The Anixter Standards REFERENCE GUIDE

Transcription

1 The Anixter Standards REFERENCE GUIDE A reference guide to: ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A ANSI/TIA/EIA-606 ANSI/TIA/EIA-607 Now Including: Current Telecommunications Systems Bulletins: TSB-67, TSB-72, TSB-75 & TSB-95 Current Addendum TIA/EIA-568-A-1, A-2, A-3, A-4, A-5(e) and B.3 Anixter Levels

2 Anixter: The Cabling Systems Experts As a value-added provider of communications cabling solutions, Anixter can reliably support your network infrastructure requirements. We do this by combining technical expertise and market specialization with pre- and post-sale services and products from the world s leading vendors. Then, we accurately and promptly deliver those products through our global distribution network. In an effort to continually support you, our customers, we have pulled together some valuable information from ANSI/TIA/EIA. The information contained within this reference guide covers the key aspects of the ANSI/TIA/EIA- 568-A, 569, 606 and 607 standards, in addition to information on the value of the Anixter Levels Program. We hope you find its contents informative and useful. Scope of this Handbook This document is meant as a reference source that highlights the key points of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A, 569, 606 and 607 standards. It is not intended as a substitute for the original documents. For further discussion of any topic in the guide, refer to the actual standard. See the section called Reference Documents for instructions on how to order a copy of the standard itself. Abbreviation References: ANSI American National Standards Institute ASTM American Society for Testing and Materials CSA Canadian Standards Association EIA Electronic Industries Alliance IEEE Institute of Electrical & Electronic Engineers NEC National Electric Code NEMA National Electrical Manufacturers Association NFPA National Fire Protection Association TIA Telecommunications Industry Association UL Underwriters Laboratories

3 Table of Contents I. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A, Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard ii II. ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A, Pathways and Spaces III. ANSI/TIA/EIA-606, Administration IV. ANSI/TIA/EIA-607, Grounding and Bonding V. The Anixter Levels Program VI. Reference Documents i

4 Purpose of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A Standard The Purpose: Establish a generic telecommunications cabling standard that will support a multivendor environment Enable the planning and installation of a structured cabling system for commercial buildings Establish performance and technical criteria for various cabling system configurations The standard specifies: Minimum requirements for telecommunications cabling within an office environment Recommended topology and distances Media parameters which determine performance Connector and pin assignments to ensure interconnectability The useful life of telecommunications cabling systems as being in excess of ten years ii

5 Table of Contents ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard Design Considerations The Six Subsystems of a Structured Cabling System Building Entrance Equipment Room Backbone Cabling Design Requirements Telecommunications Closet Horizontal Cabling Specified Topology Maximum Distances Telecommunications Outlet Position Modular Jack Pair Assignments Work Area Work Area Components Media and Connecting Hardware Performance Specifications Ohm Unshielded Twisted-Pair Cabling Systems... 7 Horizontal Cable Backbone Cable UTP Connecting Hardware and Cords Ohm Shielded Twisted-Pair (STP-A) Cabling Systems Horizontal and Backbone STP-A Cable Ohm STP-A Data Connector Ohm STP-A Patch Cable Optical Fiber Cabling Systems Optical Fiber Cabling Media Optical Fiber Connector Optical Fiber Telecommunications Outlet iii

6 TSB-67 Bulletin TSB-72 Bulletin TSB-75 Bulletin TSB-95 Bulletin Addenda to TIA/EIA-568-A A A A A A TIA/EIA-568-B iv

7 Design Considerations The Six Subsystems of a Structured Cabling System 1. Building Entrance Building entrance facilities provide the point at which outdoor cabling interfaces with the intrabuilding backbone cabling. The physical requirements of the network interface are defined in the TIA/EIA-569-A standard. 2. Equipment Room The design aspects of the equipment room are specified in the TIA/EIA-569-A standard. Equipment rooms usually house equipment of higher complexity than telecommunications closets. Any or all of the functions of a telecommunications closet may be provided by an equipment room. 1

8 3. Backbone Cabling The backbone cabling provides interconnection between telecommunication closets, equipment rooms and entrance facilities. It consists of the backbone cables, intermediate and main cross-connects, mechanical terminations and patch cords or jumpers used for backbone-to-backbone crossconnection. This includes: Vertical connection between floors (risers) Cables between an equipment room and building cable entrance facilities Cables between buildings (interbuilding) Cabling Types Maximum Backbone Recognized Distances 100 ohm UTP (24 or 22 AWG) 800 meters (2625 ft) Voice* 150 ohm STP 90 meters (295 ft) Data* Multimode 62.5/125 µm optical fiber 2,000 meters (6560 ft) Single-mode 8.3/125 µm optical fiber 3,000 meters (9840 ft) *Note: Backbone distances are application-dependent. The maximum distances specified above are based on voice transmission for UTP and data transmission for STP and fiber. The 90-meter distance for STP applies to applications with a spectral bandwidth of 20 MHz to 300 MHz. A 90-meter distance also applies to UTP at spectral bandwidths of 5 16 MHz for CAT 3, 10 MHz for CAT 4, and MHz for CAT 5. Lower-speed data systems such as IBM 3270, IBM System 36, 38, AS 400 and asynchronous (RS232, 422, 423, etc.) can operate over UTP (or STP) for considerably longer distances typically from several hundred feet to more than 1,000 feet. The actual distances depend on the type of system, data speed and the manufacturer s specifications for the system electronics and the associated components used (e.g., baluns, adapters, line drivers, etc.). Current state-ofthe-art distribution facilities usually include a combination of both copper and fiber optic cables in the backbone. 2

9 Other Design Requirements Star topology No more than two hierarchical levels of cross-connects Bridge taps are not allowed Main and intermediate cross-connect jumper or patch cord lengths should not exceed 20 meters (66 feet) Avoid installing in areas where sources of high levels of EMI/RFI may exist Grounding should meet the requirements as defined in TIA/EIA-607 Note: It is recommended that the user consult with equipment manufacturers, application standards and system providers for additional information when planning shared-sheath applications on UTP backbone cables. Specified Backbone Cabling Topology: Star Equipment Room Main Cross-connect Equipment Room Intermediate Cross-connect BACKBONE MEDIA OPTIONS UTP 800 meters* STP Application dependent Multimode Fiber 2000 meters Single-mode Fiber 3000 meters Telecommunications Closets 3

10 4. Telecommunications Closet A telecommunications closet is the area within a building that houses the telecommunications cabling system equipment. This includes the mechanical terminations and/or cross-connect for the horizontal and backbone cabling system. Please refer to TIA/EIA-569-A for the design specifications of the telecommunications closet. 5. Horizontal Cabling (Specified Horizontal Cabling Topology: Star) The horizontal cabling system extends from the work area telecommunications (information) outlet to the telecommunications closet and consists of the following: Horizontal Cabling Telecommunications Outlet Cable Terminations Cross-connections Three media types are recognized as options for horizontal cabling, each extending a maximum distance of 90 meters: 4-pair, 100-ohm UTP cable (24 AWG solid conductors) 2-pair, 150-ohm STP cables 2-fiber, 62.5/125-µm optical cable Note: At this time, 50-ohm coaxial cable is a recognized media type. It is not, however, recommended for new cabling installations and is expected to be removed from the next revision of this standard. 4

