FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions:

How do I select a structured cabling system/manufacturer?

For most applications, any US manufactured cabling system that meets the appropriate performance standard for your network requirements (i.e. Cat 5E, Cat 6, CAT 6A) will do. Each manufacturer offers unique features/functionality that may be of particular interest or benefit to your organization. PCC partners with the industry’s top performance and market share leading cabling systems. Contact your PCC team members, share your objectives, and ask for our recommendations. Reach out to each Manufacturer on your own and ask for a no-obligation consultation with one of their local account representatives.

How do I select a distributor?

In some cases distributors are not allowed to sell direct to end user Customers. PCC partners with the industry’s leading distributors, supporting large national requirements and smaller local projects. Contact your PCC team members, share your objectives, and ask for our recommendations. Reach out to other contractors you trust, ask for their recommendations. Cabling manufacturers are an excellent resource as well.

How do I select a contractor to bid my project?

Select your structured cabling system and utilize that manufacturer’s certified contractor program. They can also provide insights into each contractor’s strengths and weaknesses.

How do I select a consultant?

PCC and other design-build contractors include robust consulting services throughout the planning and construction phases of each project. In those circumstances where your organization feels better served by an independent consultant, we’re happy to make recommendations. Query other contractors, manufacturers and distributors; each has had extensive involvement with a variety of consultants and will be happy to make recommendations consistent with your requirements.

What is the difference between Cat6 and Cat6a cable?

The Category 6a, or Cat6a, cable is the latest iteration of Gigabit Ethernet cabling. The a stands for "augmented" and is a nod to Cat6a's improved specifications compared with its predecessor, the Category 6, or Cat6 cable.

The Cat6a doubles data transmission bandwidth, from 250 to 500 MHz; decreases the chance of crosstalk interference; and provides superior reliability and transmission speeds through greater lengths of cable. Unlike most Cat6 cables, Cat6a cables are also often shielded, making them ideal for industrial use where additional interference may be a concern.

What is Design/Build?

Design/Build is a consultative, all-inclusive solution. The chosen contractor designs, engineers, and installs the solution.

Differs from the more common approach:  Customer designs the solution, writes an RFP, and requests multiple bids.

When does Design/Build make sense?

1.  Time is tight.

2.  Quality and long-term durability is most important.

3.  In-house expertise is lacking. Insufficient budget for independent Consultant

When doesn't Design/Build make sense?

1.  Public Works and other contracting methodologies necessitating award to lowest bidder.

2.  Customer already has in-house technical expertise or has already hired an independent Consultant.

What are some of the advantages of Design/Build/

1.  Someone must determine project specifications and then design/engineer the solution for a perfect fit. Who better to do both than a Design/Build contractor who does this work every day, within every imaginable environment?

2.  Lowest total cost; highest possible quality.

3.  Minimizes time/involvement from customer’s management team and their internal technical resources. Eliminates need for an independent consultant.

4.  Design/Build contractors provide free value engineering; often improving the original concept.

5.  You get the contractor’s A-Team. Contractors commit their best resources to projects that embrace their full value proposition.

What is Sound Masking?

Sound Masking is the addition of an unobtrusive background sound, similar to airflow, to a workspace.  Masking reduces (i.e. "masks") the intelligibility of human speech and helps reduce distraction from conversations.  The result is a more comfortable, productive, and private workplace.

How does Sound Masking work?

Imagine that you are in a dark room and someone is flicking a flashlight on and off.  The light is noticeable.  Now, imagine the room with the lights on.  The same flashlight is far less noticeable - the other light in the room "masks" it.  This principle also applies to sound, which is why conversations are more noticeable in a quiet room than in a room with background sound.

Can I ask another question?

Absolutely!  Simply contact us by filling out the inquiry form.  You've got questions...we've got answers!

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