Table of ContentsContentsDesignIntegrating a disaster recovery plan into a cabling plantVoice and data communications are increasingly becoming mission critical elements of a company`s operation. The interruption or loss of communications can severely restrict the ability of many large companies to function effectively and economically. Recognizing this, many corporations now include a loss of communications in the list of disasters for which they must plan.
InstallationFirestops: Part of doing businessEducation and training in firestopping techniques are in demand by installers as enforcement of firestopping codes increases.
Considerations for firestopping cable penetrationsCable penetrations can be difficult to firestop. However, installers can reduce the complexity of these cable penetrations by being aware of non-fire-related requirements of the penetration, various firestop materials that have been tested by a third-party laboratory and local code requirements.
Product UpdateChoosing the toolkit for the jobFor unshielded twisted-pair applications, an installer`s toolkit--be it a suitcase, briefcase or a toolbelt--is an individual preference, although this choice will also be dictated by the particular job--installation, maintenance or troubleshooting. When traveling to a job that requires different types of tools, you might want a larger suitcase toolkit. Once on the job, you might use a toolbelt with the appropriate tools as you progress through the installation. Some installers prefer to buy an
StandardsFiber versus copper in local area networksAlthough fiber has prevailed over copper in long-haul and interexchange networks, the competition continues in local area networks. Several members of the Telecommunications Industry Association claim that some of the arguments used against fiber-optic cable for local area network applications are, in fact, misconceptions.
TIAs Fiber Optic LAN Section Issues RecommendationsMisconceptions about optical fiber, coupled with the lack of information on fiber-optics standards, may be preventing network planners from using optical cable in building cabling applications.
TechnologyNew focus on surge suppressionModern networks are changing the way we protect facilities from the effects of power surges. And the change is prompting new approaches to the problem of how to reduce the damaging effects of power surges along the line. It is also prompting the creation of surge-protection devices that divert unwanted energy to the ground and accommodate the lower voltages and higher transmission speeds used in data communications.
Crosstalk & FeedbackAsk DonnaQ: Thanks for your discussion of plenum cabling requirements in the July 1995 issue (page 55).Q: Thanks for your discussion of plenum cabling requirements in the July 1995 issue (page 55). However, I have been unable to locate plenum-rated power cords. For example, Digital Equipment Corp. (Maynard, MA), IBM (White Plains, NY) and Sun Microsystems (Milpitas, CA) do not offer plenum-rated power cords as an option.
Q: We occupy a 20-story building in central Philadelphia and are planning to move one block toQ: We occupy a 20-story building in central Philadelphia and are planning to move one block to another building with similar capacity. The new building is being stripped and rebuilt inside, including all telecommunications cabling. For the last five months, everyone has been trying to sell us Category 5 equipment. In the process, we`ve realized that there`s more to cable and outlets than just twisting some wire together and putting a PC board together with an RJ-45 jack and a 110 clip.
Q: I am working for the first time on a request for proposal for a new buildings data andQ: I am working for the first time on a request for proposal for a new building`s data and telecommunications cabling. I have been working on installations for a few years, but never at this level. Can you recommend a reference? Any dos or don`ts ?
EditorialLights, camera, action!This month, Cabling Installation & Maintenance debuts Installer Tips Videos, a series of four training videos based on the magazine`s popular Installer Tips section. The videos are advertised elsewhere in this issue (page 52), so I won`t plug them here. Instead, I want to talk about what I learned while we were on location shooting the videos this summer.
Do you really need an OTDR?The final stage in the installation of a fiber-optic cabling system is qualification testing. Historically, such testing has consisted of optical time-domain reflectometry tracing and optical-loss or attenuation testing.
To The EditorBuyers and sellersThe following letters were received in response to the editorial "Let the buyer beware" (August 1995, page 3), in which the opinions of Larry Johnson of The Light Brigade Inc. on salespeople were quoted. Mr. Johnson`s response follows the letters.
With 28 years experience in sales, I sincerely believe that todays typical salespeople are moreWith 28 years` experience in sales, I sincerely believe that today`s typical salespeople are more knowledgeable and technically competent than their predecessors. Customers respect salespeople who know what they`re talking about. Your editorial gives the impression that we`re one step above used-car salespeople. The article should have been titled "Let the seller beware."
My motivation for becoming a sales representative was primarily a thirst for industry knowledge.My motivation for becoming a sales representative was primarily a thirst for industry knowledge. Working with several manufacturers gives me daily exposure to many product applications that I did not experience while I was working as a factory-direct salesperson for one manufacturer. I also do not get that exposure by passing out literature or visiting uninitiated buyers; I become knowledgeable by talking with operations personnel responsible for solving critical wiring problems.
