How to set up Cat 6 cabling systems for business IT networks

Implementing a Cat 6 wiring system within an office computer network setup is no easy task; it demands the smart start, good quality electronics and adequate accessories at the same time as obeying specific installation rules. Properly implemented, this system will provide a fast, reliable network for current business applications with the potential for support of future workgroup applications.

Step 1: Design and planning

Site Survey It is better that you perform a site survey to evaluate your existing and future infrastructure. Decide what is the best place for cables, hardware, and network devices.

Set up a central equipment room for core networking equipment such as servers, switches and patch panels. It consolidates management and provides a secure, air-conditioned space for costly equipment.

Plan for redundancy and scalability. Throw in room to grow, more staff and bandwidth needs. Modular, though, with some excess capacity will prevent more expensive overhauls later.

Create a blueprint charting the path where your cables will run and identifying all termination points and devices. This diagram may be used for both installation and when troubleshooting the air conditioner.

Remain in compliance with regulations, such as TIA/EIA-568, and local building codes. These standards are put in place to maintain safety, reliability and interoperability.

Step 2: Component selection

Choose the right cable. Cat 6 cables work for most businesses, providing speeds up to 1 Gbps at about 100 metres and up to 10 Gbps for shorter distances (less than 55 metres).

Select shielded vs. unshielded cable. The shielded twisted pair (STP) cable should be used in high electromagnetic interference (EMI) environments, such as near generators or power lines. Otherwise, plain old unshielded twisted pair (UTP) should be fine and cheaper.

Use compatible connecting hardware. This denotes that all aftermarket components (i.e., not FCP components) that you use in your network should also be Cat6 rated, such as the jacks and patch panels.

Consider high-quality network hardware. Select enterprise-level switches, patch panels, and racks to provide you with the most dependable hardware possible.

Step 3: Installation best practices

Avoid interference. In order to prevent the network cable from generating interference, route the network cable avoiding sources of Electromagnetic Interference (EMI), such as fluorescent lights, power lines and motors. 8 to 12 inches is recommended by the National Electrical Code.

Respect bend radius. Don't curve Cat 6 Ethernet cables too tightly, as this changes the electrical properties of the cable. It will bend with the cable but make it four times as long a turn.

Don't exceed the maximum cable length. Cat 6 cable runs are capped at 100 metres (328 feet) in length for full speed. For anything further than that, you will require a fibre optic link or repeaters.

Ensure proper cable management. Keep all those cables organised and tidy with cable trays, conduits, velcro straps, etc. This action saves repaving costs and makes all maintenance easier.

Step 4: Termination and testing

Utilise the right tools for removing cable jackets and crimping connectors. You will need a wire stripper and crimping tool and you probably want a punch-down tool if you are going to use patch panels or wall jacks.

Maintain proper termination standards. Both the T568A and T568B colour codes can be used on both ends of any C. Now it is necessary for you to terminate all your connections consistently. New commercial installations will almost always use the T568B type.

Minimise untwisting when connectors are terminated to a jack or patch panel. Too much untwisting of pairs will also cause more crosstalk and poorer performance.

Test every cable run. Once your equipment is in place, use a cable certifier or network tester to ensure that all connections are wired properly and no shorts or miswiring exist, then test for each of the Cat 6 requirements.

Step 5: Documentation and maintenance

Label everything. Mark every cable at both ends with an identifiable label. This is extremely important for fault finding and servicing.

Create and maintain documentation. Maintain written documentation of the network design, port numbering, and hardware. Keep this information in a secure place.

Establish a maintenance plan. Regularly monitor and sample; use test tools sparingly at scheduled intervals to keep the system in top condition and address issues before they become problems. 

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