How to Do Cable Management Right in a Control Room

When designing a control room, cable management is often overlooked until it's too late. But in mission-critical environments like 911 dispatch centers, transit control hubs, or security operations, poor cable planning can lead to clutter, inefficiency, and even safety hazards. Here’s how to get it right from the start.

1. Start the Conversation Early

Cable management and power planning should begin at the earliest stages of your control room project. Ask key questions:

• Where is the power coming from—floor, wall, or ceiling? This affects how cables are routed and where access points are needed.

• Will you be using a raised floor system?

• How many CPUs, monitors, phones, and radios will be integrated into each console? Count every device since each one will need power and data connectivity.

• How will IT staff access internal components for maintenance? IT teams need to service equipment without disrupting operations. Plan for removable panels, slide-out trays, as well as front and rear access doors for your control consoles.

These questions help define the infrastructure needed to support your technology and workflow.

2. Design for Power Efficiency and Accessibility

Modern control room consoles, like those from Sustema, are designed with integrated heavy-duty power bars. These are strategically placed:

• Inside the wall system (e.g., 6-outlet 120V 15A bars)

• Underneath the worksurface

• Inside compartments on top of the worksurface

This setup ensures that all devices are powered safely and that standard cables can be used—reducing complexity and cost. Built-in raceways and grommets keep cables out of sight and out of the way, reducing trip hazards and visual clutter.

3. Separate Critical and Non-Critical Circuits

In 911 centers, separating critical and non-critical power circuits is essential. Sustema’s system allows each receptacle to represent a single circuit, enabling clear separation. These can be integrated directly into the console’s electrical raceways or wall structures.

This setup should be discussed with your IT manager, electrical engineer, and facilities team to ensure the power distribution aligns with your operational priorities. Watch account manager, Mark Meschino explain how these circuits are used to source power inside a control console.

4. Leverage Raised Floors for Flexibility

Raised access flooring offers several advantages:

• Cleaner Workspaces: Ideal for control rooms using external server rooms, reducing visible clutter.

• Easy Expansion: Modular flooring can be added or removed as your space evolves.

• Simplified Upgrades: New cables can be run by simply lifting floor panels—no need for major renovations.

• Cost-Effective: These systems are often reusable and portable, making them a smart investment for growing organizations.

5. Plan for Maintenance and Growth

Your cable management system should evolve with your technology. Your system should allow for:

• Easy access for IT maintenance

• Integration of future technologies

• Minimal disruption during upgrades

A well-organized cable infrastructure ensures your control room remains efficient, safe, and adaptable for years to come.

Start Your Control Room Project with Us

At Sustema, we understand that every control room is unique—and so are its power and cable management needs. Whether you're building a new 911 dispatch center, upgrading an existing operations hub, or planning for future growth, our team is here to help. Contact us today to start building a control room that meets your exact requirements.