Businesses rely on a number of connected devices and systems to operate efficiently. From computer workstations, point of sale systems, VoIP phones to security cameras and access control systems, your business will need a reliable infrastructure to keep everything connected. That’s where structured cabling comes in.

Structured cabling is more than just a collection of cables—it serves as the backbone for your business’s communication systems. It provides a standardized and organized system that supports multiple technologies for your business to use on a day-to-day basis. Whether you’re building a new location or renovating an existing one, your business will rely on structured cabling.

How Does Structured Cabling Work?

Structured cabling provides the data and communications infrastructure within your business. Unlike cabling that is installed to support a specific device or application, structured cabling provides a comprehensive framework that can support a wide variety of communication and low-voltage systems. This allows you to scale your network and business in the future. It also provides reliability for your network, making it more stable.

A structured cabling system typically includes:

• Horizontal cabling connecting work areas to telecommunications closets
• Riser cabling connecting floors and buildings
• Patch panels and cross-connect systems
• Telecommunications rooms and equipment rooms
• Copper and fiber optic cabling
• Cable management systems

What Devices Connect to Structured Cabling?

Structured cabling is extremely versatile; it can support multiple devices at the same time. These are the most common devices supported by structured cabling: 

• Voice and VoIP phone systems
• Computer and data networks
• Wireless access points (Wi-Fi)
• Security camera systems
• Access control systems
• Audio and video communications
• Building automation and smart building technologies
• Fire and life safety systems

With so many devices sharing the same network, structured cabling simplifies things. It takes a complex wiring system and makes it easy to manage. You can perform maintenance and expand the network without adding more cables for support. 

When Should You Run Structured Cabling For Your Business?

Many business owners don’t realize they need structured cabling until they experience network dropouts, slow connectivity, or when they need to expand their network. So, how do you prevent this from happening to you and your business? If you are building a new business or taking over an existing space, here are the most common scenarios where you should run structured cabling:

New Construction Projects

During the planning phase, a structured cabling wiring diagram should be created. The plan should include all the drop locations and construction phases. If you plan to add more devices in the future, be sure to include those drops in your current wiring plan. This will help you future proof your business for easy installation.

Office Relocations and Expansions

If your business moves into a new building, check the current cabling to see what was run by the previous tenant and what needs to be added to your network. This will help you determine if you need to retrofit more cables for your devices. 

Network Upgrades

Businesses upgrading to higher-speed networks, cloud-based applications, VoIP systems, or advanced wireless technologies often require a structured cabling system capable of supporting increased bandwidth and performance demands. 

Smart Building Integration

Structured cabling is needed to integrate security systems, access control, and automation controls. It connects these technologies together, so you don’t experience interference.

Data Center and Multi-Building Connectivity

Data centers and multiple buildings benefit from structured cabling’s organized infrastructure and fiber optic connectivity. Its primary focus is to create reliable communication between locations. 

Hiring a Structured Cabling Contractor

Installing structured cabling is far more complex than simply running wires through walls and ceilings. Professional installation is critical to ensuring system performance, compliance, and long-term reliability. By hiring a licensed professional structured cabling contractor, you get the following benefits:

• Proper system design for your current and future business needs
• Industry standards compliance so your business will pass inspections
• Improved performance and reliability to avoid signal loss and network downtime
• Future scalability in case your business grows beyond your wildest dreams
• Reduces long-term costs associated with costly retrofits

How Audio EnVision Can Help With Your Structured Cabling Projects

Audio EnVision provides structured cabling plans for small and large businesses. We can create cabling diagrams for your new construction project or retrofit new cabling pathways for your system upgrades. We provide free site visits to access what your current and future cabling needs are. Then, we’ll put together a well-designed cabling plan that is reliable, efficient, and flexible. Contact us today to discuss your structured cabling and low-voltage projects.