Clear answers before you start a cabling or technology project.
Cables & Chips helps businesses plan, install, organize, and maintain the physical infrastructure that supports modern communication systems.
These frequently asked questions cover structured cabling, fiber, WiFi, VoIP support, CCTV, access control, MDF/IDF cleanup, project timelines, and commercial installation planning.
Need help with a specific project?
We offer site surveys to evaluate your space, understand your requirements, and recommend the best infrastructure solution before starting work.
General Services
Low voltage contractors, clients, and site surveys
Structured Cabling
CAT6, CAT6a, network cabling, and performance
Fiber & Connectivity
Fiber use, testing, and certification
Security Systems
CCTV, access control, and network integration
WiFi & Communication
WiFi design, VoIP cabling, and connectivity
General Services
What does a low voltage contractor do?
A low voltage contractor installs and maintains systems such as structured cabling, fiber optics, CCTV, access control, WiFi networks, VoIP systems, A/V systems, and network infrastructure for businesses and commercial environments.
What types of clients do you work with?
We work with commercial offices, enterprise clients, government facilities, financial firms, retail businesses, healthcare providers, and secure environments that require reliable and professionally installed infrastructure.
Do you provide free site surveys?
Yes. We offer site surveys to evaluate your space, understand your requirements, and recommend the best infrastructure solution before starting work.
Structured Cabling & Network Installation
What is structured cabling?
Structured cabling is the organized installation of network cables that support data, voice, video, and communication systems across a business environment.
Why is structured cabling important?
Proper cabling ensures reliable performance, easier troubleshooting, scalability, and long-term efficiency. Poor cabling can lead to downtime, confusion, and costly repairs.
What is the difference between CAT6 and CAT6a?
CAT6 is commonly used for high-speed business networks and can support gigabit performance, with 10 gigabit performance possible over shorter approved distances. CAT6a is designed for stronger 10 gigabit performance over longer runs with better resistance to interference, making it a better choice for higher-performance commercial environments.
Fiber & Connectivity
When should a business use fiber instead of copper cabling?
Fiber is ideal for high-speed, long-distance, and high-capacity connections, especially between floors, buildings, network closets, data rooms, or for backbone infrastructure.
Do you test and certify fiber installations?
Yes. We provide testing and certification to ensure the fiber network meets performance requirements and operates reliably.
Security Systems
Do you install CCTV and access control systems?
Yes. We install security camera systems, access control, and secure entry solutions for commercial and high-security environments.
Can security systems be integrated with the network?
Yes. Modern security systems are often network-based and can be integrated with IT infrastructure for monitoring, storage, remote access, and system management.
WiFi & Communication
Why is professional WiFi design important?
Proper WiFi design helps ensure full coverage, reduce dead zones, and support the number of users, devices, and applications in your space.
Do you install VoIP systems?
We install the cabling and infrastructure that supports VoIP systems, helping ensure reliable communication and connectivity for business phone systems.
Cable Cleanup & Maintenance
What is MDF/IDF cleanup?
MDF and IDF cleanup involves organizing, labeling, and removing unused cables to improve performance, airflow, access, and serviceability.
Why should old cabling be removed?
Old or abandoned cabling creates confusion, increases risk, restricts airflow, and makes troubleshooting, maintenance, and future upgrades more difficult.
Project & Pricing
How much does a network installation cost?
Costs vary depending on the size of the project, number of drops, building layout, cabling requirements, equipment needs, and system complexity. We provide custom quotes after evaluating the project.
How long does installation take?
Project timelines vary. Some small jobs can be completed in a single day, while full office buildouts, multi-floor cabling, security systems, or larger infrastructure projects may take several days or weeks.
Do you work after hours or weekends?
Yes. We can schedule work outside normal business hours to help minimize disruption to your staff, customers, and daily operations.
Speak with an experienced low voltage specialist.
Contact Cables & Chips to schedule a consultation or site survey for structured cabling, network infrastructure, security systems, WiFi, A/V, access control, or commercial installation work in NYC.
