3 minute read
An introduction to the CEDIA Cabling and Infrastructure Technician textbook
from ECN April 2021
PROJECT SUCCESS AND INFRASTRUCTURE EDUCATION
Steven Rissi, CEDIA Senior Director of Technical Education gives an introduction to the CEDIA Cabling and Infrastructure Technician textbook.
Cabling and infrastructure is arguably the most important part of an integration project, yet it frequently receives the least amount of attention. Who wants to talk to a client about the total run length of twisted pair cable when you can demonstrate the realism and immersion created by a stunning 120” HDR image from a laser projector and dynamic sound from the 11 speakers and multiple subwoofers in a 7.1.4 immersive audio system? However, the reality is that these amazing technologies will only perform optimally and reliably when supported by a well specified, correctly installed, and properly terminated infrastructure. The infrastructure is the foundation of every communication, control, and entertainment system, and requires a strong level of knowledge and skills that are specific to the successful completion of the tasks related to its deployment.
Unfortunately, many businesses follow the practice of training new staff members by having them spend time with more senior staff members. While on the job training is extremely important in a skills-based role such as this, the outcomes will vary widely depending on many factors, and often bad practices are perpetuated and handed on year after year. By empowering technicians with supplemental education that is based on global industry standards, employers will improve their workforce and subsequently their profitability through increased efficiencies, better reliability, higher quality, and thus create outstanding client experiences!
The CEDIA Cabling and Infrastructure Technician textbook has been developed by subject matter experts with extensive experience performing this work and is designed to support new technicians in gaining the knowledge and practicing the necessary skills to begin a successful career in the integration industry. Also, because this book was written by installation technicians, for installation technicians, it contains extensive explanations of the various communications and general-purpose cabling and terminations, along with recommendations to improve efficiency and tips about pitfalls to avoid. In addition to supporting those new to the industry, the book provides a wide scope of information related to all aspects of installing premises wiring in a building and can provide even experienced technicians with a better understanding of the standards and best practices that should be followed to ensure the highest levels of performance and reliability.
The book has also been developed to meet the needs of a global audience. While there are many code variations between regions, this text provides a strong baseline of recommendations that can be universally applied, while providing suggestions for further education on locally specific topics. It has also been reviewed by industry experts from across the globe to support inclusion of a wide scope of applicable verbiage and regional terms to help improve the context of explanations and reinforce understanding.
Learners using this text will explore critical domains of knowledge, including construction methods and materials, cable basics and premises wiring, tools and fasteners, termination and testing, and more. Throughout the document, key aspects related to the physical installation of cabling will be covered, such as bend radius, pull tension, hole size, and maximum run length. The textbook is also filled with full colour illustrations to enhance comprehension and act as a reference for termination procedures and recommended practices.
Therefore, for anyone interested in furthering their career, the CEDIA Cabling and Infrastructure Technician textbook will provide a solid foundation and pathway for professional development. And for those responsible to their clients for ensuring successful deployment of the infrastructure, this manual will provide a roadmap for the continued success and growth of the business.
Cabling and infrastructure is arguably the most important part of an integration project
The book provides a wide scope of information related to all aspects of installing premises wiring in a building CEDIA, cedia.net/books