Can Fiber Optic Cables Be Repaired

Can Fiber Optic Cables Be Repaired

As fiber optic cables replace copper wires as the standard for data transmission in today's networking and telecommunications infrastructure, it's crucial to plan for the eventuality of a cable failure. Fiber optic cables are not as simple to splice as their copper equivalents; however, fusion splicing and other techniques can often achieve satisfactory results. But is the price justified?

Definition of Fusion Splicing

Two main splicing techniques are used to fix broken fiber optic cables: mechanical snipping and fusion splicing. To perform a mechanical splice, a thread must be cut into sections and joined using a specialty connector that helps align and secure the cable ends. The signal quality may suffer, and the splice may be unreliable if it is not done correctly. The most common and dependable technique for fixing or combining multiple fiber optic cables, fusion splicing, uses an electric arc to join fibers together, much like welding does with metal. Automatic machinery is used to cut the line, clean the ends, and then fuse them by applying heat and melting the two halves together. It creates a splice that has low signal loss and reflection.

If your fiber optic cables are damaged, should you get them fixed or replaced?

Fusion splicing is effective for trying to repair fiber optic cables. Still, it is most successful with single-mode fiber and less reliable with multi-mode thread, where even a tiny misalignment can significantly impact the signal. Fusion splicing is expensive because it necessitates specialized equipment and training, charging anywhere from $60 to $120 per hour for maintenance and repairs. Substituting the cable is often the most cost-effective and long-lasting option for maintaining a strong signal and reliable connection. Fusion splicing is frequently recommended when it is either impractical or unsafe to replace an existing cable, such as in fire-rated walls, building entrances, or underground cable applications.

PROS OF REPLACING A BROKEN FIBER OPTIC CABLE

While broken fiber optic cables can be repaired, replacing the line is typically more cost- effective. The following are some of the many advantages that can be gained by installing new fiber optic cable:

There will be less of a loss of signal and less reflection. More reliable data Stronger durability over time There is no requirement for specialist knowledge or tools. No need for expensive outside services.

Most on-site repair issues can be solved by simply replacing the faulty fiber optic cable.​

Harden Communications is the company to call when you need new fiber optic cabling installed. We serve a wide variety of clients, including telecommunications companies, data centers, educational institutions, financial institutions, manufacturing plants, and governmental institutions, among others, by installing fiber optic cables and providing structured cabling solutions. Give us a call today!

Breaking Down Optical and Digital Zoom in CCTV Cameras

Breaking Down Optical and Digital Zoom in CCTV Cameras

One of the factors that must be considered when buying a security camera is the zoom. When replaying video, the amount of information you can see will be significantly impacted by the zoom. If a CCTV camera lacks the zoom features you require, you risk failing to record crucial information. There are two types of zoom: optical zoom and digital zoom, and each will yield a different set of outcomes.

Digital Zoom

Digital zoom is the most common type. When using digital zoom, the camera essentially cuts off the image's edges and stretches it to magnify it. The consequence is that the image will typically appear blurry and of low quality because the pixels are being stretched, resulting in a closer view. It is advisable to utilize digital zoom on a camera with higher resolution. High resolution cameras have more pixels, resulting in an image that is clearer and more detailed.

Optical Zoom

Optical zoom is the next type. Optical zoom includes changing the camera's actual lens. A camera's lens moves toward or away from the optical sensor when it is rotated. Objects will appear zoomed out when the lens is nearer the optical sensor. The image will appear zoomed in when it is farther away. Using optical zoom will maintain the image's clarity and detail, in contrast to digital zoom. There are three types of lenses that can be used for optical zoom: Varifocal lenses, motorized lenses, PTZ lenses.

Which One Is Preferred?

The main advantage of using optical zoom is that you may focus on objects that are far away without compromising the clarity of the image. The zoom, however, may only be changed while the video is being shot. You can add digital zoom to already-shot footage, but there's a chance the picture will get blurry. Optical zoom would be a better option if you wanted to use your CCTV camera to record things like faces or numbers because it allows you to clearly zoom in on difficult-to-see features. Digital zoom will work if all you need a security camera for is general monitoring and surveillance.

