When installing a new or updated cable system, cost is a common concern for growing companies. A managed network services provider will take several factors into consideration when giving a quote for structured cabling services.

Structured Cabling Service Pricing

Businesses often rely on structured cabling services to seamlessly connect their communication and data subsystems. The right cabling system allows for the unhindered growth of the company and ensures that new technology can be easily accommodated.

Making the decision to invest in structured cabling is the first step. Start by contacting vendors and compare prices to determine what company provides services that offer the best value. Vendors will ask for a variety of information to provide an accurate quote for services.

Companies will need to answer basic questions, such as the age of the building and how many drops will be required. A copy of the building’s blueprints may also be requested to determine the layout and floor plan. Vendors will also need to know if the job is an upgrade from an existing structured cabling system or a new rewiring project.

While a vendor can usually provide a rough estimate over the phone, an in-person visit will be required to thoroughly assess the job. During an on-site evaluation, the vendor can evaluate drop locations, the location of the server room, where wiring needs to be installed, and the termination points of all wiring.

If the building contains an existing cable infrastructure, the vendor may need to evaluate its condition. In some cases, an existing cabling system can be updated rather than replaced to save money. If the cabling system is damaged or outdated, it will need to be fully removed and replaced.

Finally, the vendor will perform a building inspection to determine if the new structured cabling will adhere to all industry standards, including guidelines published by the Telecommunications Industries Association (TIA), American National Standards Institute (ANSI), and the Electric Industries Association (EIA).

Once the proper information has been provided and the vendor has conducted an on-site assessment of the building, pricing for structured cabling services can be completed. A written quote should include all details of the project, including what services are required, the estimated timeline, what equipment is needed, and the cost.

Average Cost of Structured Cabling

The cost of structured cabling services can vary greatly based on a wide range of factors, such as the size of the building, the number of drop locations required, the type of cables needed, and the location of the business. Many vendors charge on a per-drop basis with prices ranging from $100 to $500 per drop on average.

The cost of the equipment is based on the equipment quality, ease of installation, and the number of drops required. Many vendors offer discounted rates for larger jobs that require many drops or they may charge a price for the total project instead of individual drops.

There are several components to consider when requesting a quote for structured cabling services. Consider the quality of the materials being used in the install. Cabling materials generally fall into two main categories: generic or certifiable. Generic brands tend to be less expensive, but the quality can often suffer due to the use of cheap materials.

Certifiable brands like Panduit, Hubbell, Belden, and CommScope may cost slightly more, but these reputable brands offer products that have been rigorously tested for quality assurance. They also have a warranty backed by the manufacturer.

Labor rates vary significantly from vendor to vendor, ranging from $65 to more than $125 per hour. Labor rates are based on numerous factors, such as the experience and knowledge of the technicians and the reliability of the vendor.

Choosing a vendor with high-end testers and well-educated technicians is essential to ensure a satisfactory outcome. It may be necessary to hire a vendor that is located further away to ensure quality. When this occurs, the business will need to factor travel time in its budget.

Speak with a NYC Managed IT Service Provider

Companies looking to upgrade their technological capabilities often require structured cabling systems to support their growth. While there are many things to consider when acquiring structured cabling services, cost is often a major concern for business owners.

SeaGlass Technology is a leader in structured cabling, offering affordable services to small- and mid-sized companies throughout the New York City area. SeaGlass offers new cable installations or upgrades to improve reliability and connection speeds. They also assist with office renovations and relocations. For more information or to schedule a consultation with a managed IT service provider, contact SeaGlass Technology online today.

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Common Types Of Cabling For Small Businesses

Whether a business is moving to a new location or updating an existing cabling system, it is important to understand the types of network cables available and their functions.

Coaxial Cable

Coaxial cables are commonly used by cable operators, and internet providers to aid in the transmission of voice, video, and data communications. This technology has been around since the early 20th century and continues to provide homes and businesses with reliable and accurate transmission.

The cable’s unique shielded design is what makes it so successful. Inside the cable is a copper core that quickly transmits data without interference or damage from external factors. There are several sizes of coaxial cables with the most common being RG-6, RG-11, and RG-59.

