A Structured Cabling system refers to the complete network of low-voltage wire (cabling) and the hard within which it resides. The hardware consists mainly of racking, raceway (cable trays) and sometimes conduit depending on the local requirements. A structured cabling system is the infrastructure that all voice and data systems require to operate. Examples of voice and data systems that run on structured cabling networks are telephone systems and local area computer networks commonly referred to as a LAN (Local Area Network). Structured cabling systems primarily exist within an office space in all circumstances. It does not include any wiring or equipment outside of an office or building. It is the system within an office space that connects to the general public through telco service providers. The point at which the inside structured cabling system connects with the outside network of the service providers is commonly referred to as the point of demarcation or “Dmark”. In most cases a service provider will provider a connection within an office space. This connection is found on a 66 termination block and is normally identified with a tag from the local telco. This connection is often referred to as a T-1 line. The structured cabling system will connect to the T-1 with a cross-connect. Once the connection is made, then the LAN has connectivity to the outside world where it can transmit voice and data traffic.
Structured Cabling installations are normally performed by contractors who specialize in this trade only. These contractors ore referred to as Structured Cabling contractors. Many electrical contractors have divisions that specialize in low-voltage cabling. Other firms that may perform this type of work are commonly referred to as Interconnects. These are contractors who specialize in the sales, installation and maintenance of telephone systems.
The methods of installing structured cabling systems are standardized. The most significant group that sets the standard for this trade is an organization called BICSI. Others are American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and TIA/EIA. All of these groups have publications, training facilities and certifications that help ensure quality of all structured cabling systems.
The purpose of this site is to offer you a quick and reliable source to get introductions to and competitive bids from contractors who specialize in structured cabling. You can do so by filling out our six question questionnaire at no cost to you. Within a few days, you will get contacted by no more than three contractors in your area and who are generally interested in your project.
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Common terms in the structured cabling industry follow:
Network Infrastructure
Cat 5 cable
Cable 5e cable
Cat 6 cable
Fiber Optics
Low-voltage
Wiring
Telephony
Communications Cabling
Data & Telephone Cabling
Datatel
Datacom
Structured Cable
Structured Wiring
Network Cabling
Network Wiring
Low Voltage Cabling
Low Voltage Wiring
Manufacturers of products in this space include:
Black Box
Nordx-Belden
Berk-tek Ortronics
Panduit
Fluke
Corning
AMP-Tyco
Outsource
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