11 Maximum Distances for Horizontal Cabling In addition to the 90 meters of horizontal cable, a total of 10 meters is allowed for work area and telecommunications closet patch and jumper cables. Telecommunications Outlet ohm UTP 4-pair for Voice T568-A or T568-B wiring 100 ohm UTP 4-pair, 150 ohm STP 2-pair or 62.5/125µm fiber for data Each work area shall have a minimum of TWO information outlet ports, one for voice and one for data. The cabling choices are indicated in the diagram above. 5

12 8-Position Modular Jack Pair Assignments for UTP T568-A T568-B 6. Work Area The work area components extend from the telecommunications (information) outlet to the station equipment. Work area wiring is designed to be relatively simple to interconnect so that moves, adds and changes are easily managed. Work Area Components Station Equipment computers, data terminals, telephones, etc. Patch Cables modular cords, PC adapter cables, fiber jumpers, etc. Adapters(baluns, etc.) must be external to telecommunications outlet 6

13 Media and Connecting Hardware Performance Specifications 100 ohm Unshielded Twisted-Pair (UTP) Cabling Systems Horizontal Cable As transmission rates have increased, higher performance UTP cabling has become a necessity. In addition, some means of classifying horizontal UTP cables and connecting hardware by performance capability had to be established. These capabilities have been broken down to a series of categories as follows: Category 3 Cables/connecting hardware with transmission parameters characterized up to 16 MHz Category 4 Cables/connecting hardware with transmission parameters characterized up to 20 MHz Category 5 Cables/connecting hardware with transmission parameters characterized up to 100 MHz 7

14 Horizontal UTP Cable Attenuation/Crosstalk Loss (Attn/NEXT) Frequency Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 Attn/NEXT Attn/NEXT Attn/NEXT (MHz) (db) (db) (db) / / / / 53 - / 68 - / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / - - / / / - - / / / - - / / / - - / /32 Attenuation: per 100 meters ( degrees C NEXT: greater than or equal to 100 meters (328 feet) Characteristic impedance of horizontal cabling=100 ohms ± 15 percent from 1 MHz to the highest referenced frequency (16, 20 or 100 MHz) of a particular category. 8

15 Backbone UTP Cable Attenuation/Power Sum NEXT Loss Frequency Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 Attn/NEXT Attn/NEXT Attn/NEXT (MHz) (db) (db) (db) / / / / 53 - / 68 - / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / - - / / / - - / / / - - / / / - - / / 32 Attenuation: per 100 meters ( degrees C NEXT: greater than or equal to 100 meters (328 feet) Characteristic impedance of backbone cabling=100 ohms ± 15 percent from 1 MHz to the highest referenced frequency (16, 20 or 100 MHz) of a particular category. 9

16 UTP Connecting Hardware and Cords To ensure that installed connecting hardware (telecommunications outlets, patch cords and panels, connectors, cross-connect blocks, etc.) will have minimal effect on overall cabling system performance, the characteristics and performance parameters presented in this section shall be met. Attenuation/NEXT Loss UTP Connecting Hardware Frequency Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 (MHz) (db) (db) (db) / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / - - / / / - - / / / - - / / / - - / / 40 The preferred termination method for all UTP connecting hardware utilizes the insulation displacement contact (IDC). The following requirements apply only to wire and cable used for patch cords and cross-connect jumpers: Jumper/patch cord maximum length limitations: 20 meters (66 feet) in main cross-connect 20 meters (66 feet) in intermediate cross-connect 6 meters (20 feet) in telecommunications closet 3 meters (10 feet) in the work area Patch cord cable construction: stranded conductors for extended flex-life 10

17 Maximum Attenuation of Cable Used in Patch Cords Frequency Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 (MHz) (db) (db) (db) Attenuation: per 100 meters ( degrees C = Horizontal UTP cable attenuation + 20 percent (due to stranded conductors) To ensure overall system integrity, horizontal cables need to be terminated with connecting hardware of the same category or higher. Also, cables used for patch cords and cross-connect jumpers need to be of the same performance category or higher as the horizontal cables they connect. Lastly, UTP cabling systems are not Category 3-, 4-, or 5-compliant unless all components of the system satisfy their respective category requirements. 11

18 150 Ohm Shielded Twisted-Pair (STP-A) Cabling Systems The recognized twisted-pair (STP) cables are IBM-type 1A for backbone and horizontal distribution and IBM-type 6A for patch cables. Horizontal and Backbone STP-A Cable 2-pair, 22 AWG solid Balanced Mode Attenuation/NEXT Loss (worst pair) Frequency Attn/NEXT (MHz) (db) / / / / / / / / / / 31.3 Attenuation: per 100 meters ( degrees C Characteristic Impedance = 150 ohms ± 10 percent (3 MHz-300 MHz). 12

19 STP-A Data Connector Attenuation/NEXT Frequency Attn/NEXT (MHz) (db) / / / / / / / / / / Ohm STP-A Patch Cable 2-pair, 26 AWG stranded Characteristic Impedance = 150 ohms ± 10% (3 MHz 300 MHz) Balanced Mode Attenuation of 150 ohm STP-A Patch cable is about 1.5 that of horizontal or backbone STP-A cable (4 MHz 300 MHz). NEXT performance of 150 ohm STP-A Patch Cable measures approximately 6 db less than horizontal or backbone STP-A cable (5 MHz 300 MHz). 13

20 Optical Fiber Cabling Systems Optical Fiber Cabling Media Horizontal 62.5/125 µm multimode optical fiber (minimum of two fibers) Backbone 62.5/125 µm multimode and 8.3/125 µm single-mode optical fiber Cable Transmission Performance Parameters Multimode (Horizontal and Backbone) Wavelength Maximum Attenuation Min. Bandwidth (nm) (db/km) (MHz-km) Cable Transmission Performance Parameters Single-mode (Backbone) Wavelength Maximum Attenuation (nm) (db/km)

21 Optical Fiber Connector Specified Connector: 568SC Color Identification beige 62.5/125 µm multimode connector/coupling blue 8.3/125 µm single-mode connector/coupling Note 1: Applications with an installed base of ST-type fiber connectors are grandfathered for continued use in both current and future updates of existing optical fiber networks. Note 2: A key reason the standard now specifies the 568SC-type fiber connector is to harmonize with the IEC-specified interface currently in use in Europe. Optical Fiber Telecommunications Outlet Required Features Capability to terminate minimum of two fibers into 568SC couplings Means of securing fiber and maintaining minimum bend radius of 30 mm Ability to store a minimum of 1 meter of 2-fiber cable Surface-mount box that attaches directly over standard 4" 4" electrical box 15

