Network Wiring Design

A network wiring Primer:

Inter-connection of computer workstations and the server is a prime requirement for a correctly  functioning network. If designed and installed correctly, the users will never notice the presence of a wiring system. But, if designed and installed incorrectly, life with the network will most likely  be full of problems.

The two most popular types of network cabling are twisted-pair (also known as 10BaseT) and thin coax (also known as 10Base2). 10BaseT cabling looks like ordinary telephone wire, except that it has 4 twisted pairs instead of the familiar ubiquitous flat 2 pair telephone cable. Thin coax looks like the copper coaxial cabling that's often used to connect a VCR to a TV set, but is in actuality an entirely different type of cable.

Which type of cabling is best for you? Thin coax and 10BaseT can both be used exclusively or together, depending on the type of network that you're  putting together. Small networks, for example, may want to use 10BaseT cabling by itself, because it's inexpensive, flexible, and ideal for going short distances. Larger networks (usually with 10 or more computers) may use a thin coax backbone with small clusters of 10BaseT cabling that branch off from it at regular intervals.

Correctly installed, a wiring system should be completely invisible to the user. The only connection visible to the user should be a female jack adjacent to the users desk or workstation. Bad connections and improper wiring will ultimately lead to transmission problems.

Wireless network connections are becoming popular. The wireless aspect makes wiring needs redundant. The user is now capable of being mobile within the range of the wireless transmitter. In a small office or home office environment, there's that "SOHO" term again, no wiring is needed and the user is free to work in any area of the home or office work space. At this point in time wireless is susceptible to interference and distance and is limited to lower speeds than is available in the hard wired environment.

Some developers are now providing the option of having "premise wiring" installed during the construction phase. "Premise wiring" is a term used to describe a wiring design in which a common topology is available within the structure  which provides  both phone and data wiring services to all areas. With this topology phones and data wiring are common.

Use of  wireless or hardwired connections in the "SOHO" office is almost a personal choice. The cost and convenience aspects are about the same for each.

L.J. CRAIG & Associates, Inc. provides expert guidance and advice in the type of topology which will be most appropriate for your situation.