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Contact Us (978) 537-9961 or email usANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B (B.1, B.2 and B.3)Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard

The latest standard published by TIA is the ANSI/TIA/EIA 568-B standard. It is a revision of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A that was published in 1995. It includes the core document, all five existing addenda and TSB-67, TSB-72, TSB-75 and TSB-95. This standard is published as a 3-part document:

The TIA/EIA-568-B.1 discusses general requirements. It provides information in regards to planning, installing and verifying structured cabling systems in commercial buildings. It also establishes performance parameters for cabling systems such as channels and permanent links. One of the major changes in this document is that it only recognizes Category 5e (or higher category) cabling for the second data outlet.

The TIA/EIA-568-B.2 discusses balanced twisted-pair cabling components. This standard specifies cabling components and transmission requirements for a cabling system.

The TIA/EIA-568-B.3 discusses optical fiber cabling components. This standard specifies components and transmission requirements for optical fiber cabling systems.

The purpose of this standard is to provide the minimum requirements for telecommunications cabling within a commercial building or campus environment.

The standard addresses the six major components of a structured cabling system:

Entrance facility Main/Intermediate cross-connect

Backbone distribution

Horizontal cross-connect

Horizontal distribution

Work area

Scope of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B

ENTRANCE FACILITYThe entrance facility contains the cables, connecting hardware, protection devices and other equipment required to connect outside plant facilities to premise cabling. The components within this room may be used for public or private network connections. The demarcation point between service providers and the customer owned premises cabling is typically located in this room.

MAIN/INTERMEDIATE CROSS-CONNECTThe backbone distribution topology is based on a hierarchical star topology with no more then two levels of cross-connects, the main cross-connect and the intermediate cross-connect. This will allow the possibility to support a variety of application requirements and will provide a maximum flexibility in the backbone cabling system. The horizontal cross-connect in a TR can be cabled directly to the main cross-connect or to an intermediate cross-connect, then to the main cross-connect.

Backbone Distribution in a Hierarchical Star Topology

BACKBONE DISTRIBUTIONThe function of the backbone distribution is to provide interconnection between telecommunications rooms, equipment rooms and entrance facilities to serve the needs of tenants in one or multiple buildings.

The components involved in backbone distribution include:

Backbone cables Intermediate and main cross-connects

Mechanical terminations

Patch cords or jumpers for backbone-to-backbone connections.

General Design GuidelinesPlanning should consider the maximum amount of backbone cable, media additions (optical fiber) and number of connections required during a period spanning from three to ten years.

Consider the proximity of metallic cables to possible sources of electromagnetic interference.

TopologyThe backbone distribution system is to follow a hierarchical star topology.

Each horizontal cross-connect in a TR is cabled to a main cross-connect or an intermediate cross-connect and then a main cross-connect.

There cannot be more than two hierarchical levels of cross-connect.

At most, one cross-connect can be passed through to go from the horizontal cross-connect to the main cross-connect.

Three or fewer cross-connects can be passed through to go from one horizontal cross-connect to a second horizontal cross-connect.

Systems designed for non-star configurations (ring, bus or tree) can usually be accommodated by the hierarchical star topology.

If special requirements for bus or ring configurations are expected, it is allowable to cable directly between telecommunications closets.

This cabling is in addition to the basic star topology.

Recognized Backbone Distribution MediaRecognized media may be used individually or in combination. These media are:

100 ohm UTP cable 50/125 µm optical fiber cable

62.5/125 µm optical fiber cable

Single-mode optical fiber cable

150 ohm STP-A cable. This media is still a recognized media but is not recommended for new installations

Media Selection CriteriaThe choice of backbone distribution media will depend on the characteristics of specific applications. Factors to consider in making a selection include:

Flexibility with respect to supported services Required useful life of backbone cable

Site size and user population

In-Building and Inter-Building Backbone Cabling DistancesRecommended maximum distances are application and media dependent. It is not assured that all applications will function properly over the specified distances.

Maximum Backbone Distribution Distances

Media Type

HorizontalCross-Connectto MainCross-Connect

HorizontalCross-Connectto IntermediateCross-Connect

MainCross-Connectto IntermediateCross-Connect

UTP 800 m(2,624 ft)

300 m(984 ft)

500 m(1,640 ft)

62.5/125 µmor 50/125 µmoptical fiber

2,000 m(6,560 ft)

300 m(984 ft)

1,700 m(5,575 ft)

Single-modeoptical fiber

3,000 m(9,840 ft)

300 m(984 ft)

2,700 m(8,855 ft)

For high-speed data applications the use of Category 3 or 5e 100 ohm UTP backbone cable shall be limited to a total distance of 90 m (295 ft).

The capability of single-mode optical fiber may allow for distance up to 60 km (37 miles), however, this is outside the scope of the standard.

Note: These maximum backbone distribution distances are the values found in the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1 Standard.

HORIZONTAL CROSS-CONNECTThe termination of horizontal cable is the primary function of the horizontal cross-connect that is housed in a telecommunications room. Cable of all media types are terminated on compatible connecting hardware. Backbone cable is also terminated on compatible hardware. Connecting hardware, jumper wire and patch cords are collectively referred to as the horizontal cross-connect.

Telecommunications Room FunctionsThe primary function is to contain horizontal cable terminations of all recognized types.

Recognized types of backbone cable are also terminated here. Cross-connections of horizontal and backbone terminations using jumper wire or patch cords allow for flexibility to extend services to telecommunications outlet/connectors. The intermediate or main cross-connect for portions of the backbone cabling system may also be found in the telecommunications room separate from the horizontal cross-connect.

Cross-Connections and InterconnectionsMoves, add-ons or changes are to be completed by performing cross-connects or interconnects. Cross-connects are connections between horizontal cabling and backbone or equipment connecting hardware. Connections made directly between equipment and horizontal cabling are called interconnects.

HORIZONTAL DISTRIBUTIONHorizontal distribution is the part of the telecommunications cabling system running from the work area to

the horizontal cross-connect in the TR.

Horizontal cabling includes:

Horizontal distribution cables Telecommunications outlet/connector in the work area

Mechanical termination of the cable media

Patch cords/jumpers in the TR.

Note: May also include a multi-user telecommunications outlet assembly (MUTOA) or a consolidation point (CP).

General Design GuidelinesThe horizontal distribution system must satisfy current requirements and should facilitate ongoing maintenance and relocation. Also consider future equipment and service changes.

After installation, horizontal cabling is usually less accessible than other cabling. Horizontal cabling is subject to the greatest amount of activity in the building (approx. 90%).

Consider the diversity of possible services/applications to be used. Consider the proximity of cables to possible sources of electromagnetic interference.

TopologyThe horizontal distribution system must follow a star topology.

The telecommunications outlet/connector in the work area is to be directly connected to a horizontal cross-connect in a telecommunications room located on the same floor as the work area.

Bridged taps and splices are not permitted.

DistancesRegardless of the media type used for horizontal distribution, the maximum distance is 90 m (295 ft).

This maximum distance is for the amount of cable required to get from the work area outlet to the horizontal cross-connect in the TR.

For each horizontal channel a maximum of 10 m (33 ft) is permitted for work area cords, TR patch cords, jumper wires and equipment cords (inclusive).

At the horizontal cross-connect, the maximum length of patch cords/jumpers used to connect horizontal cable to equipment or backbone cable is not to exceed 5 m (16 ft).

It is recommended that the maximum length of cord used in the work area should not exceed 5 m (16 ft).

Recognized Horizontal Distribution MediaRecognized media may be used individually or in combination. These media are:

Four-pair 100 ohm unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable 50/125 µm optical fiber cable

62.5/125 µm optical fiber cable

150 ohm STP-A (shielded twisted-pair) cable. This media is still a recognized media but is not recommended for new installations.

Hybrid cables (multiple types of media under a single sheath) may be used in the horizontal distribution system if each recognized cable type meets the transmission requirements and color-code specifications for that cable type.

100 ohm UTP cables of mixed categories are not recommended under the same sheath. Crosstalk specifications between cables of a hybrid cable should be met.

It must be possible to distinguish hybrid UTP cables from multi-pair UTP backbone cable.

Hybrid cable made up of optical fiber and copper conductors may be referred to as composite cable.

Media Selection CriteriaEach work area must be equipped with at least two telecommunications outlets/connectors.

One outlet may be associated with voice and the other with data.

The first outlet shall be a 4-pair 100 ohm UTP cable, Category 3 or higher (Category 5e recommended).

