Structured data cabling: getting an office fit-out right first time

Data cabling is installed once and expected to last through several rounds of equipment. Specifying it around today's hardware is how offices end up recabling five years early.

Choosing the category

Cat6 remains adequate for general desk provision. Cat6A supports 10 Gigabit over longer runs and is the sensible default where wireless access points, higher-density workspaces or a long refurbishment cycle are involved. Fibre handles backbone links between floors and buildings.

Containment and separation

Data cabling must be routed with adequate separation from power cabling to avoid interference, and supported properly rather than draped over ceiling grids. Shared containment needs dividers, and bend radii should be respected throughout.

The comms room

Cabinets need space, ventilation, a dedicated power supply, proper earthing and physical security. Comms rooms are frequently the smallest room on the drawing and the one that causes the most trouble later.

Testing and certification

Every link should be tested to the relevant standard with results supplied per outlet. Insist on the certification file, labelled outlets and an accurate schematic — it is what makes future changes quick instead of exploratory.

Plan for the fit-out after this one

Spare capacity in containment, a few extra outlets per zone and clear labelling cost very little during first fix, and remove most of the disruption when the layout changes.