Warehouse robotics are only as strong as the cabling behind them
Modern fulfilment centres are under pressure to move faster, work smarter and scale without disruption. Robotics, automation and real-time tracking are helping operators meet that challenge. But while the technology on the warehouse floor gets most of the attention, the infrastructure behind it is just as important.
Structured cabling is one of the foundations of a high-performing automated warehouse. It supports the connectivity that robotics, wireless networks, sensors and tracking systems depend on every second of the day. If that foundation is weak, performance suffers.
Legacy cabling was never designed for today’s fulfilment environments. Many older systems were built for basic connectivity and simple power distribution. They cannot always support the speed, resilience and flexibility required by modern automation.
That matters because warehouse robotics rely on constant, reliable communication. Mobile robots, automated picking systems, scanners and sensors all need low-latency connectivity to operate effectively. If the underlying cabling infrastructure is outdated, businesses risk delays, communication failures and costly downtime. In a busy fulfilment centre, even a small infrastructure issue can have a major operational impact.
At Onnec, we work with major retailers and logistics businesses to deliver structured cabling for demanding operational environments. That experience gives us a clear view of what automated fulfilment centres need from their network infrastructure, both today and in the future.
At Onnec, we work with major retailers and logistics businesses to deliver structured cabling for demanding operational environments. That experience gives us a clear view of what automated fulfilment centres need from their network infrastructure, both today and in the future.
Why the right cabling partner matters
Choosing a specialist structured cabling partner is not just a technical decision. It is a business decision.
A specialist partner brings experience in designing and delivering the network infrastructure needed for complex automation environments. That includes understanding the demands of robotics, high-density wireless coverage, RFID systems, compliance requirements and future expansion.
Here are the five reasons that expertise matters.
1. Robotics Demand precision
Automation systems need fast, stable and low-latency connections. Robotics cannot perform at their best if the network infrastructure is inconsistent or poorly designed.
A specialist partner understands how to build the right fibre-optic and Cat6A environments to meet these demands. That means resilient connectivity, reliable performance and infrastructure that can cope with heavy operational loads.
2. strong wireless performance is essential
Many robots depend on wireless connectivity to receive instructions, report status and coordinate with wider warehouse systems. If Wi-Fi coverage is weak or patchy, operations can slow down quickly.
A specialist partner can design full warehouse coverage, with the access point density and resilience needed for robot-heavy environments and automated picking operations.
3. RFID and tracking systems rely on a strong network
RFID plays a key role in tracking stock, shipments and inventory in real time. To work properly, it needs robust wired and wireless infrastructure.
Fixed RFID readers often depend on wired Ethernet for consistent performance, while handheld devices rely on strong Wi-Fi. A specialist partner can carry out a full RF site survey and ensure both networks are designed to support accurate, efficient tracking. Without that, businesses risk lost stock, inaccurate data and avoidable supply chain issues.
4. compliance and safety cannot be overlooked
Fulfilment and logistics environments must meet strict standards for safety, fire protection and data security. In high-demand settings, there is little room for error.
Experienced structured cabling providers understand the standards required across complex operational sites and help ensure infrastructure is installed and documented correctly.
5. future growth depends on scalable infrastructure
Warehouse technology is evolving quickly. Robotics systems are becoming more advanced, operations are becoming more connected, and demand for data is rising.
A specialist partner will build structured cabling with future growth in mind, creating scalable infrastructure that can support new systems and changing operational needs without major rework later.
A non-specialist provider may appear more cost-effective at first. But short-term savings can quickly be wiped out by poor performance, integration issues, limited documentation and weak ongoing support.
In high-speed logistics environments, infrastructure problems are expensive. Delays, downtime and poor visibility can affect productivity, service levels and customer satisfaction. That is why experience matters.
Large-scale delivery for large-scale warehouses
Onnec’s experience in fulfilment environments is built on delivering at scale. As part of its nationwide support programme for a global online retailer, Onnec completed a 550,000 sq ft fulfilment centre project in Europe, the seventh site delivered under the wider programme. Initially appointed to install structured cabling for key services including conveyor systems, wireless access and CCTV, the scope expanded to include containment, AV systems and a site-wide public address and sound system.
The scale of delivery reflected the complexity of the environment. Onnec installed 3,500 CAT6 outlets and connections, 2km of OS2 and OM4 fibre, and 1,185 wireless access points, alongside 7.3km of basket tray and 24km of conduit and Copex. Delivered to one of the most challenging schedules in the programme, the project required 35,300 engineer hours and close coordination with the client to meet aggressive timelines. It is a strong example of Onnec’s ability to scale quickly, manage complexity and deliver robust, future-ready infrastructure for large warehouse and fulfilment operations.
Build the right foundation for automation
In warehouse automation, cabling is not a background detail. It is critical infrastructure.
Robotics and automated systems can only perform as well as the network behind them. With the right structured cabling partner, businesses can reduce risk, improve performance and create a stronger foundation for future growth.
At Onnec, we help organisations build the infrastructure modern fulfilment centres depend on, from wireless coverage and RFID readiness to scalable cabling for robotics. Our extensive experience delivering structured cabling projects for major retailers and logistics organisations means we understand the infrastructure demands of robotics, automation and real-time operational data. This enables us to design networks that are built to perform under pressure.
To find out how Onnec can support your automation strategy, get in touch with our team.
