Table of ContentsCrosstalk & FeedbackAsk DonnaAsk DonnaThis month`s column is a little different, which is fitting for the first one of the new millennium. So I`ve dusted off my crystal ball and taken a look into the future. My thoughts...
EditorialWell, Y2K has finally arrived. Are you still out there?My favorite TV commercial lately is the one from Nike where the guy is jogging through a downtown area on what is obviously New Year`s Day of the year 2000. How can you tell? The stoplights don`t work; cars are smashing into each other; police are out in riot gear; a missile goes careening through the sky. And through all this chaos, the guy jogs along, oblivious, except to give a quick ritual greeting to another jogger whom he passes. The tagline is obvious: "Just do it."
EndfaceStandardizing the arteries of communicationsIn the information age, telecommunications and data communications are the lifeblood that fuels business growth. Carrying this vital flow of information are complex networks of cable "arteries" that have become as essential to organizations as the signals they carry. However, as organizations grow and expand into new regions, these cabling products may differ from location to location because of differences in regional standards.
To The EditorSafety issues overlookedI wanted to share some observations about the cover of the November 1999 issue of Cabling Installation & Maintenance. You will notice a number of things are missing from the picture:
Connector omissionIn your November 1999 article about small-form-factor (SFF) connectors and sponsors ("TIA to re-evaluate SFF connectors," page 80), the LC from Lucent Technologies was not included. Whilst I appreciate that the MT-RJ has a strong vendor hold, I find that in the United Kingdom--where I am most involved--the LC already has the largest installed base of any SFF connector. Unlike the others, it has been available since 1997 and is still a higher-performance connector than most of the contenders.
Get OnlineBegin the new century with a quick, efficient upgradeNow that Y2K has come and gone (you`re still with us, right?), you can turn all those get-the-bugs-out plans into something constructive--a quick and efficient system upgrade. In "Turn Y2K into a cable-management success story" at www.cable-install.com, you`ll find out how to put all of that debugging documentation into a database that will lead to a comprehensive telemanagement system. Compile a suite of capabilities that will help you manage assets, processes, costs, and security. You`ll be ab
Find out if youve got pullVisit www.cable-install.com, and you`ll discover there`s more to Cabling Installation & Maintenance than valuable reading. Learn about our four-part cable-pulling series that takes you through every aspect of pulling telecommunications cables in a commercial building.
News you can useStay on top of the changes and innovations in the cabling industry by checking the weekly news headlines at www.cable-install.com. You`ll get updates on the industry news and issues that are important to your day-to-day decision-making--from the newest products and services to standards updates to training opportunities.
Some pastures are greener than othersCI&M`s salary survey at www.cable-install.com features the complete set of responses submitted for the Special Report in our September 1999 issue. This must-see listing includes respondents` title, years of experience, number of employees supervised, education, salary--and salary comparisons by region, too.
What our readers really likeFind out who took home top honors in this year`s Readers` Choice IQ Awards contest. We asked readers to judge products and services based on their innovation, impact, importance, and quality. Visit www.cable-install.com to check out the winners in 11 categories--Cabling Media, Connection & Crossconnection Devices, Distribution & Routing Equipment, Racks & Enclosures, Specialty Equipment, Splicing & Termination Equipment, Testing Equipment, Cable Protection & Management Equipment, Distribution Se
Plan your yearGet instant access to a year`s worth of events, from cabling industry conferences to training activities, with the Calendar Section of Cabling Installation & Maintenance`s Website.
Hey, you wanna buy some cable?Comparing Category 5, multimode, or other products, use the 1999 Cabling Installation & Maintenance Buyer`s Guide issue to narrow your choices. You can peruse it online at www.cable-install.com.
Contractors A to ZAre you listed in the Cabling Installation & Maintenance Contractor`s Directory? Find out how you can get your company listed. Contractors listed are searchable by company name, geographic region where a contractor works, and individual subspecialties.
Instant info on new productsCheck out www.cable-install.com to learn more about Erico`s box/conduit hanger assembly, along with dozens of other cabling tools of the trade. Cabling Installation & Maintenance gives online readers the most timely and comprehensive product information possible, helping you make informed purchasing choices and stay in touch with the newest technologies and products.
