DL Interactive

Different Types of Wire - Which Should You Use?

Category 5 and Cat 5e: We use this cable for phones and networks. Many vendors use Cat 3 for phone, but there is virtually no price difference in equipment and we prefer to use the higher quality cable. Cat 5 is suitable for all phone systems and for networks running at 10mbps, 100mbps and in some cases gigabit networks (Cat 5e). Colors may vary. Typically rated at 100 and 350Mhz for Cat 5 and 5e.

Category 6 and 6e cable is higher quality and can carry a faster signal. Suitable for all current networks, including gigabit. Cat 6, pictured at right contains a spline in the center to help keep the pairs separated, and features a tighter twist in the cables, which helps to reduce interference and signal degradation. Typically rated at 550Mhz.

Category 7 is the highest quality network cable available for gigabit networks and other high speed applications. It contains individually shielded pairs and is rated at 600Mhz. Available only for jobs requiring 50,000 or more feet of cable (approximately 200-500 connections). Similar performance can be achieved by using shielded Cat 6e cable.

Combination (combo) cable, sometimes called Structured Wire, is a heavy cable containing several other cables (two Cat 5 & two coaxial video pictured). This cable is useful when running a variety of connections through a house or building, and is most often used in new construction.
These cables are available in a variety of configurations, and can contain phone, data, video and audio. Slightly more expensive than individual cables, but offers an easier installation.

Jacks, Faceplates & Boxes
Depending on the application (i.e. new or existing construction), jacks may be installed in either low-voltage electrical boxes with keystone jacks and faceplates, or surface mount network & phone jacks. All jacks and cables are clearly marked and labeled.

Overhead wire mesh cable tray: Optional. We run cable the most efficient way possible, and include all ceiling and wall runs. However, if you would like the more finished look of wire mesh cable tray, we are qualified to supply and install this at your office. Installation includes tray, threaded rods, washers, concrete anchors, nuts, connecting hardware and all other components and accessories needed for installation. Approximate installation time: 10 minutes per foot.

Plastic raceway molding for walls: Optional. This decorative raceway is not required for a reliable network, and often costs more than the cable itself. However, many companies like the finished look of raceway, especially in high profile areas. Installation includes raceway and all necessary couplers, endcaps, elbow fittings and custom cutting required for installation. Holds a maximum of 12 cables. Approximate installation time: 2 minutes per foot.

Suspended plastic cable loops: For ceiling runs and other areas. This practical system can support up to 300 cables and is included at no additional cost where needed for cable runs. The loops can be opened and closed individually to allow cables to be added and removed as needed. Don't get talked into a more expensive option unless you really need one.

Documentation

Network and wiring documentation is extremely valuable. Used for troubleshooting & maintenance of networks and phones, or for making changes and additions later on. Traditional telco and wiring companies don't provide any documentation on their jobs -- ever.
DL Interactive provides detailed documentation for every job, with floor plans, wire charts, cable paths, upgrade routes and more. This is provided at no additional charge, and included with every job we do.

We believe in doing the job right the first time, and we leave nothing to chance.

Contact us with your questions, or for a written quote and a guaranteed price. When quality and price matter, DL Interactive is the company to call.

Different Types of Wire - Which Should You Use?
	Category 5 and Cat 5e: We use this cable for phones and networks. Many vendors use Cat 3 for phone, but there is virtually no price difference in equipment and we prefer to use the higher quality cable. Cat 5 is suitable for all phone systems and for networks running at 10mbps, 100mbps and in some cases gigabit networks (Cat 5e). Colors may vary. Typically rated at 100 and 350Mhz for Cat 5 and 5e.

Documentation
	Network and wiring documentation is extremely valuable. Used for troubleshooting & maintenance of networks and phones, or for making changes and additions later on. Traditional telco and wiring companies don't provide any documentation on their jobs -- ever. DL Interactive provides detailed documentation for every job, with floor plans, wire charts, cable paths, upgrade routes and more. This is provided at no additional charge, and included with every job we do. We believe in doing the job right the first time, and we leave nothing to chance.