WHAT IS STRUCTURED CABLING SYSTEM (SCS)? Structured cabling system combines all of the communications system of data, voice or signal into one integrated system. It means that all of the cabling system such computer network or telephone line is designed, applied, and managed as one big complete system. In a non-structured cabling system, the cabling system often planned and installed independently.

To begin planning a structured cabling, identify any network system that is going to be applied or will be applied in the future first. Then check out the building design to locate the central distribution panel storage which is important for the effectiveness and efficiency of the installation, as well as the estimation of project cost. The space should not be either too hot or too cold and you must be able to maintain a lower to normal humidity level.

The steps usually used in planning and developing an SCS project are:

1. Identify the systems to be supported and work backwards;
2. Cosolidate the cabling requirements;
3. Create wire chart;
4. Identify and sequence the installation tasks;
5. Perform a practice pre-wire walk-through.

See also Table 1.1 that shows you the comparison between SCS and non-SCS.

Below are some benefit you usually get if you apply SCS in your office or company:

• Compatibility
  Structured cabling builds a bridge between devices from different manufactures because it provides common and consistent platform for communications and interaction. Products that aren't in compliance with the communications and cabling standards that also support or require structured cabling should not be designed into the office's systems.

• Consistency
  Because the cabling is installed as a single system, all of the cabling can be installed to avoid electrical interference and provide a more consistent audio, video, telephone, or data transmission.

• Flexibility
  Because all of an office's cabling connects to a central distribution center, the cabling can easily be reconfigured or reapplied to other applications and the systems in the office can be changed.

• Integrity
  Because there is no wire or cable splices in the system, there are no failure points such as location deep in a wall where a cable might pickup interference.

• Maintenance and Management
  Each cable in the office is individually acccessible for testing and troubleshooting.