Fiber Optic Cable

A fiber optic cable is a type of network cable containing glass fibers covered with an insulated case. This type of cable is best suited for high performance, long-distance data networking and telecommunications. Today, fiber optic cables are used for much of the world’s cable television, internet, and telephone systems.

Compared to traditional wired cables, fiber optic cables provide a much higher bandwidth. These cables are also capable of transmitting data over long distances. There is less of a need for signal boosters as light can travel a long way over a fiber optic cable without losing strength.

Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable

Shielded twisted pair (STP) cables are a special type of local area network (LAN) and copper telephone wiring commonly used in business installations. STP cables contain a shield that acts as a ground to regular twisted pair wiring to minimize radio frequency and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

There are three main types of shielded twisted pair cabling options. These configurations include braided, which offers 90 percent EMI shielding, spiral, which offers 98 percent EMI shielding, and metal-coated mylar or foil, which offers 100 percent EMI shielding.

Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

Unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cables are some of the most commonly used network cables for businesses. This type of cable is a 100-ohm copper cable that contains two to 1,800 unshielded twisted pairs that are surrounded by an exterior jacket. UTP cables do not have a metallic shield which makes them smaller in diameter and unprotected against EMI.

UTP cables are one of the least expensive wires available and are suitable for basic phone systems. These cables have also been successfully used in video applications, such as security cameras, due to an improvement in bandwidth. UTP cables are made up of four components: conductor, insulator, twisted unit, and sheath.

There are several commonly used types of UTP cabling, including:

• Category 1 (Cat1) – Mainly used for telephone communications. Cat1 cables are not suitable for transmitting data.
• Category 2 (Cat2) – Can transmit data at speeds of up to four Mbps.
• Category 3 (Cat3) – Typically used in Token Ring networks. Is capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 10 Mbps.
• Category 4 (Cat4) – Typically used in Token Ring networks. Is capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 16 Mbps.
• Category 5 (Cat5) – Is capable of transmitting data at speeds of up to 100 Mbps.
• Category 5e (Cat5e) – Commonly used in networks that run at speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps.
• Category 6 (Cat6) – Consists of four pairs of 24 AWG (American Wire Gauge) copper wires. This is currently the fastest standard for UTP cables.

Selecting the Right Network Cables

There are several things that small businesses should consider when setting up an office network. First, plan the layout of the office. Will there be a data center present and how many computer stations will the space include?

Consider if employees will be using desktops, laptops, or both to perform work. It is also important to allocate enough space for servers and other types of network equipment. Even if a small business plans to create a wireless environment, some cabling is still required to bring an internet connection into the office.

Schedule A Consultation With SeaGlass Technology Today

Technology is always changing and evolving, and small businesses must keep pace or risk falling behind their competitors. To keep equipment running at peak performance and ensure that the business has access to the data it needs, it is necessary to have the right cable systems in place.

SeaGlass Technology is a leader in networking, offering services like network installation, virtual phone systems, and structured cabling. To learn more about office cabling or to request a consultation with an experienced NYC IT services provider, contact the professionals at SeaGlass Technology today.

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While the best time to run wiring is during construction of the building when framing and wall cavities are still open, this is not always an option. Fortunately, it is possible to run a cable through the ceiling of an office using a few simple tips and techniques.

Preventing Damage to Cables

Before running a cable through the ceiling in an office, be aware of the potential damage that can be caused if the installation is not properly completed. Cables can experience what is known as a cable fault. Cable faults occur when the insulation of a power cable becomes deteriorated to the point that it can no longer contain the voltage, resulting in a short.

It can be frustrating to spend time running a cable only to discover a cable fault, which can put the installer behind schedule and over budget. Cable faults have many causes, such as environmental conditions like excess moisture or grit. Damage occurs during installation when too much pressure is placed on the cable or it is nicked, damaging the outer sheath.

To prevent cable faults, select cables that are insulated in materials designed to last. For example, XHHW-2 (RW90) is a tough and resilient option that is able to withstand environmental breakdowns compared to cables like THHN/THWN that are made from thermoplastic PVC insulation. When installing cables, avoid excess tension and do not bend sharply around corners.

