• Tony Rare
• July 14, 2025
• Internet Cabling, Networks

A Strong Network Foundation begins with Layer 1: Why Low Voltage Cabling is the Hidden Backbone of Modern Business

Think cables are just cables? Think again.
From crystal-clear video calls to fast file transfers and secure backups, low-voltage cabling powers the tools your business relies on every day. And yet, it’s often overlooked until a problem arises.

Let’s pull back the ceiling tiles and see why expertly engineered, designed, installed, and project-managed end-to-end cabling infrastructure makes all the difference. Whether you are a business owner, a business operator, or an architect, engineering details can either make or break (if overlooked) the implementation and the successful launch of your project.

Project Management: From Planning to Punch List

No guessing. No delays. No loose ends.
Enterprise-certified engineers and project managers help communicate the organization’s objectives, timelines, and oversee every stage of your cabling deployment:

• Scope definition and timeline alignment
• Budgeting, hardware sourcing, and competitive quotes
• Collaboration with construction and IT teams
• Progress tracking and on-site quality control

A well-organized network project can ensure the entire project runs smoothly, without disrupting your operations. However, vital engineering design flaws can potentially ruin reputations.

We suggest working with a technical company that has dedicated enterprise-certified network engineers and project coordinators. 

Design & Recommendations: Tailored to Your Space

Good cabling starts with thoughtful planning.
Not all low-voltage designs are equal. Enterprise-certified network engineers can accurately assess client facilities, client requirements, and goals to engineer a system that’s both high-performing, sustainable, and future-ready:

• Determining ideal hardware and materials
• Space optimization for racks, panels, and cable pathways
• Determining the ideal locations for network components
• Efficient engineering, reducing hardware and materials
• Load forecasting for bandwidth and device growth
• Organization, labeling, and validation of work

From office buildings to large campuses, choose a design that is scalable and efficient.

CAT6 & CAT6A: The standard for most businesses

Reliable speed today—capacity for tomorrow.

CAT5/CAT5E cables are not capable of supporting current bandwidth requirements, resulting in limitations to the delivery of technology stacks. 

• CAT6 cables use the same number of copper wires (eight) as CAT5/CAT5E; however, CAT6 cables are slightly thicker and can support 250MHz up to  10Gbps on distances up to 50 feet, or 1Gbps up to 300 feet. CAT6 is more malleable, making it easy to install and shape, and has minimal crosstalk, making it ideal for most business installations with desktops and VoIP applications.

• CAT6A cables use the same number of copper wires (eight) as CAT6; however, CAT6A cables are thicker and can support 500MHz, double that of CAT6, with speeds supporting up to 10 Gbps and distances within 150 feet, making them the go-to for dense or high-performance setups, typically within server rooms used for trunking high bandwidth devices. CAT6A is more costly, thicker, and less flexible than Cat6, which can make installation more challenging, requiring more labor and costs. 

Regardless of the cable type, we recommend that the cabling vendor certify every line after installation to ensure there are no faults, cuts, or poor installations that could result in the need to pull new cable after all the new construction has been completed. 

Ultra high speed: SMF, MMF & DAC

Need speed and distance? Fiber delivers.

• Single-mode fiber (SMF) is built from glass or plastic and is capable of supporting speeds up to 100Gbps and beyond, depending on the transceiver limitations. All fiber is sensitive to touch, dirt, and damage, and should be installed with care. SMF is used for long distances—ideal for inter-building connections and is the Telecom carriers’ preferred hand-off media type.
• Multi-mode fiber (MMF), like SMF, MMF, is also capable of supporting speeds up to 100Gbps and beyond, depending on the distance of the fiber run and transceiver limitations. MMF is distance sensitive, for example:

• 100 Mbit/s: Up to 2 kilometers.
• 1 Gbit/s: Up to 1000 meters.
• 10 Gbit/s: Up to 550 meters (OM4).
• 40/100 Gbps: Achievable over 150 meters using OM5 fiber and Short Wavelength Division Multiplexing (SWDM).
• 100 Gbps: Up to 70 meters with OM3, and 150 meters with OM4

All fiber is sensitive to touch, dirt, and damage, and should be installed with care. MMF can be a more cost-effective solution for shorter runs, like floor-to-floor links.

Fiber Types:
. OM1, OM2, OM3, OM4, and OM5 are different multimode fiber types, each with varying bandwidth and distance capabilities.

• Direct Access Copper (DAC) DAC cables are short-distance, copper-based cables that can be ordered with SFPs already connected, making it easier for technicians to install and move cables around. DAC cables are typically used for distances of up to 15 feet and can deliver speeds of up to 10Gbps. DAC cables are commonly used in server rooms with a high density of hardware, requiring high bandwidth capabilities.

Regardless of the ultra-high-speed cable type, we recommend that the cabling vendor certify every line after installation to ensure there are no faults, cuts, or poor installations that could result in the need to pull new cable after all the new construction has been completed. 