The second outlet shall be one of the following media:

Four-pair 100 ohm UTP cable Category 5e cable Two-fiber 50/125 µm optical fiber cable

Two-fiber 62.5/125 µm optical fiber cable

WORK AREAWork area components are from the outlet to the work area equipment. It is assumed a maximum of 5 m (16 ft.) is used for the modular cord at the work area. Four-pair UTP cables are terminated in 8-position modular jacks at the work area. The pin/pair assignments are referred to as T568A and T568B.

Work Area Components

Copper telecommunications outlet/connector Work area components fall outside the scope of the standard. Work area equipment includes a large variety of equipment. Included are telephones, fax machines, data terminals and computers. Work areas are generally considered to be non-permanent, and are expected to change. Therefore, work areas should be designed to be relatively easy to change.

Telecommunications Outlet/ConnectorPin/pair assignment for 100 ohm UTP cable is recommended to follow the T568A or the T568B configuration. These configurations, shown in the illustration below, depict the front view of the telecommunications outlet/connector.

It is important to use only one pin/pair configuration (either T568A or T568B) for any given link or channel, and preferably for the entire building.

Eight-position jack pin/pair assignments

Optical fiber telecommunications outlet/connectorThe optical fiber cable used in horizontal cabling shall be terminated at the work area with a duplex optical fiber outlet/connector.

The 568SC connector is the recommended connector at the work area Small form factor connector type may also be considered.

Work Area CordsThe horizontal distribution system assumes a maximum cord length of 5 m (16 ft).

Cables and connectors should meet or exceed patch cord recommended requirements.

Special AdaptationsIf application specific adaptations such as impedance matching devices are required, they must be external to the telecommunications outlet/connector.

Some commonly used adapters include the following:

A special cable or adapter when the equipment connector is different from the outlet/connector "Y" adapters to permit two services to run on a single cable

Passive adapters used when the horizontal cable type is different from that required by the equipment

Active adapters when connecting devices using different signaling schemes

Adapters allowing pair transposition for compatibility purposes

Termination resistors

Consider adapter compatibility with premises cabling and equipment. Adapters may have detrimental effects on the transmission performance of the telecommunications cabling system.

HORIZONTAL CABLING FOR OPEN OFFICESA horizontal cabling termination point (multi-user telecommunications outlet assembly) and/or intermediate horizontal cabling interconnection point (consolidation point) provide more flexibility in open office layouts with modular furniture, where frequent office rearrangements are performed. Both the multi-user telecommunications outlet assembly and the consolidation point shall be located in a fully accessible, permanent location.

Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet AssemblyThe multi-user telecommunications outlet assembly (MUTOA) is a termination point for the horizontal cabling, consisting of several telecommunications outlets in a common location. The modular line cord extends from the MUTOA to the terminal equipment without any additional intermediate connections. This configuration allows the open office plan to change without affecting the horizontal cabling.

Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet Assembly

The following guidelines shall be followed when installing a MUTOA;

The MUTOA shall not be installed in a ceiling The maximum modular cords length shall be 20 m (66 ft.)

The modular cord connecting the MUTOA to the terminal equipment shall be labeled on both ends with a unique identifier

A MUTOA shall serve a maximum of twelve work areas

The MUTOA shall be marked with the maximum allowable work area cabling (modular cord) length as per the following table:

Am (ft.)

Bm (ft.)

Cm (ft.)

Total Channelm (ft.)

5 (16) 90 (295) 5 (16) 100 (328) 5 (16) 85 (279) 9 (30) 99 (325) 5 (16) 80 (262) 13 (44) 98 (322) 5 (16) 75 (246) 17 (57) 97 (319) 5 (16) 70 (230) 22 (72) 97 (319) Horizontal and Work Area 24 AWG UTP Cabling Lengths

Consolidation PointThe consolidation point (CP) is an interconnection point within the horizontal cabling. The consolidation point performs a "straight-through" intermediate interconnection between the horizontal cabling coming from the horizontal cross-connect and the horizontal cabling going to a MUTOA or the telecommunications outlet in the work area. Cross-connection between these cables is not allowed. A consolidation point may be useful when reconfiguration is frequent. but not so frequent as to require the flexibility of MUTOA.

Consolidation Point

The following guidelines shall be followed when installing a consolidation point;

Ensure that the total channel distance is 100 meters (330 ft.) or less It is recommended that the consolidation point be located at least 15m (49 ft.) from the

telecommunications room in order to avoid additional NEXT due to short link resonance of multiple connections in close proximity

No more than one consolidation point and one MUTOA shall be used within the same horizontal run

A CP shall serve a maximum of twelve work areas

Copper Cabling Transmission PerformanceTransmission performance depends on:

Cable characteristics Connecting hardware

Patch cords and cross-connect wiring

Number of connections (maximum of four)

Installation and maintenance

Channel Test ConfigurationChannel testing is used to verify the performance of the overall channel.

The channel includes the following components:

Up to 90 m (295 ft.) of horizontal cable Cable between TR and an optional consolidation point and from the consolidation point to the

telecommunications outlet

Work area cord

Telecommunications outlet/connector

Cross-Connections in the telecommunications room

Patch cord or jumper wire

Telecommunications room equipment cord

The total length of equipment cords, patch cords and jumper wires and work area cords is not to exceed 10m (33 ft.)

Channel Test Configuration

Permanent LinkThe permanent Link test configuration represents the permanently installed cabling. It includes:

Up to 90 m (295 ft.) of horizontal cable Cable between TR and an optional consolidation point and from the consolidation point to the

telecommunications outlet

A connection at each end of the horizontal cable

The permanent link excludes both the cable portion of the field test instruments cord.

Permanent Link Test Configuration

Parameters discussed in the document for channel and permanent links are:

Insertion loss NEXT loss

Power sum NEXT

ELFEXT loss

Power sum ELFEXT

Return loss

Propagation delay

Delay skew

Category 5 Cabling TransmissionSince the minimum requirement for copper cabling systems is now Category 5e cabling systems; in the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1, there is an informative annex that provides cabling transmission performance for Category 5 legacy systems.

The important parameters to meet are the Return Loss and the EXFEXT. If an existing Category 5 installation fails either Return Loss or the ELFEXT parameters given in the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1, annex D, corrective actions should be taken. The document specifies different options to correct the failure. Select the options(s) which is the most appropriate to your solution.

Option 1: Replaces the Category 5 patch cords. This will possibly correct Return Loss failures. Option 2: If possible, reconfigure the cross-connect as an interconnect.

Option 3: Replace the Category 5 transition point or consolidation connector with a Category 5e transition point or consolidation point connector.

Option 4: Replace the Category 5 work area outlet connector with a Category 5e work area outlet connector

Option 5: Replace the Category 5 interconnect with a Category 5e interconnect.

Testing should be performed with an enhanced level II (level II-E) field tester or better.

Optical Fiber Cabling Transmission PerformanceMinimum recommended performance for a multimode or single-mode optical fiber cabling system are described in this standard.

A typical Link segment is found between the telecommunications outlet/connector and the horizontal cross-connect. The link segment includes.

Optical fiber cable (length depends on application) Connectors

Splices

Link Configuration

The single performance parameter for optical fiber cabling system is the link attenuation. It is the only parameter that can be affected by the installation and can be tested in the field. Depending on the application, a budget loss is allocated for the link segment.

Centralized Optical Fiber CablingThe purpose of the centralized optical fiber cabling system is to provide a fiber-to-the-desk cabling system utilizing centralized electrons versus the traditional method of distributing the electronics to the individual floors.

Work area connections are extended to the main cross-connect by utilizing either pull-through cables, an interconnect or a splice in the telecommunications room. Use of an interconnection between the horizontal and backbone cabling provides the greatest flexibility, ease of manageability and can easily be migrated to a cross-connect.

The maximum horizontal cabling length is specified at 90m (295 ft.). The distance of horizontal and backbone cabling combined with work area cords, patch cords and equipment cords is not to exceed 300m (984 ft.).

Centralized cabling systems shall be located within the same building of the work areas being served. All move and change activity shall be performed at the main cross-connect. Horizontal links may be added and removed in the telecommunications room.

When using the pull-through method, the cable is to have a continuous sheath from the work area through the telecommunications room to the centralized cross-connect. The pull-through cable length shall be limited to 300m (984 ft.).

When designing a centralized cabling system, provisions shall be made to allow for the migration from pull-through, interconnect or splice to a cross-connect implementation. To facilitate this migration, sufficient space shall be left in the telecommunication room for additional patch panels. In addition, adequate cable slack shall be left in the telecommunications room to allow for the cables to be moved to the cross-connect location.