Planning a Cable Run in an Office

The next step in the process involves planning the run. Ideally, the run should have as few wall penetrations and sharp bends feasible to lower the risk of cable damage and to make the installation as easy as possible. Also, consider how difficult it will be to run additional drops in the future if the office should ever need them.

When planning the cable run, consider whether conduit or wire tray needs installed for the cabling or if free-span cabling will suffice. Free-span cabling may run loosely across the ceiling or a support system.

Safety is of the utmost importance when working with any type of electric wire. Consider whether the installation is adequate with a standard cat5e or if it requires costlier plenum-rated cable that contains a self-extinguishing plastic jacket that will not create toxic fumes if burned.

Gathering Tools and Basic Supplies

Fishing cables through office walls and ceilings is easier when the installer has access to the right tools and supplies. Gather basic tools such as a tape measure, utility knife, stud finder, drill, electrical tape, carpenter’s square, plumb bob, fish tape, drywall saw and a reciprocating saw. There are various cable pulling aids that can be purchased or created using items like telescoping fishing poles and pull string.

Running Cables through the Ceiling

Running cables through a ceiling first requires the installer to find an optimal entry point for the cable. Depending on whether the ceiling is of the hard lid or drop-down variety, it may be necessary to work from the floor above the target ceiling. In newer office buildings, it is common to find hidden ductwork, electrical conduit and fire sprinkler piping above the ceiling. However, there should still be enough room to run cables.

A drill with a bit and possibly an extender may be required to create a hole in the ceiling to run the cable. Fish tape can be useful for routing the new cable through the walls and electrical conduit. Insert the fish tape into the ceiling where the fixture will be installed and guide it across the ceiling to the intersecting access hole. The tape can then be directed from the ceiling into the wall.

The fish tape is pulled back through the ceiling hole. Having a helper guide the cable through the openings while the installer pulls it through can make the process easier. Once the cable is pulled into the ceiling access hole, bring several feet of cable through the hole and cut the cable from the fish tape end. Then, the installer can finish up the installation.

Inquire About Structured Cabling Services

SeaGlass Technology, located in NYC, offers structured cabling services throughout New York City and New Jersey for organizations with a large internal network. To learn more about how to run a cable through the ceiling in your office or to request structured cabling services, contact the experts at SeaGlass Technology to schedule a consultation.

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Structured cabling standards aim to minimize downtime, achieve faster internet speeds and provide scalability by ensuring the implementation of network cables supports the business’s current and future IT requirements. A cable drop is one component of network cabling management that can help organizations meet their unique technology needs.

What Exactly is a Cable Drop?

A cable drop refers to a wire connecting an endpoint to a distribution network. A typical wall plate may contain multiple drops, but not all necessarily originate from the same place.
Each drop is made up of a run of cable that begins at a starting point, such as a server room or wiring closet, and stops at an endpoint, such as a cubicle or office.

As a general rule, each cubicle, office or workstation requires one drop for the computer and another for the phone line. Additional cable drops may be needed for other equipment, such as fax machines or dedicated network printers.

Benefits of Running a Cable Drop

Cable drops are commonly used in businesses of all sizes to support an organization’s growing use of technology. A company may require the services of an experienced network cabling and wiring installer if they are planning to move to a new facility or want to upgrade their existing network infrastructure. There are several important considerations to make when implementing network cables and wires, such as the business’s technology requirements, budget limitations and targeted project deadline.

Safety is a top priority when addressing cable management in the workplace. It is the business owner’s responsibility to ensure that the property is code compliant for the safety of employees and customers. Businesses can help prevent cable-related liabilities, such as tripping hazards, by dropping cables above ceilings or in walls. Cord covers also are useful for preventing tripping accidents and preventing the cables from being crushed underfoot.

Working with a qualified cable installer also can provide some relief for staff. Computer and phone cords can easily become tangled, making it difficult to differentiate between different types of cords. When it comes time to replace certain cables or when upgrading network equipment, identifying each cable can become a major chore. Cable installers organize all cords and wires and bundle these appropriately to avoid future hassles.