22 TIA/EIA TSB-67 Transmission Performance Specification for Field Testing of Unshielded Twisted-Pair Cabling Systems (10/95) For the purposes of testing UTP cabling systems, the horizontal link is assumed to contain a telecommunications outlet/connector, a transition point, 90 meters of UTP Category 3, 4 or 5 cable, a cross-connect consisting of two blocks or panels and a total of 10 meters of patch cords. The figure below shows the relationship of these components. 90 Meters UTP Cable Cross-Connect Transition Point Outlet Patch Cord Patch Cord Basic Link Channel Link Two link configurations are defined for testing purposes. The basic link includes the horizontal distribution cable, telecommunications outlet/connector or transition point and one horizontal cross-connect component. This is assumed to be the permanent part of a link. The channel link is comprised of the basic link plus cross-connect equipment, user and cross-connect jumper cable. TSB-67 defines the allowable worst-case attenuation and NEXT for an installed link. The following tables show the limitations for attenuation and NEXT, respectively, for both the basic and channel links. Tests shall also measure physical length of each link, and employ Wire Map to verify pin terminations at each end and identify simple electrical faults. Level I and the higher Level II field test equipment accuracy is defined. 16

23 Basic/Channel Link Attenuation Frequency Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 (MHz) (db) (db) (db) 1 3.2/ / / / /4.8 4/ /10.2 6/ / / / / / / / /11 9.2/ / / / /24 Basic/Channel Link NEXT Loss (Pair-to-Pair) Frequency Category 3 Category 4 Category 5 (MHz) (db) (db) (db) / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / / /

24 TIA/EIA TSB-72 Centralized Optical Fiber Cabling Guidelines (10/95) The ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A standard provides maximum flexibility for distributed electronics for multi-tenant buildings. TSB-72 offers guidelines for single-tenant users who prefer centralized electronics (i.e. server farms) connected by a fiber horizontal and fiber backbone. Centralized Cabling Scheme Workstation Patch Cable Information Outlet Telecommunications Closet Building Distribution Cable (Backbone) Patch Cable Horizontal Cable 300 m including riser Termination Shelf Interbuilding Trunk Cable MDC To connect fiber from the Work Area to the Equipment Room, within a single building, the user may use a splice or interconnect in the Telecom Closet. The combined distance limitation is 300 meters (984 ft) for Horizontal, Intrabuilding Backbone and patch cords. Alternatively, the user may simply pull cables through the closet. In this last case the fiber Horizontal and Backbone consist of one continuous fiber pair, and the pull-through distance limitation is 90 meters (295 ft). Cabling is 62.5/125 µm multimode as described in TIA/EIA 568-A. Sufficient space shall be allowed for slack, addition and removal of cables, spares, and conversion to a full cross-connect system. Labeling shall be in accordance with TIA/EIA-606, with additional labeling to identify A-B pairs with specific Work Areas. 18

25 TIA/EIA TSB-75 Additional Horizontal Cabling Practices for Open Offices (8/96) This document specifies optional practices for open office environments, for any Horizontal telecommunications cabling recognized in TIA/EIA 568-A. Telecommunications Closet Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet Assembly Equipment cable Patch cords Work area cables Horizontal cross-connect Horizontal cables Telecommunication outlet/connectors Backbone cable Work Area A Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet (MUTO) facilitates the termination of multiple Horizontal cables in a common location within a furniture cluster. Work Area cables may then be routed through furniture pathways and directly connected to Work Area equipment. Each furniture cluster should have one MUTO which serves a maximum of twelve Work Areas. 19

26 Maximum Work Area Cable length is determined by the following table: Length of Maximum Maximum combined length horizontal length of work of work area cables, patch cable area cable cords and equipment cable m (ft) m (ft) m (ft) 90 (295) 3 (10) 10 (33) 85 (279) 7 (23) 14 (46) 80 (262) 11 (36) 18 (59) 75 (246) 15 (49) 22 (72) 70 (230) 20 (66) 27 (89) Note: No Work Area cable length may exceed 20 meters (66 feet). For Optical Fiber, any combination of Horizontal, Work Area cables, patch cords and equipment cords may not exceed 100 meters (328 ft). Telecommunications Closet Horizontal Cabling Work area telecommunication outlet/connector or multi-user telecommunications outlet assembly Horizontal Cross-Connect Consolidation Point Connecting hardware Work area cables Backbone cable Work Area Only one Consolidation Point (an interconnection point in the Horizontal cabling) is allowed, at a distance of at least 15 meters (49 ft) from the Telecom Closet and a Transition point (transition from round to flat under carpet cable) is not allowed. A Consolidation Point is installed in unobstructed building columns and permanent walls. The Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet, and Consolidation Point methods are intended to be mutually exclusive. Labeling and allowance for spares is required. Moves, adds and changes should be administered in the Telecom Closet. 20

27 TIA/EIA TSB 95 Additional Transmission Performance Guidelines for 4-Pair 100 MHz Category 5 Cabling (10/99) This Systems Bulletin describes Return Loss and Equal Level Far End Crosstalk (ELFEXT) recommendations and additional test methods for Cat 5 cable. It also describes Power Sum ELFEXT, because newer applications (1000BASE- T) will use simultaneous bi-directional transmission (full duplex) over all four pairs. While the important topics of TSB-95 are covered briefly here, appropriate test equipment is required, and contemporary test equipment contains software to simplify, compare and report the results (only up to 100 MHz). The Return Loss will be less than 15 db for both the basic link and channel for any frequency less than 20 MHz, and decrease exponentially for frequencies from MHz. Frequency Return Loss (MHz) (db)

28 ELFEXT and PSELFEXT upper limitations of the worst pair of the channel are shown below. ELFEXT, Channel or PSELFEXT, Channel Frequency Basic Link, Worst Pair or Basic Link (MHz) (db) (db)

29 Addenda to TIA/EIA-568-A TIA/EIA-568-A-1 (Addendum 1) (9/97) Propagation Delay and Delay Skew Specifications for 100-Ohm 4-pair Cable Propagation delay is the time needed for the transmission of signal over a single pair. Delay skew is the difference between the propagation delay between any two pairs within the same cable sheath. Delay skew is caused primarily because twisted pairs are designed to have different twists per foot (lay lengths). Delay skew could cause data transmitted over one channel to arrive out of sync with data over another channel. This one-page addendum (plus a one- and two-page Informative Annex), specifies delay skew and provides formulas for the benefit of cable and test equipment manufacturers. TIA/EIA-568-A-2 (Addendum 2) (8/98) Corrections and Additions to TIA/EIA-568-A Addendum 2 refers the Centralized Optical Fiber user to TSB-72 in regards to star topology and cross connections. It specifies that transposed UTP pairs (tip/ring reversal) be accomplished only with adapters or patch cords. A slight reduction in strength of optical patch cord connectors is allowed. Laboratory and quality control measurements and methods are detailed for contact resistance, test baluns and common mode terminations (Five pages, no Annex). 23

