frequently asked questions
We’re often asked to explain the relative merits (and demerits) of one system solution against another. The stock answer “it depends”, while correct, perhaps doesn’t go far enough! So we’ve attempted here to go into a little more depth. Apologies if your question isn’t answered – but feel free to contact us direct!
Q: What’s the benefit of a physical network over a wireless solution?
A: While a fully wireless network is technically possible, in most instances reduced bandwidth and reliability outweigh the benefits; physical networks don’t have that problem. However, wireless technology can be used to advantage in limited circumstances.
Q: One hears a lot about Cat 5e, Cat 6a, fibre – what’s the difference?
A: Cat 6a and fibre can both run at a speed of 10 gigabytes – much faster than Cat 6 and Cat 5e which can only run at 1gigabytes. This increased bandwidth comes at higher cost, and has implications on the size of containment required. But the upside is that with Cat 6a and fibre you are really future-proofing your network.
Q: I’ve come across the phrase “short-throw projector”. What is a short-throw projector, and why would I want one?
A: A short-throw projector displays an image at a much closer range than a conventional unit, which will considerably reduce glare and shadowing.
Q: Projectors all seem to carry “lumen ratings”. What’s a lumen?
A: A lumen is the SI unit of luminous flux, a measure of the perceived power of light. Which is a fancy way of saying how bright the projector bulb is, basically. In most indoor situations, a lumen rating of 2,000 would be more than adequate.
Q: What is an interactive whiteboard?
A: If you’re a teacher, you’ll know what an interactive whiteboard is! For those that don’t, an interactive whiteboard is a large interactive display that connects to a computer and projector. A projector projects the computer’s desktop onto the board’s surface, where users control the computer using a pen, finger or other device. Interactive whiteboards have yet to make a significant showing in commercial environments, but that will change as today’s students become tomorrow’s office workers.
Q: What are the benefits of IP security cameras over conventional systems?
A: The image resolution is much higher for one thing, but the biggest plus is that there’s none of the hassle involved in transferring from analogue to digital formats. Moreover, you can access the system from any internet browser.
Q: What’s a network healthcheck?
A: What its name implies, but here’s the technical bit: we check networks up to Cat 6A using a N2640A WireScope Pro time domain reflectometer from Agilent Technologies. We test any and all cables on the network, identifying and isolating problem cabling. We produce a report for each connection or patch lead we test. We do the same for fibreoptic installations, using a Fluke Networks OptiFiber OTDR. As part of the process we make recommendations as to how a network’s performance might be improved.
Q: An access control system… seems straightforward enough. But how does it control access, and why would I want one?
A: Most access control systems are swipecard – or PIN number-based, though there is a growing trend towards biometrics – more expensive, but failsafe. As to why: access control is especially useful in “sensitive” working environments. It can provide time & attendance data, but, more importantly, can monitor personnel movements on- and off-site, in and out of particular buildings, even areas of buildings.