Performing professional cable drops not only results in a cleaner and more organized workspace but also may save businesses money. The use of efficient cables that have been expertly installed can help extend the life of the cables and maximize their performance. When cables are not properly installed, they can suffer damage from sagging or crushing.

With a proper cable management system, companies will avoid the unnecessary cost of frequently replacing network cables. Staff also will enjoy a healthier work environment where tangled cords do not collect dirt and dust.

Professional cable drop services make a business appear more professional to clients or customers. First impressions make a big difference in any industry and when a workspace is messy and disorganized, it can reflect poorly on the company. Investing in a professional cable management solution that involves expertly installed cables can eliminate the presence of messy cables and ensure that potential business partners and customers only see a facility that is clean and well organized.

Working with a Cabling Installer

When seeking cable drop services, a business will be asked a number of questions to ensure that the solution presented meets the company’s technology needs and budget. If the business is moving to a new facility, the installer may ask about the moving date. It is ideal to have phone lines set up with a telecommunications provider at least 30 to 60 days before the move.

Next, the installer may inquire about the construction of the new office space. How easy or difficult to run cables will depend on the facility’s construction.

For example, it is generally easier to run cables through a drop ceiling compared to a hard cap ceiling. The installer also will need to know how much data and voice drops will be needed. It is important to have the proper number of drops for each major piece of IT equipment, including computers, phone lines, fax machines and network printers.

Speak with the NYC IT Experts

Need assistance with cable drops or installing cable? SeaGlass Technology is an experienced managed IT services provider in New York City. To learn more about network cabling or to schedule a consultation to discuss structured cabling services for your organization, reach out to the professionals at SeaGlass Technology today.

The post What Is A Cable Drop? appeared first on SeaGlass Technology.

This organized approach to cabling infrastructure is made up of a series of trunks and patch panels that are used to create a structure that allows hardware ports to attach to a patch panel. This patch panel then connects to another panel with a trunk in the main distribution area (MDA).

Businesses that use structured cabling services can enjoy a wide range of benefits.

1. Experience Less Downtime

Downtime can cost a business a significant amount of money over time. According to a study by Gartner, the average cost of downtime for a business is $5,600 per minute. An IDC survey suggests that Fortune 1,000 companies could lose upwards of $1 million per hour due to downtime.

Issues like unorganized or problematic cabling systems can create errors that take time to diagnose and resolve. Structured cabling services help businesses experience less downtime by ensuring that data and voice cabling systems are more reliable and effective.

2. Achieve Greater Simplicity

One of the biggest benefits of structured cabling services is their streamlined organization. These systems are simple to use and can be easily implemented into any professional workspace. Structured cabling systems are also easily managed and maintained, saving businesses substantial time and stress. For these reasons and more, structured cabling services are considered a fantastic investment that can benefit a business for many years.

3. Save Money Through Efficiency

Structured cabling services can help businesses become much more efficient in many areas which can have a direct effect on their bottom line. Companies that choose to install a fully engineered structured cabling system can achieve optimal cost efficiency via greater productivity, enhanced troubleshooting features, faster rollout of applications and other improvements that help make a business more successful and profitable.

4. Maintain Ample Security

Security is a major concern for many modern businesses. Although new technology can bring excitement and convenience to the workplace, it can also complicate things. Systems can encounter errors or corruption which can lead to downtime and lost revenue. Structured cabling systems offer the security features and functionalities that modern businesses need to remain safe and secure.

5. Keep the Workspace Tidy

Structured cabling services are not only used for functional purposes, but aesthetic purposes as well. It can be unsightly to walk into an office space and see bundles of unorganized phone cords, Ethernet cords and coaxial cables snaking across the floor or along the walls and ceiling.

Structured cabling systems help to eliminate these types of messes by putting these cords and cables out of sight. With structured cabling systems, cables are organized within the walls, above the ceiling tiles or under the floors to keep the workspace looking neat and professional.

6. Support Many Systems

Another top benefit of structured cabling services is the ability to integrate multiple applications and systems for a more streamlined cabling infrastructure. Creating an ideal business environment involves simplifying technology in a way that is easily accessible and managed by everyone. Structured cabling systems can support a wide range of systems, such as security camera systems and surveillance equipment.

