Cabling is like the nervous system of the human body. A well-designed structured cabling system transports a wide array of information traffic serving many different functions. The information may range from control signals for the heating or cooling systems to the structure’s lighting systems. Security and life safety systems also use the cabling pathways. READ MORE
Frank Bisbee
Freelance Writer
Frank Bisbee is with Communication Planning Corp., a telecom and datacom design/build firm. He provides a free monthly summary of industry news on www.wireville.com.
Articles by Frank Bisbee
February 2011
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The rewiring of America is the newest challenge to face the electrical contractor (EC). Over the past decade, new developments on the technological scene have made rewiring an imperative for power, lighting and communications. READ MORE
September 2009
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The demand for security and active life safety systems is growing because there is an expectation of safety in public places, and the new technology is less expensive than doing the job with “feet on the street.” READ MORE
April 2009
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Security and Life Safety Systerms are a necessity in the healthcare industry.
The datacom and telephone infrastructure market is changing. For more than two decades, we have seen a shift in the healthcare industry from traditional telecommunications service providers to electrical contractors (ECs) for cabling and other services and systems. READ MORE
February 2009
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On March 4, 1908, at the Lake View School in Collinwood, Ohio, 172 students and three adults died in the largest life-loss school fire in U.S. history. At the 13th annual National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) meeting in 1909, then-president C.M. Goddard addressed the event. READ MORE
December 2008
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One of the most critical responsibilities for building owners and managers is life safety. Not only is the United States the most litigious society in the modern world, but skyrocketing insurance premiums add to the pressure for building owner and facility managers to keep their employees and their building occupants safe. Being prepared is the first, second and third rule. READ MORE
October 2008
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US building codes have emphasized flame spread and smoke generation. On the surface, this seems to adequately address fire safety. However, in the European Union (EU), codes also address toxic gases that can kill and incapacitate building occupants before they can safely exit a burning structure. Today’s workplace is a canned environment. READ MORE
January 2008
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The US economy is troubled, and manufacturers are facing even more of a downturn. “The enterprise network is undergoing a major shift in emphasis that impacts cabling,” said Jim Hayes, president of the Fiber Optic Association Inc., the international non-profit professional society for the fiber optic industry that develops educational programs and certifies fiber optic technicians. READ MORE
October 2007
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An electrical contractor can be a mobile army of thousands of vehicles, and a threat to the safety of workers is growing. In an age defined by the convenience of cell phones and other technology, we’re beginning to see some communications and driving do not mix. READ MORE