If you intend on installing security cameras in your home or business, please contact us today at Harden Communications for free consultation. We rely on Hikvision CCTV cameras which are considered the most popular and reliable out there.

Businesses Should Be Aware of These Network Cabling Issues

Businesses Should Be Aware of These Network Cabling Issues

In the tech world, sheaths, cables, and connectors are highly relevant. Many businesses today are data-driven, making structured cabling an integral part of any organization. A well-laid cabling system plays a critical role in data transfer in devices and helps bring some sense of organization to the workplace. On the other hand, poor cable installation or management can be a disastrous affair for any business.

How poor cabling affects your business

Decreased productivity

A business with a poorly structured cabling system will face many challenges in its daily operations. So much time goes into diagnosing and resolving cable-related problems. Also, much money is spent in the long run replacing faulty and damaged cables.

A business that regularly encounters broadband outages and slow internet connectivity will have reduced annual output. Moreover, the business will have an inefficient inventory management system and supply chain. The ultimate disadvantage of having a poor cabling system is that it could affect the service rendered to your customers, leading to a decline in sales.

Common cabling problems

Location

You will likely encounter cabling problems when you fail to match the appropriate type of cabling with your location. For example, cables that run through noisy factories should feature some special shield to prevent external interference. Besides that, an office layout determines what type of cabling to adopt for your business. A cubicle office will have a different cabling structure from an open floor office.

Poorly labeled cables

Periodically a business is scheduled to undertake cabling maintenance to ensure its operations run without any glitches. During these routine maintenance checks, it's possible to have several new parts fitted into the old cabling system. At this juncture, if proper labeling is not done, there would be a crazy mix-up of cables, and it would take longer to identify and resolve any arising issues.

Mix-matching components​

Patch cords are a major culprit when it comes to mix-matching components. They act as links between two electronic devices in a network. Poor quality patch cords will reduce the data- transmission rate affecting your overall network performance.

Using outdated cabling

Using outdated cabling is the reason you experience problems with your networks' speed and functionality. Outdated cables cannot keep up with high speeds and frequencies as they should, making them less reliable for businesses handling bulky data.

Using wrong cabling

To many of us, all cables look the same, and it may be challenging to distinguish cables in terms of quality. The use of poor-quality cables often results in cabling malfunction. They not only bring about connectivity issues but also compromise your safety standards.

At Harden Communications, we offer exceptional structured cabling and maintenance services in Colorado. We have over 20 years of experience and highly trained personnel to recommend the proper cabling for your business. Contact us today to give your business the kind of cabling it deserves.

The Downside to Smart Doorbells

The Downside to Smart Doorbells

Smart doorbells have almost become the standard in most American neighborhoods. It makes sense as to why this is since wanting to protect your property and family is natural and smart doorbells are a great place to start when trying to accomplish that. They are straightforward, relatively budget friendly, and easy to install yourself. Once installed, you can view footage around your home from the convenience of your smartphone, wherever you are. This all sounds good and dandy, so what could the downsides of smart doorbells possibly be?

The Downside to Smart Doorbells

With the advent of smart doorbells, seeing the goings on around your property has become extremely easy. The problem with these doorbells, however, mainly comes down to their range and their automatic recording settings. Most smart doorbells on the market pick up activity that extends beyond your property, and the audio functions generally extend even further. In addition to that, most smart doorbells have the capability to begin recording as soon as they detect movement, even movement that goes beyond your front lawn. These settings can be adjusted, but are most people doing so?

So really, the main issue regarding smart doorbells revolves around infringing on the privacy rights of others. There was recently a case in the UK in which a neighbor placed a doorbell on their home in a way that they could see the front door of a neighbor. This meant that their doorbell could record the neighbor every time they entered or left their home. Talk about an invasion of privacy!

