Data day
For those electrical contractors who are yet to make the move into data communications, there has never been a better time to do so. Rob Shepherd examines how intelligent buildings, faster networks and the demand for energy efficiency are providing new business opportunities – and looks at the skills needed to successfully operate in this sector
T
he close ties between the electrical contracting industry and the data communications installation sector are long established. In fact, as long ago as 2001 some 40 per cent of ECA members
were involved in data network installation, and since that time more companies have diversified into this potentially lucrative area. For those that haven’t yet done so, there’s no time like
the present. It is particularly evident that data cabling is becoming a building utility and, especially in the SME
market, electrical contractors are in a good position to provide this service at the same time as installing and maintaining the electrical system. There are numerous cases of network problems being
caused by poor cabling installation, so before taking the plunge, it is necessary to understand that installing data is very different to installing power. This is something that David Stefanowicz, ECA ITEC’s
technical manager, thoroughly agrees with. He says: ‘Even though electrical contractors have many of the skills required to make the successful transition into data communications, it is not something that should be entered into lightly.’
Testing Testing is a major factor in ensuring the quality of an installation. Contractors will have to invest in new equipment and undertake additional courses in order to learn how to carry out, and correctly interpret, test results. Tony Benn, training and technical support manager at Nexans Cabling Solutions, explains: ‘The quality of the
52 ECA Today November 2011
VALEX/SHUTTERSTOCK/XYZ
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