30 TIA/EIA-568-A-3 (Addendum 3) (12/98) Addendum No. 3 to TIA/EIA-568-A This one-page document allows bundled, wrapped or hybrid cables for use in Horizontal cabling, provided that each individual cable type meets TIA/EIA-568-A specifications, and that power sum NEXT loss created by adjacent jacketed cables be 3 db better than the normally allowed pair-to-pair NEXT for the cable type being tested. Color codes must follow individual cable standards to distinguish them from multipair UTP backbone cabling. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A-4 (Addendum 4) (12/99) A Production Modular Cord NEXT Loss Test Method and Requirements for Unshielded Twisted-Pair Cabling This addendum provides a non-destructive methodology for NEXT loss testing of modular plug cords (patch and equipment cords) suitable only for a QC laboratory environment. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A-5 (Addendum 5) (2/00) Transmission Performance Specifications for 4-Pair 100 Ohm Category 5e Cabling This addendum specifies minimum Return Loss, Propagation Delay, Delay Skew. NEXT loss, PSNEXT loss, FEXT loss, ELFEXT and 100 meters. ELFEXT (Equal-Level Far-End Crosstalk): A measure of the unwanted signal coupling from a transmitter at the near-end into a neighboring pair measured at the far-end, relative to the received signal level measured on that same pair. (ELFEXT is FEXT adjusted to discount attenuation.) 24

31 FEXT (Far-End Crosstalk): A measure of the unwanted signal coupling from a transmitter at the near-end into a neighboring pair measured at the far-end. PSELFEXT (Power Sum Equal-Level Far-End Crosstalk): A computation of the unwanted signal coupling from multiple transmitters at the near-end into a pair measured at the farend, relative to the received signal level on that same pair. PSNEXT (Power Sum Near-End Crosstalk): A computation of the unwanted signal coupling from multiple transmitters at the near-end into a (non-energized) pair measured at the near-end. UTP Cable Frequency NEXT PSNEXT ELFEXT PSELFEXT Return Loss (MHz) (db) (db) (db) (db) (db)

32 UTP Connecting Hardware Frequency NEXT FEXT Return Loss (MHz) (db) (db) (db) UTP Basic Link Frequency NEXT PSNEXT ELFEXT PSELFEXT Return Loss (MHz) (db) (db) (db) (db) (db)

33 UTP Channel Frequency NEXT PSNEXT ELFEXT PSELFEXT Return Loss (MHz) (db) (db) (db) (db) (db) Modular Patch Cord Frequency Return Loss (MHz) (db)

34 TIA/EIA-568-B.3 Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard The TIA/EIA-568-A standard will eventually be superceded by: TIA/EIA-568-B.1 Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling System, TIA/EIA-568-B.2 Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling Standard, and TIA/EIA-568- B.3 Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard. In March of 2000, the Optical Fiber section was completed and became available to the public in May. This standard supercedes and replaces Section 12 of the previous document. The remaining B documents should be completed by mid Optical Fiber Cabling Systems Optical Fiber Cabling Media Horizontal 62.5/125 or 50/125 µm multimode optical fiber (minimum of two fibers) Backbone 62.5/125 or 50/125 µm multimode and single-mode optical fiber Cable Transmission Performance Parameters Multimode (Horizontal & Backbone) 50 µm 62.5 µm Maximum Minimum Minimum Wavelength Attenuation Bandwidth Bandwith (nm) (db/km) (MHz/km) (MHz/km) Cable Transmission Performance Parameters Single-mode (Backbone) Inside Plant Outside Plant Wavelength Maximum Attenuation Maximum Attenuation (nm) (db/km) (db/km)

35 Optical Fiber Connector No Specified Connector: 568SC and other duplex designs may be used. Color Identification beige multimode connector/coupling blue single-mode connector/coupling Note 1: Applications with installed base of ST-type fiber connectors are grandfathered for continued use in both current and future updates of existing optical fiber networks. Note 2: The ISO/IEC standard now specifies the 568SC-type fiber connector in the work area. Optical Fiber Telecommunications Outlet Required Features: Capability to terminate minimum of two fibers into 568SC couplings or other duplex connection Means of securing fiber and maintaining minimum bend radius of 25 mm(1") Optical Fiber Splices; Fusion or Mechanical Maximum Attenuation 0.3 db Optical Fiber Connector (mated pair) Maximum Insertion loss 0.75 db 29

36 Purpose of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A Standard As the complexity of voice and data telecommunications has increased, standards have been established to ensure the operability, flexibility, manageability and longevity of these critical commercial support systems. Telecommunications now encompasses voice, data and video transmission of business information, fire/security, audio, environmental and other intelligent building controls over media that includes fiber optics, specialized copper data cabling, microwave and radiowave. This booklet concisely describes the architectural design elements of cabling pathways and dedicated rooms for telecommunications equipment. A multi-tenant commercial building has a life expectancy of at least 50 years. Software, hardware and communications gear have far shorter lifespans of one to five years. Moreover, in a multi-tenant environment, continuous moves, adds and changes are inevitable. It is the purpose of standards to guide design and ease future changes by planning for the future now. These standards are intended to provide for a generic structured cabling plant, capable of running any voice or data application foreseeable in the next 10 to 15 years. Abbreviations: AWG V A kva V/m American Wire Gauge volts amps kilovolt ampere volts per meter 30

37 Table of Contents ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-A Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces Design Considerations Service Entrance Pathways Entrance Facilities Equipment Room Intrabuilding Backbone Pathways Telecommunications Closet Horizontal Pathways Underfloor Duct Flushduct Multichannel Raceway Cellular Floor Trenchduct Access Floor Plenum/Ceiling Conduit Cable Trays Perimeter Consolidation Points Electromagnetic Interference Firestops

38 Pathways and Spaces 1. Electric Entrance 2. Telco Entrance 3. Telecom Equipment Room 4. Data 5. Voice 6. Telecom Closet 7. Grounding & Bonding 8. Underfloor System 32

39 TIA/EIA-569-A Design Considerations Service Entrance Pathways For underground facilities, use a minimum 4-inch conduit or duct constructed of PVC type B, C or D; multiple plastic duct; galvanized steel; fiber glass; with appropriate encasement. No more than two 90 manufactured bends are allowed (10 times the diameter). Drain slope should not be less than 12 inches per 100 feet. Recommended conduit fill varies but should not exceed 40 percent for more than two cables. Maintenance holes (typically 3,500 lb./sq. in., concrete) must be equipped with sump, corrosion-protected pulling iron, cable racks, grounded ladder, and only such power/light conductors as required for telecommunications support per NEC requirements. Entrance Facilities Entrance facilities include the pathways for outside carrier services, interbuilding backbone, alternate entrance and antennae entrance pathways. The entrance facilities consist of a termination field interfacing any outside cabling to the intrabuilding backbone cabling. The local telephone carrier is typically required to terminate cabling within 50 feet of building penetration, and to provide primary voltage protection. In buildings larger than 20,000 usable square feet, a locked, dedicated, enclosed room is recommended. Beyond 70,000-square feet, a locked, dedicated room is required, with a plywood termination field provided on two walls. In buildings up to 100,000 usable square footage, a wallmounted termination field may serve as the entrance facility, using 3/4-inch plywood, 8-feet high. Beyond 100,000-square feet, rack-mounted and free-standing frames may also be required. Minimum space requirements are given as follows: 33

