Why warehouses need professional structured cabling
When most people think about what keeps a warehouse running smoothly, they picture forklifts, racking systems, and picking and packing.
But, behind all that is something less visible, but equally important, the cabling.
We’re discussing the network infrastructure that keeps everything connected.
From your hand-held devices and Wi-Fi to your stock control systems and IP CCTV security cameras… They all depend on a solid, well-designed cabling setup.
Warehouses are tough, busy environments, requiring a network that can handle the daily operational demands, whilst still leaving room for scalability.
Today’s blog post focuses on why professional structured cabling isn’t just something nice to have in warehouse environments, it is essential and when done correctly can improve performance, reduce downtime and make things easier for maintenance, or expansion.
Warehouses are tough environments:
Warehouses are loud and dusty, with fluctuating temperatures, high ceilings and constant movement all which can adversely impact your network.
If your cabling isn’t designed for your specific environment, problems can occur.
Loose, exposed wires or cheap materials may save initial money upfront, but they don’t last, and failures are both frustrating and disruptive.
Equipment stops communicating with each other and your team wastes time trying to figure out what has gone wrong.
There is also the size of warehouses to consider…
Devices at opposite ends of the site need to contact reliably, but not all cabling can handle long distances without signal loss.
Combine that with signal interference from machinery or metal racking, and suddenly connectivity isn’t reaching where it needs to!
A well designed network infrastructure takes all this into consideration.
From utilising fibre optic backbones where needs, to placing network cabinets and access points in the right locations to keep everything running smoothly.
Increasing technology reliance:
Warehousing & Logistics are increasingly becoming reliant on technology. With barcode scanning, automated picking systems, or IoT sensors to track movement and inventory in real time, you’re relying on your network more than ever.
This means you need robust cabling, that is able to support high volumes of data efficiently.
If the infrastructure behind your systems isn’t solid, the technology it is supporting won’t work properly, which can quickly impact productivity.
Poor cabling is also a nightmare to troubleshoot. If something goes wrong and you’re looking at a tangled mess of unlabeled cables, it is anyone’s guess what the problem is… Time is lost and downtime adds up.
On the other hand, when your network infrastructure is installed professionally, properly routed, labelled and documented, it’s easier to manage, quicker to maintain and ready to support your team efficiently.
How we can help:
With over 40 years experience, we understand what it takes to get cabling right in demanding, warehouse environments.
Whether you are setting up a brand new site, expanding on an existing one, or just need to sort out years of messy cabling, we can help you build a network that is fast, reliable and future-proof!
If you’re ready to make your warehouse work smarter, not harder get in touch with our team today on 01274 869 099, or fill in the enquiry form to receive a call back. We’re always happy to chat through your plans and offer practical advice, we look forward to hearing from you.
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