Send us a text Ever wondered what Labor Day really signifies? Buckle up as we journey through the history and significance of this often overlooked holiday. It's not just about the barbecues and long weekends, but a tribute to the tireless American labor movement and those hard-working men and women that have shaped our country. From the mesmerizing skyscrapers of New York to the mind-boggling tech innovation of Silicon Valley, we shed light on the remarkable contributions of our workforce. Let'...
Sep 05, 2023•14 min
Send us a text This week we rebroadcast a fan favorite. We are prepping our farm to protect it from the inbound hurricane so we decided to rebroadcast this episode. Curious about the ever-evolving world of ICT? Want to understand the complexities and benefits of MUTOAs and consolidation points? We've got you covered. This episode is a deep dive into the contrast between MUTOAs - or Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet Assemblies - and consolidation points. We unpack the advantages and pitfalls o...
Aug 29, 2023•19 min
Send us a text Unravel the mysteries of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) in copper testing alongside our guest for the day, Steve Cowles RCDD NTS, a product manager and technical services manager from AEM Precision Cable Test. Steve breaks down this complex topic, explaining the need for a higher signal to noise ratio for optimum performance, and the significance of channel operating margin testing. We also delve into the standards set by IEEE that ensure reliable and efficient cabling, with Steve ad...
Aug 22, 2023•37 min
Send us a text Are you ready to embark on a geeky journey through the world of fiber optics with the Fiber Nerds, Irving Perez and Eron Lloyd, MS, CONE, DCDC, OSP ? These tech wizards, armed with a plethora of certifications and years of hands-on expertise, offer up a treasure trove of knowledge that will leave you seeing fiber in a whole new light - pun intended! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned professional, there's something for everyone in this deep dive into the intricacies of fiber ...
Aug 15, 2023•45 min
Send us a text Want to master the art of telecommunications project management? Join us in an intriguing chat where we dissect the essence of scope definition, its pivotal role in setting boundaries and expectations between stakeholders, and its importance in averting scope creep. What's the real difference between VCSEL and LED light sources in data applications? Find out why VCSELs, despite their steep price, are the go-to choice for high-speed data applications, and how LEDs, with their cost-...
Aug 11, 2023•25 min
Send us a text Ready to unlock the secrets of nanofiber, a revolutionary type of fiber cabling? Join us on a deep dive into this groundbreaking technology with industry experts Lee Renfroe RCDD, Ernest Schirmer , and Roman Krawczyk, EE . We discuss the unique properties of nanofiber, underscoring its smaller size compared to traditional armored fiber and its impressive flexibility. Discover how the compactness of nanofiber cuts back on labor costs and can fit into tighter spaces, revolutionizing...
Aug 08, 2023•55 min
Send us a text Are you ready to debunk some myths and gain a deeper understanding of Power over Ethernet (PoE) technology? In our latest conversation with Tyler Andrews and Kim Johnson, members of the PoE Consortium, we peel back the layers of this misunderstood technology and its vast potential. This dynamic duo, with years of experience in ICT, share their insights on the intricate workings of the PoE Consortium and its tireless efforts in clearing misconceptions about PoE technology. Ever won...
Aug 01, 2023•42 min
Send us a text How many of us truly understand the risks associated with confined spaces? Did you know confined space accidents account for a significant number of deaths and injuries every year in the US? These aren't just statistics, these are real people with families, and the impact of such accidents is profound. This episode is dedicated to exploring the dangers posed by confined spaces, understanding their underlying causes, and critically, how to implement effective preventative measures....
Jul 25, 2023•24 min
Send us a text Invigorate your brand and electrify your social media presence with insights from Samantha McDonald of NECA and digital marketer Kevallyn Paskos. We kick things off by spotlighting the NECA BICSI Summit, a notable collaboration in the tech industry. Samantha and Kevallyn break down how social media can not only enhance the reach of such events but also amplify brand visibility and engagement. Get the inside scoop on attracting diverse audiences and creating an atmosphere buzzing w...
