Apart from creating a bit of an eyesore, untidy server and comms cabinets create support headaches for schools and can make networks inefficient and unreliable. Here are a few tips which we have proven through our recent work in many schools to help improve network reliability and reduce frustration!
1. Use the right cable length for your requirement - longer cables create a tangled mess creating confusion and frustration.
2. Label or colour code your cabling for each requirement - general patch cables, link cables, managed wireless systems and other network devices such as CCTV all require a labelling or the use of defined coloured cabling in order to improve maintenance and support.
3. Keep your cabling runs as separate a possible to improve cabinet temperature and performance.
4. Right-size your cabinets so that there is plenty of room for air circulation and provide headroom for future expansion.
5. Ensure old cables are replaced to reduce the risk of cables not terminating correctly i.e. not fully pushed in and connected!
Below are images of recent project completed by Blue Box IT which has significantly improved the main comms cabinet for the school and helped us to improve our ongoing fault finding and support. Finding some additional room in your IT budget this year to improve your own server and comms cabinet environments could prove to be an investment that pays for itself many times over in the long run!
1. Use the right cable length for your requirement - longer cables create a tangled mess creating confusion and frustration.
2. Label or colour code your cabling for each requirement - general patch cables, link cables, managed wireless systems and other network devices such as CCTV all require a labelling or the use of defined coloured cabling in order to improve maintenance and support.
3. Keep your cabling runs as separate a possible to improve cabinet temperature and performance.
4. Right-size your cabinets so that there is plenty of room for air circulation and provide headroom for future expansion.
5. Ensure old cables are replaced to reduce the risk of cables not terminating correctly i.e. not fully pushed in and connected!
Below are images of recent project completed by Blue Box IT which has significantly improved the main comms cabinet for the school and helped us to improve our ongoing fault finding and support. Finding some additional room in your IT budget this year to improve your own server and comms cabinet environments could prove to be an investment that pays for itself many times over in the long run!
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