Structured cabling refers to the infrastructure of cabling and associated hardware used to support the connectivity of various devices within a building or campus. It provides a standardized and organized approach to network connectivity, allowing for efficient and reliable data transmission.
This includes the installation of cables, such as twisted pair copper cables or fiber optic cables, as well as the necessary components like patch panels, switches, and routers. Structured cabling ensures that different systems, such as voice, data, and video, can all be integrated seamlessly, promoting a flexible and scalable network infrastructure.
At iS3 Tech Services, we specialize in providing comprehensive structured cabling solutions that meet the specific needs of our clients, ensuring optimal performance and connectivity for their technology systems.
The 6 Main Components of Structured Cabling
Structured cabling is an organized approach to cabling infrastructure which supports multiple hardware uses systems and provides a comprehensive telecommunications infrastructure. Here's how each component functions within the system:
Entrance Facilities (EF)
The point where the telephone company network ends and connects with the on-premises wiring at the customer premises. This includes the network demarcation point, cables, protection devices, and connecting hardware.
Equipment Room (ER)
A centralized space for more sophisticated equipment than typically found in telecommunications rooms, such as servers, mechanical systems, and electrical systems that serve the occupants of the building.
Backbone Cabling
Also known as vertical cabling, it provides interconnections between entrance facilities, equipment rooms, and telecommunications rooms. It's used for data centers, multi-story buildings, or across a campus.
Telecommunications Room
This dedicated space contains the telecommunications equipment that serves the occupants of the building. It usually houses cross-connects, switches, routers, and patch panels needed to manage and route telecommunications cabling.
Horizontal Cabling
This is the wiring from the telecommunications rooms to the individual outlets or work areas on the floor, often referred to as the 'permanent link'. It runs above ceilings or below floors and provides the connection points users tap into.
Work Area Components
This encompasses all the components where the system interacts with end-user equipment. It includes patch cables, station equipment, computers, phones, and other devices that utilize the structured cabling system.
What is the USA standard for structured cabling?
The USA standard for structured cabling is defined by the ANSI/TIA-568 series of standards. Specifically, the most current version is referred to as ANSI/TIA-568-C. This set of standards is published by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), which is accredited by the American National Standards Institute (ANSI).
The ANSI/TIA-568 standard is also known as the Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard and it provides guidelines on the design and installation of structured cabling systems for commercial buildings