Get Back in the Game With These 3 Cabling Tips

When something goes wrong at the workplace, it could be for any number of reasons - power failure, system crashes, or even malicious software. But, before you go and assume that the problem is irreparable, check your cables for any abnormalities. Even the slightest cabling issue can cause big problems for your company's entire network.

Cables themselves are meant to transfer data back and forth between computers, routers, and other technology. So, what happens if a problem surfaces regarding your cables? The flow of data slows down or screeches to a halt, and unless you can find a way to fix it, so does your business. When you set up your network and install your cables, it requires a plan called "cable mapping," which is a surprisingly delicate process. If you are having some cabling issues, try out these three troubleshooting tips.

Connectors Need Cleaning, Too
Nintendo's first video game cartridges hold a lot of nostalgia for today's youth and older generation (with youthful hearts). But, did you know that these pieces of hardware taught all of us the most basic cabling troubleshooting method? That's right - cleaning the connectors. If the games didn't work, you would take the cartridge out of the contraption, blow Zelda's Lullaby into it, and immediately be transported to Videogame Land once again. Gamers thought that blowing into video game cartridges would clear the dust from the insides, and a lot of the time, this trick worked superbly. With one deep breath, you could return to stomping Goombas in no time at all!

A dirty cable connector has the same problem, and can contribute to performance issues across the system. Actually, this is the top cause of all network issues. The resolution is often as easy as blowing on the cable ends, making it mind-numbingly simple to fix. However, it is still a good idea to give it a good cleaning, according to Processor magazine:

Use a simple handheld microscope to inspect the end face. If you detect contamination, there are several good fiber optic cleaning products that can quickly remove the contamination and return the connector to a clean/usable state.

We at Computerware don't recommend you try thorough cleaning on your own. One mistake can potentially lead to a costly replacement. If blowing the dust away from the connectors isn't doing it for you, let us handle the cleaning job.

Microbends can Twist More than Just Your Temper
We all know the frustration of untwisting wires after carelessly plugging and unplugging countless appliances. This causes the cables to twist together and pinch, which can lead to serious damage. Even a small bend, or what is known as a cable microbend, can hamper the flow of data to and from sources. This can cause productivity issues, so the best way to avoid the mess is to plan the network's cable layout so the wires are all straight as an arrow.

What's Your Power Level?
Unlike the absurdly powerful saiyans of Dragonball Z, we can't tell the power level of life forms by gazing at them through a sensor. However, what we can do is use a power meter to check the power levels of our cables. The cables move data back and forth by utilizing electricity, and if the power levels are abnormal, the flow of data can be impeded. If you can tell which cables aren't pulling their fair share, you can replace them and improve workflow for everyone.

All it takes is a simple power meter to measure the levels at different connection points. Take note of where the weak connections are, and then replace them with new ones. If there is a performance boost, you're good to go.

A good IT technician, such as those here at Computerware, are familiar with other tools that can judge the quality of your Cat5 cables. Your traditional cables contain multiple wires, and if just one is broken, the cable would need to be replaced.

If some of these simple cable troubleshooting tips can't solve the problem, perhaps it's more of a hardware issue. There are other methods that you can take to resolve the problem, but we recommend giving Computerware a call before you do anything drastic, like replace a server unit. Let Computerware handle the details by calling (703) 821-8200 today. We'll handle the IT issues you are having so you can focus on your business. We'll save you money by resolving problems remotely and to minimize on-site support, which can be costly in the long run.