Technical Blog
Network Infrastructures
Clark Wire & Cable is keeping busy during this unprecedented time. As remote workflows continue to run at full bore, the company is outlining how network infrastructures will react as the coronavirus forces individuals to remain at home.
With connectivity already advancing at an accelerated pace, the COVID-19 pandemic has triggered a pressing need for even faster growth. The pandemic will spawn a major shift across many industries. Companies providing product for network infrastructures are going to have to step-up-their game as requirements for data centers, hospitals and universities are quickly expanding.
The Healthcare Industry
The healthcare industry, for example, will need to quickly establish, or enhance, telehealth systems and re-prioritize network infrastructures. The healthcare industry, as well as many other industries, will utilize Internet of Things (IoT) technology to stay ahead of the game. AT&T, for example, is working with companies like XENEX to connect their LightStrike & Germ-Zapping Robots which use UV light to deactivate deadly pathogens and help hospitals fight infections.
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is also throwing its hat-in-the-ring by launching a new program to help providers access the broadband resources they need to support telehealth programs.
Educational Institutions
From the educational institution standpoint, schools and universities are implementing online curriculums and using technology to allow for easier accessibility of digital content.
Blackboard, a web-based virtual learning environment, for instance, has launched a free tool for boosting the accessibility of digital course content. File Transformer, Powered by Blackboard Ally, allows students to convert files into a variety of alternative formats, such as HTML, audio MP3, ePub, electronic Braille or Beeline Reader. The resource is being provided temporarily to help ease student’s transition to digital learning as institutions move classes online due to COVID-19-driven campus closures.
With this new technology comes the need for greater LAN speeds, higher power levels for Power over Ethernet (PoE) ports, as well as more connections. Outdated or under-performing cabling infrastructures may notice network slowdowns, dropped connections, or signal impediments.
Clark Wire & Cable has developed a number of new products to meet these requirements. Category 6A (CAT6A) which supports data rates of 10G up to 100 meters and a bandwidth of up to 500MHz.
One of Clark’s offerings is their CN423C6A, an enhanced riser rated Category 6A cable, is designed for 10 Gb/s data networking and provides a 500 MHz bandwidth for high data rate consumption. Constructed from four precision twisted pairs, the CN423C6A is tested to meet or exceed TIA-568-C.2 and ISO/IEC 11801 specifications. UL riser rated Type CMR and CSA FT-4, the CN423C6A is suitable for installation in most non-plenum installation environments.