Slack can be stored as either cable or unjacketed fibers. When storing slack, provisions shall be made to ensure bend radius limitations are not violated. Cable slack can be stored within an enclosure or on the wall of the telecommunications room. Protective enclosures shall be used when storing slack fibers.

When planning the wall-mount or rack-mount layout, provisions should be made to allow future growth.

When sizing backbone cabling, provisions should be made for future horizontal links thereby minimizing the need for additional backbone cables. The backbone fiber count should be capable of supporting present and future networking technologies. Typically two fibers are required for each application connection required at the work area.

Labeling of the centralized cabling system shall follow the requirements as specified in TIA/EIA-606. To ensure correct fiber polarity, the centralized cabling system shall implement the A-B orientation

at the work area and B-A orientation at the centralized cross-connect as specified in ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1

Fibers can be joined by either using re-mateable connectors or splices. If connectors are used, the connector shall meet the specifications as defined in ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3. Fibers may be fusion or mechanically spliced, provided the requirements as specified in ANSI/TIA/EIa-568-B.3 are met.

New Published Addenda:

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 addendum 1This addendum provides the Category 6 requirements for channel and permanent links. The Category 6 cabling systems are part of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B core document and follow all the structured cabling requirements, for example, topology, recognized media type, horizontal and backbone design requirements including the work area.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 addendum 2This addendum is a revision of sub-clause 4.3.4.8, 4.4, 4.4.1, 4.4.4.9 and 5.4.3 of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 document regarding the NEXT parameter equation for Category 3 cables.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 addendum 3This addendum is a revision of clause 1.2.5 regarding additional considerations for insertion loss and return loss pass/fail determination.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3 addendum 1The purpose of this addendum is to provide additional transmission performance specifications for 50/125 µm optical fiber cable capable of supporting 10 Gb/s serial transmission up to 300m (984 ft.) using 850 nm nominal wavelength lasers. The fiber is called 850 nm Laser-Optimized 50/125 µm multimode optical fiber cable.

 

ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-ACommercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces

The primary focus of this standard is to provide design specifications and guidance for all building facilities relating to telecommunications cabling systems and components. This standard identifies and addresses six prominent components of the building infrastructure:

Entrance facility Equipment room

Backbone pathways

Telecommunications room

Horizontal pathways

Work area

Scope of ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A

ENTRANCE FACILITYANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A defines an entrance facility as any location where telecommunications service enters into a building and/or where backbone pathways linking to other buildings in a campus environment are located. The entrance facility may contain public network interface devices as well as telecommunications equipment. The standard recommends that the location of the entrance facility should be in a dry area, close to the vertical backbone pathways.

EQUIPMENT ROOMAn equipment room (ER) is defined as any space where telecommunications equipment common to the occupants of a building resides. In the design and location of the equipment room, one should provide room for expansion and should consider water infiltration. Since the telecommunications equipment in this room is usually of a large size, delivery accessibility should be a consideration as well. The minimum recommended size for this room is 14 m2 (150 ft2).

General Design Considerations Equipment room: a single centralized space housing telecommunications equipment that serves a

building. Common equipment including PBXs, computing equipment such as a mainframe and video switches.

Only equipment directly related to the telecommunications system, control system and its environmental support system is to be housed in the equipment room.

Ideally, the equipment room should be located close to the main backbone pathway to allow for easier connection to the backbone pathway.

Sizing Issues An equipment room is sized to meet the known requirements of specific types of equipment. Expected future requirements should also be considered Equipment room design should allow for non uniform building occupancy

The recommended practice is to provide 0.07 m2 (0.75 ft2) of equipment room space for every 10 m2

(100 ft2) of usable floor space (work areas)

o If work area density is expected to be greater, provide more equipment room space.

Other Equipment Room Design IssuesMake sure that the floor loading capacity is sufficient to bear both the distributed and concentrated load of installed equipment. The equipment room should not be located below water level; preventative measures should be taken to prevent water infiltration. Sources of electromagnetic interference, vibration, room height, contaminants, sprinkler systems, HVAC equipment dedicated to the equipment room, interior finishes, lighting, power, grounding and fire prevention shall be taken in consideration. Access to the ER shall be provided by a minimum of one door of 910 mm (36 in.) wide and 2000 mm (80 in.) high.

BACKBONE PATHWAYS

INTER-BUILDING PATHWAYSIn a campus environment, inter-building pathways are required to connect separate buildings. The ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A standard lists underground, buried, aerial and tunnel as the main pathway types used. This information is contained in normative Annex C of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A standard. Additional requirements for customer-owned outside plant can be found in the standard ANSI/TIA/EIA-758 Customer-Owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Cabling Standard.

Underground Inter-building Backbone PathwaysAn underground pathway is considered to be a component of the entrance facility.

Pathway planning must consider the following:

Limitations dictated by the topology (this includes land development) Grading of the underground pathway to permit proper drainage

Need to vent gaseous vapors

Amount of vehicle traffic to determine the amount of cover over the pathway and whether or not concrete encasement is required.

Underground pathways consist of conduit, ducts and troughs; possibly including manholes.

All conduit and duct are to have a diameter of 100 mm (4 in.) Bends are not recommended; if required there should be no more than two 90° bends.

Direct Buried Inter-building Backbone PathwaysA direct buried pathway is considered to be a component of the entrance facility.

In such cases, the telecommunications cables are completely covered in earth.

Direct burial of telecommunications cables is achieved by trenching, augering or boring (pipe-pushing).

Plowing is not covered by the standard.

When selecting a route for the pathway, it is important to consider the landscaping, fencing, trees, paved areas and other possible services.

Aerial Inter-building Backbone PathwaysAn aerial pathway is considered to be a component of the entrance facility.

In such cases, the facility consists of poles, cable-support strand and support system.

Some considerations to make when using aerial backbone include the following:

Appearance of the building and surrounding areas Applicable codes

Separation and clearances for electrical and roads

Span length, building attachments, storm loading and mechanical protection

Number of cables currently and future growth potential.

Tunnel Inter-building Backbone PathwaysTunnels provide pathways for conduit, trays, wireways or support strand.

The location of pathways within a tunnel should be planned to allow for accessibility as well as for separation from other services.

INTRA-BUILDING (IN-BUILDING) PATHWAYSIntra-building backbone pathways are used to place backbone cables between the equipment room and the entrance facility, the entrance facility and the telecommunications room or the equipment room and the telecommunications room. Pathways can be either conduit, sleeves, slots or cable trays. It is very important to ensure that all backbone pathways are properly firestopped as required by applicable codes.

Vertical Backbone PathwaysMade up of vertically aligned telecommunications rooms.

Rooms located on separate floors are connected with sleeves or slots.

Elevator shafts are NOT to be used to locate backbone pathways.

Horizontal Backbone PathwaysIf a telecommunications room can not be vertically aligned with the one above or below, or if a room cannot be vertically aligned with the entrance facility room, a horizontal backbone pathway is used to connect them.

Design IssuesWhen using conduit (100 mm [4 in.]) or sleeves, the following amount of backbone pathway is recommended:

One sleeve or conduit per 5000 m2 (50 000 ft2) of usable floor space to be served by that backbone system

In addition, two spare sleeves or conduits for a minimum of three.

Conduit, sleeve, and tray fill specifications can be found in this standard.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ROOMThe telecommunications room (TR), formally known as telecommunications closet (TC), is defined as the space that acts as the common access point between backbone and horizontal distribution pathways. TR's contain telecommunications equipment, control equipment, cable terminations and cross-connect wiring.

General Design ConsiderationsThe location of the telecommunications room should be as close as practical to the center of the floor area to be served:

It is preferable to locate the TR in the core area.

Room space should not be shared with electrical equipment.

Size and Spacing Issues It is recommended to have at least one TR per floor; additional TR's are recommended when:

The usable floor area to be served is greater than 1000 m2 (10,000 ft2) A rule-of-thumb estimates usable floor space at 75% of total floor space

The length of horizontal distribution cable required to reach the work area is greater than 90 m (295 ft).

When there are multiple TR's on a single floor, it is recommended to interconnect these rooms with at least one conduit (trade size 3) or equivalent. Assuming one work area per 10 m2 (100 ft2), the TR should be sized as follows:

Usable floor area Room size

m2 ft2 m ft

1000 10,000 3 x 3.4 10 x 11 800 8000 3 x 2.8 10 x 9 500 5000 3 x 2.2 10 x 7

Other TR design issuesFloor loading is to be at least 2.4 kPa (50 lbf/ft2).

