Network Cabling for Office Applications

What is Network Cabling?

Network cabling is the technology that allows computers and other network devices to connect and communicate with one another. Often referred to as low voltage wiring, data cabling, or structured cabling, data cabling is a wired network of cables, connectors, and other hardware that efficiently transfers data between two or more endpoints. Endpoints are where computers, telephones, printers, and other network devices connect to the cabling infrastructure. These endpoints typically run from the telecommunications room or data center to the work area outlet. Structured cabling seeks to incorporate a communication system that integrates voice, data, and video throughout an office environment.¹ With structured wiring, a data cabling system will function correctly, as the entire system relies on physical connections.

Network cabling does not involve high voltage or high amperage current, so it is safer to work with and install. Low voltage cabling also uses less energy, making a structured cabling system more efficient. It also provides lower installation and operational costs by supporting multiple computing and networking environments with a single system.³

Types of Network Cables

There are several cables for communications and networking purposes, each designed for different purposes. The five most common are twisted-pair, ribbon, ethernet, coaxial, and fiber optic. Twisted-pair wiring consists of two pairs of twisted copper wire in a flat cable. Ribbon cables possess multiple insulated wires running parallel to each other. Ethernet cables are round cables with numerous pairs of twisted copper wire. Many different versions of network wiring are in use today, with Category 5 (Cat5) cable the most common. Some versions can transmit data up to 1 Gbps. Finally, fiber optic cables consist of insulated glass or plastic fibers that can transfer data at speeds of up to 40 Gbps—the fastest cabling option--and for a distance of up to 40 kilometers.

In comparison, the advanced Cat8 cables transmit data at speeds up to 25 Gbps for distances of 100 meters. In addition, fiber optics sends data faster and farther than any other current wiring option. Below is a list of the common applications for using low-voltage wiring.

List of Low Voltage Cable Applications

• Internet
• Television
• Audio Systems
• Laptops
• Desktop Computers
• Servers
• Wi-Fi Networks
• HVAC Systems
• Automotive Systems
• Thermostats
• Security Systems
• Controlled Access Systems
• Doorbells
• Monitoring Systems
• Landscape Lighting
• Solar Lighting
• Local Area Networks
• Alarm Systems

Summary of Each Networking Cable Type

Below is a brief description of each wiring type and links to more detailed information.

Rank Order List of Data Cabling Types (by performance)

1. Fiber optic cable – 40 Gbps
2. Cat8 cable – 25 Gbps
3. Coaxial cable – up to 10 Gbps
4. Cat7/7a cable – 10 Gbps
5. Cat6/6a cable – 1 Gbps
6. Cat5e FTP – 1 Gbps
7. Cat5e UTP cable – 1 Gbps
8. Cat5 cable – 10 to 100 Mbps
9. Shielded twisted pair (STP) Cable – 2 Mbps
10. Unshielded twisted pair (UTP Cable– 2 Mbps
11. Telephone vable – 2 Mbps

The Impact of Unsatisfactory Cabling

Getting the correct cabling for your business network is essential. Some businesses contract for broadband services delivering one or more Gbps but employ Cat5 cabling that maxes out at 100 Mbps. As a result, the office staff frequently experiences latency and time-out issues, so management counters with new faster computers and printers, which are still shackled with the underperforming Cat5 cabling when they need Cat7. Many recognize that cabling is the problem once a network cabling expert diagnoses the issue. Using the correct cable connectors is another important consideration. Straws do not work when you need a firehose!

Cabling and router configuration can also be an issue for businesses using wireless routers. A technician should connect the router to a modem with an adequate Ethernet cable. Placement of the router in a central location to reach the entire office and away from any interference with office equipment is also essential. Cyberthieves or hackers can easily intercept signals sent through the office. Securing the network to prevent unauthorized access is critical and requires encryption protocols.

