Structured Cabling Plan

Subsystems are components of a cabling system that work together to provide the necessary connections between devices. The six subsystems of a structured cabling system are backbone, distribution, wiring, collector, interface and management. Backbone cables connect the distribution boxes and interfaces in the system. Distribution cables distribute the information collected by the devices throughout the building or network. Wiring cables carry the electrical signals from one device to another. Collector cables bundle together a group of wiring cables and take the signals away from the Network. Interface cables connect different types of devices together and allow for easy access to data and device settings. Management systems oversee and control aspects of a structured cabling system.

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There are two major standards for structured cabling: Category 5, and Category 6. Category 5 cabling connects devices to a central authority environment such as telephone exchanges and cable headends. It is required to have a specific gauge and can transmit gigabits per second. Category 6 cabling can be used to connect devices within a distributed authority environment such as offices or homes. It is smaller in gauge and can transmit 100 megabits per sec.

The principles of structured cabling are to use standardized wiring and components, organize cables into categories corresponding to their function, and installing the cables in a planned sequence. Structured cabling system is a network wiring installation comprising of distinctive components: the cable, connectors, and systems. Organization of the cables and their placement in order to minimize noise, RF interference and prevents unauthorized use.