Two walls are to be covered with 2.6 m (8 ft.) high, 20 mm (3/4 in.) A-C plywood to attach equipment. Sufficient lighting is to be provided. Wall, floor and ceiling finishes should be light in color to enhance room lighting. No false ceilings. For powering equipment, at least two dedicated duplex electrical outlets on separate circuits are to be provided. For convenience, duplex electrical outlets should be placed at 1.8 m (6 ft.) intervals around perimeter walls.

There are instances when it is desirable to have a power panel installed in the TR.

Room penetrations (sleeves, slots, horizontal pathways) must be properly firestopped in compliance with applicable codes. Security and fire protection are to be provided. It is recommended to have continuous Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning (HVAC) - 24 hours per day, 365 days a year. When active equipment are present, a sufficient number of air changes should be provided to dissipate the heat.

Access to the TR shall be provided by a minimum of one door of 910 mm (36 in.) wide and 2000 mm (80 in.) high.

HORIZONTAL PATHWAYSHorizontal pathways are facilities used in the installation of horizontal cabling from the work area outlet to the telecommunications room. These pathways must be designed to handle all types of cables including: unshielded twisted-pair, and optical fiber. When looking over the size of the pathway, always consider the quantity and size of the cables to be used and allow room for growth. The following is a list and brief description of pathways recognizedby the ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A standard.

Underfloor Duct Underfloor ducts may be a system of rectangular distribution and feeder ducts or a network of raceways embedded in concrete.

Distribution ducts are those ducts from which the wires and cables emerge to a specific work area Feeder ducts are those ducts which connect the distribution ducts to the telecommunications room.

For general office use, the practice is to provide 650 mm2 (1 in2) of cross-sectional underfloor duct area per 10 m2 (100 ft2) of usable floor space. This applies to both distribution and feeder ducts.

This is based on the following assumptions:

Three devices per work area One work area per 10 m2 (100 ft2).

Access FloorThe access floor is made up of modular floor panels supported by pedestals with or without lateral bracing.

Used in computer and equipment rooms as well as general office areas.

It is necessary to design floor penetrations for the type and number of work areas.

Penetrations may be located anywhere on the access floor Service outlets must not be placed in traffic areas or other areas where they may create a hazard to

the occupants.

Conduit Conduit types include electrical metallic tubing, rigid metal conduit and rigid PVC.

The type of conduit used must meet local building and electrical codes Metal flex conduit is not recommended, due to possible cable abrasion problems.

Using conduit for a horizontal raceway system for telecommunications cabling should be considered only when:

Telecommunications outlet locations are permanent Device densities are low

Flexibility is not a requirement.

Installed conduit requirements for support, end protection and continuity are specified in appropriate electrical codes.

No section of conduit can be longer than 30 m (100 ft.) No section of conduit can contain more than two 90° bends between pull points or pull boxes.

Cable Trays and WirewaysThese are prefabricated, rigid structures consisting of side rails and a solid or ventilated bottom, used for the containment of telecommunications cables.

Trays and wireways can be located above or below ceiling in plenum or non-plenum applications. For general office use, the practice is to provide 650 mm2 (1 in2) cross-sectional tray or wireway area per 10 m2 (100 ft2) of usable floor space.

This is based on the following assumptions:

Three devices per work area One work area per 10 m2 (100 ft2).

Ceiling Pathways Conditions for ceiling distribution systems include following:

Inaccessible ceiling areas (lock-in ceiling tiles, drywall, plaster) are not to be used as distribution pathways

Ceiling tiles must be removable and placed at a maximum height of 3.4 m (11 ft.) above the floor

There should be adequate and suitable space available in the ceiling area for the recommended distribution layout. A minimum of 75 mm (3 in.) of clear vertical space above the ceiling tiles must be available

There should be a suitable means for supporting cables and wires. They are not to be laid directly on the ceiling tiles or rails

Raceways are to be provided where required by codes or design.

Perimeter RacewaysUsed to serve work areas where telecommunications devices can be reached from walls at convenient levels. The determining factor for using perimeter pathways is room size.

All devices in the room depend on services from fixed wall areas Practical capacity for perimeter raceways is 20% to 40% fill depending on cable-bending radius.

Power SeparationCo-installation of telecommunications cable and power cable is governed by applicable electrical code for safety. In addition, the following precautions should be considered in order to reduce noise coupling from sources suchas electrical power wiring, radio frequency (RF) sources, large motors and generators, induction heaters, and arc welders;

Increased physical separation Electrical branch circuit line, neutral, and grounding conductors should be maintained close together

(e.g., twisted, sheathed, taped, or bundled together) for minimizing inductive coupling into telecommunications cabling

Use of surge protectors in branch circuits can further limit the propagation of electrical surges.

Use of fully enclosed, grounded metallic raceway or grounded conduit or use of cable installed close to a grounded metallic surface will also limit inductive noise coupling.

WORK AREAWork areas are generally described as locations where building occupants interact with telecommunications devices. Work areas should have sufficient room for the occupant and required equipment. Typical work area is 10 m2 (100 ft2) in size. The telecommunications outlet represents the connection between horizontal cable and the cables connecting devices in the work area.

Work Area recommendationsRecommendations for work areas cover only specifications for telecommunications pathways and telecommunications outlets.

Work area telecommunications pathwaysFurniture pathways:

Manufacturers should be consulted to determine raceway capabilities and optional features available

Pathway capacity may be estimated to be approximately 20-40% of the pathway cross-section (this is a rough guide and does not account for corners and other factors).

Reception areas, control centers, attendant areas:

Theses areas typically have heavy demands for telecommunications equipment It is recommended to have independent, direct pathways to these areas from the

telecommunications room.

Telecommunications Outlets An example of such a connection point is a 100 mm x 100 mm (4 in. x 4 in.) electrical box with horizontal cable terminated on faceplate connectors.

Telecommunications devices in the work area are connected to the faceplate.

It is necessary to consider the number and type of devices to be connected.

Typical telecommunications devices include telephones, personal computers, graphic or video terminals, fax machines, modems.

At least one outlet box or plaster ring should be provided to each work area.

For areas where it will be difficult to add outlet boxes or plaster rings at a later time, at least two outlets or plaster rings are recommended for initial installation.

NEW ADDENDA TO ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-AAt the time of this writing, six addenda to ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A are published and the seventh one is a working draft addenda, addenda 7. These addenda provide additional requirements for:

Addendum 1: Surface RacewaysThis document is an amendment to replace section 4.7 of ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. It provides additional guidelines for perimeter pathways.

Addendum 2: Furniture Pathways and SpacesThis document is an amendment to replace section 6.3.3 of ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. It provides additional guidelines for furniture pathways.

Addendum 3: Access FloorsThis document is a revision of the subclause 4.3 of ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. It provides information in regards to access flooring systems.

Addendum 4: Poke-Thru fittingsThis document provides information on poke-thru devices. A poke-thru is a device that allows telecommunications and power cabling to be installed through above-grade concrete floors or steel deck flooring.

Addendum 5: Underfloor PathwaysThis document is a revision of the subclause 4.2 of ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. It provides information in regards to underfloor pathways.

Addendum 6: Multi-Tenant Pathways and SpacesThis document is the latest addenda published. It discusses the pathways and spaces requirement for a multitenant commercial office buildings.

Elements of multi-tenant spaces discussed in this document are:

Entrance room Access provider space

Service provider space

Common equipment room (CER)

Common telecommunications room (CTR)

Intrabuilding and interbuilding pathway requirements.

* Not covered by the ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A Standard

Overfloor raceways Exposed wiring.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-607Grounding and Bonding Requirements for Telecommunicationsin Commercial Buildings

The primary objective of this standard is to provide guidance around the issue of bonding and grounding as it relates to building telecommunications infrastructure. Before reviewing the highlights of this standard, it is important to understand a few basic terms used throughout the bonding and grounding specifications. Bonding means permanent joining of metallic parts for the purpose of forming an electrically conductive path to ensure electrical continuity and capacity to safely conduct any current likely to be imposed. Bonding conductor for telecommunications is a conductor used to interconnect the telecommunications bonding infrastructure to the service equipment (power) ground of the building. Effectively grounded refers to an intentional connection to earth through a ground connection of

sufficiently low impedance. It must have sufficient current-carrying capacity to be able to prevent the buildup of voltages that could potentially result in unnecessary hazard to connected equipment or persons. Ground is an intentional or accidental conducting connection between an electrical circuit or equipment and earth or conducting body serving in place of earth. Ground electrode conductor is a conductor used to connect the grounding electrode to:

The equipment grounding conductor The grounded conductor of the circuit at the service equipment

The source of a separate system.