40 Gross Building Floor Space (sq. ft.) Plywood Field Room Dimension 5,000 8 high 39 wide 10,000 8 high 39 20,000 8 high 42 (A room recommended 40,000 8 high 68 beyond this level) 50,000 8 high 90 60,000 8 high 96 (A dedicated room req d.) 80,000 8 high ,000 8 high 2 walls ,000 8 high 2 walls ,000 8 high 2 walls ,000 8 high 2 walls ,000 8 high 2 walls ,000 8 high 2 walls ,000,000 8 high 2 walls Rule of Thumb: Allow one square foot of plywood wallmount for each 200 square-foot area of floor space. Equipment Room An equipment room is essentially a large telecommunications closet that may house the main distribution frame, PBXs, secondary voltage protection, etc. The equipment room is often appended to the entrance facilities or a computer room to allow shared air conditioning, security, fire control, lighting and limited access. Number of Equipment Room Workstations Floor Space (sq. ft.) ,200 1,200 Rule of Thumb: Provide 0.75 square feet of equipment room floor space for every 100 square feet of user workstation area. 34

41 Location Typically, rooms should be located away from sources of electromagnetic interference (transformers, motors, x-ray, induction heaters, arc welders, radio, radar) until interference is less than 3 V/m across the frequency spectrum. Avoid sources of flooding. Perimeters Typically, no false ceiling; all surfaces treated to reduce dust; walls and ceiling painted white or pastel to improve visibility. Limited Access Typically, single or double 36" 80" lockable doors. Other Typically, no piping, ductwork, mechanical equipment or power cabling should be allowed to pass through the equipment room. No unrelated storage. HVAC 24 hours/day, 365 days/year, F, 30%-55% humidity, positive pressure. Lighting Typically, 8.5 feet high, providing 50-foot 3 feet above floor. Electrical Typically, a minimum of two dedicated 15A, 110VAC duplex outlets on separate circuits is required. Convenience duplex outlets shall be placed at 6-foot intervals around the perimeter. Emergency power should be considered and supplied, if available. Dust Less than 100 micrograms/cubic meter/24-hour period Note: The term typically is applied here to indicate, where applicable, that these requirements also apply to other elements of the cabling system spaces. Lighting requirements, for instance, are largely identical for entrance facilities, equipment rooms and telecommunications closets. 35

42 Intrabuilding Backbone Pathways Within a building, the intrabuilding backbone pathways extend between the entrance facilities, equipment room and telecommunications closets. Telecom closets should be stacked vertically above each other on each floor, and provided with a minimum of three 4-inch sleeves (a stub of conduit through the floor) for less than 50,000 square feet served. An equivalent 4" 12" slot may be used in lieu of three sleeves. Firestopping is required. If closets are not vertically aligned, then 4-inch horizontal conduit runs are required. Include no more than two 90 bends between pull points. Pulling iron or eyes embedded in the concrete for cable pulling is recommended. Fill should not exceed 40 percent for any run greater than two cables. Backbone and Horizontal Pathways Telco Conduit 6. Vertical Backbone 2. Telco Manhole 7. Telecom Closet 3. Entrance Conduit 8. Horizontal Cabling 4. Telco Entrance Facility 9. Interbuilding Backbone 5. Telcom Equipment Room 10. Electrical Entrance Facility 36

43 Telecommunications Closet The telecommunications closet on each floor is the junction between backbone and horizontal pathways. It contains active voice and data telecommunications equipment, termination fields and cross-connect wiring. More than one telecom closet per floor is required if distance to a work area exceeds 300 feet, or if floor area served exceeds 10,000 square feet. Recommended closet sizing is 10' 11' for each 10,000 square-foot area served. Power, lighting, air conditioning and limited access are typical. See requirements for Equipment Room. There are a minimum of three 4-inch firestopped backbone sleeves in the floor at the left side of a plywood termination field, which are ideally located near the door. A fire extinguisher is recommended. Typical Telecommunications Closet Minimum 36" x 80" door with lock externally opened only Power Equipment bar power Rear 19" equipment rack Power Instrument bar power Front Front 39" aisle Rear (Eqpt. repair & install) 19" equipment Ceiling rack fluorescent fixture Equipment power 3/4" plywood backboard Distribution facilities to offices Ceiling fluorescent fixture 3/4" Ceiling level plywood ladder rack backboard Ceiling fluorescent fixture Three 4" sleeves (minimum) Ceiling level ladder rack Closet interconnecting conduit (fire stopped) Distribution facilities to offices Riser Sleeve 4" Inside Diameter 1" minimum 37

44 Horizontal Pathways Horizontal pathways extend between the telecommunications closet and the work area. A variety of generic pathway options are described. Choice of pathway(s) is left to the discretion of the designer. The most commonly employed pathway consists of cable bundles run from the telecom closet along J-hooks suspended above a plenum ceiling, fanning out once a work zone is reached, dropping through interior walls or support columns or raceways, and terminating at an information outlet (I/O). Other options are: Underfloor Duct Single- or dual-level rectangular ducts imbedded in greater than 2.5-inch concrete flooring. Flushduct Single-level rectangular duct imbedded flush in greater than 1-inch concrete flooring. Multichannel Raceway Cellular raceway ducts capable of routing telecom and power cabling separately in greater than 3-inch reinforced concrete. Cellular Floor Pre-formed hollows, or steel-lined cells, are provided in concrete, with header ducts from the telecom closet arranged at right angles to the cells. Trenchduct A wide, solid tray, sometimes containing compartments, and fitted with a flat top(with gaskets) along its entire length. It is embedded flush with the concrete finish. Access Floor Modular floor panels supported by pedestals, used in computer rooms and equipment rooms. Plenum/Ceiling Bundled cables, suspended above a false ceiling, fan out to drop through walls or along support columns to baseboard level. 38

45 Conduit To be considered only when outlet locations are permanent, device density low and flexibility (future changes) not required. Cable Trays Options include channel tray, ladder tray, solid bottom, ventilated and wireway. Perimeter Pathways Options include surface raceway, recessed, molding and multichannel (to carry separate power and lighting circuits). Rule of Thumb: Typically, size horizontal pathways by providing 1 square inch of cross-section area for every 100 square feet of workspace area being served. Note: Typically, a pull box, splice box or pulling point is required for any constrained pathway where there are more than two 90 bends, a 180 reverse bend or length more than 100 feet. Perimeter Pathway Power Modular Office Path Telcom 39

