Cabling is the framework of your digital communications infrastructure.

This critical component often referred to as “layer 1” in the OSI model, is notoriously long-lived.

While most communication hardware is often replaced in a three to five-year time frame, cabling is often left in place for five to ten years, or more.

That by itself is a critical factor when a company selects a structured cabling system.

This means that small and medium-sized business (SMBs) must balance a delicate line between cost and the proper selection of components that are both efficient in minimizing cost while maximizing long-term investment.

Here is a brief list that will certainly benefit any new installation:

1. Respect standards, follow industry well stated best practices in relation to cabling locations, shielding, bend radius, tubing and termination.
2. Use the best possible cables and components.
3. Use only copper cable, no alloys, especially Aluminum based. Aluminum is  prone to oxidation, and it poorly handles temperature and humidity changes. This often leads to costly to replace cable breakups. This will guarantee that the cable will be able to handle multiple generations of hardware upgrades. This cable typically supports the highest operating temperature with low DC resistance.
4. Take into account future POE requirements, so that they are safely and sufficiently supported. This is a must for security cameras and wireless access points.

 

Again, every business needs are unique, but these broad suggestions will support an efficient and trouble-free network, properly rated for current and future capacities.

 

Image Credit: Khara Woods- with unsplash