Telecommunications bonding backbone (TBB) is a copper conductor used to connect the telecommunications main grounding busbar (TMGB) to the telecommunications grounding busbar (TGB) located on the floor farthest away.

Telecommunications bonding backbone interconnecting bonding conductor (TBBIBC) is a conductor used to interconnect telecommunications bonding backbones.

Telecommunications main grounding busbar (TMGB) refers to a busbar bonded to the service equipment (power) ground by the bonding conductor for telecommunications. The TMGB should be placed in a location that is convenient and accessible.

Scope of ANSI/TIA/EIA 607

BONDING AND GROUNDING COMPONENTSBonding Conductor for Telecommunications This conductor is used to bond the TMGB to the service equipment (power) ground which is in turn connected to the grounding electrode conductor.

There are three important design considerations to remember about bonding conductors:

The copper core conductor must be insulated and be at least No. 6 AWG in size These conductors should not be placed in metallic conduit. If this can not be avoided, the conductors

must be bonded to each end of the conduit if the run is longer than 1 m (3 ft.) in length

Ensure that bonding conductors are marked appropriately by using a green label.

Telecommunications Bonding Backbone (TBB)This is an insulated conductor used to interconnect all TGB's with the TMGB.

The TBB starts at the TMGB and extends throughout the building using telecommunications backbone pathways.

The TBB connects to TGB's in all telecommunication rooms and the equipment room.

The primary function of the TBB is to reduce or equalize differences between telecommunications systems bonded to it.

TBB design considerations include:

Consistency in the design of the telecommunications backbone cabling system Permit multiple TBBs as dictated by building size

Plan route to minimize TBB length

Do not use interior water pipe system of the building as a TBB

Do not use metallic cable shield as a TBB in new installations

Minimum conductor size is No. 6 AWG, consideration should be given to using a TBB as large as No. 3 AWG

Multiple, vertical TBBs must be bonded together at the top floor and at a minimum of every third floor in between using a TBB interconnecting bonding conductor

TBBs shall be installed without splices.

Telecommunications Bonding Backbone Interconnecting Bonding Conductor (TBBIBC)The TBBIBC is a conductor that interconnects TBBs.

Telecommunications Main Grounding Busbar (TMGB)The TMGB serves as a dedicated extension of the building grounding electrode system for the telecommunications infrastructure. It also acts as the central connection point for TBBs and equipment.

The following TMGB design considerations must be remembered:

There is typically one TMGB per building. The TMGB can be extended by using and following the rules for TGBs

TMGB must be located so that it is accessible to telecommunications personnel. It is often located in the entrance room or the main telecommunications room. A location should be chosen that minimizes the bonding conductor length for telecommunication connections

The TMGB must be a pre-drilled copper busbar with standard NEMA bolt hole sizing and spacing for the type and size of conductor being used

TMGBs are a minimum of 6 mm (0.23 in.) in thickness, 100 mm (4 in.) wide and of variable length.

Ensure the size of the bar allows for future growth.

Telecommunications Grounding Busbar (TGB)Located in a telecommunications room or equipment room, it serves as a common central point of connection for telecommunications systems and equipment in the area served by that TR or equipment room.

TGB characteristics:

Pre-drilled copper busbar provided with standard NEMA bolt hole sizing and spacing for type of connectors to be used

Minimum size 6 mm (0.23 in.) thick by 50 mm (2 in.) wide, variable length.

TGB design considerations:

TBBs and other TGBs located in same space must be bonded to the TGB Bonding conductors used between a TBB and TGB must be continuous and routed in the shortest,

straight-line path possible

Install the TGB as close as practical to the panelboard

When a panelboard for telecommunications is located in the same room as the TGB, bond the panelboard's ACEG bus (when equipped) or the enclosure to the TGB

Bond the TGB to the TBBIBC where required.

Bonding to the Metal Frame of a BuildingIn those buildings where metal frames (structural steel) are effectively grounded, bond each TGB to the metal frame within the room using a No. 6 AWG conductor.

If the metal frame is external to the room but readily accessible, bond the TGB to the metal frame using a No. 6 AWG conductor.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-862Building Automation Systems Cabling Standard for Commercial Buildings

OBJECTIVEThe standard specifies a generic cabling system for a building automation systems (BAS) used in commercials buildings. The purpose of this standard is to help in the planning and installation of a structured cabling system for BAS applications.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS CABLING SYSTEMThe basic elements of the BAS cabling system structure are:

Horizontal cabling Backbone cabling

Coverage area

Telecommunications room (TR) or common telecommunications room (CTR)

Equipment Room (ER) or common equipment room (CER)

Entrance Facilities (EF)

Administration

HORIZONTAL CABLING The elements of the horizontal cabling are: Horizontal cross-connect (HC), horizontal cable, horizontal connection point (HCP) and an optional BAS outlet/connector.

The horizontal cabling topology shall be a star topology. The maximum horizontal distance for distributed BAS links shall be 90 m, independent of the media type. The BAS Channel length is application dependent. The horizontal cabling shall meet the performance requirements and the installation requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1.

Horizontal Connection Point (HCP)The HCP is a connection point that allows different configuration for the coverage area served. The HCP shall be located in a fully accessible, permanent location for ease of maintenance and reconfiguration. No more than one HCP is allowed in a single horizontal cabling link. Cables extending from the HCP are called coverage area cables and shall be terminated directly to a BAS device or to a BAS outlet/connector, as long as the maximum of four connections is respected.

The difference between an HCP in a BAS cabling system and a consolidation point (CP) found in a telecommunications cabling system is the possibility to have a cross-connect at the HCP.

BAS outlet/connectorThe BAS outlet is optional. It is connected to the horizontal cable either directly or through an HCP. The BAS outlet shall comply with the horizontal cabling requirements specified in ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1.

Example of BAS Horizontal Cabling in a Star Topology

Recognized horizontal cabling component Recognized media are:

100 ohm balanced twisted-pair cable, 22 or 24 AWG unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable is recommended (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2)

Multimode optical fiber cable, either 62.5/125 or 50/125 µm (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3)

Single-mode optical fiber cable (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3)

All associated connecting hardware shall comply with ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 or ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3.

BACKBONE CABLINGThe backbone cabling topology shall be a star topology. The Backbone cabling shall meet the performance requirements and the installation requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1.

Recognized backbone cabling componentsRecognized media are:

100 ohm balanced twisted-pair cable (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2) Multimode optical fiber cable, either 62.5/125 or 50/125 µm (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3)

Single-mode optical fiber cable (ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3)

All associated connecting hardware shall comply with ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2 or ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.3.

COVERAGE AREAThe coverage area is the space served by one BAS device. The BAS device is connected to the HCP or to the BAS outlet/connector via a coverage area cable. The coverage area cable shall meet the same requirements as the horizontal cable to which it connects.

The standard allows different coverage area topologies to support specific BAS applications. These topologies are implemented either from the HCP or from the BAS outlet/connector and do not effect the horizontal structured cabling implementation. The coverage area topologies are :

A star A bridge connection

A chain connection

Multipoint bus

Multipoint ring/fault tolerant circuit.

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ROOM (TR) OR COMMON TELECOMMUNICATIONS ROOM (CTR)The TR or CTR should serve the coverage areas for the same floor in which the TR or CTR resides. It should house the BAS controller cabinets. The TR or CTR should be designed in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. Additional pathways and spaces may be required.

EQUIPMENT ROOM (ER) OR COMMON EQUIPMENT ROOM (CER)For BAS, these spaces are commonly known as mechanical rooms. The ER or CER is the recommended area for installing the main BAS controllers.

The ER or CER should be designed in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. Additional pathways and spaces may be required.

ENTRANCE FACILITIES (EF)The EF consists of the cables, connecting hardware, protection devices and other equipment needed to connect the outside plant facilities to the premises cabling.

The EF should be designed in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A. Additional pathways and spaces may be required.

ADMINISTRATIONThe administration of the BAS cabling infrastructure shall comply with the specifications provided by ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A.