Jul 21, 2023•47 min
Send us a text Can you unravel the complexities of copper cable testing? Tune in as we discuss how to craft a comprehensive test plan, train your staff, and interpret the results. In this engaging conversation, we pull back the curtain on the importance of a proper kickoff meeting, the potential pitfalls of pulling too much cable, and the maintenance of your testing tools. Later on, we dive deeper, demystifying technical concepts like NVP and insertion loss. Learn about the value of quality patc...
Jul 14, 2023•35 min
Send us a text Are you in the ICT industry and in search of the right tools to streamline your workflow? Join me and my special guest, Tom Jallo RCDD from Softing, as we dive deep into the world of ICT tools and their game-changing potential. Tom brings a wealth of knowledge with a tool designed to make testing a breeze for technicians. Get to know about Softing's office locator kit, a tool crafted to help you identify unlabeled TOs at the end of a cable with utmost ease. Furthermore, we delve i...
Jul 11, 2023•36 min
Send us a text Are you ready to unlock the mysteries of the NECA BICSI Summit and discover what industry leaders have to say about the importance of certification? I promise you, this episode is a goldmine of insights. I had the chance to walk among industry giants and engage in enlightening conversations with Jeff Beavers from NECA and Carol Everett Oliver, the current BICSI president. We dug deep into the significance of NECA and why certification and competency is crucial in today’s rapidly e...
Jul 04, 2023•29 min
Send us a text Ever wondered about the mysteries of cable management and Ethernet speed? I'm Chuck Bowser, and in this chock-full episode, I'll guide you through the maze of shielded and unshielded cables, the difference between solid and stranded conductors, and the nuances of cable management that can significantly impact the performance and longevity of your networking equipment. Fresh from the NECA BICSI Summit in Denver, Colorado, I'm fired up to share my experiences and the wealth of knowl...
Jun 30, 2023•32 min
Send us a text Do you know the potential risks and consequences of not having your cable certifier calibrated regularly? Join us as we chat with Steve Cowles RCDD NTS from AEM, who shares his decades of experience and valuable insights on the importance of cable certifier calibration to ensure accurate and reliable test results. We discuss how the cable testing industry has evolved over the past few decades and why maintaining your tester's accuracy is crucial now more than ever. Throughout the ...
Jun 20, 2023•44 min
Send us a text Ever wondered about the intricacies of RJ45 mod plugs and the differences between stranded and non-stranded PoE cables? You're in luck! Join us for an enlightening conversation with Blake Tally, Vice President and Partner, at Go Simply Connect, who shares his vast knowledge and over 10 years of experience in the connector side of the industry, as well as insights from his partners in the cable side of the business. In this episode, we discuss the significance of the UL94VO rating ...
Jun 12, 2023•48 min
Send us a text Tired of endlessly revising your resume with no results? Our expert guest is here to help you finally land that dream job with some game-changing tips and insights. Discover how to avoid inputting your information twice during the application process, the crucial importance of including a cover letter, and the invaluable benefits of having someone else review your resume. We dive into the art of tailoring your resume for different job positions, and reveal the secret power of the ...
Jun 05, 2023•40 min
Send us a text Struggling to create a resume that leaps off the page and grabs the attention of your dream employer? Fear not! In this episode, we bring in Linda Burke, a certified professional resume writer and career coach since 1995. She shares her wealth of experience and takes us through the tough questions asked by installers, apprentices, project managers, estimators, ICT personnel, and customers, as we explore how to make your resume rise above the rest. Writing a resume can seem like an...
May 30, 2023•29 min
Send us a text They are not here yet but they are close! The second edition Field Guides, a must have for anyone in the industry, bridge the gap between the standards and how to actually perform the work. This book is good for both the Apprentice to the RCDD. I use this book consistently and is my most used BICSI Best Practice Manual. Make sure to stay tuned to BICSI to be informed when they are published! Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of c...
May 23, 2023•52 min
Send us a text This weeks After Hours Live we discuss balancing accuracy vs time when estimating cable length, using soap to pull cable, cable bend radius, Tier 1 vs Tier 2 testing, and finally ANSI Standards vs TDMM. Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me an email at chuck@letstalkcabling.com C...
