How do I get qualified?
Introduction
A complex variety of network cabling installations are needed to interconnect LAN’s, telecommunications systems and other services. Network cabling installers and designers need to be trained and qualified to install, design and maintain network cabling.
What does a Network Cabling installer do?
Network cabling engineers and installers, carry out the physical installation and where required, they also maintain a range of network systems. Installers may be asked to work externally and may be asked to install utility poles. towers and dig underground trenches to physically contain the cable. This external work may use many different types of equipment such as cranes, cable ploughs, augers, trenchers, borers, and digger derricks. Those installers that work within a building or premises are no less important and in many ways, their work is equally important, as very often, they may be tasked with installing other network equipment and actually set up the service for clients. They may also be responsible for maintaining other links and have to possess some electrical installation knowledge.
Network cabling installers often work for small to medium sized businesses, telecommunications companies, construction contractors, and utilities companies. They may offer further expertise in areas such as fibre optic installations and additional specialised testing.
Recommended Qualifications:
City & Guilds 3668 – 201 (Fundmental Principles )
City & Guilds 3668 -202 (Fibre Optic)
City and Guilds 3668-203 (Structured Cablling)
What does a Network Cabling Designer do?
Network cabling systems are being asked to do a lot more than ever before. As data rates increase, the network must be able to support this growth. This is why the Network Cabling Designer is very much in demand. With their extensive technical knowledge, is it any wonder that there has been a 10 fold increase in vacancies in the year 2010 alone (UK stats)
The growing size of networks coupled with the introduction of different types of access methods, creates an overwhelming need for reliable, manageable cabling systems. Therefore, good cable planning and design are a pre requisite for any installation, no matter how big or small. The qualifications for a a Network Cabling Designer are usually level 3 or higher.
What kind of training does an network cabling engineer ineed?
Network cabling engineers and installers will typically need to obtain a minimum of a level 3 qualification, in either data or fibre or preferably both disciplines. Installers and designers will usually need to have some numerical understanding, and be prepared to accept that competencies are achieved through hard work and attending professional training events and courses.
A selection of Level 3 Qualifications click here
What are the current prospects for a career as an installer and designer?
Very good is the answer! – employment of installers is expected to experience an increase of at least 2% to 5% . Expansion of the services that need higher bandwidths shows no signs of slowing down!
The indusrty is in rude health so ……..prospects for the aspiring comms cabling professional are good. There are a huge number of opportunities stemming from the need to install fibre optic cabling (PON & GPON) in the external environment to increase broadband capacity – we call it Total Connectivity.
Recommended Qualifications:
City and Guilds 3668-03 (Design and Planning Communications Cabling Systems)