BUILDING A BETTER HOME NETWORK

In the past, homeowners may have placed wired networking systems near the bottom of the list when it comes to technology preferences. This mindset, however, is shifting as consumers have started to recognise the importance of a solid, stable, reliable network - underpinned by wires rather than Wi-Fi to support their modern lifestyles. The internet is now considered by many as the fourth utility of a home, alongside electricity, water, and gas, and as the number of connected devices per household and consumers’ appetites for bandwidth-intensive services like streaming video continue to escalate, systems integrators have an opportunity to capitalise on the need for high-quality hardwired home networks.

For systems integrators, there are customers to gain and money to be made, certainly, but only if a network can be deployed confidently, quickly, and with the assurance of optimal connectivity-practices that have historically been difficult for many integrators to achieve with bulky, unwieldy cables and poorly designed connectors, which only exacerbate problems, especially in tough retrofit situations. The good news is network cable design and performance is evolving – yes even humble network cable can be improved upon! Innovative nextgeneration solutions are hitting the market, enabling integrators to deliver exceptional digital experiences to their customers without the complications normally associated with network deployment. Here are some of the technological advancements driving this change and making it easier for integrators to prosper in this growing smart home category.

Skinnier Than Normal Cat 6 Cables

Often hampering network installation is the sheer size, quantity and rigidity of the cables. It’s difficult to install into walls, fish around corners, and terminate in cramped equipment racks, especially in retrofit situations. Not to mention the fact that terminating a bunch of these cables really hurts the hands if you’re new to the job. Fortunately, Cat 6 cable is slimming down significantly and becoming more flexible to overcome these, and other, installation hurdles. The thin, flexible, 28AWG footprint of the newest generation of cable is half the size of traditional 23 and 24AWG Cat 6 cable, yet supports the latest global networking standards to assure top performance of today’s smart home technologies. Systems integrators looking to stay ahead of the technological curve and broaden their customer base should embrace new 28AWG Cat 6 cable as a viable alternative to their standard networking solutions.

COMPLIANCE WITH CURRENT POE ++ STANDARDS

Despite the shrinkage in size, today’s newest breed of network cable is just as capable as ever as an in-wall permanent link or as a patch cord, even as bandwidth requirements and the consumer adoption of technology escalate. Also, contrary to popular belief, 28AWG network cable can, in fact, handle the latest Power over Ethernet (PoE) protocol (PoE ++) as stated in IEEE802.3bt. The misnomer is that conductors this thin cannot possibly support 100W of power split among eight conductors, and even if it can it will melt the cable insulation. Thorough testing of 28AWG conductors has proven otherwise, supporting PoE++ even in a bundle of 37 strands. Moreover, compliance with current PoE++ standards prepares your clients’ homes for the addition of emerging PoE-enabled high-powered devices, such as advanced video conferencing system components, building management devices, smart lighting systems and televisions.

Quality Connectors

No matter how capable a network cable is, if the connectors are poorly designed and the termination shoddy, the performance of the entire network will be compromised. One of the most common problems with home networks is a cable that’s loose or unplugged somewhere due to breakage, so it’s vital to use durable, performance-tested crimp connectors. To preclude termination issues, look for connectors and sockets custom-designed and engineered for termination ease and robustness. This will help mitigate costly followup and maintenance, allowing you to focus on new, more lucrative projects, reduce service calls and streamline your workforce.

Ahead Of The Curve And Competition

In an increasingly connected world, a solid, stable, reliable networking foundation is essential to any modern home or business. Just as it’s important to stay abreast of technological and market trends affecting the design and implementation of smart devices, so should integrators follow new developments in hardwired home networks. By following best practices and staying ahead of the curve when choosing and deploying network cable systems integrators can bring real value to their clientele, tackle tough projects with confidence and ease, and build more lucrative businesses.