May 19, 2023•33 min
Send us a text Fiber can be dangerous. This week we talk to Lee Renfroe with GoFroe and GoFar fiber training to talk about ISP and OPS fiber safety. We also cover some tips to make you better and quicker while terminating fiber. We close the conversation with where to find fiber training with GoFar! Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the ...
May 17, 2023•44 min
Send us a text We spend nearly an hour with Tyler Andrews from PoE of Texas. We cover what is PoE, the different levels like PoE, PoE+, PoE++, tips for installation and estimation, and how you can get involved to help direct where the PoE industry is going! Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for discussion send me...
May 09, 2023•58 min
Send us a text I am not an access control guy and I have always wondered how that part of the low voltage industry fishes door and window frames. Frame Frog has come out with a device that makes fishing a door frame easier than dropping a cable down a non-insulated wall!! Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on the show or have a topic for dis...
May 02, 2023•52 min
Send us a text We have a great conversation with Jim Hays, founder of Fiber Optic Association (FOA). We discuss the CFOT certification and the different ways you can obtain the certification. The history of FOA and how they got started and the pitfall when the same organization that certifies and teaches classes. Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a...
Apr 25, 2023•23 min
Send us a text I am starting a series highlighting content creators in the low voltage industry. This episode I bring on Todd Morse from BS with Todd, Steve Cowles RCDD NTS with Tech Talk with Steve, and Carrie Goetz from Careers for Women, Trades and Veterans in Tech. We talk about our inspiration, how we interact with the audience, how we pick and qualify guests, and advice for someone looking to getting into content creation . Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webp...
Apr 21, 2023•1 hr 4 min
Send us a text There are many smart technicians in our industry who come up with great ideas on how to improve work processes. There is more to bringing a new innovative product to market that you think. We talk to Christopher Harmon who invented FasClamp. A innovative fiber clamp that is durable and gets the job done. We talk to him about the entire process from brainstorming a new product, modifications, getting a patent, manufacturing, and finally selling. If you have an idea you want to brin...
Apr 17, 2023•44 min
Send us a text This week on Low Voltage Chat Live stream with your hosts Chuck Bowser and Kevalynn Paskos we discuss the ins and outs of doing walk throughs for a bid. We bring in some special guests Mark Higgason RCDD, Eric Quest INSTF, and Justin Hobbs RCDD TECH. They represent views from a customers, small contractor, large contractors point of view. We may have to do this again!!! Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the s...
Apr 14, 2023•42 min
Send us a text Testers are expensive. That presents a challenge for most ICT teams and Project Managers. Many companies can't just go out and buy one. So what are your options. We talk to Ben Hart from Rentelco. We talk about renting, leasing, and their processes for ensuring you are set up for success. Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like to be a guest on ...
Apr 11, 2023•33 min
Send us a text The vast majority of people in the ICT industry install Inside Plant cable mixed with same small outside plant jobs. The OSP portion of our industry can be very rewarding, fun, and challenging. We bring on Philip Klingensmith RCDD,OSP,RTPM,TECH, CT and Chad Scholtisek, RCDD, TECH, CT. Two Subject Matter Experts in the OSP realm. Listed to us as we discuss the basics of OSP including types, installer and designer considerations. Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to sto...
Apr 04, 2023•52 min
Send us a text We are starting off a new series called Low Voltage Chat. This is episode 1. I even got a co host! Kevallyn Poskos from KP Design. This episode we continue to celebrate women in ICT for March. We bring on Jasmine Scinto RCDD and Brian LaBad to talk about women in the industry. We finish the episode with a game called PickerWheel where we spin a wheel and they have to answer the question. It was a great episode. Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage ...
Mar 31, 2023•44 min
Send us a text Data Center careers are hot right now. There is a huge number of openings in all fields. Carrie Goetz, a Amazon best selling author, wrote a book on that subject called "Jump Start Your Career in Data Centers". We talk about the contents of the book and also why you should consider a job in Data Centers. Support the show Knowledge is power! Make sure to stop by the webpage to buy me a cup of coffee or support the show at https://linktr.ee/letstalkcabling . Also if you would like t...
Mar 28, 2023•46 min