7. Enhance Communications

Communications are also improved when structured cabling services are implemented by professionals. Today, many companies rely heavily on commercial phone systems to share information between departments, reach out to vendors and suppliers, and to speak directly with clients or customers. Structured cabling services help improve business communications without a major investment.

8. Prepare for Future Needs

Standard cabling systems are designed to meet the current needs of a business, but do not always support organizations as they grow and evolve. Structured cabling services are designed to support a business’s current and future needs and are flexible enough to respond to a wide range of changes that can occur in a business environment.

9. Enjoy a Sophisticated Design

Operations can suffer when cabling systems do not deliver at peak performance. Structured cabling services feature a sophisticated design that meets current safety standards and aims for maximum performance. Hiring experienced professionals to provide structured cabling services can help ensure that the process goes smoothly and that downtime is kept to a minimum.

Schedule a Consultation Today

A well-designed and installed structured cabling system can provide businesses with superior performance and the flexibility they need to accommodate additions, moves and changes. The average cost of structured cabling system technology is approximately $2 to $5 per square foot but can increase based on how technologically intensive the project is and the size of the company.

For more information about the benefits of structured cabling systems or to speak with SeaGlass Technology about acquiring structured cabling services, reach out to us online today.

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Structured cabling uses the same type of wall outlet and cable for both, allowing companies to easily move things without the inconvenience of running new cables. Of course, not all cabling structures are equal. It is important for businesses to match their cabling infrastructure to their unique needs to save time and money.

Main Types Of Cabling Infrastructure

Network cables act as a medium in which information can travel between network devices. When choosing a cable type, there are several things that a business will want to consider, such as network size, procedure and topology. The most common types of cables found in office environments include:

1. Coaxial Cable

Coaxial cables feature a single copper conductor in the center and a plastic layer that insulates between the center conductor and the braided metal shield. The metal shield is what blocks the outer interference from motors, other computers and fluorescent lights. Coaxial cabling is a popular choice of cable as it is highly resistant to signal obstructions and can remain effective even with long cable lengths between network devices. The two primary types of coaxial cables include thick coaxial and thin coaxial.

2. Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cable

A shielded twisted pair (STP) cable refers to a type of copper telephone wiring commonly used in business installations. This type of cable features an external shield that functions as a ground and is added to a normal twisted pair telephone wire.

STP cables are frequently used in areas that encounter interference due to electrical currents. Shielded twisted pair cables may also be used in situations where the distance between cables needs to be expanded.

3. Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic cables contain a glass core center that is surrounded by layers of protective materials. This type of cable transmits light instead of electronic signals which helps to eliminate issues relating to electrical obstruction. Fiber optic cables are well suited for environments that encounter a large amount of electrical interference. It is also highly resistant to moisture and lighting, making it a great option for connecting networks between different buildings.

4. Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cable

The unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable is one of the most favored in the business environment. It is used for both computer networking and telephone purposes because of its effectiveness and reliability. UTP cables may feature various types of wiring schemes, such as the following:

• CAT1 – Is used for telephone wires.
• CAT2 – Often used for token ring networks and can support speeds up to 4 Mbps.
• CAT3 and 4 – Used for token ring networks and can achieve higher network speeds.
• CAT5 – Has been replaced by the CAT5e wire which is designed to provide better crosstalk specification and can support speeds up to 1 Gbps. This is the most commonly used network cabling specification in the world.
• CAT6 – Supports speeds up to 1 Gbps for lengths up to 100 meters and up to 10 Gbps for lengths up to 55 meters.
• CAT7 – Supports speeds up to 10 Gbps with a length up to 100 meters.

Choosing A Cabling Infrastructure

When choosing a cabling infrastructure, there are several things that businesses will want to consider. Consider if the building is owned or leased. If a business owns a building and plans to remain there, then CAT6 cabling is often the best option. When thinking about the future of the business, consider if a CAT5e cable is capable of handling the company’s expected future infrastructure needs.

Another important aspect to think about when choosing a cable structure relates to industry. Some industries, such as the manufacturing industry, may require cables to be industrial grade. Hazardous materials can cause damage to the outer sheath of cables which can be a costly problem. Other extreme environments, such as walk-in freezers, will also require a sheath that is rated for that specific environment.

