CHAPTER 1

Introduction to Structured
Networks Cabling
CHAPTER CONTENT

1.1 Basic Network

1.1.1 Computer Networks Definition
1.1.2 Aim of Computer Networks
1.1.3 Types of Network
1.1.4 Network Topology
1.1.5 LAN Standard
1.1.6 Types of Network Media
LEARNING OBJECTIVES

After completing this chapter, you will be

able to :

Describe basic networking concepts.

Explain the networking types, topology,
standard, media, hardware and
software.
Discuss lab safety elements and
procedures.
1.1.1 Computer Networks
Definition
Chain of interconnected computers
Oxford Dictionary.
A number of computers connected together
for the purposes of communication of
processing Knott, Waites and Callaghan,
Computer Studies.
A network is a set of devices (nodes)
connected by media links Forouzan, Data
Communications and Networking.
What is your definition?
 Computer networks refer to :
Two or more computers interconnected together that
can exchange information.
One simple network is made up of two computers
connected together.
Any network must have :
Something to share (data, information)
Connection (transmission medium e.g. cable)
Communication standard (protocol e.g. TCP/IP)

PC 1 PC 2

transmission medium
1.1.2 Aim of Computer
Networks
Sharing resources in one workgroup :
Data file
Printer
Information sharing among distant
computers :
Electronic mail (email)
File transfer protocol (ftp)
Telnet
Communication medium :
Video conferencing
Instant messaging
Internet phone
 Centralized system administration :
Server
Centralized backup
Internet access
1.1.3 Types of Network
Local Area Networks (LAN) :
A local area network (LAN) is a
computer network that interconnects
computers within a limited area such
as a home, school, computer
laboratory, or office building using
network media.
Metropolitan Area Networks (WAN) :
Metropolitan Area Networks (WAN) is a
computer network larger than a local
area network, covering an area of a
few city blocks to the area of an entire
city, possibly also including the
surrounding areas.
 1.1.3 Types of Network

Wide Area Networks (WAN) :

A wide area network (WAN) is a
network that covers a broad area
(any telecommunication networks
that links across metropolitan,
regional, national or international
boundaries) using leased
telecommunication lines.
Wireless Networks :
A wireless network is any type of
computer network that uses
wireless connection for
connecting network nodes.
 1.1.4 Network Topology
Definition :
is a network structure that
based on the physical/logical
arrangement of network
devices on the network.
The physical topology of a
network refers to the
configuration of cables,
computers, and other
peripherals.
Logical topology which is the Main types of
method used to pass information network topology
between workstations.
 1.1.4 Network Topology
Bus topology :
A linear bus topology consists of a main run of cable with a
terminator at each end
All nodes (file server, workstations, and peripherals) are
connected to the linear cable
Advantages :
Easy to connect a computer or peripheral to a linear bus.
Requires less cable length than a star topology.
1.1.4 Network Topology
Disadvantages :
Entire network shuts down if there is a break in the main
cable.
Terminators are required at both ends of the backbone
cable.
Difficult to identify the problem if the entire network shuts
down.
Not meant to be used as a stand-alone solution in a
large building.
 1.1.4 Network Topology
Star topology :
Designed with each node (file
server, workstations, and peripherals)
connected directly to a central
network hub, switch, or
concentrator
Point-to-point connection
The hub, switch, or concentrator manages and controls all
functions of the network
All cables end at one point
1.1.4 Network Topology
Advantages :
Easy to install and wire.
No disruptions to the network when connecting or
removing devices.
Easy to detect faults and to remove parts.
Disadvantages :
Requires more cable length than a linear topology.
If the hub, switch, or concentrator fails, nodes attached
are disabled.
More expensive than linear bus topologies because of
the cost of the hubs, etc.
 1.1.4 Network Topology
Tree topology :
Combines characteristics of linear
bus and star topologies.
Consists of groups of star-configured
workstations connected to a linear
bus backbone cable
Allow for the expansion of an existing
network, and enable schools to
configure a network to meet their
needs
Advantages :
Point-to-point wiring for individual segments.
Supported by several hardware and software venders.
1.1.4 Network Topology
Disadvantages :
Overall length of each segment is limited by the
type of cabling used.
If the backbone line breaks, the entire segment
goes down.
More difficult to configure and wire than other
topologies.
 1.1.4 Network Topology
Ring topology :
Each node connected as a
series and form a circle
The structure same as bus
but the two ends connected together
Advantages :
Easier to manage than bus
Handles traffic better than bus
Disadvantages :
Requires more network cable
New installation of node will interrupt network
because of broken circle
1.1.5 LAN Standard
Usually refers to private network (e.g. individual,
organization, company).
Connects network device in one office, building
or campus (within limited geography area).
The basic network that is widely used.
LAN is difference from other network based on
transmission medium and network topology.
 1.1.5 LAN Standard
LAN is made up of several standard structure :
Ethernet
Token Bus
Token Ring
The most popular and widely used nowadays is Ethernet technology.
Developed by Dr. Robert Melcalfe at Xerox Research Center, Palo
Alto in 1970.
Ethernet characteristics include :
Each node have their own NIC (network interface card)
Each NIC have unique address number for communication
Ethernet network could support data transfer rate up to 100 Gbps
IEEE 802.3 standard governed the LAN standard.
1.1.6 Types of Network Media
Network media is the actual path over which an electrical
signal travels as it moves from one component to another.
Network Media types :
Twisted-pair cable
Coaxial cable
Fiber-optic cable
Wireless
Twisted-pair cable :
Type of cabling that is used for telephone
communications and most modern Ethernet networks
A pair of wires forms a circuit that can transmit data
1.1.6 Types of Network Media
The pairs are twisted to provide protection against crosstalk,
the noise generated by adjacent pairs
Two basic types of twisted-pair cable exist: unshielded
twisted pair (UTP) and shielded twisted pair (STP)
UTP cable :
UTP cable is a medium that is composed of pairs of wires
Each of the eight individual copper wires in UTP cable is
covered by an insulating material.
UTP cable often is installed using a
Registered Jack 45 (RJ-45) connector
1.1.6 Types of Network
Media
Features of UTP cable :
Speed and throughput - 10 to 1000 Mbps
Average cost per node - Least expensive
Media and connector size - Small
Maximum cable length - 100 m (short)
Types of UTP cabling :
Category 1 - Used for telephone communications.
Not suitable for transmitting data.
Category 2 - Capable of transmitting data at speeds
up to 4 megabits per second (Mbps)
Category 3 - Used in 10BASE-T networks. Can
transmit data at speeds up to 10 Mbps.
1.1.6 Types of Network Media
STP cable :
cable combines the techniques of shielding,
cancellation, and wire twisting.
The four pairs of wires then are wrapped in an overall metallic
braid or foil, usually 150-ohm cable.