How You Can Avoid Violating the Privacy of Others

In the United States, there are not many laws that control the use of smart doorbells, and the ones that can be applied to them can vary from state to state. If you do not wish to encroach on the privacy of your neighbors, make sure that you set up your smart doorbells with the right motive. Is your motive to see what goes on in and around your property, or is your motive to snoop on your neighbors? Can your doorbell footage inappropriately see into the homes of your neighbors? And then of course, you can always change the settings for your specific doorbell so that it does not automatically record all motions detected, and you can adjust the range in which the camera picks up video and audio.

While smart doorbells are becoming more and more popular, traditional security systems will always offer you the most custom experience. Traditional security systems can help you keep an eye on your property and your property alone. If you want to protect your home and respect the privacy of your neighbors, contact Harden Communications. We will develop a security system solution that is specific to your property in order to keep you and your neighbor’s privacy protected.

IT and Telecommunications - What Is the Difference

IT and Telecommunications - What Is the Difference

The Main Difference Between IT and Telecommunications

In order to understand the difference between IT and Telecommunications it's necessary to know the definitions.

IT - Information Technology

IT is an acronym for Information Technology. To better understand what Information Technology is, keep in mind that as with most other disciplines, technology is an application of knowledge to a specific science.

Thus, IT is the application of knowledge to the field of information. IT identifies the procedure of electronic control of information that includes programming/coding, PC system(hardware) operations, and other information administration.

The specific area of this technology also means information technology that includes software Tech, web Tech, computer Tech, storage Tech, etc.

Telecommunications

Telecommunications or media transmission consists of signals, signs, messages and compositions, as well as pictures and sounds. Telecommunications also refer to knowledge of any nature transmitted by radio, wire, optical or electromagnetic frameworks.

Additionally, Telecommunication technologies or Information and Communications Technology (ICT) are defined as communication technology to include wireless access systems such as those for cell phone communication, satellite communication, etc.

So, there are some links between IT and Telecommunications in terms of outlying relativity such as transmission, symbols, signals and transmissions that combine these two as IT+Telecommunications=(ICT).

Behind the Differences

Telecommunication technologies have left an indelible imprint on modern living. ICT has remodeled and repurposed our concepts of the world and our private lives. It would be difficult, unrealistic and quite inconvenient to exist without these important assets of life.

Yet, there are still people who may not notice these technologies or simply do not know details about them.

Once the differences are understood by the less informed, the basic advantages open a door to a new world of opportunities.

In layman's terms, IT is the platform that helps develop most types of telecommunication equipment we are already familiar with.​

What is meant by the term telecommunications is the simple process of communicating over a broad area that allows us to reach out to others via transmissions such as phone, radio, fax and certain real time computer applications such as Skype which allows users to cross communicate using an actual computer screen.

These means are transmitted through both wired and wireless channels, via optical fibers, radio and other electromagnetic systems and networks such as WiFi and security protected networks like VPN (Virtual Private Network).

It is always easier to understand complex technologies when familiar examples are offered. By keeping definitions simple, technologies and their importance and usefulness become clearer.

So, as you see, everything's simple. Less definitely means more!

At Harden Communications, our goal is to provide you with the IT and telecommunication solutions that you need. Reach out to us for assistance with structured cabling, security, and Avaya IP office set ups.

Potential Reasons for Security Camera Video Loss or Cable Failure

Potential Reasons for Security Camera Video Loss or Cable Failure

There are endless reasons why your security camera video may have gone missing or why your cables may have failed. This guide will provide you with some potential reasons why this may have occurred so that you can take the necessary steps to rectify the issue.

Broken Cables

Broken cables can be caused by several things, such as animals chewing on the cables, high winds or severe weather conditions causing physical damage to the cables, vandals or criminals cutting the cables, or simply old age and wear and tear.

If you suspect that your cables may be broken, the first thing you should do is visually inspect them for any signs of damage. If you cannot see any damage, you can try gently tugging on the cables to see if there are any loose sections.

Incompatible or Faulty Equipment

If you are using incompatible or faulty equipment, this can also cause your security camera video to be lost. Incompatible equipment can include using the wrong cable type for your cameras or using lower-quality cables.

