#019: Small Office / Big Cabling Rehab!!
FiberNinja・104 minutes read
The text discusses the restructuring and cleanup of a company's network, including issues with cabling, rack mounting, security camera equipment, and improper configurations. Various tools and methods are employed to optimize network connections, improve cable management, and enhance overall organization for better efficiency and accessibility in the workspace.
Insights
- The network setup underwent extensive reorganization, including relocating equipment, condensing switches, and implementing structured cabling for cleanliness and efficiency.
- Tools like the Fluke Intellitone Pro and RJ11 connectors were utilized to map and test network connections, aiding in cable tracing and optimization.
- Emphasis was placed on meticulous cable organization, securing cables with zip ties, creating service loops, and using keystone connectors for flexibility and easy maintenance, resulting in a compact and accessible cabling system.
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Recent questions
What tools are used for mapping and testing network connections?
Testing tools like the Fluke Intellitone Pro and Low Voltage Pro are utilized to map out and test network connections for optimization. The Fluke Intellitone Pro can send tone through network cables and sync with a toner, aiding in cable tracing. Its detachable piece allows for cable testing and beacon testing, helping locate network cables without standard tone capabilities. This tool is effective for tracing unlabeled or unmapped cables in Ethernet networks. The Low Voltage Pro can be used to detect phone lines or voltage on pairs in a port.
How can network cables be organized for better maintenance?
Cabling can be separated into power and data sides to enhance network cleanliness. Power cables can be organized to one side and secured with zip ties for neatness. Elevating switches to ergonomic height for easy access and troubleshooting is crucial. Keeping equipment at hand level is important for convenience. Video surveillance networks can be shifted higher for better serviceability. Structured cabling is emphasized for proper support and organization, with plans to install j hangers for better cable management.
What are the benefits of using patch panels in network setups?
Patch panels are essential for cross-connecting cables, leading to unnecessary complexity and extra work. They ensure a one-to-one port ratio with the same type and length cables for a cleaner setup. Direct lines without patch panels can be integrated into a second patch panel to streamline connections. Modular patch panels are preferred for easier cable management and untangling messy setups. Proper installation of patch panels is crucial to avoid complexity and troubleshooting difficulties in the network setup.
How can cable length issues be addressed in a network setup?
Cable length issues can be resolved by creating a mock-up to ensure proper cable management. Adjustments can be made to accommodate cable lengths and prevent door closure issues. Equipment can be condensed, with patch panels and switches replacing multiple switches and direct lines. Making patch cables can be time-consuming and costly compared to buying pre-made cables. Structured cabling with j hangers can prevent cable tangling and ensure a clean cable management system.
What are the considerations for connecting security cameras in a network setup?
Security cameras can be connected to a PoE injector using flat ribbon cables and wide keystone connectors for a neat setup. The camera system can be directly wired to the switch for easy conversion of connectors if needed. Patch panels with simple RJ45 connections without tied-down strain reliefs allow for potential rearrangements. Cabling can be organized with loops to allow movement without stretching, especially when the cabinet hinges open. A PDU with labeled channels simplifies equipment identification and troubleshooting for non-tech-savvy users.
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Summary
00:00
"Network Cleanup: Cabling and Equipment Reorganization"
- The company's network was previously extensive but has now been reduced in size, requiring cabling cleanup.
- The main focus is on the eilec feed, a bonded DSL motors system with numerous pairs running through a clip hole.
- The PBX system is located in a cabinet with a patch panel and a cascade of switches that need attention.
- Despite marked rack spaces, improper mounting indicates unfamiliarity with rackmount equipment.
- Cables are seen running straight on metal above the cabinet, with a pin indicating the cabinet's opening direction.
- The inspection phase reveals the internet connection, phone system, and consumer-grade routers splitting from a switch.
- Handmade POE injectors are found, utilizing cut-off pairs to provide power, necessitating the elimination of single points of failure.
- Security camera equipment is on a separate network, with plans to relocate the router for better ergonomics and maintenance access.
- The current setup includes abandoned 66 blocks, messy power cables, and inadequate cable management, requiring reorganization.
- Testing tools like the Fluke Intellitone Pro and Low Voltage Pro are used to map out and test network connections for optimization.
15:25
Network Cable Tracing Tool for RJ11 Connector
- The RJ11 connector can be used to detect phone lines or voltage on pairs in a port.
- The Intellitone Pro can send tone through network cables and sync with a toner, aiding in cable tracing.
- The Intellitone Pro's detachable piece allows for cable testing and beacon testing.
- The beacon test helps locate network cables without standard tone capabilities.
- The tool is effective for tracing unlabeled or unmapped cables in Ethernet networks.
- Incorrect router configurations can isolate equipment from the network.
- Wall plates with clear plastic for labels are preferred, but non-standard connectors can be limiting.
- The Intellitone Pro identified active network drops and their corresponding ports accurately.
- Blue Cat5 cables were used for network connections, but white cables were cross-connected, indicating a hidden infrastructure.
- Patch panels were used for cross-connecting cables, leading to unnecessary complexity and extra work.
31:17
Improving Network Cleanliness and Accessibility
- Removed abandoned 66 blocks and extra screws, improving cleanliness.
- Noted the presence of a mounted backboard, possibly not original, made of soft fiberboard.
- Highlighted the issue of using long screws on soft fiberboard, causing grip problems.