I hope that none of my prospects or customers read your editorial. It seems inappropriate toI hope that none of my prospects or customers read your editorial. It seems inappropriate to editorialize on the "likely" abilities of sales people within the various sales channels for fiber-optic cable.
Occasionally, the easiest way to produce an editorial is to paraphrase someone in the industry toOccasionally, the easiest way to produce an editorial is to paraphrase someone in the industry to create a compelling, controversial piece and end the column with a back-pedaling statement to avoid heat toward the publication. In my opinion, this is the reason for your August 1995 editorial, "Let the buyer beware."
Standards-makingI must take exception to your July editorial, "Two approaches to standards-making" (July 1995, page 3). It is not fair to compare the making of a standard for optical fiber with that for copper wire.
Products & ServicesIndustry SpotlightChanges in the 1996 NEC affect installersThe National Fire Protection Association has introduced the 100th edition of its National Electrical Code. Although the NEC requirements are advisory, they are used by electrical contractors and installers in all 50 states and U.S. territories, referenced in many local building codes and used as industry standards by building inspectors and contractors. For an NEC code-compliant installation, therefore, you should be aware of the following sections and changes included in NEC 1996.
Demand for fiber-optic cable causes shortages and increased pricesThe demand for fiber-optic cable has caused a shortage in the industry and increased prices for installers. However, according to Cliff Hund, director of marketing and strategic planning at Corning Inc. (Corning, NY), "The problem is in the demand for singlemode fiber. Demand for multimode fiber is being met without problems."
New ProductsLab-racksUpright lab-racks include mounting holes on both front and rear to accommodate standard l9-inch rack mount equipment. Front and rear of the uprights provide mounting holes for accessories such as C-rails, shelves, panel mounts and cable support rails.
Cable management systemThe Flextray cable management system consists of high-mechanical-strength steel wires in a welded mesh design. High-strength wires support volume capacity; open mesh construction eliminates cable heat buildup. Available in widths from 2 to 20 inches and in depths from 1.5 to 2 inches.
Cable testersThe D200 Series from Darkstar Technologies includes five pocket-size, battery-powered test kits, each with a discrete application to 10Base-T, USOC Telecom, BNC Thinnet coaxial cable, television (F-Connector), or twinaxial cable types. The testers enable the user, working alone, to check installed cables and patch cables without disabling the network.
Mini-OTDRA fiber tool box multimode mini-optical time-domain reflectometer includes a high-resolution touch screen for access to all OTDR functions. All data can be stored internally on a 3 1/2-inch floppy disk and on DocuNet, a data management system. A power meter and visual fault locator are options.
Cabling magazineA 24-page issue of Cabling for the Future tells why United Airlines standardized on this company`s cabling system for its new maintenance center. Additional articles describe the benefits of a structured cabling system and explain why standards compliance is important. A new products section is also included.
By the Book....Two books on the basic electronics of telephony and data communications, published in the mid-1980s by the Texas Instruments Information Publishing Center (Dallas, TX), have been updated and are now available from Sam`s Publishing (Indianapolis, IN).
Wire management systemThis system contains accessories designed to simplify and promote proper Category 5 frame installation and cable handling. The accessories consist of vertical and horizontal rings, patch cord organizers and cord managers.
Fiber-optic test kitsFT310 and FT350 Smartest fiber-optic test kits reduce testing time by 50% for multimode and singlemode fiber networks, respectively. The kits automatically test two wavelengths in one measurement. Pricing starts at $2095.
Lockout/tagout kitsA maintenance and repair operation lockout kit, a contractor kit and an electrician`s lockout kit contain lockout/tagout products for industrial applications. Kits include instructions and procedures for complying with current OSHA standards. The kits consist of locks and specialized lockout devices, hasps, warning tags and identification tags.
Hybrid composite cableMC/OF power/optical-fiber hybrid composite cable incorporates both current-carrying conductors and optical fibers in a galvanized steel interlocked armor. Designed to integrate voice, data, video and power, the cable is suited for applications that involve control, distribution and signaling systems.
Interconnection products bookletInstrumentation-related interconnection products are covered in this catalog. Product categories include ready-made coaxial and data cables and their components, adapters, Category 5 and LAN interconnection products, and other accessories.
Wire management brochureThe 12-page booklet The Science of Wiring Becomes an Art explains which products best fit different wiring situations. Systems discussed include the Access 5000 raceway, the 5500 Nonmetallic Series, Walker Infloor Systems, the Chan-L-Wire Pro Series, and the Sentrex line of power and data quality protection systems.
