Telecommunications Cabling
What are the benefits of wired compared to wireless networking?
Wired networking and telecommunications are usually much more secure, reliable and faster than wireless options. A wired connection is more difficult for a hacker to intercept than a wireless network, much less prone to interference or dropouts than a wireless network, and not constrained by the bandwidth issues in the same way that a wireless network is. There is also the added benefit of not exposing yourself or others to near-field radio frequency radiation from wireless networking, which is classified as a Class 2B possible carcinogen by the World Health Organisation.
Can I still keep a wireless option for occasional use?
Yes, let Electromagnetic Health & Safety know that you will still require occasional wireless networking so that we can assist you in being able to switch it on only when required, set the wireless output to the minimum power output level, and switch it off at all other times.
Can I use my old landline with the NBN?
In most cases, yes. Touch tone dialling wired telephones from the 1980's onwards that have electronic ringers in them can be used directly with the NBN in most cases. However, older rotary dial phones would need an adaptor if required to be used with the NBN. Alarm systems and other landline phone equipment in some cases can also be transitioned to the NBN without modification, though this does vary depending on the type of equipment.
How many ethernet ports should I have installed at the time of works?
Due to ever-evolving use of digital technology, it may be significantly cheaper to future proof your building by adding extra sockets at the time of works rather than add extra cabling and sockets later. It is suggested to install at least twice as many as you are currently considering.
Do you install shielded cabling?
Electromagnetic Health & Safety prefers to install shielded (S/FTP) Category 6 cabling as a standard, as it is more robust, future proof for higher speeds (up to 10Gbps) and significantly less prone to electromagnetic emissions or interference than unshielded. However, unshielded (U/UTP) Category 6 cabling and sockets are less expensive and available upon customer request. Category 6A or Category 7 are options also available at extra cost, though this cabling is larger in diameter and will require more room to install. Shielded installations are recommended for anyone suffering from electromagnetic hypersensitivity. Shielded cabling may also require a separate telecommunications earth electrode to ground the shielding.
Can't I get my electrician to do it, or even do it myself?
Under the Telecommunications Act 1997, customer telecommunications cabling installation, modification or maintenance can only be performed by a Registered Cabler in Australia. Any work performed by a person not registered for telecommunications cabling work may not meet the required cabling standards and could be disconnected from the NBN or removed. Unregistered cablers performing these works could be penalised over $10,000. Work performed by a person not registered may also be unsafe to use, or cause electromagnetic interference issues. All customer cabling must comply with the Wiring Rules AS/CA S009:2020.
What is involved with installing or modifying cabling and telecommunications installations?
Firstly, a brief discussion via email or phone so that the client can outline the requirements to Electromagnetic Health & Safety.
An on-site inspection may also be required prior to the day of works, to be able to draw up a quote.
On the day of installation or modification, cabling may be installed in walls, ceiling or under floors - access will be required. Any new telecommunications equipment will be installed where NBN or the customer requires it. Ducting may be installed if wall cavities are unable to be penetrated. Depending on the complexity of the required works, on-site duration could be anywhere from a few hours to several weeks.
Are you able to work on NBN's equipment?
Yes but approval from NBN Co will have to be arranged before carrying out any installation or modification of NBN equipment or cabling.
Can wired networking and telephones be installed in any building?
In most cases yes, however heritage buildings may have restrictions on modifications, and some other buildings have can have limited access issues that may make installation or modification difficult. Any issues will be discussed before commencing work.
Do you provide a report?
All Registered Cablers are required by law to provide a Telecommunications Cabling Advice Form when works are done. For an extra fee, further detailed reports including floor plans and diagrams can be provided if required, which may be helpful for any future modifications.
Are you available outside of office hours?
Electromagnetic Health & Safety is flexible and will work with clients to carry out Appliance Testing outside of regular office hours if pre-arranged in advance.
Links for further information:
Wi-Fi vs. Ethernet: How Much Better Is a Wired Connection?
https://www.howtogeek.com/217463/wi-fi-vs.-ethernet-how-much-better-is-a-wired-connection/
Home cabling for the NBN | CHOICE
Device compatibility | nbn
https://www.nbnco.com.au/learn/device-compatibility
Communications Alliance - AS/CA S009:2020 Installation requirements for Customer Cabling (Wiring Rules)
https://www.commsalliance.com.au/Documents/all/Standards/s009
Australian Communications and Media Authority
Information for owners of listed properties | Heritage NSW
Shielded vs. Unshielded Ethernet Cable
https://www.cables.com/cablesblog/shielded-vs-unshielded-ethernet-cable.html
Copper cabling: what's the difference?
