As today's communication networks become more complex-as more users share peripherals, as more mission-critical tasks are accomplished over networks and as the need for faster access to information increases-a good foundation for these networks becomes increasingly important. The first step toward the adaptability, flexibility and longevity required of today's networks begins with structured cabling-the foundation of any information system. It is vital that communications cabling be able to support a variety of applications and last for the life of a network. If that cabling is part of a well-designed structured cabling system, it can allow for easy administration of moves, adds and changes and smooth migration to new network topologies. On the other hand,"worry-about-it-when-you-need-to" systems will make moves, adds and changes a hassle and make new network topologies too difficult to implement. Network problems occur more often, and are more difficult and timeconsuming to troubleshoot.When communication systems fail, employees and assets sit idle, causing a loss of revenues and profits. Even worse, the perceptions of customers and suppliers can be adversely affected.The purpose of this white paper is to present the advantages of using a standards-based structured cabling system for a business enterprise. The paper will cover a brief historical perspective of structured cabling, a review of the current standards, media types and performance criteria, system design and installation recommendations. Particular attention will be given to the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A standard and the horizontal cabling subsystem in that standard.
The Evolution of Structured Cabling
In the early 1980s, when computers were first linked together in order to exchange information, many different cabling designs were used. Some companies built their systems to run over coaxial cables. Others thought that twinaxial or other cables would work best. With these cables, certain parameters had to be followed in order to make the system work.
The Evolution of Structured Cabling
In the early 1980s, when computers were first linked together in order to exchange information, many different cabling designs were used. Some companies built their systems to run over coaxial cables. Others thought that twinaxial or other cables would work best. With these cables, certain parameters had to be followed in order to make the system work.
