In premises cabling, what does "horizontal cabling" refer to?

Horizontal cabling refers specifically to the cabling installed within the horizontal pathways that connect telecommunications rooms to work areas/extensions where equipment, such as computers and phones, is located. This type of cabling typically extends from the telecommunications room to the outlets or work areas on the same floor or level, forming a crucial part of the overall network infrastructure.

In a structured cabling system, horizontal cabling is standardized to ensure proper performance and interoperability among different devices. It generally includes the use of twisted-pair or fiber optic cables and is typically run through conduits, cable trays, or other pathways within commercial buildings.

This definition emphasizes how essential horizontal cabling is for facilitating communication across short distances in an office or commercial environment. By connecting various devices to the main network through this cabling, it supports efficient data transmission while maintaining organizational structure and compliance with cabling standards.