Structured Cabling Testing

 

Data Cabling Testing – The Basics

Data is one of the most important elements of modern business and its usage can be found in practically every sector. Accordingly, you need your data supply to be reliable; one of the best ways to achieve this is with high-quality data cabling in London. However, data cabling is not immune to faults. And this is why it’s crucial that it’s regularly tested. Carrying out data cabling testing allows you to identify potential problems and maintain the health of your data. Testing structured cabling systems may sound complex, but the reality is that it’s relatively straightforward.

Data Cabling Testing Standards

It’s important that your data cabling meets industry standards in order to guarantee that it works. A setup that does not meet these standards is likely to lead to poor data transfer and, in certain cases, data loss. Therefore, it’s critical that you team up with a professional who can advise on the current state of your structured cabling. The standards required for your particular premises can vary, but these requirements can be found in the ISO 11801 series of standards. Conforming to these data cabling testing standards is essential for a fully operational data system.

Cable Testing Procedures

Testing structured cabling systems involves significant work and complexities, but the basics are far from difficult to understand. Naturally, in order to carry out testing to a specific standard, you will need to carry out testing procedures with specialist equipment. And using this equipment requires training in order to complete testing accurately. The equipment and procedures involved will include:

Network Cable Tester: This handheld device is used to specifically check the eight connectors at the end of each cable. Once the test is completed you will know if the connectors are operating correctly without the risk of any shorts/breaks being present.

Multimeter: Using a multimeter allows the operator to test continuity between two connectors of a data cable. Whilst this is ne for continuity checks it will be unable to confirm any details about the performance of the cable.

Cable Certification Tester: A much more advanced piece of equipment than the previous two devices, a cable certification tester allows you to carry out more rigorous tests. It can, for example, measure the resistance of conductors, check the wiring of the cable core, and measure signal degradation from any interference. The cable certification tester is the only device that is qualified to deliver a Pass or Fail verdict after testing a data cable. 

Testing Documentation

The data from cable certification data can be downloaded and printed in the form of a certificate. This dated paperwork will confirm both the type of cable that has been tested and the tests that have been carried out. As long as the results from these tests meet data cabling in Watford regulations then the certificate will be approved with a ‘Pass’ declaration. Once this Pass approval has been achieved you can rest assured that your data cabling is t for purpose. Data cabling testing remains a complex procedure to carry out correctly and safely, so you need to make sure you have experience and expertise on your side. By employing a professional to carry out your testing you can guarantee that your cabling solutions remain hassle-free.

Original Source: Structured Cabling Testing