More than 2,000 voice-data-video (VDV) professionals at the BICSI 2003 Winter Conference learned about the evolving standards and new products for structured wiring systems.

Held at the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Jan. 13-16, the conference's technical sessions focused on security video systems, broadband video systems, advances in the manufacturing of balanced twisted-pair cabling (Cat. 6) and the latest developments in laser-based optical fiber.

In presentations and at display booths, cabling specialists also learned about the continual evolution of the Ethernet protocol into industrial and commercial control networks and the security market.

The panel discussion, “Why Cat. 6 Cabling Systems are Needed in the Market,” brought together six members of the Cat. 6 consortium, a working group intent on creating market and industry awareness and demand for cabling systems and components based on the new Cat. 6 cabling standard. The panelists were: Asef Baddar, General Cable, Highland Heights, Ky.; Gary Bernstein, director of product marketing — telecom, HellermannTyton, Milwaukee, Wis.; Brian Ensign, Leviton Voice and Data Division, Bothell, Wash.; Shadi Abu Ghazaleh, Hubbell Premise Wiring, Stonington Conn.; Paul Kish, director, IBDN Systems & Standards, NORDX/CDT, Quebec, Canada; and John Siemon, Siemon Co., Watertown, Conn.

This presentation covered cable and hardware performance, installation/certification and testing of this new cable type. The panelists covered the benefits of a Cat. 6 cabling solution, such as higher throughput capabilities and the support of more demanding applications.

The new products introduced at BICSI included:

• Anixter Inc., Skokie, Ill., introduced a video surveillance system that runs video, power and control signals over a single, unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable. The system, called Closed Circuit Twisted Pair (CCTP), is designed to readily integrate onto an existing structured cabling system in a building or facility.

• Specified Technologies Inc., Somerville, N.J., introduced the EZ-Path, a cable pathway and firestop device. The galvanized steel pathway is lined with intumescent materials, and provides greater cable loading than a conventional 4-inch sleeve. Cables can be added or changed without removing or reinstalling the firestopping materials, which respond to flames or heat by quickly sealing the pathway. They provide the necessary fire barrier for one- and two-hour rated wall constructions.

• Chatsworth Products Inc., Westlake Village, Calif., a manufacturer of cabinet, rack and cable management systems, is teaming with software developer eXalt Solutions Inc., Mass., to provide a sophisticated yet easy-to-use, on-line catalog for its customers. Called the Intelligent Catalog, the XML-based Web-platform provides point-and-click bill of material preparation.

Additionally, the system generates CAD drawing during product selection and configuration, and automatically prompts necessary add-ons and accessories, thus reducing bid preparation time.

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