Voltage testersThe 19-806 solenoid type voltage tester features dual voltage indication, both solenoid vibration sensing and electronic neon visual identification. It is capable of positive AC/DC voltage identification in a wide range of voltages. The 19-660C solenoid type audible voltage tester/continuity tester includes an audible buzzer indication for AC/DC voltage and an audible and visible indication for continuity.
Network management softwareDynaTrax software manages and tracks cabling moves, adds and changes on data networks. The Windows-based system provides automated record-keeping and a visual representation of the entire managed cabling plant. It is available in four configurations: local, remote, SNMP, and mission critical.
Optical testersA new line of handheld optical test products includes three models of optical light sources, a power meter and a visual fault finder. The TOP130, 140 and 150 optical test products test multimode cables in local-area or wide-area networks or singlemode cable used by telephone companies and cable-TV operators. The TOP200 power meter makes basic optical power measurements in either decibels or decibels relative to milliwatts, calibrated at 850 nanometers, 1300 nm and l550 nm.
Cabling system managerCabling System Manager 2.1 is the newest version of computer software that allows companies to manage their cabling system. CSM depicts the company`s cabling infrastructure on computer color maps and floor plans, with pictures of wiring equipment, from patch panels and cables to outlets and terminal equipment. Clicking on any connection brings up the entire circuit description, with all its connection points.
LAN catalogThis 51-page LAN catalog contains charts, diagrams, technical data and illustrations to help users meet their network installation and support needs. The catalog illustrates LAN topologies, answers commonly asked questions, and provides information on LAN starter kits and bulk or cut-to-order cable.
Automatic impact toolAn automatic impact tool has newly designed screwdriver blade as well as an adapter blade for using torque tool bits and sockets. It also has a built-in hook and spudger and accommodates all blades.
Cable tagsPolyethylene cable tags for use as identification markers for underground cable splices use bold black letters either 3-D embossed or deeply stamped into the UV-treated polyethylene.
Carrying case reference guideDeep-drawn aluminum carrying cases, including the rectangular Valuline, the beaded-style Centurion Elite and the Centurion Polaris, are featured in this 32-page product guide. The cases come in many exterior size configurations with various interior and finish options.
Cable cleaning kitThe Plyprep cable preparation kit is an alternative to ozone depleting solvents. The kit contains a nonhazardous, environmentally safe cleaning solvent and is used to clean and prepare high- and low-voltage cables before splicing and termination. The solvent is compatible with all cable insulations, semiconductive shields and plastic cable jackets.
Fiber testing bookletA free booklet, Guide to OTDR Measurements, features a guide to optical time-domain reflectometer measurements. It also covers principles of fiber transmission, fiber types, OTDR applications, measurement techniques and precautions.
155-MHz cable analyzerThis cable analyzer for testing Category 5 twisted-pair cabling operates to 155 megahertz. Designed to operate with 155 megabit-per-second asynchronous transfer mode equipment, the WireScope 155 makes all cable measurements through an intelligent test port interface.
Cable Installer TipsInstalling cable rack firestopping sealsCable racks that pass through concrete floor openings carrying telecommunications and power cables require firestopping seals with two-hour "F" and "T" (temperature rise) ratings as described in the American Society of Test and Measurement E814 standard. After you pull the cables through the floor into the cable rack, however, the hole and the gaps between the cables can adversely affect the fire rating of the system.
Finding the culprit in Category 5 links gone badYou have cabled and tested your entire horizontal cabling system to Category 5 basic link-performance parameters, from patch panel to wall jack, before starting up the system. But, once the system goes live, you have workstations that are unable to communicate properly with the network.
Wiring a Category 5 110 blockWiring 110 blocks has become difficult because of the Category 5 requirement--specified in Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronic Industries Association standard 568A--that pairs in unshielded twisted-pair cable be untwisted no more than 0.5 inch in the termination procedure.
S-shaped service loop saves troubleStandard cabling practice calls for a circular service loop of horizontal cable to be placed in the ceiling or overhead above the distribution frame in the telecommunications closet. This loop is meant to provide slack cable if the distribution frame is moved or the cable is reterminated at the patch panel. However, after frequent moves, adds and changes, one service loop may get placed on top of another, resulting in a tangled, unwieldy bundle. In such a case, it may be difficult or impossible
|
This IssueNo Image Available Volume 3
Issue 10
October 1995
|
Cabling, Installation & Maintenance Topic and Resouce Categories:
| Data Centers | Cabling Standards |
| Network Cable | Connectivity Technologies |
| Network Protocols | IP Convergence |
| Wireless | Design, Installation & Testing |
| Current Issue | Archives |
| Cabling Blog | Buyer's Guide |
Wire News provided by
