West Penn Wire Blog

We have most likely seen an installation that has had little to no organization. Those long cables that help connect equipment to end devices without any type of patch cord or patch panel to help organization. Although some companies may take this approach to save money, any future need to add or move devices will be affected by this. When there is a need to add a new device, it can result in a mess that can cost even more than expected- Yikes!

Topics: networking, network, networking cable

What is a Patch Panel?

Topics: networking, network, accessories, networking cable

At the end of each year, we take a look at our most popular blog posts to see what our customers found to be most useful and compelling. Here are the top 5 blogs that help you learn more about low voltage cabling and fiber optic products:

Topics: Fiber Optic Connector, Fiber Optic, HDMI Cables, fire alarm cables, fire alarm systems, plenum cable, Audio cables

Decades ago it was hard to imagine a time when we would be worried about bandwidth, wireless access, networking structures and numerous devices we would become to depend on. But in today's growing networking environments those thoughts are a thing of the past. We now look at our network with its growing users, devices, access points, security systems and more as something that must be reliable. 

Topics: Connector, networking, network, networking cable

 

When selecting the right fiber optic connector to use for any job or installation there are a few key features to make note of. Not doing the proper preparation cable make the customer go from satisfied to unsatisfied pretty quickly. So what are some keys factors to look at when selecting the right connector for a fiber optic installation?

Topics: Fiber Optic Cable, Fiber Optic Connector, Fiber Optic, Pre-Terminated Fiber Optic Assemblies

In the ever-increasing reach of today’s video security and surveillance systems, many security professionals are finding that the quality, bandwidth, and distance needed to perform even the most basic surveillance is beyond the reach of coaxial and UTP cabling. Even though IP-based video security systems are gaining popularity, they face a serious distance limitation of 100 meters (328ft) or less over UTP cabling infrastructure. This poses an insurmountable hurdle when trying to monitor the many outreach locations of a typical surveillance installation. 

Topics: Fiber Optic Cable, Fiber Optic, Security Products

In previous blog posts, we have looked at the difference between Addressable vs. Conventional Fire Alarm Systems. Conventional fire alarm cables are designed based upon the AWG of the cable and can be broken into two categories: Power limited and Non-Power Limited cables. In the article below we will be looking at some distinct differences between the two: 

Topics: fire alarm cables, fire alarm, fire alarm systems, fire detection systems

In many previous blog posts, we have discussed in great lengths about networking cables. We have seen the difference sizes, compared to fiber optics cables and much more. But one component or problem that traditional networking cables lack is flexibility.

Topics: networking, tactical, networking cable

In low voltage cabling, we hear the terms solid and stranded on a regular basis. When these two terms are being discussed it generally goes back to the copper material within the cable and how it is arranged.  The main, distinct difference between these two is t he overall flexibility.  In the article below we will be looking at some distinct differences between the two. 

 

Stranded Cable:

Stranded cables are made from several thinner wires that are woven together into one cohesive bunch and are insulated. These cables are used in situations where the wire is installed in cramped space. This cable can also be used when the wire needs to be highly flexible and in areas with a great deal of vibration.  In a low voltage system, a stranded conductor may consist of 7, 19 or even more strands to make an AWG size.  For example, a 7-strand of 26awg will give a DCR of an 18AWG.  Other factors to consider for stranding is skin effect.  Skin effect is a phenomenon where the electrons in a conductor become stimulated and travel on the outside surfaces of the conductor. A stranded conductor compared to a solid conductor of the same AWG has more surface area hence a better, quicker signal.

 

Advantages:

• Highly Flexibility
• Easier to Route
• Can withstand large amounts of repetitive motion
• Replaced less often

Disadvantages:

• Expensive

Solid Cable:

Solid cables use one solid copper wire per conductor and they  should not be bent or twisted repeatedly. They are traditionally used as a backbone cable in walls, conduit, ceilings, where a great amount of flexibility is not needed. This cable is more rigid and transmits signals well over long distances. Also, solid cables are cheaper to manufacture so they are considered  to be more cost-effective. 

 

Advantages: 

• Cost-Effective

Disadvantages:

• Cant withstand large amounts of repetitive motion
• Not highly  flexible

Topics: Low Voltage Cables, bulk cable, Solid Cable, Stranded Cable

There are many options that offer a cost-effective solution to support the migration to AV-IP,  which creates the setting for greater innovation and collaborations. One area that is experiencing this change is conference rooms. When working through this migration it's important to make sure that you have the right equipment to maximize value to users and their audio and video assets.

In the article below we will be stating some tips to make sure that you are selecting the right conference room equipment.

Topics: Control Systems, AV, AV/IP Systems