Any organisation with more than a couple of computers can benefit from the advantages of a computer network:

• sharing a connection to the Internet
• sharing access to  the organisation's files and folders
• sharing use of other network resources such as a network printer

The simplest way to create such a Local Area Network or LAN is to use physical wires called Ethernet cables.  A cable is run from a central location in your building to every location where a computer or network printer is located.  In fact, it makes economic sense to run a pair of cables to every location to allow for future expansion and in anticipation of up-and-coming technologies such as Voice over IP.  These cables are terminated at a faceplate mounted in a wall box or in dado rail trunking.  The final connection to the computer or printer made using a flexible patch cable.

The fixed Ethernet cables (often termed Cat 5 or Cat 6 cables; referring to the speed rating of the cabling) are run in conduit or cable tray to protect and support them.  They must never be crushed, stapled, or bent to a sharp angle.

At the central location the Ethernet cables are terminated at a patch panel in a communications cabinet, as shown here.

The patch panel is then patched using short flexible cables to an Ethernet switch which is a device that allows all the connections to talk to each other.  The Ethernet switch runs at either 100 Mbps (called Fast Ethernet) or 1000 Mbps (which is 1 Gbps and called Gigabit Ethernet).

The comms cabinet is also usually where one or more servers are located for fast connection to all locations and where the shared connection to the Internet is made through a router.

If you ask the Telematics Centre to make a proposal for installation of a wired Ethernet network we will first clarify your requirements, including:

• where the communications cabinet can be located
• how many pairs of Ethernet cables are needed
• whether dado rail trunking would be an appropriate solution in your office environment
• whether there is access to the roof space for running cabling
• your approximate budget if you have one.

Once these requirements have been clarified we will provide you with a written quotation (usually by email) covering the whole job.  When we have received your approval we will then:

• order the necessary materials and networking hardware;
• physically install the communications cabinet in an agreed location;
• run Ethernet cables to all locations and terminate at double faceplates fitted either in surface boxes or dado rail trunking;
• terminate all Ethernet cables at the comms cabinet, patch to the Ethernet switch, and connect to the Internet router;
• test and confirm everything is working;
• hand over any manufacturer documentation to your staff onsite;
• fully document the work in our detailed documentation on your computer installations.

As usual, we take care of all parts of process for you, leaving you to enjoy your new high speed computer network.

Cost:  Telematics installation charge for a wired network is always quoted on a per job basis as every job is unique and highly dependent on your building and existing infrastructure.