Choosing the right team to engineer and design builds ensures your low-voltage, high-speed, and availability solution is sized right, terminated cleanly, and tested thoroughly.

 

Proofing & Testing: Verify, verify, verify

Performance you can prove.

Every cable should be rigorously tested to meet or exceed TIA and IEEE standards, which include:

• Evaluating signal loss, crosstalk, length, and continuity
• Confirming distance and speed capability
• Obtaining Fluke certification, where applicable
• Providing detailed reports for compliance and documentation

Regardless of the cable type, we recommend that the cabling vendor certify each line after it has been installed. This ensures that there are no faults, cuts, or installation issues that could necessitate pulling new cable once the construction is completed. 

Labeling & Organization: Smart Now, Simple Later

A clean rack is a happy rack. An organized and clearly labeled cabling system and equipment rack facilitate easier maintenance and expansion. Key practices include:

• Using color-coded cables and ports
• Labeling jacks, patch panels, and terminations
• Implementing full rack numbering, documentation, and diagrams

These practices minimize troubleshooting time and ensure fast, efficient upgrades in the future.

Racks are available in various sizes:

• 6U, 9U, and 12U: Standard sizes for small networks or rooms, typically used for network hardware only, including intermediate distribution frames (IDFs).
• 20U: Half rack size, commonly used for small networks that require one or two servers, networking hardware, and cable management.
• 42U: Full rack size, ideal for multiple servers, networks, larger office buildings, and data centers.

Low Voltage Cabling Services in Los Angeles

There’s only one clear choice for low-voltage cabling in Los Angeles, Orange and Riverside counties.

Global IT provides expert cabling installation, fiber optic solutions, and CAT6 wiring across LA, including Downtown Los Angeles, Burbank, Glendale, Culver City, and the greater metro area, Riverside, Orange County, and San Diego.

Whether you’re renovating a workspace or building out a new facility, Global IT ensures your infrastructure is code-compliant, professionally tested, and built to scale. Have confidence in trusting an enterprise and local team with decades of experience in low-voltage cabling for Los Angeles,  Orange, and Riverside counties.

Ready to Future-Proof Your Network?

Your cabling may be behind the scenes—but its impact is front and center. Let’s make sure it’s done right. Contact us today to discuss your low-voltage project in Los Angeles or nationwide.

Contact Us

The post Building a Smarter Network: Why Low Voltage Cabling is the Hidden Backbone of Modern Business appeared first on info.globalit.com.

Romeo Power:

1. City: Cypress, CA
2. Employee count: 400
3. Approximate Size: 240,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: MSP, Managed Services, Contracted multi-term
6. Issue Reported: Post-installation heatmap analysis
7. Identified Issue: Weak coverage resulting in connections dropping
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report.
9. Global IT was contracted to implement the changes.
10. Summary: Following the system’s deployment, the client requested an additional heatmap to verify coverage, assess channel utilization, and address potential external interference. The result was 100% service coverage and a satisfied customer.

California Healthcare Alliance of Pasadena:

1. City: Pasadena, CA
2. Employee count: 500, 8 x locations
3. Approximate Size: Multiple buildings
4. Building Type: Office, Medical
5. Customer type: MSP, Managed Services, Contracted multi-term
6. Issue Reported: Heatmap requested to verify coverage and identify any weak areas or interference
7. Identified Issue: Weak signals were detected in some of the clinics
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report
9. Global IT was contracted to implement the changes.
10. Summary: Additional access points were installed in the clinics with weak signals, addressing the issues identified in the heatmap and improving overall coverage.

Fender:

1. City: Corona, CA
2. Employee count: 300
3. Approximate Size: 176,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: Contract, ongoing, multi-location
6. Issue Reported: Weak signal and random disconnections
7. Identified Issue: External interference resulting in connections dropping
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report.
9. The client implemented the changes
10. Summary: After implementing the recommended adjustments, the client reported substantial improvements in performance and connectivity. The result was 100% service coverage and a satisfied customer.

Future Foam:

1. City: Fullerton, CA
2. Employee count: 150
3. Approximate Size: 125,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: Contract
6. Issue Reported: Heatmap requested to identify weak signal areas
7. Identified Issue: Weak signals were found in areas where products were stacked above the line of sight to the access points (APs)
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report
9. The client implemented the changes
10. Summary: GIT engineers reviewed the report with the client, and the client took the report and applied changes, improving coverage as expected.

Mr. Movember:

1. City: Los Angeles, CA
2. Employee count: 100
3. Approximate Size: 75,000 sq. ft.
4. Building type: Office & warehouse, distribution
5. Customer type: Contract
6. Issue Reported: Disconnections and weak signals in certain building areas
7. Identified Issue: External interference from the outer area was causing disconnections in areas
8. Resolution: Completed a licensed heatmap, identifying multiple improvements outlined in an engineering report
9. The client implemented some but not all recommendations and changes
10. Summary: A follow-up heatmap confirmed improved signal strength in previously weak areas and highlighted the need to follow GIT wireless engineering recommendations

The post Wi-Fi Projects appeared first on info.globalit.com.

