Because each system is installed according to its own set of wiring criteria using different types of cable, these systems are difficult to interconnect, and especially difficult to maintain and expand. This situation is typical of the unstructured wiring system, in which there is no single set of standards for interconnection. Although initial costs are comparatively low for unstructured wiring, the long-term difficulties and expense of integrating or replacing the incompatible wiring systems are considerable.

In recent years, a clear trend has emerged among network planners, to implement network cabling as a structured wiring system according to uniform standards. This involves a shift in perspective. Rather than seeing cabling simply as a way to connect devices, cabling is now seen as an important architectural entity: the cable plant, cabling system, or premises wiring. The intent is to install a wiring capability that not only provides interoperability for existing networking technologies, but also anticipates future growth by allowing for efficient reconfigurations.

   Objectives

At the end of this lesson you will be able to:

Key Point
In the telephone industry, an office building is known as the customer's premises; therefore, its wiring is known as the premises wiring.

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