Features of STP cabling :

Speed and throughput - 10 to 100 Mbps
Average cost per node - Moderately expensive
Media and connector size - Medium to large
 1.1.6 Types of Network Media
Fiber Optic cable :
used for networking consists of two fibers
encased in separate sheaths
each optical fiber is surrounded by layers of protective buffer
material, usually a plastic shield, then a plastic such as Kevlar,
and finally an outer jacket
Two types of fiber-optic cable :
Single-mode - Single-mode fiber cable
allows only one mode (or wavelength of
light to) propagate
through the fiber. Its maximum
cable length is more than 10 km
(32808.4 feet)
Multimode - allows multiple modes of
light to propagate through the fiber. The maximum cable
1.1.6 Types of Network Media
Wireless communication :
uses radio frequencies (RF) or infrared (IR) waves to transmit
data between devices on a LAN
For wireless LANs, a key component is the wireless hub, or
access point, used for signal distribution
Some common applications of wireless data communication :
Accessing the Internet using a cellular phone
Establishing a home or business Internet connection over
satellite
Beaming data between two
hand-held computing devices
CHAPTER CONTENT

1.2 Structured Cabling System

1.2.1 Structured Cabling Vs Unstructured Cabling
1.2.2 What Is Structure Cabling System?
1.2.3 Structured Cabling Subsystems
1.2.4 Structured Cabling (Picture)
1.2.5 Benefit of Structured Cabling
1.2.1 Structured Cabling Vs
Unstructured Cabling

Source: Premiercommfw.com

www.activdata.net
1.2.1 Structured Cabling Vs
Unstructured Cabling

Source:www.protecht.la Source: Datatrend.com

1.2.2 What Is Structure Cabling
System?
Is building or campus
telecommunications cabling
infrastructure that consists of a number
of standardized smaller elements (hence
structured) called subsystems.
(https://en.Wikipedia.org/wiki)