List of TIA Telecommunications Building Cabling (Wiring) Standards & Addendums TIA/EIA-568-B.1

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements – (May 2001)

TIA/EIA-568-B.1-1

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements - Addendum 1 – Minimum 4-Pair UTP and ScTP Patch Cable Bend Radius - (May 2001)

TIA/EIA-568-B.1-2

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements Addendum 2 – Grounding and Bonding Requirements for Screened Balanced Twisted-Pair Horizontal Cabling - (February 2003)

TIA/EIA-568-B.1-3

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements Addendum 3 – Supportable Distances and Channel Attenuation for Optical Fiber Applications by Fiber Type - (February 2003)

TIA/EIA-568-B.1-4

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements Addendum 4 – Recognition of Category 6 and 850 nm Laser Optimized 50/125 µm Multimode Optical Fiber Cabling - (February 2003)

TIA/EIA-568-B.1-5

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements Addendum 5 – Telecommunications Cabling for Telecommunications Enclosures – (March 2004)

TIA/EIA-568-B.1-7

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 1: General Requirements Addendum 7 - Guidelines for Maintaining Polarity Using Array Connectors – (January 2006)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components - (December 2003)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-1

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 1 – Transmission Performance Specifications for 4-Pair 100 ohm Category 6 Cabling - (June 2002)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-2

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 2 – Revision of Sub-clauses - (December 2001)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-3

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 3 – Additional Considerations for Insertion Loss & Return Loss Pass/Fail Determination - (March 2002)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-4

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 4 – Solderless Connection Reliability Requirements for Copper Connecting Hardware - (June 2002)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-5

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 5 – Corrections to TIA/EIA-568-B.2 – (January 2003)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-6

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 6 – Category 6 Related Component Test Procedures – (December 2003)

TIA/EIA-568-B.2-11

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Part 2: Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Components – Addendum 11 - Specification of 4-Pair UTP and SCTP Cabling – (December 2005)

TIA/EIA-568-3 Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard - (April 2002)TIA/EIA-568-3.1

Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard – Addendum 1 – Additional Transmission Performance Specifications for 50/125 µm Optical Fiber Cables – (April 2002)

TIA-569-B Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces - (October 2004)

TIA-570-B Residential Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard - (April 2004)

TIA-598-C Optical Fiber Cable Color Coding - (January 2005)TIA/EIA-606-A

Administration Standard for Commercial Telecommunications Infrastructure - (May 2002)

J-STD-607-A

Commercial Building Grounding (Earthing) and Bonding Requirements for Telecommunications - (October 2002)

TIA-758-A Customer-owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard – (August 2004)

TIA-526-7 Measurement of Optical Power Loss of Installed Single-Mode Fiber Cable Plant – OFSTP-7 - (February 2002)

TIA-526-14-A

Optical Power Loss Measurements of Installed Multimode Fiber Cable Plant – OFSTP-14 - (August 1998)

These documents are not public domain. They are copyrighted© material of Telecommunications Industry Association/ Electronic Industries Alliance. All rights reserved by TIA/EIA, and/or HIS/Global, and can be purchased at Global Engineering Documents or the BiCSI site.

Copper Cabling Guide

UTP and ScTP Installation Guide Category 5e Category 6

UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) and ScTP (Shielded Twisted Pair) cables were developed and designed to be used independent of the system application. Set transmission performance criteria (Categories) have been established for the various grades of cables.

What are these Categories?Categories are a method of classifying cables and related hardware within specific performance criteria.

Category 5e – Specifies cable and connecting hardware with transmission characteristics up to 100 MHz. It differs from Category 5 by having 3 dB tighter NEXT requirements and additional requirements for PS NEXT, ELFEXT, PS ELFEXT, and RL.

Category 6 – This document specified cable and connecting hardware with transmission characteristics up to 250 MHz. In addition Category 6 has tighter insertion loss, NEXT, PS NEXT, ELFEXT and PS ELFEXT over Category 5e.

Cable Handling

LengthThe maximum horizontal cable length is 90 meters (295 feet). 10 meters is allowed for cords in the work area, and for patch cords or jumpers in the telecommunications closet.

The maximum backbone cable length is 90 meters (295 feet). This 90 meter length assumes that 5 meters (16 feet) are needed at each end for equipment cables connecting to the backbone.

Pulling TensionMaximum pulling tension for a 4 pair horizontal cable is 25 lbf. Excessive pulling tensions may occur during installation. Once the damage is done, reversing the effect may not be sufficient enough to correct the problem and cable replacement is recommended. Intermediate cable pulls within the overall cable run may be necessary to avoid exceeding the maximum pulling force.

Minimum Bend Radius4 pair cables have a 1” Min. Bend Radius

CAUTION: Exceeding the minimum bend radius can distort the cable geometry and result in degrading of transmission performance.

Repositioning of the cable to the proper bend radii may not correct the fault. Once the damage is done, the best option is replacement of the damaged run.

There are two common places where exceeding the minimum bend may occur:

At the work station wall outlet. After the cable is terminated, too often the remaining cable is jammed into the wall outlet, or worse, wrapped around itself and shoved into the outlet. A better practice would be to gently work the excess cable length back through the wall outlet into the wall.

At the wiring closet, and during routing of the cable to the terminal block or patch panel. Prior cable placement practices may have encouraged making the cable appear as formfitting or tight against the routing structure (cable tray or rack) as possible. A better practice would be to incorporate gently sweeping curves along the cable path avoiding sharp bends or changes in direction. Every

effort should be made to ensure the path the cable follows has smooth gradual sweeps at any transition point.

Installation in Temperatures Below Freezing The minimum installation temperature for plenum cables is 0°C (32°F). If the cable has to be installed when the temperature is below 32°F the following precautions should be taken to ensure that the jacket will not crack:

Store the cable in a heated area whose temperature is above 50°F for 24 hours before installation. Transfer only enough cable to the job site for 4 hours work. The cable will retain enough heat to

prevent cracking. Cable that has not been installed after 4 hours should be returned to a heated area.

Coil service loops in 10" to 12" loops. A tight coil could cause the cable to crack.

Normally the cables are terminated after the site is enclosed and heated. Do not attempt to terminate the cables when the temperature is below freezing.

Over StressingEliminate cable stress caused by tension in suspended cable runs and tightly cinched cable bundles.

Excessive cable loading or stress can also occur if a cable is incorrectly suspended in a cable run. A recommended cable support spacing is 48" to 60" centers.

Avoid twisting of cable during installation. Excessive twisting may result in distortion of cable geometry, and in severe cases tears in the jacket.

In addition to the above guidelines extracted from TIA/EIA-568, Mohawk strongly recommends the following supplementary installation tips:

Do not walk or step on high performance cable. Do not run over high performance cable with hand trucks or forklifts. This can exert excessive force on the cable, distorting the geometry, and/or crushing the pairs, resulting in electrical shorts.

Do not use staples, either from a staple gun or mounting in a traditional manner with a hammer. Staples can exert excessive force on the cable and distort the pair geometry.

D-Rings, nail on clamps or velcro straps all offer acceptable cable management techniques without compressing the cable.

Do not run cable near sources of heat, as this may negatively impact cable attenuation.

Maintain a 6" minimum spacing between cables and sources of EMI, such as fluorescent lights or unshielded power lines.

TerminationThe installer must be acquainted with the Connector Manufacturer's installation instructions. The correct tools, wire layout and untwist length are critical, especially in Category 6 installations. Modular jacks usually have the Pair color code marked on the jack. The color code can be either T568A or T568B wiring methods. Maintain the same pin to pair combination throughout the installation. Changing pin pair assignment can result in crossed pairs. Modular jacks and cross-connect blocks employ IDC connectors to complete the circuit between the cable and the hardware. The manufacturer will recommend the tools needed to terminate the cable.

Terminate with connecting hardware of the same category or higher. Any link that has substituted a lower category component is automatically classified to that lower category.

The maximum allowable amount of untwisting during cable termination to connecting hardware is 0.5" for Category 5e and Category 6 cables. Exceeding the recommended length of untwisting may cause performance problems. The same techniques should be employed when terminating cross-connect blocks. Maintaining jacket integrity to the point of termination aids in maintaining cable geometry and NEXT isolation from adjacent cable pairs.

When terminating ScTP cable, follow the same guidelines as listed above. Additionally, termination of the thin foil shield and drain wire are important to maintain shield continuity and shielding effectiveness from the cable to the connector. The Connector Manufacturer's installation instructions should be followed for shielded cable termination.

Bridged taps and splices are not permitted as part of copper horizontal cabling requirements.