Also, consider when a fiber optic cable may be necessary. There are several key benefits to choosing fiber optic cables such as their ability to run for longer distances and take up less space in cable pathways. Fiber optic cables also offer remarkable bandwidth and have quality transmission speed capabilities. This can be useful in a wide variety of circumstances, especially for video applications.

Get Started With Structured Cabling Services Today

Technology is constantly changing and businesses must take the proper steps to keep pace. This often involves choosing a cable structure that will reliably run at peak performance for many years. For more information about cable structures for office environments or to speak with a managed network services professional, contact the experts at SeaGlass Technology today.

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What Is Structured Cabling?

Cabling is a vital part of any enterprise because it provides the physical pathways for information to travel to various devices. However, cabling is just one part within the larger network, and so it must be compatible with all the other components in the environment. This means organizations need to give consideration into how to structure their cabling when planning a new system. Doing this correctly will ensure compatibility with all network components and devices, while also making the system scalable should the need arise for future upgrades or changes.

What Goes Into The Precise Design

Structured cabling is the standardization of the many components that make up the larger cabling infrastructure. These standards are vital to keeping operations running and to avoid unnecessary complications. In order to function, all the different components must be able to work with the other components in set and predictable ways, even if they were made by different manufacturers or made at different points in time.

Structured cabling standards govern how cabling is designed and installed. The United States follows standards developed and published by organizations like the American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA), and the Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) among others. The goal of these standards is to ensure that cabling is designed and installed in a way that will satisfy current requirements while leaving room for future developments and growth.

Types Of Structured Cabling Standards

Not all cables are created equal. Different types of cables have different bandwidth capabilities, and some cables are effective over greater distances than others. There are several factors that influence this, including the number of wires used in a cable, how the wires are twisted together, and how they are shielded. These standards also evolve over time, having matured from the early Category 3 (CAT3) standards to Category 5 (CAT5) or CAT5E, both of which are now largely outdated by present-day Category 6 (CAT6) and CAT6A standards. Today, most cases will rely upon either CAT6, CAT6A, or fiber optic cabling.

CAT6 And CAT6A Cables

Compared to CAT5 and earlier cabling, CAT6 and CAT6A cables are designed to provide greater speed better suited to modern organization’s needs. CAT6 also does this without sacrificing usability and maintains backward compatibility with CAT5 standards. CAT6 is also more durable, and the commonsense protocols for installing it guarantees high utility, while also ensuring future scalability so that organizations can easily grow as new technology emerges. Additionally, some newer devices are simply not compatible with older cable systems and therefore require an upgrade to achieve peak performance and speeds.

Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic is slowly becoming the new face of modern telecommunication, boasting a variety of features that set it apart from more traditional transmission media like coaxial cables. Most notably, fiber optic offers amazing speeds which can peak up to 1.05 Mbps. However, fiber optic installation also tends to be very complex, having to take into consideration factors like the type of cable used, the environment in which the cables are installed, and the cable’s ratings.

Services SeaGlass Provides

Here at SeaGlass, we understand just how important structured cabling is for your business. We offer services that enhance your cabling and improve your business processes. Here are some of our services:

Structured Cable Installation & Replacement

SeaGlass Technology will install the latest LAN cable technology (usually CAT6 or CAT6A depending on your needs and requirements) that can support any server or endpoint equipment, such as switches, wireless access points, routers, workstations, smart TVs, and printers, just to name a few. Installing CAT6 or newer cabling for your network will guarantee improved performance as it serves as an immediate upgrade from CAT5 cables, providing increased speed and reliability. SeaGlass Technology can also assist with office relocations or renovations, testing existing cabling and new construction.

Cable Testing Services

Once installation or replacement is complete, SeaGlass Technology will run a sequence of tests to ensure the new cables are error-free. We will perform a connectivity test that will check the connection’s strength and speed. If we determine during the test that one of the cables is not performing at an optimal standard, we will simply swap it out with a new one and rerun the tests for that cable.

