Issue link: https://www.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1327492
January/February/March 2021 I 65 Furthermore, it is important that the ICT professional develops the return on investment (ROI) calculation for the hardware and software products and customizations that may be needed for the project. In most circumstances, a case can be made that a savings can be achieved if a capital investment is made when using AI technology. Do not think about just equipment and cabling; think about the streamlining of processes and procedures as well. The bottom line is becoming increasingly important for any enterprise, and the ability to streamline processes and procedures assists the customer in achieving that specific metric. ESS Engineering ICT professionals may have their own ideas of how ESS engineering should be handled when approaching a project, but they must have an open mind. There are many factors that must be considered, including standards, existing system interoperability, and the use of certified contractors. After the exploratory phase of the project, an ICT professional begins to understand all the necessary components and their different parameters. Consider using a roles and responsibility matrix that can help to organize the many aspects of the project. Cabling requirements can vary greatly depending on the system. Category 6A balanced twisted-pair cabling typically is used for IP-based EAC and CCTV systems. However, composite cabling, multi-conductor twisted- pair, siamese cabling, and even traditional coaxial cabling may be needed when designing systems into new or existing infrastructure. Electronic access control cabling is typically composite cable that consists of multiple conductors under one jacket. Intercom systems typically require either Cat 5e, Cat 6 or Cat 6A or a multi-conductor cable (2, 4 or 6 wires). CCTV systems almost exclusively use a category cable (5e/6/6A) as they are IP based. There are still some non-IP CCTV systems in use where analog cameras in all likelihood are using RG-59, coaxial type cabling. It is important to note that each manufacturer is different. Network topology can vary from system to system, so when putting together a competitive bidding document, precautions must be taken to convey accurately the scope regardless of the bidding contractor's response. Review specifics at a scope review to make certain that there are no surprise gotchas that may pop up later in the project, such as unexpected change orders that are currently not on anyone's radar. One area of ESS that has recently taken off is wireless EAC. Traditionally, a door that needs to be electronically controlled is fully wired, including line voltage wiring for correct operation. The use of door hardware only to control doors via Wi-Fi or a dedicated wireless network is becoming increasingly acceptable to end users because of cost effec- tiveness and ease of use. It is advised that these types of EACs be used for non-mission-critical doors. Doors that are heavily used and are needed for overall facility functionality should still be hardwired.