TestingIt is best to determine the lengths of several representative cable runs and adjust the NVP to correspond to the known cable lengths. If the readout for the cable length is longer than the known length, the NVP should be decreased. Conversely, if the readout for the cable length is shorter than the known length the NVP should be increased.

The NVP values for Mohawk’s products are as follows:

Non-Plenum

Plenum

Outside Plant

Category 5e 68% 72% 65%

Category 6 68% 72% 65%

A Note of Caution:

Level II or Level III Testers will be required to accurately measure Category 5e and 6 permanent links and channels.

Consult the manufacturer of your test set for clarification.

Category 5e and 6 – Permanent Link Requirements at Specific Frequencies

Frequency

(MHz)

Insertion Loss NEXT

5e 6 5e 61.0 2.1 1.9 60.0 65.04.0 3.9 3.5 54.8 64.110.0 6.2 5.6 48.5 57.820.0 8.9 7.9 43.7 53.125.0 10.0 8.9 42.1 51.5

31.25 11.2 10.0 40.5 50.062.5 16.2 14.4 35.7 45.1100.0 21.0 18.6 32.3 41.8200.0 -- 27.4 -- 36.9250.0 -- 31.1 -- 35.3

Frequen

cy(MHz)

ELFEXT RL5e 6 5e 6

1.0 58.6 64.2 19.0 19.14.0 46.6 52.1 19.0 21.010.0 38.6 44.2 19.0 21.020.0 32.6 38.2 19.0 21.025.0 30.7 36.2 18.0 19.531.25 28.7 34.3 17.1 18.562.5 22.7 28.3 14.1 16.0100.0 18.6 24.2 12.0 14.0200.0 -- 18.2 -- 11.0250.0 -- 16.2 -- 10.0

The Permanent Link requirements include 90 meters of horizontal cable and the connectors at each end. The cables to the test equipment are not part of the permanent link and are subtracted out by the test equipment.

Channel requirements include 90 meters of horizontal cable and 10 meters of equipment cords, patch cords and jumpers. The maximum length of cross-connect jumpers and patch cords in the cross-connect facility should not exceed 5 meters.

For additional information and an ANSI referenced list, please contact: GLOBAL ENGINEERING DOCUMENTS at 1-800-854-7179.

For additional information on cable selection, please call 1-800-422-9961 or email to info@mohawk-cable.com.

These guides have been prepared by Mohawk as an aid for installers of Mohawk Category and Fiber Optic Cables and are not a warranty by Mohawk and should not be construed as such. Mohawk's sole warranty with respect to its cables is set forth in the document entitled "Mohawk Warranty," which has been or will be provided separately to installers of Mohawk Category and Fiber Optic Cables.

Fiber cabling guide

Fiber Installation GuideFOREWARD

It is assumed that the reader has a general understanding of fiber optic cable constructions and terminology. BICSI (www.bicsi.org) is an excellent resource for general information.

SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

When installed on a live system, invisible laser radiation may be present. Do not stare into connector endface or view directly with optical instruments.

Wear safety glasses when working with optical fiber.

Dispose of all scrap fibers to avoid getting fiber slivers.

Scope

The following guidelines are intended as a general overview of important issues related to the installation of fiber optic cable.

INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS

For a proper cable installation, it is important to understand the cable specification. The two most important specifications are the tensile loading and bend radius specifications. It is very important to adhere to these limits.

Tensile loading

Although there are two different types of tension in fiber optic cables, the important tension for the installation is the maximum load the cable can be subjected to without causing permanent damage. We call it the “maximum load installation” and it is measured in Newton or pounds. The “maximum load installation” can also be known as “short term tension”, “dynamic load”, “installation load” or “installation tension”.

Whenever possible, the tension of the installation should be monitored. The tension can be measured with a dynamometer, or with a pulling wheel. Breakaway pulling eyes are available which separate if the tension reaches a preset level. The use of a swivel is recommended when pulling the cable in tray. The swivel allows the cable and pulling rope to twist independently.

If pulling a cable in an outside plant conduit, the use of approved lubricants can help minimize friction. The use of corrugated innerducts can also help reduce the amount of tension needed to pull the cable. When installing loose-tube cables, the use of sealer is recommended to prevent gel migration.

If a run is too long, or if several bends are in the conduit, intermediate pull boxes should be used to separate one pull into two or more shorter pulls. A cable should not be pulled through more than two 90° bends at one time. If three or more 90° bends in a continuous run are unavoidable, the cable should be installed from a central point, unreeled into a figure-eight, and then backfed to complete the installation. Sharp bends may increase cable tension, so it is best to install cable in sequences that minimize stress and labor costs.

When running cable vertically, take note of the cable weight. Install cables in a sequence that applies the least amount of strain on the cable. For example, most vertical chasers in buildings tend to be congested at the lower floors; instead, try to start your installation at the top and work down the building, thereby eliminating most of the cable installation by the time you reach the lower floors. After installation, the strength member of the cable will need to support the hanging cable. If a long vertical run is necessary, cable should be secured at each floor and service loops should be placed every three floors, at a minimum. This procedure will help distribute the weight of the cable vertically and will facilitate access to moves, adds and changes (MACs), if needed at a later date.

Bend radius

There are two types of bend radius:

The short term minimum bend radius, or dynamic bend radius, is the tightest recommended bend while installing cable at the maximum rated tension. It is the larger of the two specified bend radii. Throughout the pull, the minimum bend radius must be strictly followed. If a location exists in the middle of a run where a relatively tight bend is unavoidable, the cable should be hand-fed around the bend or a pulley can be used.

The long term bend radius, or static bend radius, is the tightest recommended bend while the cable is under a minimum tension. It is the smaller of the two specified bend radii. After the pull is complete, the cable can be bent more tightly to fit into existing space, but not to exceed the long term minimum bend radius.

Figure 1: Bend Radius

Table 1: Typical Bend Radius Specification

  Short Term (Installation)

Long Term (Installed)

Outside Plant Cable 20x Cable Diameter

15x Cable Diameter

Premise Cable 15x Cable Diameter

10x Cable Diameter

Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for minimum bend radius and tension. Failure to do so may result in high attenuation (macrobends) and possible damage to the cable and fiber. Guidelines are normally supplied with the cable manufacturer specification sheets. If the bend radius specifications are unknown, the industry de facto standard is to maintain a minimum radius of 20X the diameter of the cable.

The minimum bend radius must also be adhered to when using service loops. Fiber optic splice trays and patch panels are designed to accommodate the bend radii of the individual fibers, but outside of the hardware, extra care must be taken.

INSTALLATION TOOLS

Gripping Techniques

General

To effectively utilize all of the available strength in the cable, the strength member must be used. The manufacturer’s specification will identify the strength member(s) in the cable.

Cables with aramid yarn as the strength member

For cables using aramid yarn alone as the strength member, the jacket can be removed exposing the aramid. The aramid should be tied in a knot with the pull rope, so that the jacket will not be inadvertently used for strength.

Optionally, the jacket can be tied into a tight knot before pulling. After pulling, the knot should be cut off.

Figure 2: Distribution Cable Tied in a Knot  

Cables with aramid yarn and an e-glass central member For cables using aramid yarn and an e-glass central member, a pulling grip should be used. The strength member(s) should be attached independently. This can be accomplished by weaving the strength member into the fingers of the grip, and then taping it together. All strength members should be gripped equally to ensure a proper distribution of tension.

Figure 3: Pulling Grip

Pre-terminated Fiber Optic Cable Assemblies

General

The factory pre-terminated fiber-optic cable assemblies may be specified in project environments such as Data Centers. The assemblies can be ordered in either indoor (plenum) or outdoor versions, and different fiber counts, and in multimode or single-mode. A pulling eye can be factory installed on either end or on both ends of the cable. The pulling eye (and associated cable netting) will protect the pre-terminated ends during the pull. This product is a great time saver ensuring quality connections every time.

Pulling eye

The pulling eyes (and associated cable netting) are highly recommended. The pulling eye will facilitate the installation as well as protecting the pre-terminated ends during the pull.

For both regular and pre-connectorized cables, the maximum pull force is identified with the “installation maximum load” cable specification on our Datasheets.

In many cases, pulling is not done from point to point, but rather from an intermediate point pulling back in each direction to each termination location. It is then important to make sure that the cable is ordered with two pulling eyes, one at each end.