Faulty equipment can include anything from damaged cables to malfunctioning cameras or DVRs. If you suspect that any of your equipment is faulty, you should contact the manufacturer to see if they can provide you with a replacement or repair.

<3>Incorrect Installation

If your security cameras are not installed correctly, this can also lead to video loss. Incorrect installation can include using the wrong type of mounting bracket, not properly securing the cables, or not connecting the cables correctly.

If you are unsure how to install your security camera system correctly, it is best to consult with a professional or the manufacturer of your equipment.

Power Issues

Another potential reason your security camera video may have been lost is power issues. Power issues can include a power outage, a tripped circuit breaker, or loose connections.

If you suspect that a power issue is the cause of your video loss, you should check to see if there is power to your camera system. You can check the power indicator light on your cameras or DVR. You should also check to see any loose connections between your equipment and the power source.​

There are many potential reasons why your security camera video may have been lost. If you have ruled out all of the potential causes listed above and your security camera video is still missing, it is best to consult with Harden Communications. We are seasoned professionals and experienced in the field of security camera systems and cabling. We will be able to provide you with expert advice and will troubleshoot your system to determine the root cause of the issue.

Structured Cabling - What Is It and Why Is It Important

Structured Cabling - What Is It and Why Is It Important

Structured cabling is a cable and connector that transmit data, voice, and video signals between devices. It is an important part of any network infrastructure, and it is essential for businesses that want to stay connected and productive. This blog post will discuss structured cabling basics and explain why it is so important for businesses. We will also provide tips for choosing the right cabling system for your needs. Stay tuned!

As the world becomes increasingly connected, businesses need to have a reliable way to communicate with their employees, customers, and partners. Structured cabling is the backbone of any network infrastructure, and it plays a vital role in keeping businesses connected.

There are many benefits of structured cabling, but some of the most important ones include:

Reliability

This type of cabling is highly stable, accommodating changing network needs and providing consistent performance over long periods. In addition, structured cabling networks are also more secure than other networking systems, preventing unauthorized access and protecting sensitive data from digital threats. Furthermore, because they utilize dedicated cables that are mostly underground or hidden within walls, these networks can withstand even the harshest environmental conditions without the risk of physical disruption.

Scalability

Structured cabling is an important part of any modern business. It provides a scalable, well-organized infrastructure that can support various applications and technologies. Perhaps most importantly, it helps ensure that your network can keep pace with your business as it grows and changes.

Flexibility​

Structured cabling is a highly versatile networking infrastructure, offering many benefits compared to other networking technologies. It allows for flexibility in terms of both hardware and software. This means that individual components can be easily swapped out or upgraded as needed without any changes to the overall system. Additionally, the modular design of structured cabling makes it easy to add new devices or update existing ones with minimal disruption to network traffic.

Cost-effectiveness

Structured cabling is a cost-effective solution for businesses of all sizes. Unlike other networking solutions, it does not require regular upgrades or maintenance, which can be expensive over time. Additionally, since structured cabling allows for higher bandwidth and faster speeds, it can support a growing business without making significant investments in new equipment.

Suppose you are thinking about investing in a structured cabling system for your business. In that case, it is important to partner with a reputable company that has experience designing and installing these systems. Harden Communications has been helping businesses stay connected for over 20 years, and we would be happy to help you choose the right cabling system for your needs. Contact us today to get started!

Can CCTV Systems Legally Record Audio

Can CCTV Systems Legally Record Audio

Security cameras are everywhere! Whether you're taking your child to school, grabbing a drink at a local bar, or out for a picnic, you're likely being recorded on video. But do these security cameras record audio? Can they do so legally? Read on to answer these questions, and educate yourself about security and video/audio monitoring!

Can security cameras record audio?

Yes! Advancements in camera technology within the past few decades has allowed even the smallest, most camouflaged cameras to record audio.

Security camera audio is limited depending on the positioning of the camera itself; however, directional microphones that can be added to high-quality cameras (such as the 4 MP 4x IR Outdoor Network PTZ Camera) have the ability to pick-up sounds from a sizeable distance away.

But can security cameras record audio legally?

