Don't underestimate the value of cabling skills

Today's blog post delves into the Cabling Installation & Maintenance mailbag...

Hi Patrick and Matt,

I read [your recently posted item regarding] Turck's white paper, Ethernet Cable: A Guideline to Implementing Solid or Stranded Cables. On page 2, referencing the TIA/EIA standards, the paper's author states, "By providing user-friendly instruction, as well as topology, connection points, termination points and media definitions, users can wire a building without prior knowledge or special skill."

Excuse me!

I have been in the cabling business all my life. I am highly offended by this statement. I am sure I am not the only one. I have worked with hundreds of cabling professionals over the years who are true craftsman and take pride in their work. I think the author has insulted anyone in our business who cables a building according to the specifications, building codes and especially those detailed individuals who make sure that every cable is dressed properly as if creating a masterpiece.

Just my two cents.

Regards,

Andrew C. Schmeltzer
Cable Technology Sales Engineer
Black Box Network Services


Hi Andy,

Your point is well taken: empirical data certainly suggests that the TIA/EIA specs for designing and implementing structured cabling infrastructure are only getting more complex -- which is exactly why the Fiber Optic Association (FOA) recently announced that it's creating its own standards for installers and users.

Thanks for the feedback!

Matt Vincent
Senior Editor, Cabling Installation & Maintenance