ContentsInstallationReal-time cabling management takes holdThe cabling industry has been experiencing a quiet revolution the past three years. More and more corporate clients are demanding real-time intelligence in their cabling systems, and cabling vendors are hurrying to meet these demands.
Growing appeal of mini-OTDRsThe explosive growth of the Internet and other data-communications applications is spurring the use of fiber-optic cable in campus and premises-network environments. As a result, the makers of test equipment such as optical time-domain reflectometers (OTDRs) are attempting to meet the needs of what they see as a growing pool of new customers.
Single-vendor cabling systems get fasterThe era of Category 5 cabling is coming to a close as enterprises evaluate their wiring infrastructures to accommodate high-speed Gigabit Ethernet networking. And while there might be a shortage of clearly defined standards for the next-generation cabling, it has not slowed down the industry manufacturers that are showering the market with new or enhanced end-to-end copper- and fiber-cabling systems designed to futureproof enterprise cabling needs for years to come.
Evolution of the residential-gateway concept and standardsDeregulation, convergence, and technological innovations are dramatically changing the way consumers live. Multiple existing and emerging products and services are competing for entry into consumers` homes: dial-up and high-speed Internet access, digital video, home automation, energy management, advanced telecommunications services, and many others. Competition allows more and more consumers to have a choice among different service providers, creating the need for easier switching and access to
Product UpdateManufacturers enhance fiber-optic prep and polishing toolsWith cable performance more critical than ever, particularly with the advent of high-speed networking standards like Gigabit Ethernet, cable installers are required to perform their jobs with greater stringency regarding adherence to performance specifications. When it comes to fiber preparation and polishing, having reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use tools is a must.
Special ReportRetro landmark gets avant-garde networkAn old building can be given a new soul, but only after design and engineering are pushed to their limits.
State-of-the-art fiber network lifts offThe Kennedy Space Center`s unique video-distribution needs drove the move from a copper to a fiber-optic network.
Products & ServicesIndustry SpotlightBICSI conference addresses real-world telecommunications issuesAs befits the first BICSI conference in the year 2000, "New roads, new horizons" is the theme of this year`s winter conference, to be held Jan. 17 to 20 in Orlando, FL, at Disney`s Coronado Springs Resort. In addition to the technical sessions, there will be approximately 180 vendors exhibiting their products.
Residential-cabling course added to BICSI offeringsThe residential cabling market is taking off, and a new BICSI course reflects this reality. Acknowledging the fact that residential telecommunications cabling is now being installed by electricians, BICSI plans to offer proper training to electricians and other cabling installers interested in cabling homes. Starting in April 2000, BICSI will offer a new installation course for cabling contractors interested in cabling single and multifamily residences. The course is based on the ansi/tia/eia-5
OSP Expo tackles challenges of all-everything communicationsHow to integrate voice, video, and data in the outside plant, keeping pace with burgeoning wireless demand, and providing high-speed bandwidth in the "last mile" were among the issues tackled by attendees during OSP Expo `99 last November at the Fort Worth Convention Center in Texas.
New ProductsFiber-distribution rack-mount enclosuresopticom fiber-distribution rack-mount enclosures accept opti-jack fiber-optic connector modules, ST simplex adapters, or SC simplex and duplex adapters. Designed for high-density applications, the enclosures manage up to 144 fiber-optic terminations or splices. panduct slotted wiring duct and TAK-TY hoop-and-loop cable-tie options help manage patch cables. The enclosures feature a preinstalled labeling system and quick-release cover latches and hinges as well as universal brackets for mounting
Fiber-optic adaptersFiber-optic adapters are now available as patch-panel components and preloaded configurations. They come in ST and duplex SC versions for singlemode and multimode fiber cable and are suitable for use in wall- or rack-mount distribution panels and workstation housings in residential and commercial local area networks.