In short: it depends. If you live in any of the following states, you need all parties present to consent to being recorded: California, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Washington.

What does that mean? You won't want to record audio on your CCTV if your security camera is located in a public place. If it's in your home, however - you can record away (assuming your family is okay with it)!

Do I need to post a sign near my security cameras?

Likely not - unless it's a place that one could reasonably expect privacy (a bathroom, changing room, etc). For more insight, you can find additional information here.

To ensure privacy, these laws were enacted in the benefit of the public - particularly those who aren't aware that they're being recorded. However, they offer a great deal of comfort and peace for those who wish to feel safe at home.

If you stay within the legal boundaries defined above, you can ensure the safety of yourself, your family, and/or your business. Sound complicated? Harden Communications can meet your personal or business needs.

Harden Communications, certified by Alarm.com and I-View Now, offers the installation and maintenance of security systems. If you're looking for a one-stop shop for all of your security needs, Harden Communications will offer convenience and value.

What Should You Know Before Setting Up School Security Cameras

What Should You Know Before Setting Up School Security Cameras

Introduction

School security cameras provide a vital service in ensuring that children are safe. However, the responsibility of the security camera is not just to alert parents if something might go wrong; they are also required to provide evidence in case a crime should occur. In addition to that, school security cameras should also identify the immediate area where an attack might occur to conduct a thorough rough investigation.

What You Should Know Before Setting Up School Security Cameras

Before installing your school's security cameras, you should know the requirements to ensure that your system will work effectively and efficiently.

1. Knowing the Level of Security Needed:

Find out what kind of security your school needs before purchasing cameras. One must customize the security system to fit your campus.

2. Amount of Footage Needed:

Nowadays, technology requires more footage than before. It is recommended that 30 feet of video footage be available to those who want to record the entire day's events. The higher the number of feet, the higher the resolution quality.

3. Recording Resolution:

For quality and clarity, you should find out how clear and sharp the images will be before setting up your cameras. Resolution depends on the number of pixels in each image. The higher the number, the clearer and sharper your images will be.

4. Knowing where to Place the Cameras:

Location is essential. For example, if a camera is set up in front of a building, it can easily be seen by everyone passing by. It would be best if you also considered setting a camera in hallways and classes because cameras are more effective when placed in areas with high traffic to cover more areas.

5. Know the Period:

Setting picture recording at the right time is also essential. You should avoid filming at night to minimize clutter and speed up the transfer of pictures to your computer. Some school districts have cameras that automatically acquire pictures when leaving and entering classrooms, so you don't have to go through the hassle of setting it manually every day.

Conclusion

School safety is essential. Installing a camera setup for your school will help to ensure that children remain safe and are protected. Having a camera in your school will not only help you have evidence in case something goes wrong, but it can also provide essential information regarding the incident that took place. Harden Communications helps school districts, cities, and companies with their video and audio communication needs. Harden Communications has been in business for over 30 years and prides itself on providing the best possible service at the lowest possible price to its clients.

Professional or DIY Security Cameras - Which Is Better

Professional or DIY Security Cameras - Which Is Better

It is no doubt that security cameras will keep you and your family safe. But with so many different cameras to choose from, it can be hard to determine which is best for your home. This article will weigh the pros and cons of both professional security cameras and DIY security camera systems, so you can decide which is right for you!

Benefits of DIY Home Security Systems

1. Affordability: DIY security systems are much more affordable than professional security cameras. Instead of paying thousands of dollars for a professionally installed security system, you can have a DIY system set up in just a few minutes for less than $100!

2. Convenience: DIY home security systems are much easier to install than professional security cameras and require less wiring, saving you time and energy. In addition, you do not have to buy any equipment for the DIY system, so there is less cost involved in this process.

Drawbacks of DIY Security Systems

1. Quality: Although DIY security systems are affordable, they do not provide the same quality as professional security cameras. Due to the lower price, DIY security systems have fewer cameras, fewer features, and less storage space.

2. Security: The convenience of DIY systems makes them appealing to thieves and intruders, who may see an easy target for a break-in. Professional security systems are more complex for people to bypass, so they are more secure.