46 A Variety of Horizontal Pathways Trenchduct Power Telecom Cellular Floor Access Floor Ceiling Utility Pole Suspended ceiling Utility Column 40

47 Consolidation Points and MUTOs Consolidation Points provide limited area connection access. Typically a permanent flush wall, ceiling or support column-mounted panel serves modular furniture work areas. The panels must be unobstructed and fully accessible without moving fixtures, equipment or heavy furniture. A Multi-User Telecommunication Outlet (MUTO) is another methodology to reduce cabling moves, adds and changes in modular furniture settings. The user cord is directly connected to the MUTO. A MUTO location must be accessible and permanent, and may not be mounted in ceiling spaces or under access flooring. Similarly, it cannot be mounted in furniture unless that furniture is permanently secured to the building structure. For more descriptive information on distance limitations and purposes of Consolidation Points and MUTOs, see ANSI/TIA/EIA TSB-75. Electromagnetic Interference Voice and data telecommunications cabling should not be run adjacent and parallel to power cabling even along short distances unless one or both cable types are shielded and grounded. For low-voltage communication cables, a minimum 5-inch distance is required from any fluorescent lighting fixture or power line over 2 kva and up to 24 inches from any power line over 5 kva*. In general, telecommunications cabling is routed separately, or several feet away from power cabling. Similarly, telecommunications cabling is routed away from large motors, generators, induction heaters, arc welders, x-ray equipment, and radio frequency, microwave or radar sources. *Note: Distance recommendations from (1990) TIA/EIA-569 are reproduced here by popular request. For current recommendations, refer to NEC/NFPA 70, Article

48 Firestops Annex A of the standard discusses various types of packing used to re-establish the integrity of fire-rated structures when these barriers have been penetrated by cable. The section that briefly discusses passive mechanical systems and non-mechanical systems such as putty, caulk, cements, intumescent sheets and strips, silicone foams and pre-manufactured pillows. The most common method is stuffing the aperture with ceramic/mineral wool and caulking both sides with fire-resistant putty. The information refers the designer to check manufacturer specifications and UL ratings against NFPA, ASTM and NEC codes. Cutaway of Typical Firestop Firestopping putty or caulk Metallic conduit sleeve or cable Ceramic fibre or mineral wool Wall assembly 42

49 Notes 43

50 Purpose of the ANSI/TIA/EIA-606 Standard Modern buildings require an effective telecommunications infrastructure to support the wide variety of services that rely on the electronic transport of information. Administration includes basic documentation and timely updating of drawings, labels and records. Administration should be synergistic with voice, data and video telecommunications, as well as with other building signal systems, including security, audio, alarms and energy management. Administration can be accomplished with paper records, but in today s increasingly complex telecommunications environment, effective administration is enhanced by the use of computer-based systems. A multi-tenant commercial building has a life expectancy of at least 50 years. Moreover, in a multi-tenant environment, continuous moves, adds and changes are inevitable. Administrative record-keeping plays an increasingly necessary role in the flexibility and management of frequent moves, adds and changes. This booklet concisely describes the administrative record-keeping elements of a modern structured cabling system. 44

51 Table of Contents ANSI/TIA/EIA-606 Administration Standard for the Telecommunications Infrastructure of Commercial Buildings Administration Concepts Identifiers Telecommunication Records Optional Linkages Drawings Work Orders Identification Formats Circuit Example Administrative Labeling Map Summary of Record Elements Pathway & Space Administration Examples Wiring System Administration Examples Grounding and Bonding Administration Label Text Label Color Coding

52 TIA/EIA-606 Administrative Concepts The typical administration system includes records, reports, drawings and work orders. Identifiers Each space, pathway, cable termination point and ground is assigned a unique identifier a number that can be simply encoded to provide supplemental information. Telecommunication Records Minimum required records for each cable, space, pathway, ground, termination hardware and position are maintained. These records are required to be linked (crossreferenced) to all related records. Optional linkages Optional linkages may be made to other records. Such records might include blueprints, PBX records, equipment inventories (phones, PCs, software, LAN, furniture) and user codes (extension, account billing number, passwords). It is desirable that reports can be generated from one or more sets of interlinked records in a variety of formats. Drawings Drawings, both conceptual and as-built, include floor plans, cable schematics and rack layouts. Work orders Work orders may involve spaces, pathways, cables, splices, terminations or grounding, individually or in combination. The work order should list those responsible for physical changes, as well as those updating the documentation to ensure future accuracy. 46

53 Identification Formats A unique alphanumeric identification code is created for every location, pathway, cable and termination point. Suggestions in the standard include: Alphanumeric Identification Code BCxxx BCDxxx Cxxx CBxxx CDxxx CTxxx ECxxx EFxxx ERxxx Fxxx GBxxx GCxxx HHxxx ICxxx Jxxx MCxxx MHxxx PBxxx Sxxx SExxx SLxxx TCxxx TGBxxx TMGB WAxxx bonding conductor backbone conduit cable backbone cable conduit cable tray equipment (bonding) conductor entrance facility equipment room fiber grounding busbar grounding conductor handhole intermediate cross-connect jack main cross-connect manhole or maintenance hole pull box splice service entrance sleeve telecommunications closet telecommunications grounding busbar telecommunications main grounding busbar work area 47

54 The actual format in the preceding chart is not mandated by the standard. However, the chosen format must be consistent and provide a unique identifier number for each system element. This method lends itself to organization and updating of multiple records by the use of powerful relational databases (three-dimensional spreadsheet) programs. Some Identifier Examples J0001 Label for an information outlet jack D306 Designation for a work area 3A-C Termination in closet 3A, column C, row 17, block position 005 Examples like those above (taken from the TIA/EIA 606 text and Administrative Labeling Map) indicate the flexibility of conventions that can be established for purposes of naming. Logical naming conventions can also convey considerable additional information about other linkages. Circuit Example As an alternate conceptual example, this string of codes (resembling links on an Internet address) logically describes a series of voice communication links. It can be read as follows: JONES / X2440 / LC99 / A001V1 / C001 / TC.A001V1 / HC01 / Pr1.2. / MDF.C17005 / PBX.01A0203 Bob Jones, at extension 2440, is connected by line cord 99 to information outlet A001, voice jack 1. Cable 001 extends from that voice jack To telecom closet A, where it terminates on a block labeled by adding TC in front of A001V1 (the I/O label). The voice signals travel on house cable 01, Carried on pairs 1, 2. The pairs terminate at the main distribution frame in column C, row 17, block position 005. They are interconnected to PBX 01, row A, card 02, port