Singlemode fiber-optic cableSeveral enhancements have been incorporated into the company`s singlemode fiber, the first of which is a reduced mode-field diameter from 9.3 to 9.2 microns along with a tightened tolerance from ± 0.5 to ± 0.4 micron. The smaller mode-field diameter improves the bending performance of the fibers. The second enhancement is a reduction of the core-to-cladding offset from ≤ 0.1 to ≤ 0.5 micron. The third enhancement is a tightened tolerance on the fiber coating from ± 15
Fiber-optic certification test setThe Model T410 multimode fiber-optic certification test set, a member of the Turbotest 400 series, tests multimode fiber length and loss at 850/1300 nano-meters. It generates certification reports based on the latest fiber standards.
Power meterThe PM-1600 high-speed power meter is suitable for R&D, qualification or production testing of fiber-optic components, and characterization of optical switches. With a choice of one or two indium-gallium-arsenide photodetectors, the unit provides two types of synchronization triggers. A power-level trigger can start an acquisition when the power incident to the detector reaches a threshold. A TTL voltage trigger uses the external trigger connection to start an acquisition. Synchronization of bot
Tone generator/modular breakout adapterThe Progressive Electronics Inc. AdapToner speeds service calls and combines the functions of a tone generator with a modular breakout adapter. It lets you send tone on any pair in any configuration, along with testing polarity and continuity and providing talk battery. A modular jack enables inline testing.
DSX-1 panel packsThe Dual 42 DSX-1 panel provides 84 DSX-1 terminations in 7 inches of vertical rack space. The pack gives users all of the traditional DSX functions such as monitoring, patching, troubleshooting, and accessing circuits without sacrificing space. The panel`s high-density DSX capabilities are matched by advanced cable-management features, including front cable tray, vertical enclosures, read cable tie-down bar, and a choice of cable ring sizes.
UPS management softwarePowerAlert software for Mac computers allows users to view operating conditions, load, capacity, and other vital uninterruptible-power-supply (UPS) information. The software performs a self-test of the UPS and lets users automatically reboot the UPS or turn on or off AC receptacles when connected to a Mac computer. It lets users set a shutdown delay in order to work through most brownouts and blackouts without having to shut down their system.
Power poleThe Versa-Trak power pole enables installation of power, voice, and data with no cutting or drilling. The device is UL-listed and ISO-9001 certified and features positive mechanical grounding to ensure end-user safety. Three versions are available: a standard configuration that includes a power channel with 20A duplex receptacles and a communications channel, isolated ground poles with two duplex isolated ground receptacles, and blank vertical drop communication poles for furniture feeds. Stock
Tape supply for label printersK-Tape for Brother P-Touch labeling systems is suitable for office and industrial users. The tape has strong adhesive and is UV-resistant so the labels resist peeling and fading, even in extreme outdoors conditions. The K-Tape is available in 1/2- and 1-inch sizes and is a high-quality alternative to Brother TZ tape, which can also be used in the Brother P-Touch labeling system.
Pliers kitThe Tec-Cut pliers kit includes a 5-inch diagonal oval head cutter, long chain nose with cutter for reaching into confined working spaces, needle-nose pliers for pickup and wire forming, 5-inch diagonal flush cut with a tapered head, 7-inch needle-nose pliers, and flat-nose pliers.
ConverterThe Model CDX440 converts the signal of any Pelco 15- or 21-bit Coaxitron-based system for extended operation over twisted-pair cable or RF wireless systems. The unit decodes and converts Coaxitron signals into two separate outputs--RS-422D and ground-loop isolated video. Once converted, the RS-422D output control signal from the CDX440 can be sent up to 6000 feet over unshielded twisted-pair cable, or for longer distances using an RS-422 line driver. Video output can be sent over coaxial cable
Dual-speed media converterThe McBasic 10/100 series of copper-to-fiber media converters supports 10- and 100-megabit-per-second full- and half-duplex Ethernet local-area and wide-area networks. The converters allow managers to connect both 10- and 100-Mbit/sec Ethernet, copper-based hubs, switches, and routers with fiber-based cabling infrastructures. The devices are slightly larger than a deck of cards and are suitable for small companies and remote campuses requiring minimal fiber connectivity. They contain a 100/240-v
Ribbon cableThe flexible RB-series fiber-optic ribbon cable is suitable for use in high-density patch panels and for running to workstations. Ranging from four to 12 fibers, the cables can contain singlemode, multimode, or a combination of both types of fiber. The outer cable jacket can be flame-retardant UL OFNR- or OFNP-rated, and a zero-halogen construction is available. These ribbon cables can be used as part of "plug-and-play" systems with preconnectorized ribbon-assembly cables, with special pulling
Fiber-optic cleaning wipesSatWipes clean optical fibers and connectors. The wipes are presaturated with 100% isopropyl alcohol for maximum cleaning effectiveness and are individually dispensed through a reusable "pop-up" canister for ergonomic access. They are lint-free and cleanroom class 100-rated for minimal contaminants.
