CHAPTER 1

PREMISES CABLING STRUCTURES &

TELECOMMUNICATION SPACES

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 1 of 27
 PREMISES CABLING STRUCTURES AND
TELECOMMUNICATION SPACES

Cabling Subsystems

A generic cabling system typically comprises of a hierarchical of cabling subsystems made up of

the functional elements. They are Campus Backbone, Building Backbone and Horizontal Cabling
subsystems. The functional elements of a generic cabling system are connected together to form
subsystems. Applications are supported by connecting the equipment to the telecommunications
outlets (TO) and distributors that are part of the subsystems. These telecommunications elements
combine to make up the subsystems, and the subsystems combine together to make up the cabling
system infrastructure. The cabling subsystems are connected together to create a generic cabling
system with a structure as shown below.

Terminal
Equipment
CD BD FD CP TO

Campus Building
Horizontal Work
Backbone Backbone
Cabling Area
Cabling Cabling
Subsystem Cabling
Subsystem Subsystem

Generic Cabling Subsystem

In general, the structures of generic cabling system can be broken down into several functional
elements and subsystems. The functional elements of a generic cabling system are as follows:

• Campus Distributor (CD)

A distributor is a facility enabling the termination of cable elements and their connection by
patch cord or jumper. The primary function of the CD is for the termination of campus
backbone cable. It is located in a geographical area from which the campus backbone cabling
emanates. The CD is the distributor for first level backbones, building entrance cables, and
equipment cables. It is the highest level of a three level hierarchy, consisting of CD,
Building Distributor (BD) and Floor Distributor (FD). It should be at a central location on
the campus or within a building.

• Campus Backbone cable

The Campus Backbone cable provides interconnections between the BDs and the CD. It’s
typically aerial or underground.

• Building Distributor (BD)

The primary function of the BD is for the termination of building backbone cable. The BD
connects between the campus backbone cabling and the building backbone cabling. It is
typically not used in a hierarchy with less than three levels where the backbone connection
may go directly from the CD to the FD.

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 • Building Backbone cable
The Building Backbone cable provides interconnections between the FDs and the BD. It is
also typically referred to as the “vertical” or “riser” cable. Building backbone cables may
also connect FDs in the same building.

• Floor Distributor (FD)

The primary function of the FD is for the termination of horizontal cable. The FD connects
between the horizontal cabling to backbone and/or equipment cabling. It can serve more
than one floor where the number of telecommunications outlets (TO) is low and also provide
the function of the BD.

In a single large building, a separate FD is needed when the floor area of the building is
large enough, or the cabling distance great enough, that the building could not be serviced
out of one location.

The FD should be able to manage telecommunications equipment, cable terminations, and

associated distributor cabling.

• Horizontal Cable
A cable connecting the FD to the TO(s).

• Consolidation Point (CP)

A location in the horizontal cabling where a cable may end, which is not subject to moves
and changes, and another cable starts leading to the TO which easily adapts to changes.

• Consolidation Point cable (CP cable)

A cable connecting the consolidation point to the TO(s).

• Multi-user telecommunications Outlet (MUTO)

A grouping in one location of several TOs/connectors.

• Telecommunications Outlet (TO)

A fixed connecting device where the horizontal cable terminates. The TO provides the
interface to the work area (WA) cabling.

Groups of these functional elements are connected together to form cabling subsystems.

Campus Backbone Subsystem

The campus backbone cabling subsystem extends from the CD to the BD(s), usually located in
separate buildings. When present, the subsystem includes:-

• the campus backbone cables,

• jumpers and patch cords in the CD;
• the connecting hardware on which the campus backbone cables are terminated (at both the
CD and BD).

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Although equipment cords are used to connect the transmission equipment to the cabling
subsystem, they are not considered part of the cabling subsystem because they are application
specific.

Where the BD does not exist, the campus backbone cabling subsystem extends from the CD to the
FD. The campus backbone cable may also interconnect BDs. Such connections shall be in addition
to those required for the basic star hierarchical topology.

Building Backbone Cabling Subsystem

A building backbone cabling subsystem extends

from BD(s) to the FD(s). When present, the
subsystem includes:

• the building backbone cables,

• jumpers and patch cords in the BD;
• the connecting hardware on which the
building backbone cables are terminated
(at both the building and FDs);

Although equipment cords are used to connect the transmission equipment to the cabling
subsystem, they are not considered part of the cabling subsystem because they are application
specific. The building backbone cable may also interconnect FDs. However, such connections shall
be for back-up or fault tolerant and in addition to those required for the basic hierarchical topology.
The building backbone cables shall not contain consolidation points (CP).

Horizontal Cabling Subsystem

The horizontal cabling is the cabling that

connects the FD to the TO. The
horizontal cable plant encompasses most
of the cabling volume for the installed
cable plant and includes:

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 • the horizontal cables
• the mechanical termination of the horizontal cables at the TO
• the mechanical termination of the horizontal cables at the FD including the connecting
hardware, e.g. of the interconnect or cross-connect;
• any cross-connections to application specific equipment at the FD;
• a CP (optional);
• the TOs.

Although work area (WA) and equipment cords are used to connect terminal and transmission
equipment respectively to the cabling subsystem, they are not considered part of the cabling
subsystem because they are application specific.

Horizontal cables shall be continuous from the FD to the TOs unless a CP is installed.

Distributors

The distributors provide the means to configure the cabling to support different topologies like bus,
star and ring. Connections between cabling subsystems are either active, requiring application-
specific equipment, or passive.

Connection to application-specific equipment adopts either an inter-connect or a cross-connect

approach. Passive connections between cabling subsystems are generally achieved using cross-
connections by way of either patch cords or jumpers.

