A broad set of physical security devices are being incorporated into smart buildings at an unprecedented rate. These devices must always be operational which can be a challenge as they are often deployed in harsh indoor and outdoor environments. Using a converged network infrastructure approach, devices such as security cameras, door controllers, and physical safety IoT sensors are connecting to IP networks via wired Ethernet in enterprise settings. The problem, however, is that existing or newly installed twisted pair copper cabling does not meet best-practice guidelines for a host of reasons. This can lead to situations where these devices become unusable or unreliable, defeating the purpose of the technology and potentially endangering building occupants.

Let’s look at five reasons why infrastructure readiness for physical security is so important and how proper cable specification types, power-sourcing verification and endpoint testing becomes a critical part of any smart building security/safety device install.