The ability to communicate and quickly transport information from device to device is critical in this modern age. Business cable installation means connecting devices within a business’s communications and data systems to create an organized and flexible cabling structure.
Business cable installation is utilized by organizations for a variety of reasons, such as when a business is moving to a new location or upgrading its current network infrastructure. When considering a cable installation, it is important to know how this process works and what to expect from start to finish.
Planning a Business Cable Installation
During the planning phase of a business cable installation, the cabling contractor will ask questions to get better acquainted with what types of cables are best.
If the business is moving, the contractor may ask the date of the move. If a business is moving within 60 days, the process of setting up a T1 or phone lines with a telecommunications provider should have already begun. Many telecommunications companies require several weeks or months to install a new T1 line and if a business waits too long to start the process, they may experience delays in their operations. Making these arrangements well in advance can prevent these issues.
The cabling contractor may also ask how many voice and data drops are needed. A “drop” refers to a run of cable that begins at a starting point, such as a server room or wiring closet, and finishes at an end point, such as an office or cubicle. A drop is usually needed for each device, such as one drop for a computer and one drop for a phone line. Additional drops may be required for other equipment like fax machines and network printers.
The construction of the business’s new building will also play a vital role in the business cable installation. The contractor needs to run new cables so they are not constantly disturbed or potentially damaged. Ideally, these wires can be placed in a drop ceiling. However, if the building has a hard cap ceiling, an alternative may be needed.
It is also important to consider whether the workplace will require plenum or non-plenum cabling. This is dependent on the construction of the business’s new location. When cabling is run in a drop ceiling, there is usually sufficient air circulation as allowed by the heating, cooling and ventilation system. This is known as a plenum space and requires a plenum-rated cable.
These cables contain fire-retardant plastic jackets which reduce the amount of toxic fumes in a fire. Although plenum cabling is slightly more expensive than non-plenum cables, they are usually necessary for compliance reasons.
When a business moves from one location to another, they typically also want to transition an existing phone system. However, it is not always possible for a cabling installer to move certain types of business phone systems. If a contractor is not able to accomplish this task, the project may need to be subcontracted to a third party that specializes in that phone system’s technological requirements.
Scheduling a Site Survey and Price Quote
After narrowing down candidates for the job, businesses should schedule a site survey at the new location. During this visit, the cabling contractor assesses the work environment to determine its layout and the ability to effectively run cables.
If possible, provide the contractor with a floor plan. With this, the contractor can usually provide a quote. Quotes are based on a wide range of factors, such as the type of construction, the distance between cable runs, the location of the server room or wiring closest and whether an intermediate distribution frame (IDF) will be required.
Multiple wiring closets may be needed in large spaces or in buildings with many company divisions. If special cabling is required, the business may face additional expenses to prevent data transmission interference.
Businesses are recommended to request several quotes from different cabling contractors. Each contractor should complete a physical survey in the new or existing business location.
It is not necessarily a good idea to go with the lowest quote as low-cost services do not always equal quality work. Select a contractor that meets the company’s budget, possesses the necessary qualifications and produces customer references regarding knowledge and experience with business cable installation.
Contact SeaGlass Technology About Business Cable Installation
Any amount of downtime is too much. Working with a qualified cabling contractor can ensure that the business continues to run smoothly and with minimal disruption to operations. To learn more about how business cable installation works or to schedule a consultation, reach out to the experts at SeaGlass Technology today.