Electical Contractor

Copper remains a primary carrier for integrated building systems, but fiber optic cabling is assuming an increasingly important role in data, telephone, access controls, security cameras, fire and security alarms, sensors, and other signaling-dependent systems.


Experienced fiber techs often harp on cleanliness. They know dirt causes many problems with fiber during installation, testing and operation.

I’m sure you’ve heard that you need the right tool for the job, but have you ever considered that you might need the right tool for you? Nothing affects how easily a job can be done as much as having the correct tools and knowing how to use them properly.

While most users in an enterprise network want mobile devices connected over Wi-Fi or cellular wireless networks, a large number of users still have cable connections. Generally, these users require high bandwidth and processing speeds and/or secure connections.

Last month, I discussed the issues of industry standards for fiber optic and copper cabling. Manufacturers write standards so they can build products that are compatible with products from other manufacturers, since multiple sources are mandatory in today’s marketplace.

Before the last meeting of the TIA TR-42 committees that write cabling standards, a major fiber optic test equipment company asked if I would petition one of the committees to reconsider OFSTP-14, a new standard for testing installed multimode cable plants.

Not all fiber optic systems are the same, and one big difference is the wavelength used for transmission. The wavelength affects performance, testing and the choice of components, so let’s see how well you understand it. Correct answers and explanations are in red. 1.

Last month, I discussed the current status of broadband networks and the emergence of wireless as the preferred connection, since most users want mobility for their broadband-connected devices.

Around the world, billions of dollars are being spent trying to bring “broadband” to everyone. However, broadband is defined loosely. Some say anything over 1 megabit per second (Mbps) is broadband, while others are looking at much higher speeds.