- Recommended using very short, coarse-threaded fasteners for 66 blocks to avoid issues.
- Separated cabling into power and data sides, enhancing network cleanliness.
- Organized power cables to one side, securing them with zip ties for neatness.
- Elevated switches to ergonomic height for easy access and troubleshooting.
- Stressed the importance of keeping equipment at hand level for convenience.
- Shifted video surveillance network higher for better serviceability.
- Encountered a snag with patch panel connectors, considering alternative options for compatibility.
48:06
Efficient Cable Management Improves Network Setup
- The router and switch were moved due to cable length issues, with one cable running straight down into the floor without slack.
- Patch panels were installed, ensuring a one-to-one port ratio with same type and length cables for a cleaner setup.
- Direct lines without patch panels will be integrated into a second patch panel to streamline connections.
- A mock-up was created to address cable length issues, with adjustments made to ensure proper cable management.
- The spacing between patch panels was adjusted to accommodate cable lengths and prevent door closure issues.
- Equipment was condensed, with two patch panels and a 48-port switch replacing multiple switches and direct lines.
- Making patch cables was deemed time-consuming and costly compared to buying pre-made cables.
- Modular patch panels were preferred for easier cable management and untangling messy setups.
- Structured cabling was emphasized for proper support and organization, with plans to install j hangers for better cable management.
- Proper installation of patch panels was highlighted to avoid complexity and troubleshooting difficulties in the network setup.
01:05:26
"Structured Cabling Upgrade for Cleaner Setup"
- Most cables have been relocated, with the remaining analog voice line needing re-splicing and rerouting.
- Temporary patch panels are in place, with plans to replace a 24-port panel with two for new lines.
- Security camera and network cables have been finalized, with handmade cables replaced by longer patch cables for a cleaner setup.
- Various bundles are waiting to be terminated, with important power lines secured and major bundles zip-tied.
- A large bundle will be created for flexibility when the rack opens, with excess slack for future adjustments.
- Analog phone lines have been secured using zip ties to avoid sharp edges, allowing for easy shaping and directing of cables.
- The primary patch panel is being replaced with a new one, allowing for a more compact and clean setup.
- A power switch will be added, and a decision is pending on installing another patch panel for the camera system.
- The camera system will be converted to a patch panel using flat ribbon patch cables for a neat setup.
- Structured cabling is being installed with j hangers to prevent cable tangling and ensure a clean cable management system.
01:23:09
Efficiently Organized Camera System with Flexibility
- Ubiquiti switch ports are numbered one through six, unlike the Linksys switch which numbers them one through 24.
- Cameras are connected to a PoE injector using flat ribbon cables and wide keystone connectors due to a wider space on the patch panel.
- The camera system is directly wired to the switch, making it easy to convert connectors if needed.
- Patch panels have simple RJ45 connections without tied-down strain reliefs for potential rearrangements.
- Cabling is organized with loops to allow movement without stretching, especially when the cabinet hinges open.
- A PDU with labeled channels simplifies equipment identification and troubleshooting for non-tech-savvy users.
- A three-use space is left between systems for future expansion, following an ergonomic layout.
- Cabling is meticulously organized to allow easy maintenance and repair, with service loops and flexibility joints established.
- Temporary pull cables are used to identify and untangle tight cable bundles for proper slack distribution.
- RJ45 connectors and keystone connections provide flexibility for extending cable lengths using jumper cables for easy maintenance and future modifications.
01:40:00
"Efficient Installation and Maintenance of Surveillance Cables"
- The speaker is extending nine surveillance camera cables, each about 20-30 feet long, using junctions and clips to ensure proper installation.
- By making adjustments to the cabling, the speaker resolves slack issues and ensures sufficient slack for future maintenance.
- The speaker secures the cables to strain relief, zip-tying them down and cutting excess flush to prevent future interference.
- The speaker dresses the cables neatly, following a specific path to ensure a compact and accessible cabling run.
- Utilizing keystone patch panels, the speaker can rotate and work on the panels easily, maintaining live circuits during the process.
- The speaker emphasizes the modularity and ease of disconnection and reconnection of keystone connectors for flexibility in changes.
- The speaker strategically secures and shapes cable loops to maintain flexibility and accessibility for future adjustments.
- The speaker demonstrates the process of rotating and working on patch panels for ergonomic efficiency and ease of maintenance.
- Structural and electrical improvements are made to the workspace, including relocating conduits and supporting cables for better accessibility.
- The speaker addresses and rectifies poor workmanship in the workspace, reinforcing doorways and ensuring technician safety and comfort.
01:56:40
Efficient Subfloor Transformation with Organized Cabling
- The electrician's cutout tool with a sharp blade is used to create radiused edges, while the saber saw is handy for making cuts in small areas, even with active circuits running.
- An opening above the rack cabinet is equipped with an edge guard and angle bracket for affixing items securely, with plans to add a piece of wood for cable ties.
- The subfloor area has been simplified, with only two runs of cables neatly organized and stored, showcasing a more efficient and accommodating workspace for technicians.
- The final transformation of the subfloor area includes the removal of network equipment, cleaning, labeling cables, and adding a UPS to control equipment, with plans to switch over to LAN 2 and eliminate the Netgear switch.
- The back of the setup reveals three patch panels with flexible loops for cable management, secured power sources, and a drastically simplified network setup with edge guards and organized cabling, showcasing a well-thought-out and efficient project completion.