55 Administrative Labeling Map Here is a combination schematic/elevation view of a structured telecommunications cabling system, detailing a TIA/EIA-606-compliant labeling scheme. The example records in this booklet follow the labeling shown below. Telecommunications Closet 3A Pathway CD34 Work Area D306 Gnd'g Busbar TGB35 Term. Hdwr. Hardware 3A-A17 Cross-connects Term. Pos. 3A-A Term. Hdwr. 3A-B19 Term. Pos. 3A-B19-05 Equipment Term. Pos. 3A-C Term. Pos. 3A-C Term. Hdwr. 3A-C17 Cable C0011 Term. Pos. J0001 Cable C0001 Term. Pos. J0011 User Code: 8021 Ground Pathway CD02 Eq. Bond. Cond. EC301 Backbone Pathway SL02-05 Pathway CT64 Work Area D307 Bonding Conductor BC01 Backbone Cables Equipment Room/ F16 CB02 Entrance Facility ER101 Term. Pos. Term. Hdwr. Hardware B A1 C4R6 Cross-connects Entrance Entrance Cable Pathway F18 CD01 Manhole MH01 Eq. Bond. Cond. EC101 Term. Pos. C4R6-001 Term. Pos. B A1 Term. Hdwr. B Term. Pos. C3R6-001 MH HH Splice S106 TMGB Term. Hdwr. B EQUIPMENT Term. Hdwr. C3R6 Entrance Entrance Cable Pathway CB01 CD02 Handhole HH01 Grounding Electrode System LEGEND Cross- Connect Grounding Busbar Telecom. Outlet Outside scope of standard 49

56 Summary of Record Elements This table outlines the minimum required information and required linkages. Further information is optional. A multi-dimensional database or spreadsheet is helpful. Record Required Information Required Linkages To Pathway Pathway Identification # Cable Records Pathway Type Space Records Pathways Pathway Fill Pathway Records & Pathway Load Grounding Records Spaces Space Space Identification # Pathway Records Space Type Cable Records Grounding Records Cable Cable Identification # Termination Records Cable Type Splice Records Unterminated Pair #s Pathway Records Damaged Pair #s Grounding Records Available Pair #s Termination Termination Hardware #s Term. Position Records Wiring Hardware Term. Hardware Type Space Records Damaged Position #s Grounding Records Termination Termination Position # Cable Records Position Term. Position Type Other Term. Records User Code Term. Hardware Records Cable Pair/Condition #s Space Records Splice Splice Identification # Cable Records Splice Type Space Records TMGB TMGB Identification # Bonding Conductor Busbar Type Records Grounding Conductor #s Space Records Resistance to Earth Date of Measurement Grounding Bonding Bonding Conductor ID# Grounding Busbar Conductor Type Records Conductor Busbar Identification # Pathway Records TGB Busbar Identification # Bonding Conductor Busbar Type Records Space Records 50

57 Pathway & Space Administration Here are examples of a conduit path and telecom closet space record (see Administrative Labeling Map). The TIA/EIA 606 standard also includes examples of cable tray, work area and manhole records. Pathway Record Sample Data Required Information Pathway Identification # CD43 Pathway Type 2 EMT Pathway Fill 20% Pathway Load N/A Required Linkages Cable Records C0001, C0002 Space Record (end 1) D306 Space Record (end 2) 3A Space Record (access) D302 Pathway Record Grounding Record N/A Explanatory Notes conduit 43 size 2 metal conduit present fill no conduit load spec. office 306 floor 3, closet A pull/splice box above D302 other pathway record Optional information could include length, maximum fill, bends, drawing number, etc. 51

58 Space Record Required Information Space Identification # Space Type Required Linkages Pathway Records Cable Records Grounding Record Sample Data 3A TC CD34, CT64 C0001, C0002 TGB35 Explanatory Notes floor 3, closet A telecom closet pathways terminating here cables terminating here grounding busbar Optional information could include floor size, space served, drawing, key number, etc. The design of pathways and spaces is defined by the TIA/EIA-569-A Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces. Wiring System Administration Other examples in the TIA/EIA-606 standard include fiber backbone and patch panel, horizontal UTP and others. The concept is outlined below (see Administrative Labeling Map). Cable Record Sample Data Explanatory Notes Required Information Cable Identification # CB02 Cable Type 100-pair CMR-3 Unterminated Pair #s 0-none Damaged Pair #s 15, 37, 95 Available Pair #s Required Linkages End 1 End 2 Termination Record Pr 1 C4R6-01 3A-A copper backbone cable 02 copper Cat 3 riser list of unterminated pairs list of damaged pairs list of pairs not in use pair punchdown at each end (pairs 2 99 not shown) Termination Record Pr 100 C4R A-A last pair punchdown Splice Records N/A Pathway Record SL02-05 sleeve Grounding Record N/A Optional information could include length, ownership, etc. 52

59 Termination Hardware Sample Data Required Information Term. Hardware ID# 3A-C17 Term. Hardware Type 110 Damaged Position #s 0 Required Linkages Term. Position Record 1 3A-C Term. Position Record 10 3A-C Space Record 3A Grounding Record N/A Optional information could include voltage protection positions and type, etc. Here is a termination position record for an information outlet (see Administrative Labeling Map). Termination Position Sample Data Explanatory Notes Required Information Term. Position ID# Term. Position Type J0011 IDC User Code x8021 Cable Pairs 1 4 Required Linkages Cable Record C0011 Other Term. Pos. Record 1 3A-C Other Term. Pos. Record 2 3A-A Term. Hardware Record N/A Space Record D307 Explanatory Notes closet 3A, column C, row punchdown block none damaged 4-pair cable terminations (positions 2-9 not shown) last termination floor 3, closet A information outlet jack 11 insul. displacement connection telephone extension 4-pair modular cable serving this information outlet term. at other end cross-connect term. N/A for work area office 307 Optional information c.ould include jack catalog number, signal type (voice/data), category, etc. 53

60 The TIA/EIA-606 standard provides numerous examples of single and separately administered spliced cables. Splice Record Required Information Splice Identification # Splice Type Required Linkages Cable Record Space Record Sample Data Explanatory Notes S106 Fusion F18 MH01 splice 106 splicing method fiber cable 18 manhole 01 Optional information could include splice equipment, date, name, etc. Structured cabling system standards are defined by the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard. Grounding/Bonding Administration Telecommunications systems require a reliable electrical ground reference potential, provided by a dedicated grounding/bonding conductor network. Bonding conductor cabling shall be colored green or labeled appropriately with an alphanumeric identifier and warning label. WARNING IF THIS CLAMP OR CABLE IS LOOSE OR MUST BE REMOVED, PLEASE CALL THE BUILDING TELECOMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Grounding records are similar to cable record format. Grounding/Bonding Terms (with acronyms): TMGB Telecom Main Grounding Busbar TBB Telecom Bonding Backbone TGB Telecom Grounding Busbar TBBIBC Telecom Bonding Backbone Interconnecting Bonding Conductor 54

