Let's Talk Cabling!

• Low Voltage Insight: From Copper to Fiber

  Send us a textChuck Bowser explores essential cabling concepts from fiber optic compatibility to future-proofing residential installations and proper grounding techniques. He addresses practical concerns for industry professionals while celebrating new RCDD certifications within the Let's Talk Cabling community.• APC fiber patch cords should never be connected to UPC fiber adapter panels due to misaligned end faces and potential permanent damage• Future-proofing residential cabling typically means installing Cat6A despite its higher cost (66% more than Cat6) for its longevity and performance benefits• The average structured cabling plant lifespan is 7-10 years in commercial settings and 10-15 years in residential environments• Primary bonding busbars should be located near entrance facilities with secondary bonding busbars mounted high in telecom rooms• For lightning protection, modern installations should use gas tube protectors backed by solid-state protectors rather than obsolete carbon blocksIf you want to contribute equipment to the podcast studio or help with installations like conduit saddle bends, reach out to Chuck directly. New videos on grounding, J-hooks, and ladder rack installations coming soon.Support the showKnowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected] Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH#CBRCDD #RCDD

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• The Hidden Champions Behind Every Successful Low Voltage Project

  Send us a textWe dive into the often-overlooked world of specification engineers and their critical role in ensuring successful low voltage infrastructure projects. Roy Chamberlain from Leviton Network Solutions shares insights on how these behind-the-scenes experts help project managers, estimators, and technicians navigate complex specifications and standards.• Specification engineers serve as the glue between manufacturers, contractors, designers, and end-users• They help interpret specifications, fill in gaps, and ensure all components work together seamlessly• Many specifications contain outdated standards due to template reuse—spec engineers help keep everything current• Manufacturers offer solution-based approaches rather than just individual products• Future-proofing isn't necessarily more expensive—it just requires different thinking• Technicians can directly contact spec engineers for troubleshooting and on-site challenges• Working with established manufacturers provides access to expertise that online retailers can't match• Spec engineers stay current with evolving standards through regular training and industry participationCheck out Leviton's website or connect with Roy Chamberlain on LinkedIn to learn more about how specification engineers can help with your next project.Support the showKnowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected] Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH#CBRCDD #RCDD

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• Grounding, Batteries, and Ladder Safety: The Technical Backbone of Low-Voltage Work

  Send us a textWe break down essential technical concepts for low-voltage professionals, from proper termination block spacing to ladder safety protocols. • Use the four square inch rule for every four-pair circuit when planning termination block wall space• UPS batteries perform best at 77°F with life reduced by half for every 10°C above optimal temperature• Speaker coverage for speech intelligibility requires checking polar plots at 2kHz with attention to the -6dB drop point• Stranded patch cords have 25% more attenuation and require careful handling to prevent impedance swings• Work breakdown structures should include planning, kickoff, actual work, and closeout phases• Outside plant installations involve public, private, and railroad right-of-ways requiring proper permits• Ladder safety requires checking spreaders, rubber boots, weight ratings, and never using damaged equipment• Never stand on the top two rungs of a ladder or allow multiple people on standard laddersFor more detailed information on ladder safety, check out our 34-minute show covering top ladder safety tips and common mistakes to avoid.Support the showKnowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected] Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH#CBRCDD #RCDD

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• Grounding Electrodes: The Earth Connection

  Send us a textDive beneath the surface with us as we unearth the critical yet often misunderstood world of grounding electrodes. What appears to be just a metal rod driven into soil is actually your first line of defense against destructive lightning strikes and electrical surges that threaten both equipment and human safety.This episode takes you step-by-step through the proper installation of a grounding electrode at our new podcast studio, featuring expert assistance from Wilson Technologies. We demonstrate how these copper-clad rods must be properly installed and tested to achieve the 25 ohms of resistance required by NEC Article 250, or the more stringent 5 ohms recommended by industry standards. You'll learn why specialized testing equipment matters, how soil composition dramatically affects performance, and the critical difference between the code minimum and best practices.Perhaps most importantly, we clarify a common misconception – telecommunications grounding systems aren't designed for ground fault protection, but rather for safely dissipating high-energy events like lightning strikes. This fundamental understanding shifts how we approach grounding as a life safety issue rather than merely a performance consideration.Whether you're an ICT professional responsible for installations, a managed service provider looking to expand your service offerings, or simply someone wanting to understand what that mysterious rod outside your telecommunications room actually does, this episode delivers practical knowledge you can immediately apply. The detailed demonstration of different testing methodologies, including the three-point fall-off potential and four-point prospecting methods, provides technical insights rarely covered in such accessible terms. Join us as we demystify this crucial component of telecommunications infrastructure and stay tuned for our ongoing podcast studio build-out series!Support the showKnowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected] Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH#CBRCDD #RCDD

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• AHL: Low-Voltage Life: Skills, Careers, and Certifications

  Send us a textChuck shares insights from TechFest 2025 and answers critical questions about career advancement in the low-voltage industry while tackling common misconceptions about fiber termination practices.• Transitioning to project management requires developing computer skills, understanding project tracking tools, and learning to read scopes of work and specifications• Developing soft skills in delegation, communication, and time management is essential for advancing from technical to management roles• Moving into design roles benefits from AutoCAD/Revit training and understanding blueprint symbols and documentation standards• Stay current with industry technologies through manufacturer resources, trade shows, podcasts, and committing to learning one new thing daily• Generalists typically have more job flexibility than specialists, making them better suited for various career advancement opportunities • Certifications open doors for job opportunities and project bids while boosting credibility with contractors, architects, and clientsJoin me tomorrow at 10am for my keynote speech on bonding and grounding at TechFest 2025!Support the showKnowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at [email protected] Chuck Bowser RCDD TECH#CBRCDD #RCDD

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