Benefits of Professional Home Security Systems

1. Quality: Professional security cameras have the highest quality and produce more footage. In addition, professional security cameras have more features than DIY systems, such as anti- shake technology that helps smooth out videos in real life and digital zoom.

2. Remote Access: With professional security systems, you can view your home's security cameras from anywhere with an internet connection by using unique access codes. This allows you to see what is happening in your home, even when you're away.

Drawbacks of Professional Home Security Systems​

1. Work Needed: While they provide the highest quality, they require more installation work. They require more equipment and wiring than DIY systems and must be properly installed to keep your home as secure as possible.

2. Maintenance: Professional security systems require regular maintenance. Professional security systems need to be serviced from time to time to keep your home's security up to par.

In conclusion, DIY home security systems are an option, and they may be the right choice for you if you are looking for a very inexpensive solution. However, if you are looking for a higher quality system with more features and better battery life, consider investing in a professional security system. By getting in touch with us at Harden Communications, we can set up a comprehensive system to monitor your home. Call us today with any questions you have!

What Should You Know About Fiber Optic Cables

What Should You Know About Fiber Optic Cables

When most people think of fiber optic cables, they think of the internet. While fiber optic cables are responsible for transmitting most of the world's data, they also have a host of other applications. Fiber optic cables are becoming an increasingly important part of our lives, from medical diagnostics to telecommunications. Here are just a few vital things you should know about them.

What are they?

Fiber optic cables are a particular type of cables that transmit signals over optical fibers. They are made of very thin glass fibers that transmit light signals. They can carry a lot more data than traditional copper cables, and they’re not as susceptible to interference. That’s why they’re often used in telecommunications networks and other high-tech applications that need high bandwidth for data transmission. Moreover, you can use them in offices, homes, and factories.

Advantages

There are several advantages of fiber optic cables:

  1. They have a high bandwidth capacity, which means they can carry more data than traditional copper cables.
  2. They’re not susceptible to interference, so that you can use them in noisy environments.
  3. They last longer than traditional copper cables.
  4. They’re smaller and lighter than traditional copper cables, making them easier to install.

Disadvantages

Fiber cables are more expensive than traditional copper cables. Moreover, they can be challenging to install. In addition, they can be sensitive to laser and intense UV light that can interfere with the transmission efficiency of the cable.

What You Should Look for When Buying

Be sure to choose the right type of cable that meets your needs. The two types of fiber cable are single-mode and multimode cables. Single-mode fiber optic cables are typically used in long-distance applications, while multimode fiber optic cables are used for shorter distances. Moreover, a single-mode cable can best handle 850nm and use 1300nm for multimode. In terms of cost, single-mode fiber optic cables are typically more expensive than multimode fiber optic cables.

What Are the Pros and Cons?

Single-mode fiber optic cables have a more extended reach, are less prone to interference, and handle more data. However, they are also more expensive and difficult to install. On the other hand, multimode fiber optic cables are less expensive and easier to install but cannot handle as much data as single-mode fiber optic cables. Moreover, multimode cables are more susceptible to interference.

What Do You Need to Know?

Be sure to consider your bandwidth needs, cost, distance to be covered, the data rate of the cables, the diameter of cables, and your application's environment. Single-mode cables have a data rate of up to 10 gigabits per second, while multimode cables have up to 25 gigabits per second. Furthermore, the diameter of single-mode cables is typically smaller than multimode cables. Therefore, you can easily bundle single-mode cables together to transmit more data than the multimode cables. Finally, single-mode cables are more difficult to install when it comes to installation because they require a tight bend radius.

Conclusion

Fiber optic cables are becoming increasingly important in our digital age. They’re used to connect cities and countries, deliver internet service, and more. If you want your business to stay ahead of the curve, it’s crucial to understand fiber optic cables and what they can do for you. At Harden Communications, we specialize in installing and maintaining fiber optic cables. We have the experience and expertise necessary to help your business take advantage of this growing technology. Contact us today to learn more about how fiber optics can benefit your business.