Is defined as building or campus

telecommunications cabling
infrastructure that consists of a number
1.2.2 What Is Structure Cabling
System?
Refers to a standardized way of
connecting the wires that allow
computers and other electronics to
communicate and network. Structured
cabling is widely used in data centers,
campuses, offices, apartment buildings,
hospitals, warehouses, manufacturing
facilities, etc. and is based on two types
of cables: copper and fiber optics.
(http://www.cfsalesinc.com)
1.2.3 Structured Cabling
Subsystems
With the ratification of the TIA 568-C.0 and
TIA 568-C.1 standard, TIA defines six
subsystems of structured cabling system.
They are as follows:
Entrance Facilities (EF)
Equipment Room (ER)
Backbone Cabling (BC)
Telecommunications Room(TR) and
Source :CABLExpress.com)
Telecommunications Enclosure(TE)
1.2.3 Structured Cabling
Subsystems
Entrance Facilities (EF)
is the point where the telephone company network
ends and connects with the on- premises wiring at the
customer premises.
Equipment Rooms
house equipment and wiring consolidation points that
serve the users inside the building or campus.
Backbone cabling
connects between the equipment/telecommunications
rooms, so named because the rooms are typically on
different floors.
1.2.3 Structured Cabling
Subsystems
Horizontal Cabling
wiring can be IW (inside wiring) or Plenum Cabling and connects
telecommunications rooms to individual outlets or work areas on the floor,
usually through the wireways, conduits or ceiling spaces of each floor. It
encompasses the cabling, terminations, patch cables and jumpers and
regulates a maximum distance of 295 feet. Horizontal cabling can include
Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, or fiber optic cable.
Telecommunications Rooms(TR) or telecommunications enclosure
Hold the equipment (including patch cords and jumpers) which connects
the backbone cabling and horizontal cabling
Work-Area (WA)
components connect end-user equipment to outlets of the horizontal
cabling system. The standard specifies a minimum of two outlets per work
area
1.2.4 Structured Cabling

Source: en.wikipedia.org
 What Does Structured Cabling Look Like?
(To answer that I would use the word organization)

structured cabling is an organized approach to a cabling infrastructure.

To fully understand this concept, it is easiest to
look at what structured cabling isnt. In many data centers the cabling methodology
used is defined as point to point. This is running patch cables (or jumpers) directly
to and from the hardware that needs connectivity.

(With that defined, I will go back to structured cabling again.)

In a structured cabling system, a series of patch panels and trunks are used
to create a structure that allows for hardware ports to be connected to a patch
panel at the top of the rack. That patch panel is then connected to another patch
panel via a trunk (multi-fiber assembly designed for use in conveyance) in the
MDA (Main Distribution Area).The MDA is the key aspect of structured cabling.
This is where all the MACs (Moves, Adds, and Changes) can be made with short
length patch cords.
See below for some helpful diagrams.

Source :CABLExpress.com)
1.2.4 Structured Cabling System
Example: Conventional Point to Point
1.2.5 Benefits of Structured Cabling?
With an organized structured cabling system the benefits are:

Support Future Upgrades . MACs (Move,Add,Change) are much

quicker due to the fact that they are done in the MDA versus running
long patch cords from equipment racks.
Potential for downtime is reduced as potential for human error is
drastically reduced due to this organization.
Time savings; cable and port tracing becomes a much easier job with
a structured cabling system.
Reduces cabling bulk and congestion an organized and planned
infrastructure allows for the use of smaller diameter trunk cabling and
cleaner cable management
CHAPTER CONTENT

1.3 Occupational Safety and Health Administration

(OSHA)
1.3.1 Basic Safety
1.3.2 Federal Regulations and
International Standard
1.3.3 Discuss Safety Around Electricity
1.3.3 Poor Structured Cabling
1.3.4 Discuss Lab and Workplace Safety Practices
 Whats wrong with this picture?

40
1.3.1 Basic Safety
a) Engineering Controls

) ventilation in the form of exhaust fans or hoods, special

) cabinets for storing flammables, or workstations that
minimize the hazards of specialized work, such as cutting
optical fibers.
1.3.1 Basic Safety
b) Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Safety goggles,
Eye wear
Ear plugs and muffs
Respirators and dust masks
Protective gloves
Work boots
Hard hat
1.3.1 Basic Safety
c) Good Work Habit
Keep a clean workspace. Clean up at the end of your work day and
store tools properly. A rats nest can hide problems and add to
confusion.
Observe your surroundings.
Use tools for the job they were designed to perform.
Do not eat or drink in the work area.
Report problems or injuries immediately.
Know how to reach emergency personnel.
Put your emergency contact information in your cell phone.
1.3.2 Federal Regulations and
International Standard
Federal Regulation
Federal regulations and international standards have
been created to prevent injuries from laser radiation.
A federal regulation is a law based on the specific
country.
1.3.2 Federal Regulations and
International Standard
Organizations that published Laser Safety Standard/guidlines:

1. International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC).

. IEC 60825-2 addresses the safety of optical fiber communication
systems
. IEC60825-1 addresses the safety of laser products in general, not
specific to optical fiber communication systems.

2. American National Standards Institute (ANSI).

. ANSI Z136.2 addresses the safe use of optical fiber communication
systems utilizing laser diode and LED sources.
. ANSI Z136.1-200 addresses the safe use of lasers in general and is
not specific to optical fiber communication systems
1.3.2 Federal Regulations and
International Standard

International Standard

OSHA Standards for OFCS (Optical Fiber

Service Group (SG)) Service Groups
OSHA Laser Hazard Classes
IEC Laser Hazard Classifications
1.3.2 Federal Regulations and
International Standard
OSHA Standards for OFCS Service Groups

Based on ANSI Z136.2., designations relate to the potential for ocular hazards to
occur only when the OFCS is being serviced.

