Communication cables are the backbone of every telecommunications network, including Internet, phone, media, and VoIP systems. If you are starting a new commercial construction project that requires a network infrastructure or are interested in upgrading your existing communication cabling, we can help.
Suncoast Power has provided licensed cabling, wiring, and electrical services in South Florida for over 30 years. Call us today to discuss your project requirements and schedule a consultation with one of our experienced electricians.
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A communication cable, also known as a data cable, transmits information signals between two systems or pieces of hardware. All network infrastructures rely on data cables, but they often become an afterthought for many businesses and network administrators. Improperly installed or poorly maintained communication cables can lead to several issues, including:
Not all buildings have the same communications requirements. Residential properties have different needs from retail spaces, which differ dramatically from industrial and warehousing facilities. Developing a robust plan that keeps future growth in mind is key to any successful cabling strategy. There are three main types of communication cables: twisted pair, fiber optic, and coaxial.
Twisted pair cables, commonly referred to as ethernet cables, are communication cables where two conductors within a single circuit are twisted together to improve electromagnetic capabilities. These cables come in two forms: unshielded and shielded twisted pairs.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): Unshielded twisted pair cables are commonly used as internet and telephone wires and are a sought-after choice because they are inexpensive and easy to install. Their initially limited bandwidth led to the development of “categories,” which are cable tiers that each provide their own benefits and limitations.
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): Shielded twisted pair cables are ethernet cables specifically designed for business installations because of their special copper wiring. The shield functions as a ground and is added to the standard twisted pair. The shield makes the STP cable viable for businesses because it reduces potential interference and allows for expanded distance functionality between cables.
Fiber optic cables are the gold standard for network infrastructure due to their high transmission rate and reliability. However, fiber optic cables are stronger than steel when pulled in a straight line but are vulnerable to breaking when bent too tightly.
The best way to avoid issues with a fiber optic installation is to have an implementation plan that covers everything from equipment and supplies to potential problem areas and safety issues. Suncoast Power has installed countless fiber optic cables and has the experience to ensure a hassle-free upgrade or installation process.
Coaxial cables are transmission cables with an inner conductor surrounded by an insulating layer, then surrounded by a conducting shield. They are a communication line for radio frequency signals that connect radio transmitters and receivers to their antennas.
Coaxial cables are easy to install and have excellent bandwidth but are more expensive because of their size and connectors designed to give exact conductor spacing. Their cable applications include transmitting frequency signals to internet cables, cable television networks, and digital audio.
It goes without saying that communication cables are used in phone networks, Internet networks, and the services that rely on these connections. Here are a few of the other applications we typically install communications cables for.
Paging systems still play an important role in large organizations that need an instant internal communication solution. At Suncoast Power, we’ve worked with numerous businesses, including hospitals, restaurants, and universities, to provide a reliable paging system with room for growth.
A paging system is hard-wired into a building’s infrastructure. It allows for reliable internal and external communication throughout a building’s property or can be sent to specific area zones for targeted communication.
Ceiling lights are similar to recessed lights, but the housing sits below the ceiling. These light fittings can add visual interest to the room and allow for a wide or narrow illumination band. The flexibility and durability of LED ceiling lights make them an appealing option for most commercial spaces.
While many businesses have moved to wireless networks for their security and A/V needs, cabled solutions are still more secure and reliable. Wireless networks are accessible for scammers to hack from the outside, and external interference can affect wireless signals, leading to expensive downtime.
Many businesses have concerns about the scalability of a wired A/V and CCTV network. However, with proper planning and strategic communication cable placement, your existing devices can be connected while leaving enough room for the network to grow.
Most televisions will use coaxial cables to connect to cable TV providers. However, we also use communication cables in commercial applications to do things like chain TVs and other entertainment media devices, for example in a bar or night club.