Top Reasons for Hiring a Professional Network Cabling Company

1. Maximize network performance
2. Reduce signal interference
3. Prevent latency
4. Prevent wasted resources
5. Reduce frustrating down time
6. Avoid wasted staff time
7. Protect against unnecessary costs
8. Meet established standards and regulations
9. Safeguard against circuit faults
10. Disorganized cables get pinched, malfunction, reduce air flow, and make future repairs and troubleshooting difficult

Low Voltage Wiring Comparison Chart

How much voltage does network cabling use?

The design of structured data cabling is to carry signals with meager electric power. Most of the time, the voltage running through a network cable is between 0 and 5 volts. In comparison, a small electrical appliance, like a light bulb, typically requires around 120 volts of electricity to function. Since the power requirements are significantly low, these data cabling solutions are often called "low voltage wiring" or "lv wiring."

What are the benefits of using network cabling services?

Network cabling is an essential component of any wired system. It provides a reliable and secure connection between two or more devices, allowing them to communicate with each other without interruption. Network cabling also eliminates the need for wireless connections, which can be unreliable and prone to interference. Additionally, some types of cables, such as fiber optic cables and some cate5e wiring or ethernet wiring, can transmit high-speed data without interference from outside sources. Higher transmission speeds at reduced distortion translate into faster, more reliable connections than wireless networks.

The Best Network Cabling Installation

Getting the right network cabling company is essential to prevent communication issues. Studies have shown that nearly 50 percent of the problems with installed local area networks (LANs) relate to the installed cabling system.⁵ Hiring the right structured cabling installation company provides businesses with a working system out of the box and a company that will stand behind their work and can upgrade the system as the needs of the business grow. Selecting the best ethernet cable and getting internet cable and ethernet cable wiring right the first time is important to any business. Les Olson IT is an award-winning IT services company that can put your needs first and stands behind its work for any of your network cabling installation needs.

Data cabling is essential for connecting computers and other devices on wired networks. Understanding how network cabling works can help you ensure your wired network properly functions so you can get maximum efficiency out of it!

Footnotes

• ¹Shimonski, Robert, Richard T. Steiner, and Sean M. Sheedy. Network cabling illuminated. Jones & Bartlett Learning, 2006: Page 435. Accessed 3 Apr. 2023. books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=rVnMZTCEfl8C&oi=fnd&pg=PR5&dq=network+cabling+standards&ots=mgBD4umsLA&sig=u6MPv5Oe5UIDVcM-y5Bz5BWRCU0#v=onepage&q=network%20cabling%20standards&f=false
• ²Logeshwaran, J., et al. The role of integrated structured cabling system (ISCS) for reliable bandwidth optimization in high-speed communication network. ICTACT Journal on Communication Technology 13.01, 2022: Abstract. Accessed 3 Apr. 2023. www.researchgate.net/profile/Logeshwaran-Jaganathan/publication/363332781_The_role_of_integrated_structured_cabling_system_ISCS_for_reliable_bandwidth_optimization_in_high-speed_communication_network/links/63180fad5eed5e4bd1501c8d/The-role-of-integrated-structured-cabling-system-ISCS-for-reliable-bandwidth-optimization-in-high-speed-communication-network.pdf
• ³Dávila Andino, John. Design of a Structured Network Cabling Applying International Standards. Computer Science; 2014: Abstract. Accessed 3 Apr. 2023. prcrepository.org/xmlui/handle/20.500.12475/720
• ⁴Barnett, David, David Groth, and Jim McBee. Cabling: the complete guide to network wiring. John Wiley & Sons, 2006: Page 249 Accessed 3 Apr. 2023. books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=AKDSTYu3nl4C&oi=fnd&pg=PR2&dq=network+cabling+standards&ots=5Kn2_TDEEu&sig=geTOj4SdYgHIWdVocYGkf6bXPG8#v=onepage&q=network%20cabling%20standards&f=false
• ⁵Carltock, William. Local area network cabling considerations. Handbook of Networking & Connectivity. Academic Press, 1994: Page 297. Accessed 3 Apr. 2023. www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780124820807500158