Work With Experienced Structured Cabling Technicians

If you are interested in learning more about SeaGlass Technology’s Structured Cabling Services, please view our service page or reach out to schedule a consultation today. We look forward to hearing from you, and starting a structured cabling journey today!

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The Benefits Of Structured Cabling

Any sort of organizational tool for businesses can give you a leg up over your competition. If you’re a tech company and you’re searching for an organizational method to help better your cabling needs, look no further than structured cabling. This service will help your company to stay more organized, and increase overall business scalability. Shown below are a few of the benefits this service brings along.

Improved Efficiency

With very few exceptions, structured cabling should be the default for a large majority of organizations. Eventually, every business is going to have to sort through its physical network cables to troubleshoot, maintain or upgrade its enterprise. When that happens, the last thing you will want to deal with is a tangled rat’s nest of cables.

Because it operates on a standardized framework, structured cabling provides businesses with a straight-forward, organized, and predictable architecture that can easily be referenced, triaged or upgraded as needed. This helps to support increasingly large network architectures, which are constantly expanding as organizations adopt new network and cloud technologies and support a greater variety of endpoint devices. It also greatly cuts down on the potential for confusion and human error.

Greater Flexibility

One of the reasons structured cabling is so efficient is because it affords organizations a high degree of flexibility and adaptability. Networks are never static configurations — they are constantly evolving to stay ahead of both business needs and cybersecurity risks. Therefore, the cable layout that serves as the enterprise’s backbone needs to be flexible enough to accommodate change as needed. With a structured approach, organizations can guarantee that their cabling will be easy to manage and has been purpose-built to embrace changing business needs, whether that be a maintenance, an upgrade, or a move.

Future Usability

One of the primary benefits of structured cabling is its ability to scale for the future. Technology is constantly changing and evolving, so eventually, your systems are going to need a refresh or an update. Network cables themselves are often updated to provide higher speeds, performance, and availability and so must be swapped out every so often. Because it adheres to a standardized and organized format, structured cabling guarantees that your network cables can be more effortlessly swapped out in the future. This helps to avoid costly and timely forklift overhauls, making the new environment easier to stand up while also mitigating the business and operational risks that always accompany modernization projects.

Since structured cabling typically uses high-bandwidth cablings such as CAT6, CAT6A, or fiber optic cabling, organizations can rest easy knowing they have the baseline architecture to support increased bandwidth activity as the need for video conferencing, remote access, and BYOB device support increases.

Cost-Effectiveness

With budgets being what they are, any technology investment is going to be immediately assessed based on the value it offers. As organizations are continually asked to do more with less, getting the most out of every dollar has become imperative. Structured cabling is a cost-effective solution, with scalability and flexibility that is designed to maximize speed, availability, and performance. This ensures your organizations can be as productive as possible without having to worry about costly interruptions to day-to-day operations. Even when problems do inevitably arise, the architecture is streamlined, reducing the amount of time and resources required to identify the problem and get everything back up and running. CAT6 and especially fiber optic cables are more resistant to interference, allowing electricity to flow for longer and reduce the need for expensive add-on solutions like signal boosters.

Structured Cable Installation & Replacement

SeaGlass Technology will install the latest LAN cable technology (usually CAT6 or CAT6A depending on your needs and requirements) that can support any server or endpoint equipment, such as switches, wireless access points, routers, workstations, smart TVs, and printers, just to name a few. Installing CAT6 or newer cabling for your network will guarantee improved performance as it serves as an immediate upgrade from CAT5 cables, providing increased speed and reliability. SeaGlass Technology can also assist with office relocations or renovations, testing existing cabling and new construction.

Cable Testing Services

Once installation or replacement is complete, SeaGlass Technology will run a sequence of tests to ensure the new cables are error-free. We will perform a connectivity test that will check the connection’s strength and speed. If we determine during the test that one of the cables is not performing at an optimal standard, we will simply swap it out with a new one and rerun the tests for that cable.

Work With The Structured Cabling And Managed IT Service Professionals

If you are interested in learning more about SeaGlass Technology’s structured cabling services, please view our structured cabling services page or reach out to schedule a consultation. We look forward to working with you, and improving your cabling along the way!

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