What's Changing in ISO 2026 and Why it Matters for Your Installations | TEK TALK with Dan Barrera

In this episode of TEK TALK, Gordon is joined once again by Dan Barrera, Product Innovation Director at TREND Networks, to explore the latest developments in ISO (International Organization for Standardization) telecommunications standards and what they mean for the future of network infrastructure.Building on a previous discussion around TIA, this episode shifts focus to ISO and how its global, country-driven approach differs from company-based standards bodies. Dan explains how ISO brings together national delegations from around the world, each contributing to the development of international standards that guide how communication infrastructure is designed, installed and maintained. While this broader collaboration provides global alignment, it also means that ISO standards often take longer to develop, reflecting the scale and diversity of the industry.For installers, consultants, ICT teams and network professionals, staying aligned with standards remains critical. As networks continue to evolve and converge across building systems, ISO standards play a key role in ensuring performance, interoperability and long-term reliability across infrastructure projects.A major topic of discussion is Single Pair Ethernet (SPE), an emerging technology being developed by both ISO and TIA. Designed to extend Ethernet connectivity into building systems such as lighting, security, access control and HVAC, SPE enables lower bandwidth communication over a single pair of cables. This approach can help reduce infrastructure costs while supporting longer distances, making it particularly relevant for smart buildings and integrated systems.The conversation also highlights ongoing developments in fiber connectivity, including higher-density MPO connectors and evolving connector designs aimed at supporting increasingly complex data centre environments. As fiber systems grow in scale and density, ensuring correct polarity, continuity and ease of installation becomes more challenging, something ISO standards aim to simplify for field technicians and designers.Dan also provides a practical overview of the ISO IEC 14763 series, which underpins many aspects of cabling infrastructure. This includes general cabling principles, copper cabling, fiber cabling and coaxial cabling, as well as environmental guidance and a new area focused on education and training.Particular attention is given to sustainability, including reducing cable waste, removing legacy cabling and mitigating fire risks caused by excess materials in buildings. The discussion also introduces the upcoming training-focused standard, designed to create a global framework for skills development across design, installation, testing and maintenance roles, helping to address the growing skills gap in the ICT industry.Another key takeaway is the distinction between standards and regulations. While ISO standards define performance expectations and best practices, they are not legally binding. However, they remain essential for delivering reliable, high-performing infrastructure and are often enforced through contracts and project requirements rather than legislation.Overall, this episode provides a clear and practical ISO standards update, highlighting the areas professionals should be watching without introducing any major immediate changes to current installation practices. Instead, the focus is on preparing the industry for future developments, from smart buildings to higher-density networks.Watch now to hear Dan break down the latest ISO developments and what they mean for cabling infrastructure, emerging technologies and the future of network design.Website: https://www.trend-networks.com/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@trendnetworks#TEKTALK #TRENDNetworks #ISOStandards #SinglePairEthernet #SmartBuildings #EthernetNetworking #FiberConnectivity #MPOConnectors #NetworkStandards #ICTInfrastructure #CableInstallation #SustainableCabling