Practical electrical wiring options for your workplace

Speed, reliability, value for money and energy efficiency: when it comes to installing practical electrical wiring and data systems in the office, this is the modern-day mantra. 

So what are the latest innovations in electrical wiring and how can they improve your business?

Fibre optics 

Fibre-optic cables are rapidly replacing traditional copper wiring as the preferred choice for fast and reliable data transfer. Fibre-optic cables can carry more information more securely and faster, over longer distances and with less interference or degradation.

While still more expensive than standard copper data cabling, fibre optics may be a good investment in the long term, especially in large office buildings with vast local area networks (LANs). 

Smart phones 

Phone technology has come a long way, says Malcolm Richards, CEO of Master Electricians. "These days phone systems can work entirely on your data network, so you don't need separate wiring," he says. 

Known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), this technology uses a broadband connection to transmit and receive calls at a fraction of the cost of regular calls. You can also use it for video conferencing, making long-distance communication cheaper and more effective.

Leaner lighting 

The push towards low-energy lighting is well underway, with compact fluorescent bulbs now the norm in most offices. But if you don't like the ambience created by fluoros, there's now an alternative that's easier on the eye – LED. 

"LEDs use even less power than compact fluorescent lights," Malcolm explains. "Generally you need to install more, as they're not as bright, but the combined power to run them is much cheaper." 

Going green

To make your office more environmentally friendly – and save money at the same time – consider installing a solar panel. With government rebates available, and several state government schemes that enable you to sell excess energy back into the grid, solar power is becoming an attractive option for forward-thinking workplaces.

What about wireless?

Imagine an office with virtually no electrical wiring at all – none of those ugly blue data cables sprouting like tentacles all over the place; no restrictions on where to place workstations.

Well, a wireless office is entirely possible, but according to Malcolm, it might be better to bide your time before diving in all the way.

"To date, wireless technology hasn't been as reliable as we'd like, so I'd still recommend installing data wires if you have the opportunity. If anything goes wrong with your wireless, at least you've got that connection." 

Things to remember 

• Consider fibre optics to enhance the capacity, speed and security of data transfer
• Explore new technology, like VoIP – it may dramatically cut your phone bills
• Make your office leaner and greener by exploring the latest energy-saving solutions like LED lighting and solar power
• If you need to squeeze in another workstation but don't have the cabling, consider going wireless

Get started

Rewiring your business premises to take advantage of the latest technology can result in a more functional and attractive space.

Call an electrical contractor today for advice about the latest practical electrical wiring innovations to improve your business.