Management application softwareiView management application software provides a graphical user interface that allows local-area- and wide-area-network administrators to monitor and control critical functions of the company`s products, including iMc and iMcV managed media converter series, the ipMux Ethernet IP Multiplexer, and the FiberLinX end-to-end fiber-management series. The iView can run as a stand-alone application or in addition to SNMP-based network-management software such as HP OpenView or IBM/Tivoli NetView. Futu
One-piece faceplateThe WallReady one-piece self-contained communications faceplate requires no assembly or additional mounting hardware. The faceplate requires no metal frame or fastening bracket and mounts directly onto drywall or paneling. It adjusts to wall thicknesses from 1/2 to 1 inch. The fastening mechanism is similar to a toggle bolt. When the integral screws are tightened, the fastening brackets are drawn tight to the wall, securing the device in place. Designed for low-voltage, class 2 wiring, a single
Digital multimedia systemThe PowerPlay is an H.323-compliant digital multimedia system for transport over any Internet-protocol-based network. The system provides videoconferencing and collaboration capabilities for business, medical, municipal, and educational users. IPContact software supports H.261 and MPEG-1 video codecs. All video streams are full-motion with 16-bit FM stereo-quality audio.
Premier ProductsCopper-cable management systemThe Mighty Mo 3 cable-management system allows end users to integrate rack systems into the complete cabling infrastructure at the crossconnect and provides flexibility as well as room for expansion. With three styles of vertical patch-cord management on its front--an interbay with latches, traditional cable-management rings, and a fingerduct with covers--the system also provides rear-channel construction that protects and conceals horizontal cabling. According to the manufacturer, Mighty Mo 3 p
Mini-round duplex fiber cablesThe DX series of mini-round duplex assembly cables include color-coded buffered optical fibers, which can be jacketed with a riser, plenum, or zero-halogen-type outer jacket. The series can contain either singlemode or multimode optical fibers, to which the manufacturer applies a 900-micron buffer coating. According to the manufacturer, the buffer coating incorporates a design that makes the cable easily strippable. It is also an ideal mate for small-form-factor fiber-optic connectors, each of w
Punchdown toolThe IC110 punchdown tool includes a 110-style blade, as well as a 66-style blade that stores in the tool`s handle. Providing a nonslip grip, the tool can be set for high or low impact. Features include easy access to the spare blade, a cushioned rubber top to absorb impact to the hand and reduce operator fatigue, and a rotatable high/ low-impact setting. According to the manufacturer, the tool`s heavy spring makes for clean wire cutting. The blade-release ring retention provides a secure blade l
Low-profile wallplatesThe Synergy line of low-profile wallplates was developed with the goal of contemporary aesthetic appeal in high-technology environments where the plates will complement rather than detract from the office atmosphere. The 3-, 4-, and 6-port plates are currently available. A 4-port modular furniture bezel, surface blocks, and multimedia interfaces will be available within the next few months as well.
Cable Installer TipsSimple Excel spreadsheet program can help with cable managementTrying to keep track of what each wire does within a building`s infrastructure can be difficult and time-consuming.
When ladders wont fit, conduit/fish-tape combo comes to the rescueRunning cable through a roof truss that is only 10 to 12 feet from the floor, with no room to set up a tall ladder, can be problematic.
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January 2000
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