In the world of data points and data cabling, there is seldom a one-size-fits-all solution. Every project has unique demands to be met, every client is different, and customised solutions are best to meet diverse data communications requirements.
So, price? Evidently, it’s not that simple to give a clear answer. A variety of factors influence the cost, but understanding these helps to form an idea of what to expect.
Cable type
Network cabling comes in a few forms to meet the needs of particular environments. There is the copper twisted pair – Cat 5E, Cat 6, Cat 6A, Cat 7 and Cat 8 structured cabling systems – and fibre optic cabling networks (including desktop and backbone cabling).
ETHERNET CABLE PERFORMANCE SUMMARY | |||
CATEGORY | SHIELDING | MAX TRANSMISSION SPEED (AT 100 METERS) | MAX BANDWIDTH |
Cat 3 | Unshielded | 10 Mbps | 16 MHz |
Cat 5 | Unshielded | 10/100 Mbps | 100 MHz |
Cat 5e | Unshielded | 1000 Mbps / 1 Gbps | 100 MHz |
Cat 6 | Shielded or Unshielded | 1000 Mbps / 1 Gbps | >250 MHz |
Cat 6a | Shielded | 10000 Mbps / 10 Gbps | 500 MHz |
Cat 7 | Shielded | 10000 Mbps / 10 Gbps | 600 MHz |
Cat 8 | Shielded | 25 Gbps or 40Gbps * | 2000 MHz |
Cable Path
The existing building layout will determine where the network cabling can be installed. Data cabling that can be drawn into conduit attracts the lowest cost, followed by solutions fixed to cable tray, tied to catenary wire in ceiling space and finally, underground cabling.
Cable Length
Once the type of cable has been identified, the length will play the next factor in pricing. The longer the cable length, the greater the price, which, depending on the type and installation requirements, will be somewhere between $4 to $19 per metre.
Quality Infrastructure
On top of the specs, the provider makes all the difference. Properly installed voice and data cabling to meet high demands for internet connection and data usage should always be done by experts. Not just cabling experts but consultants able to discuss goals and expectations and custom design solutions that meet those needs.
Data Cabling Melbourne
EDSA works with clients to produce cabling plans that meet cost and energy management needs, in addition to cabling requirements. Our team is fluent in building integration, with a wealth of experience in many diverse environments.
For a quote on Melbourne’s state-of-the-art cabling systems, contact the team at EDSA today.