Archive for the ‘Structured Cabling’ Category
Net Services
We have been asked this question a lot from Clients: Which cable should I use in my network Cat 5, Cat 5e or Cat 6? Let’s get that answered once and for all in the NetService blog. Here is what our many years of installing miles of Cat 5, Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables over the years. You can can find a lot of information on the web about cat 5, cat 5e and cat 6 but most of it doesn’t answer that one often time simple question for the end-user. Which cable do I use for the job I have? Read the rest of this entry »
The hiring of a low voltage contractor like hiring a contractor for any job should be approached with the same requirements for hiring any type of contractor. The contractor should be licensed, insured and bonded.
To ensure that the job goes smooth, complete on schedule and don’t go over budget always hire someone who knows how to run cable and connect everything up properly. If these are your goals then first thing is to hire the best Low voltage contractor you can find. This will help to avoid improper installation of the cabling system which could be very costly for your company if repairs have to be made because of shoddy installation procedures. If the installation is done right the first time it will also save on any future adds moves and changes.
Did you know that 20% of network work down time is due to network cabling?
Ask any IT Manager what their most common network problem is and you will most likely hear them rant about cabling issues. In fact, cabling problems, which account for over 50% of network problems, cost companies millions annually.
You can find a list of Low voltage contractor that are licensed to perform work from local Public Works department
• Make sure all cables are labeled and tested
• Contact previous customer references provided by the contractor to solicit performance feedback
• Have the contractor perform an onsite survey do not except bids from Low voltage contractor that has not did a onsite survey the phone if the
• Have the contractor update you regularly on the progress of the project. If possible visit the site or have the contractor email you pictures that show how the installation is progressing.
• Have the contractor write an unconditional lien wavier before final payment is made.
To safeguard of persons and property from electrical hazards, when installing cable in a Plenum ceiling you want to be sure that you use Plenum cable.
What is a Plenum Ceiling?
According to Article 100 of the Nec, “Plenum” is “a compartment or chamber to which one or more air ducts are connected and that forms part of the air distribution system”.
Why is plenum Cable different?
Plenum cable is coated with a flame-retardant material that reduces the amount of toxic fumes and smoke when burned. Toxic fumes and smoke can become a dangerous factor in plenum ceiling for the simple reason that a Plenum ceiling design can allow for these toxic fumes and smoke to travel through air ducts to the whole building during a fire.
The NEC quotes made here is for general information purposes only and cannot be guaranteed typing or interpretation accuracy. It’s recommended that a check with the local Fire Marshall and or Building inspector in your area to advises you on the code for your community.