SG1 An OFCS in this SG has a total output power that is less than the
accessible emission limit (AEL) for Class I (400nW) and there is no risk of
exceeding the maximum permissible irradiance (MPI) when viewing the end of
a fiber with a microscope, an eye loupe, or the unaided eye.
SG2 An OFCS is in this SG only if wavelengths between 400nm and 700nm
are emitted. Such lasers are potentially hazardous if viewed for more than 0.25
second.
SG3A An OFCS in this SG is not hazardous when viewed with the unaided eye
and is hazardous only when viewed with a microscope or eye loupe.
SG3B An OFCS in this SG does not meet any of the previous criteria.
1.3.2 Federal Regulations and
International Standard
OSHA Laser Hazard Classes
IEC Laser
Hazard
Classifications

List of
the hazards
associated with
each class.
Many of the
products used in
fiber-optic
communication
systems and test
equipment are
Class I;
however, some
equipment may
be Class IV.
1.3.3: Discuss Safety Around
Electricity
Hazards example:

Light Source
most lasers and LEDs used in fiber optics operate
in the near-infrared and infrared
(IR) wavelengths and are invisible to the eye, they
can still cause damage if they are delivered
at high intensity, or if the exposure is long enough.
1.3.3: Discuss Safety Around
Electricity

Hazardous Voltages - Hazardous voltages can be found in unfinished

spaces and access areas such as those found above ceilings, in
equipment rooms, or in telecommunications rooms
Electrical Safety
- Keep an eye out for abnormal circumstances such as circuit breaker
boxes with the covers removed, frayed or loose cords, and damaged
equipment
- Pay particular attention to other devices and other workers in the work
area
- Never touch a cable that might be "live" with both hands, because a
complete circuit could be formed. Always keep one hand off of the cable
1.3.4: Poor Structured Cabling

Costs of Poor Cabling:

The job of the cable installer is to provide good, technically
accurate cabling between all of the communications devices
that make up the network
It is more economical for customers to pay a little more up
front to make sure the job is done right, conforms to
standards, and is scalable
Network administrators waste time troubleshooting
problems caused by poor installation
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices

Turn off power before working inside walls, ceilings, or attics

Never touch power cables
Be aware of sharp objects, exposed wires, dirt, and dust
Be aware of other people working in the area
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices
Work Area Safety

Survey work area beforehand

Ask building supervisor if you could come in contact with
dangerous materials (chemicals, asbestos, or lead)
Keep area clean and neat
Locate fire extinguishers
Use fire-rated cables in plenum areas and riser cables
between floors
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices
Ladder Safety

Select the right ladder for the job

Inspect the ladder
Set the ladder properly and safely,
and secure the area around the ladder
Climb and descend cautiously
Work on the ladder safely
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices
Fiber-Optic Safety

Classify a light source based on optical output power and

wavelength.
Always wear safety glasses with side shields
Always work in a well-ventilated area
Place a mat on the table to collect all glass shards. Use
masking tape to remove glass shards from hands and
clothing
Do not touch eyes while working with fiber-optic systems
Clean work areas thoroughly, and dispose of glass shards
in proper, approved sharps containers
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices

Chemicals/Alcohol
There are several types of chemicals, including 99 percent
isopropyl alcohol for cleaning components, solvents for
removing adhesives and other materials, and anaerobic
epoxy for making connectors is used.
Alcohol can also cause irritation to your eyes, skin, and
mucous membranes (nose and mouth) if it comes in direct
contact with them.
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices
First Aid Kit

Every work area should have a first aid kit available

Periodically check that it is fully stocked
Make sure that it contains
an eye wash cup for debris
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices
Fire Safety

Call for help immediately if the fire cannot be quickly and

safely extinguished
Notify others in the building that there is a fire by activating
the fire alarm or yelling Fire!
Only fight a small fire if you are certain that it is safe to do
so
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices

Fire Extinguisher

Pull Pull the pin from the fire extinguisher trigger.

Aim Aim the extinguisher at the base of the fire.
Squeeze Squeeze the handle firmly to activate
the extinguisher.
Sweep Sweep the extinguisher discharge at
the base of the fire until the flames are out.
1.3.5: Discuss Lab and Workplace
Safety Practices

Injury Prevention
Follow all national, industry, and workplace safety rules
Training is essential when working with electricity, power
tools, or any other potential hazardous equipment
Use safety equipment
Be alert and act professionally
Stay current on issues related to safety and health in the
workplace
Failed to Abide:
References/credits:

https://en.Wikipedia.org/wiki
CABLExpress.com
http://www.cfsalesinc.com