Understanding the options for cabling and networking

Over recent years the concept of structured cabling has become well established and is now being challenged by the requirements of the intelligent building. An intelligent building is one in which the building fabric, space, services and information systems can respond efficiently to the initial and changing demands of the owner, the occupier and the environment. A structured and holistic approach must be used to minimize the cost of ownership and to ensure that the building most aptly meets the needs of the company. Looks at the role of networked systems and cable systems in buildings and identifies the principal characteristics required of them. Discusses some of the latest thinking regarding the integration of these networks and shows a practical arrangement that will achieve this. Also discusses, with examples, the impact that communications infrastructures can have on the usability of a building.