Cable management

In addition, the constraints imposed by the latest generation of data communication cables have led to the greater use of high performance CAT 5e/6/7 or fibre optic cables. At the same time, the huge increase in the use of electromechanical and electronic equipment – ranging from sophisticated network servers operating from dedicated power supplies in climate controlled environments, to individual workstations, desktop computer and peripherals – has resulted in a similar rise in mains power demand.

There are a variety of systems that are designed to accommodate and protect larger, higher capacity and more complex mains power wiring and data cabling networks. This has led to the design and development of multi-tasking cable management systems. These are available in single, twin or multi-compartment designs, in a range of profiles and sizes.

Types of cabling
Information technology cables have come a long way from the earliest solution of token ring. The 1980s saw Cat 3; in the 1990s, Cat 4, Cat 5 and Ca t5e cables appeared; and Cat 6 was ratified at the end of 2003. Category 7 has been installed for some time, predominantly by our European counterparts and companies requiring greater bandwidths than both Cat 5e and Cat 6.

Such cable products require care in handling and good installation practices to avoid damage and signal degradation. The minimum bend specification of these cables requires the use of radius corners, which, with careful design, can maximise data throughput, while minimising obtrusiveness in the office.

Bend radii
Considerations for data cabling installation in terms of bend radii, and how systems accommodate the requirements, are extremely important. With the increasing demand for Gigabit to the desktop (and, possibly, even 10 Gigabit over the next few years), cable management solutions will play a major part in delivering the integrity of the data solution. International (ISO/IEC 11801) and European (CENELEC) standards are now stating the necessity of greater bend radii for both copper and fibre optic cables in order to maximise optimum performance. Mita has a range of advanced cable management solutions and bend radii fittings to suit.

Space and constraints
There is a greater demand for neat and compact trunking because of limits on available space within the small office and home office environment, and the need to match existing interior layouts. At the other end of the spectrum, there is also a requirement for ever larger solutions as a result of the need for greater wiring density to meet the complex power distribution and networked data communications requirements of larger offices, public buildings and commercial installations. Containment systems are available featuring add-on compartments. These can increase cabling capacity without compromising style.

Standards
There are three main standards bodies: ANS/TIA/EIA – US standards; ISO/IEC – international standards; and Cenelec – European standards. But there are different terminologies and specifications between TIA and ISO/IEC. The ISO/Cenelec standards steer more towards greater bend radius when using Cat6/class E and Cat7/class F cables.

The IEEE 802 standards committee is the body that develops standards for networking such as Gigabit Ethernet. The IEEE is now researching 10 Gigabit over copper cables, and the latest information indicates that this can be achieved using Cat 6 shielded, or Cat 7 cables. Although this development could be some time away, it could be a major factor when choosing a futureproof cable management system.

Materials and finishes
Containment systems are now available in a wide range of materials, such as uPVC, aluminium and steel, to suit differing installations depending on the application. Size, material and finish can be chosen to suit specific environments. Advances in manufacturing technologies continue to provide new solutions. Systems can be offered in a range of contemporary and traditional colours and finishes, including wood effect, marble or veneer.

Flexibility
Fast-moving, modern businesses seek the flexibility that allows office and workplace layouts to be altered quickly. This, in turn, places new demands on electrical installations. Power and data to desk solutions can also be met by the use of desk modules – fitted to the desk or workstation. Electrical accessories used in office furniture installations, including power modules, must meet the electrical standards set out in BS 6396, as a requirement for overall compliance of the desk or workstation electrical system.

These modular systems are most frequently supplied as pre-wired units designed for rapid, easy connection to the appropriate distribution network, busbar trunking or underfloor connection point. Factory assembled pre-wired units come complete with accessories. Custom designed units for specific requirements can be supplied and they are fully tested before delivery.

Floorboxes, underfloor powertrack and service poles and posts, are all highly cost-effective answers to providing electrical and communications services to island workstations in large offices, showrooms and other large, open spaces. These are being developed to provide ease of installation and maximum protection. Service poles and posts allow easy upgrading and relocation to suit altered room layouts.

Cable management products must be capable of meeting the requirements of the end user, and must also be quick and easy to install. As in any electrical installation, cable pre-wiring and harnessing can reduce installation time and therefore costs. Such options are available today with cable management units available in a variety of shapes, sizes and finishes. Pre-wiring also extends to floorboxes and floor outlet units – the latter with three or four outlets to reduce inventory and increase flexibility. These too can be supplied factory assembled and fully tested before delivery and their use saves site installation time and eliminates the risk of wiring error.