Cabling
The transfer of data plays a major role in the day-to-day activities of businesses and homes alike. In order for data to be transmitted smoothly, a series of cabling must be installed to support the data network.
Many people make the mistake of failing to take into account the many factors that can affect cabling quality prior to installation.
Here are three unique factors you should consider to ensure you end up with cabling that will be equipped to meet your long-term needs.
1. Desired Network Speed
You must determine your desired network speed before you begin the installation of any data cabling in your home or business. The type of cable that you select should be based on this desired network speed.
The major types of data cabling in use today include Cat 5, Cat 6, and Cat 7 cables.
Cat 5 cables are not designed to support fast network processing. This has essentially made Cat 5 cabling obsolete among modern consumers.
Cat 6 cabling is meant for Ethernet Gigabit, which makes it a great option for network management. Many consumers are also pleased with the fact that Cat 6 cabling is entirely backward compatible with all previous Cat cabling ranges.
If you think that you will need network speeds that exceed today's norms, you are better off going with a more durable and versatile Cat 7 cabling option.
2. Regulatory Requirements
All data cabling that you install in your home or business must meet minimum safety and regulatory standards. For the most part, these standards limit the type of jacketing that can surround your data cabling.
Some residential and commercial complexes require that all data cabling is equipped with plenum jacketing. Plenum is a unique material that is very resistant to catching fire. In the event that fire does affect plenum jacketing, the material will not emit toxic smoke into the atmosphere.
If your complex doesn't require plenum, you can utilize the more budget-friendly PVC jacketing for your data cabling.
3. Ceiling Design
The way that your building's ceiling is designed will have a direct impact on the cost of data cabling installation.
Drop ceilings tend to be the easiest to work with. Installers can simply remove the drop tiles. run your cabling, and replace the tiles when finished. An open ceiling allows for easy installation but requires more effort to conceal the cabling from view.
Hard ceilings are the most difficult to work with. Plan to spend more on data cabling installation if you have a hard ceiling to account for the added labor and materials needed.
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