The network of a Smart Building will have specific requirements, which typically include flexibility, ease of scaling, Power over Ethernet (PoE), Power over Data Lines (PODL), and support for Cloud and Internet of Things (IoT) applications.
A Smart Building network must be capable of supporting a wide range of devices and applications, including access control, IoT devices, facility management systems, security, VoIP, and Wireless Access Points.
A growing trend is the migration of previously separate building technology and management systems to Ethernet-based systems and ‘All over IP’. All over IP means every device involved in building technology and management can communicate in an identical way over Ethernet/IP. This will have an impact on selecting proper structured cabling equipment and network devices.
Evolution of Cabling Installation
The traditional approach has a building featuring a vertical cabling backbone, which rises through the building and branches off to where the cabling for a floor converges. From that location, cables are then run to individual devices. If a space’s usage significantly changes, the reinstallation of cabling may require tearing down walls and adding ports.
Subsequently, a new method was implemented that utilizes common consolidation points and pathways on each floor, providing more freedom and flexibility, but still requiring keeping to fixed routes.
The above approach was followed by the creation of wireless access points in combination with fixed access points and PoE. Thus, network design, configuration, and reconfiguration has been made easier and more efficient for a Smart Building.
Fiber Optic Cabling
When very low latency and the highest data speeds possible are needed, fiber optic cabling provides the best solution. However, not every connection will require this. Cat6a cabling can support 10GB/s over 100 meter distances, which is adequate for most applications. In addition, it can provide PoE.
The key reason for using fiber is its ability to transmit data over a significant distance. In contrast, copper cabling is limited to shorter distances. Fiber optic cables are the right solution when data must be transmitted over long distances inside a building and throughout a number of floors. If the need is for only one floor, the bandwidth that copper cabling provides will usually be adequate.
Part 2 will discuss the fiber optic cabling’s Other Advantages & Disadvantages, Fiber to the Office, and Coexistence of Copper and Fiber.
Progressive Office Cabling
Founded in 1986, Progressive Office’s success has been a direct result of years of commitment to seeking cost-effective solutions. Working together, Progressive teams are committed to getting your data cabling, access control, and telecom systems installed and operating while minimizing disruption and downtime. Call our toll free number (800) 614-4560 today.