Residential Internet Service Providers (ISP) compared to business Internet Service Provider connections. Here are some apparent differences:

Residential products:
1. Provision dynamic IP addresses (not static)
A dynamic IP means that the IP address will change without warning. Therefore you cannot efficiently and reliably use business features like monitoring, added security (VPN, Tunnels), RDP and public servers, etc.

2. Does not guarantee the speed of the connection, speeds are estimated. With cable, the aggregating connections are shared (not dedicated) between hundreds or thousands of customers in the same area. This results in when everyone is using the Internet and bandwidth usage spikes, everyone in your area is pulling bandwidth from the same aggregation pipe or port. You then begin to notice slower bandwidth speeds, latency and, or, packet loss during peak area times (morning, noon, evening)
In some cases; the residential Internet may see initial higher speeds than other residential areas. This is typical because there are fewer customers in that area at that time. However, as more customers become added and more people are using internet from the same connection aggregation link, expect the service level to be downgraded.

3.Does not offer SLA’s (Service level agreements)
Service Level Agreements are a providers guarantee that they will supply the service as stated. Otherwise, you have reason to leave or renegotiate terms, pricing.
* Residential ISP services, do not offer SLA’s because they cannot guarantee the connection will be reliable; it is best efforts

4. Use lower grade hardware; routers not designed to sustain higher bandwidth throughput and speeds. Lower grade equipment like routers can cause failure or require regular rebooting
5. Use bursting methods. When you initially test the speed is higher, i.e. 100Mbps for the first few seconds, however as you continue to use the Internet connection, the speed slows down closer to 1Mbps. This is called policing and the common practice of residential ISP’s
6. Slower sending speed (Up), faster download (Down). However, speeds do drop off as policing is engaged

Business products:
1. Use static IP addresses
2. Are dedicated (not shared) connections between your location and the Internet
This means, that a connection is dedicated to your business and carries a guaranteed speed commitment or SLA

3.SLA’s (Service level agreements) are typically standard, demonstrating uptime, latency and packet loss is at a minimum
Example of a dedicated ISP connection SLA 1.Core network uptime 100%
2.Latency, less than 65 milliseconds
3.Packet loss, less than 1%
4. Enterprise equipment; hardware costs more and is capable of sustaining more up time without rebooting
5. Is a guaranteed, consistent dedicated up/down speed or link to the Internet, only limited by equipment, hardware or technical configurations
6.Guaranteed sending/downloading (simultaneous) capacity

If you run a business or have a need for a reliable Internet connection, business grade products are the right fit for you. If you are at home or have a small business with few staff, residential Internet products may be a better fit for you.

Learn more about business ISP connections visit https://globalit.com/services/internet-services/internet-access/

The post Explained: Residential vs. Business Broadband appeared first on info.globalit.com.

Facts about VoIP

VoIP in the simplest explanation is making calls over the internet. Instead of using traditional phone lines to make a phone call, telephones use internet bandwidth and go out as network traffic.  There are many variations to consider in terms of setup and equipment but in layman’s terms, that’s basically it.  A phone call made over the Internet.

Things to Consider
There are also few considerations that need to be made before making a switch to VoIP service. The number one question you need to ask yourself is, “Can my network handle VoIP? “

• Remember, a VoIP system will have an impact on your network, not just in terms of usage but a physical impact as well. Many vendors require a managed network switch to be added onto the network where VoIP will be installed. When configured correctly, a managed switch will allow for traffic policies or QoS, alleviating congestion around the VoIP traffic and allowing VoIP to pass through as a priority.
• Do you have the correct network monitoring tools and do you understand what to look for to help isolate network issues?
• Do you have the physical room in the network rack for the device?  Depending on the number of users, you might need to add two or three devices.

Also, your network doesn’t just consist of computers and servers. One of the most overlooked and yet one of the most important details of your network is “Cabling”. Many vendors recommend a minimum, Cat5e cable per phone. Depending on how you wish to set up your new systems, you might need to upgrade your existing cabling to Cat6.

Is there enough bandwidth for VoIP?

Many SMB companies are using DSL or Cable for high-speed internet. When upgrading to a VoIP solution, DSL or Cable may no longer be an option when using VoIP. Without sufficient bandwidth and a consistent reliable internet connection, the quality of VoIP calls is negatively affected resulting in dropped calls, echo, loss of words, noise that will only slow down productivity and leave customers questioning.

Lastly, the final component to a successful VoIP installation is engineering. Many companies have in-house IT Professionals and while they may be great at keeping your computers running smoothly they might not be familiar with all the nuances of VoIP. Therefore utilizing professionals specifically trained to work on VoIP systems and Network infrastructure is of utmost importance to secure a smooth transition and professional installation.

Global IT is a choice leader in telecom and data solutions.  Our team of certified network design engineers, licensed contractors, and support staff, can help design a network that’s right for you and ensure a smooth transition.

The post Should You Make The Switch To VoIP? appeared first on info.globalit.com.