61 Label Color Coding Shown here are the color codes used for termination field labels. Termination Type Color Comments Demarcation Point Orange CO terminations Network Connections Green also aux. circuit terms. Common Equipment Purple PBX, Host, LANs, Mux First-level Backbone White MC-IC terminations Second-level Backbone Gray IC-TC terminations Station Blue Horizontal cable terms. Interbuilding Backbone Brown Campus cable terms. Miscellaneous Yellow Aux., maint., security Key Telephone Systems Red 55

62 The Purpose of ANSI/TIA/EIA-607 This standard specifies a uniform telecommunications grounding and bonding infrastructure that shall be followed within commercial buildings. Following the AT&T divestiture of 1984, the end-user became responsible for all premises cabling for voice and data. Advancements in voice communications and the convergence of voice and data communications led to increasingly complex interactive systems owned and maintained by the end-user. These systems require a reliable electrical ground-reference potential. Grounding by attachment to the nearest piece of iron pipe is no longer satisfactory to provide ground-reference for sophisticated active electronics systems. 56

63 Table of Contents ANSI/TIA/EIA-607 ANSI/TIA/EIA-607 Commercial Building Grounding And Bonding Requirements For Telecommunications Design Considerations Terms Schematic Diagram

64 Design Considerations Solid copper grounding busbars are installed with insulated standoffs in entrance facilities (1/4" thick 4" high variable length) and the equipment room, as well as each telecom closet (2" high is sufficient here). Each busbar is drilled with rows of holes according to NEMA standards, for attachment of bolted compression fittings. Telecommunications equipment, frames, cabinets and voltage protectors are typically grounded to these busbars. Busbars are connected by a backbone of insulated, solid copper cable between all closets and rooms (minimum 6 AWG, 3/0 AWG recommended). This backbone is connected to a main grounding busbar in the telecommunications entrance facility, to an earth ground in the electrical entrance facility, and to structural steel on each floor. Bonding conductor cabling shall be colored green or labeled appropriately. Terms Telecommunications Main Grounding Busbar (TMGB) Telecom Bonding Backbone (TBB) Telecom Grounding Busbar (TGB) Telecom Bonding Backbone Interconnecting Bonding Conductor (TBBIBC) 58

65 Schematic of Grounding/Bonding Network TGB Detail Variable To Upper Floors Telco Closet 2" 1/4" Telcom Equipment Panel TBB 6 AWG Minimum TGB Structural Steel Electrical Entrance Telecommunications Entrance Equipment Room Grounding Electrode System Telcom Equipment Telcom Equipment Panel Panel TMGB TGB 59

66 The History of Anixter Levels Program Over a decade ago, Anixter established the Anixter Levels Program as a means to distinguish among the hundreds of 4-pair copper cables available on the market. In 1992, the industry adopted the Levels specs as the standard. Since then, Anixter has continued to lead the industry with its purchasing specification program, known as the Anixter Levels Program. As mentioned, the Levels Program began as a component specification for UTP cable and connecting hardware. It evolved into an end-to-end channel specification, with three distinct levels of channel performance, ALC (Anixter Levels Channel) 5, 6 and 7. And today the Levels Program includes the revolutionary active (Mbps-based) testing, called Levels XP. Anixter Levels Labs now UL Certified As the premier standards-based testing organization in the world, UL continues to provide guidance and confidence to the data communications industry. Under its Certificate Services, UL conducts an independent, third-party engineering and management systems audit to verify the compliance of Anixter s Levels Lab with the testing processes, personnel training and data recording procedures associated with the Levels Program. Anixter submits its Levels Lab to these audits each year to check that Anixter Levels results are independently repeatable and verifiable. 60

67 Table Of Contents The Anixter Levels Program Levels The Levels Program Levels XP Levels and the Standards Comparison Chart

68 The Anixter Levels Program The Levels Program is a set of purchasing specifications. These specifications are designed to ensure the products we sell perform to your expectations. Our cabling solutions are divided into three distinct performance levels so you can select the solution that best meets your application needs: Levels Application 5 Ethernet 6 Fast Ethernet 7 Gigabit Ethernet The Levels Program is also a quality assurance program. In the Anixter Levels Lab, products are continually tested for compliance with the various Levels specifications (see p for specification detail). Levels-rated products: Meet all national and international standards. Are tested individually for compliance to Levelscomponent specifications. Combined channel solutions are tested for compliance to ALC-specifications. High-end combined channel solutions are tested for Levels XP-compliance. Channels include individually-tested patch cords. 62

69 Levels XP Levels XP expanded performance introduces active (Mbps-based) testing. Active testing transcends the passive (MHz-based) testing used in the Anixter Levels Channel (ALC) and Levels component specifications and those in industry standards. Levels XP specifications require testing that examines and characterizes everything from the PC to the server NICs, hub/switch ports, environmental factors, short cable lengths and much more. This active channel testing allows Anixter to verify network efficiency. It also indicates how well active and passive devices work together in the real world. Testing an XP solution includes three essential steps: 1. Passive testing of all Levels-rated components 2. Passive and basic efficiency (SmartBits) testing of all end-to-end Anixter Level Channels (ALC) 3. Testing of active networking components over cabling systems in many environments and a variety of configurations. To achieve Anixter Levels XP certification, each channel must be able to transmit a series of worst-case Ethernet waveforms that represent typical network glitches. This testing is accomplished by running Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet over cabling systems and determining the efficiency of that cabling channel. Bottom line: Levels XP ensures your data cabling solution minimizes bit errors, reducing slowtime SM and making your network more efficient. Note: Levels XP 6 and XP 7 solutions exceed all existing standard. There is no standard that requires active Mbps-based testing. 63

70 Active 100 Mbps Only Anixter Levels XP Solutions are Required to Pass Active Tests. The Anixter Levels XP specification requires actively testing network cabling solutions. We do this by running Ethernet signals over the cabling system in real-world, worst-case scenarios. We run controlled data signals through our XP solutions and random Category 5- and Category 5e-compliant systems. The chart on the right shows the kind of results you can expect from your cabling. As you can see, regardless of the quality of NICs or receivers, Levels XP solutions minimize errors and maximize network efficiency. Moreover, the Levels XP specifications on passive tests (shown right) are the toughest in the world. TIA CAT 5 TIA CAT 5e TIA CAT 6 TIA-568-A TIA-568-A5 Draft 6 Oct-95 Feb-00 May-00 Max. Test Frequency 100 MHz 100 MHz 250 MHz Passive 100 MHz ATTN* (db) (db) (db) Cable Connector Channel PSNEXT** Cable not specified Connector not specified not specified not specified Channel not specified PSACR** Cable not specified not specified 22.5 Channel not specified not specified 15.8 PSELFEXT** Cable not specified Connector not specified not specified not specified Channel not specified Return Loss** Cable Connector Channel not specified *(The LOWER the number, the better the solution) **(The HIGHER the number, the better the solution) 64