The installation of a cable, which is pre-connectorized on both ends, requires special raceway considerations and pulling grips. A typical fiber optic connector is 0.5 in. (1.25 cm) in diameter, has a limited pull-off rating

and must be protected during cable placement. A pulling grip for a pre-connectorized cable must successfully isolate the connectors from any tensile load by placing the load on the cable itself. The pulling grip must also protect the connectors from abrasion and damage. In medium fiber counts (6 to 24 fibers) the connectors must be staggered when installed to reduce the diameter of the pulling grip. In high-fiber counts (greater than 24 fibers), installation of a connectorized cable may not be possible due to the conduit size that would be required.

MPO fiber optic cable assemblies: ordering tips

Since the MPO connector is pre-terminated by the manufacturer, it is important to be precise when measuring the length of the ribbon cable required and always add a minimum of 3 to 5 m (10 to 16 ft) to the total ribbon cable length to plan for unknown difficulties. For very long lengths, the addition of an extra length of minimum 3% is suggested.

Minimum diameters of conduit to pull 1 ribbon cable assembly equipped with an MPO connector and one pulling eye is ¾ in. diameter. A quantity of 12 ribbon cable assemblies with MPO connectors and pulling eyes can be pulled through a 1-½ in. diameter conduit.

INSTALLATION GUIDELINES

Prior to installation

All optical fiber cables are tested before leaving our manufacturing plant. Before installing the cable, we recommend testing the cable on the reel for continuity. This is to ensure that no damage occurred during shipment. Since the cost of installation is usually higher than the cost of materials, testing the fibers before installation can avoid unnecessary additional expenses and help meeting important deadlines. At a minimum, continuity testing can be done on the reel with a visual fault locator or a simple fiber tracer such as a flashlight, a modified flashlight to properly hold the fibers, a microscope or a bright red light (LED lookalike). With this simple test, you should be able to identify broken fibers, if any, within the optical fiber cable. Also, it is recommended to double-check the actual fiber count and the actual cable length, to avoid any inconvenience. It is preferable to use Velcro wraps instead of tie-wraps. Remember not to distort the shape of the cable, as this adds pressure onto the optical fibers and may affect performance. Fiber optic cables can be installed in innerducts. The use of innerducts tends to reduce the pulling tension required. Ensure that the properly rated innerduct is being installed.

A 3 to 6 m (10 to 20 ft) of cable slack should be store in enclosure or on the wall to allow repairs and/or relocation needs.

Installation in temperatures below freezing

The minimum installation temperature for plenum cables is 0°C (32°F). If the cable has to be installed when the temperature is below 32°F the following precautions should be taken to ensure that the jacket will not crack:

Store the cable in a heated area whose temperature is above 50°F for 24 hours before installation. Transfer only enough cable to the job site for 4 hours work. The cable will retain enough heat to

prevent cracking. Cable that has not been installed after 4 hours should be returned to a heated area.

Coil service loops in 10" to 12" loops. A tight coil could cause the cable to crack.

Normally the cables are terminated after the site is enclosed and heated. Do not attempt to terminate the cables when the temperature is below freezing.

OUTSIDE PLANT CABLE INSTALLATION

General

Protect exposed cables from vehicular and public traffic.

Underground installation For underground installation, center pull long cables. Store excess cable in vaults and manholes, and identify optical cables with markers.

Aerial installation Use proper hardware matching cable, span and tension requirements. Use correct cable jacket.

Buried cable installations Identify cable locations with surface markers. Anticipate obstructions.

Administration A unique identifier shall be assigned to each backbone cable and shall be marked on each end. Reference should be made as per the ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A standard.

TERMINATION

General

Before termination, the cable should be properly secured to provide a tension-free length of fiber. When splicing fibers, mechanical or fusion, a splice tray is needed to properly store the completed splices. If connectors are to be used, trays or shelves should be used to support the fiber behind the connector. Proper strain relief sleeves provided with the connectors should always be used to prevent excessive bending of fiber. No shelf is necessary if terminating a breakout style cable with connectors.

CABLE PREPARATION FOR THE TERMINATION

General

It is acceptable to directly terminate the 900 µm tight buffer from a distribution cable with a connector, if the above precautions are taken. It can be acceptable to directly terminate the 250 µm coated fiber from a loose buffer tube with a connector in certain applications. However, it is usually recommended to use a breakout kit which converts a six or twelve fiber loose buffer tube to a six or twelve fiber 900 µm distribution style ready for termination.

If outside plant cables are used, the gel flooding material needs to be cleaned with the appropriate solvent (please consult the cable manufacturer for recommendation on the choice of solvent). The more thorough the cleaning, the easier the termination procedure will be.

Cable preparation To prepare the cable for termination, the outer jacket must be properly stripped. Two ring cuts should be made in the jacket; one about 2” from the end and the second at the point where the jacket is to be removed. Care must be taken not to cut all the way through the jacket and into the core. The 2” piece is removed from the end of the cable exposing the core and the aramid ripcord. Make a notch in the jacket alongside the ripcord (do not cut the ripcord!). Pull the ripcord with a needle-nose pliers, or similar, until it reaches the second ring cut. Remove the core from the sliced jacket and pull the jacket to tear it at the ring cut.

Once the fiber optic cable is ready for termination, follow the termination installation instructions.

TESTING

General

Once the cable plant is installed and terminated, it is recommended to test the fiber optic segment. The testing should be done according to TIA TSB-140. This document provides guidelines for field-testing length, loss and polarity of a completed fiber optic link.

It is necessary to perform an end-to-end attenuation test to verify the quality of installations and to ensure high quality system performance. The best way to verify whether an end-to-end link meets the link loss budget is to divide the end-to-end link into segments at each cross-connect and measure the attenuation of each link segment. In order for the system to operate properly, the sum of the attenuation for the multiple link segments that form an end-to-end link must be less than the link loss budget calculated in the design phase.

Test equipment Various types of testing equipment are available on the market, such as Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS), Visual Fault Locator (VFL) sets or the Optical Time Domain Reflectometer. For troubleshooting, the OTDR is recommended.

Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS) The OLTS consists of a light source and an optical power meter. The main function of this equipment is to measure the optical power or loss.

Visual Fault Locator (VFL) or tracer The VFL is a red laser source; the tracer is an LED source. Either instrument can be used to trace fibers and troubleshoot faults on optical fiber cables. The main function of this equipment is to check continuity of the fiber, as well as to identify fibers and connectors in patch panels or outlets.

Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR) The OTDR is a more sophisticated measurement instrument. It uses a technology that injects a series of optical pulses into the fiber under test and analyzes the light scattering and the light reflection. This allows the instrument to measure the intensity of the return pulse in functions of time and fiber length. The OTDR is used to measure the optical power loss and the fiber length, as well as to locate all faults resulting from fiber breaks, splices or connectors.

Fiber testing guidelines The following testing guidelines promote efficient and accurate testing:

Clean all connections and adapters at the optical test points prior to taking measurements, as per ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-14A.

The light source or OTDR (Optical Time Domain Reflectometer) must operate within the range of 850 ± 30 nm, or 1300 ± 20 nm for multimode testing.

Test jumpers must be of the same fiber core size, performance and connector type as the cable system (e.g., 50/125 µm jumpers for a 50/125 µm optical fiber system) and shall be one to five meters long.

ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.1 is the recommended test method.

Every reel of fiber optic cable shipped from Mohawk has a test report attached showing the attenuation of all the fibers in the cable. Typical values for a multimode cable are 2.7 dB/km when measured at 850 nm and 0.7 dB/km when measured at 1300 nm. Therefore, for a run of 100 meters (328 feet), the typical cable attenuation is only 0.27 dB at 850 nm and 0.07 dB at 1300 nm.

Most fiber optic connectors are specified as having an insertion loss of less than 0.5 dB. Since there are two connections for each fiber, up to 1dB of attenuation can be expected to be added to the installed cable. As

the cable runs get shorter, the cable attenuation becomes lower, but the connector insertion loss remains the same. If the cable is installed properly, most of the measured attenuation will come from the connectors.

If several fibers off of the same cable show high attenuation, or if a single fiber attenuation remains high after retermination, an OTDR should be used to isolate the problem. An OTDR is an excellent tool for troubleshooting a failing link by identifying the location of the faulty component.

These guides have been prepared by Mohawk as an aid for installers of Mohawk Category and Fiber Optic Cables and are not a warranty by Mohawk and should not be construed as such. Mohawk's sole warranty with respect to its cables is set forth in the document entitled "Mohawk Warranty," which has been or will be provided separately to installers of Mohawk Category and Fiber Optic Cables.