Project Overview
We have just completed a Cat6a data installation for a large corporate office in Birmingham. This was a big one for us as we were able to showcase our ability to deliver high-performance networks at scale.
Our dedicated team installed and configured 304 data points across a large office space; we can deliver complex, large-scale installations with precision and speed.
Project Details
- Location: Birmingham
- Duration: 2 weeks
- Type: New Cat6a Data Installation
- Scale: 304 data points
- Phases: 1st fix, 2nd fix, full test
Scope of Work:
Our team of experts installed a full Cat6a data installation for our client, giving them a top-of-the-line network that can support 10 Gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) over long distances. This will future-proof the office to handle current and future high bandwidth demands for a large workforce with fast and robust connectivity.
Installation Process
1) Site Survey and Planning
We:
- Carried out a full site survey of the large office floor to determine the best layout for 304 data outlets
- Analysed the building to find the most efficient cable runs, to meet building codes and minimise interference
- Created plans for cable paths, taking into account distance limitations, bend radius requirements and separation from power sources
- Calculated material requirements, including Cat6a cable lengths, patch panels, jacks and other components
- Created a project timeline to complete within the 2-week timeframe
2) First Fix Installation
During this phase, we:
- Established primary cable pathways using a combination of cable trays, conduits, and surface raceways as appropriate for different areas of the office
- Installed backbone cabling between the main distribution area (MDA) and intermediate distribution areas (IDAs) as required by the office layout
- Ran Cat6a cables from the designated network closet to each of the 304 planned outlet locations
- Ensured proper cable management throughout, using appropriate bundling techniques and maintaining separation from power cables to minimise electromagnetic interference
- Labelled all cables at both ends for easy identification during the second fix phase
3) Second Fix Installation
Our team then:
- Terminated all 304 Cat6a cables at the workstation end using high-quality keystone jacks
- Installed faceplates and mounted the keystone jacks in each location
- In the network closet, terminate the other end of each cable onto patch panels
- Ensured minimal untwisting of cable pairs (no more than 13mm) to maintain signal integrity
- Labelled all outlet points and corresponding patch panel ports with a clear, logical numbering system
4) Cable Management and Organisation
Our focus on organisation led us to:
- We installed a full cable management system in the network closet
- Used vertical and horizontal cable managers to keep cable runs neat and accessible
- Used cable ties and Velcro straps to bundle cables without over-tightening
- Ensured good airflow around network equipment to prevent overheating
5) Testing
We tested the installation by:
- Testing all 304 data points using advanced certification tools
- Testing each cable for parameters including wire map and continuity, length, insertion loss, various types of crosstalk, return loss and propagation delay
- Tested a sample of cables for alien crosstalk to ensure Cat6a compliance
- Generated test reports for each cable showing performance across all frequencies up to 500 MHz
6) Completion
To conclude the project, we:
- Prepared a handover package for the client, including all relevant documentation, warranties, and maintenance recommendations
Challenges and Solutions
We faced and overcame the following challenges in this large-scale installation:
- Time Constraints: 304 data points in 2 weeks required planning and execution. We divided our team into specialised units to work on specific tasks and make progress in parallel across the project.
- Complex Office Layout: The large office floor presented challenges in terms of consistent cable lengths and avoiding sources of interference. Our experienced technicians used their knowledge to design efficient cable routes to minimise length variations and keep distance from power sources.
- Minimal Disruption: As the installation was in a live office environment, we implemented strategies to minimise disruption to the client. We scheduled more intrusive work during off hours and used low-impact installation methods where possible.
- Future Proofing: With 304 data points we had to future proof for future needs. We added capacity in the network closet. We used a modular patch panel system to allow for easy expansion if needed.
Benefits to Our Client
We installed:
- A high-capacity network with 304 Cat6a data points covering the entire office floor
- Future proof infrastructure to exceed current requirements
- Better performance with 10GbE for increased productivity and seamless cloud usage
- Low downtime due to our thorough installation and testing process
- Organised infrastructure for easy maintenance, troubleshooting and future upgrades or additions
- Compliance with all industry standards so your network is built to best practices and regulations.
This large-scale Cat6a data installation project in Birmingham exemplifies our commitment at RJ Electrical Contractors to delivering top-tier network solutions, even under demanding circumstances. By successfully installing and configuring 304 data points within the two-week timeframe, we’ve provided our client with a cutting-edge network infrastructure that will serve their needs for years to come.
Our team’s expertise in handling projects of this magnitude, combined with our attention to detail and commitment to quality, ensures that we can meet the most challenging network installation requirements. From initial planning through to final testing and documentation, we at RJ Electrical Contractors demonstrated why we are a trusted partner for businesses seeking to upgrade their network infrastructure.
For more information on how we can upgrade your office’s network infrastructure, whether for small-scale improvements or large-scale overhauls, please get in touch with us. Our team is ready to bring the same level of expertise and dedication to your next project, ensuring your business is equipped with the robust, high-performance network it needs to thrive in today’s digital landscape.