The number and type of subsystems that are included in a generic cabling implementation depends
upon the geography and size of the campus or building, and upon the strategy of the user. Usually
there would be one CD per campus, one BD per building, and one FD per floor.

If the premise comprises only a single building which is small enough to be served by a single BD,
there is no need for a campus backbone cabling subsystem. Similarly, larger buildings may be
served by multiple building distributors interconnected via a campus distributor.

Distributors shall be located such that the resulting cable lengths are consistent with the channel
performance requirements of the standards. However, not all applications are supported over the
maximum lengths using a single cable type as stated in the standard recommendations. In this case,
for the reference implementations described in the specific applications, the distributors shall be
located to ensure that the channel lengths in the corresponding specifications are not exceeded.

Floor Distributors (FD)

The design of the FD should ensure that the lengths of patch cords/jumpers and equipment cords are
minimized and administration should ensure that the design lengths are maintained during
operation.

Most industry standards recommend a minimum of one FD per floor. . For floor spaces exceeding
1000 m², a minimum of one FD should be provided for every 1000 m² of floor space reserved for
offices. The exception to this rule may be a floor where the majority of the space is occupied by a
lobby/reception area, mechanical rooms or exercise facilities, etc. and may not require a separate FD.
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It is permissible to serve this floor from the FD located on an adjacent floor. In such cases where a
TR serves more than one floor, pathways should enter the floor directly above or below the TR.

Additionally, a single distributor should not service more than 1000 m2. For each additional 1000 m2
an additional FD (TR) should be provided.

Telecommunications Room Size

Serving Area Room Size
2 2 2
m ft m ft2
1,000 10,000 3000 x 3400 10 x 11
800 8,000 3000 x 2800 10 x 9
500 5,000 3000 x 2200 10 x 7

The figure below shows an example of generic cabling design. The building in the foreground
shows each distributor housed separately. The building in the background shows that the functions
of a FD and the BD have been combined into a single distributor.

Telecommunication Room (TR)

Telecommunication Room (TR)

Building
Entrance

Building
Backbone
Campus Backbone

Equipment Room (ER) External Network

In certain circumstances, for example for reasons of security or reliability, redundancy may be built
into a cabling design. The figure above is a schematic showing one of many possible examples of
the connection of functional elements within the structured framework to provide protection against
failure within one or more parts of the cabling infrastructure. This might form the basis for the
design of generic cabling for a building, providing some protection against such hazards as fire
damage or the failure of the public network feeder cable.

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Finally, be aware of the physical WA around all portions of the cable system within the FD. Ideally,
horizontal cable should enter from one side of the room and backbone cable from the opposite side.
This allows the horizontal and backbone frames to be placed side by side, but keeps the horizontal and
backbone cable routing distinct and separate. Plan the FD layout with an adequate amount of space
for not only the connections, but for the technician to physically work in the area.

And, keep in mind that some of that five meter length is required for slack, dressing of the cable and
preparation and termination.

Telecommunications Room (TR)

A TR is the the facilities (electrical power, grounding and

bonding, environmental control, etc.) within a building that
houses the telecommunications cabling system equipment.
This includes the telecommunications equipment (passive
components, active devices, and external network
interfaces), mechanical terminations and FD (cross-connect
and/or interconnect) for the horizontal and backbone cabling
system.

The FD shall be located in a TR. Each TR should have direct access to the backbone cabling
subsystem and contain the FD. If a TR serves more than one BD it should be considered an ER.

Telecommunications Room (TR) Design Considerations

The TR space shall be dedicated to the telecommunications Telecommunications room

function and related support facilities. TR space should not (Floor Distributor)
be shared with electrical installations other than those for Placement Requirements
telecommunications.

The TR placement depends on the overall building layout and

construction, the amount of room the customer is willing to
allow, and the locations of the WAs being served. Typically, 1000 m2
the TR shall be located as close as practical to the centre of the
area being served and be dedicated only to the
telecommunications function and related support facilities.

Environmentally, the ideal location for a TR is one that is free

from excessive moisture, dust, and other contaminants that can
damage network hardware. This is where environmental
control becomes important. There is no simple method or
calculation that can determine the optimal size and placement
of a TR.

It is recommended that a minimum of two dedicated electrical outlets should be provided for
equipment power each on a separate circuit. The usage of multiple telecommunication equipment
devices in near proximity often requires the usage of power distribution bars; it is recommended
that these are equally shared amongst the two separate circuits.
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Note: Local regulations shall be followed for electrical power distribution.

Equipment not related to the support of the TR (e.g., piping, ductwork, etc.) shall not be installed
in, pass through, or enter the TR.

TR Design Summary

The physical structure of a TR includes specific design requirements of the following provisions :
Size Dependent upon floor area being served. Often the customer will allow much
less than the standard recommends.
Clearance Around active equipment and above, in front, and in back of racks, cabinets,
etc.
Floor Loading Includes static (weight) and dynamic (impact) loads
Wall/Slab Penetrations Specifications on how pathways enter into the area and fire-stopping those
penetrations.
Security Lockable doors for limited access
Fire Protection Fire-resistant paints and fire extinguisher placement
Dry fire fighting compound facilities rather than water sprinkles.
Environmental Control HVAC should be included in the design considerations of the TR to maintain a
HVAC (Heating temperature the same as the adjacent office area. Planning for continuous
Ventilation Air HVAC (24 hours per day and 365 days per year) should be included in the
Conditioning) initial design. When active devices (heat producing equipment) are present, a
sufficient number of air changes should be provided to dissipate the heat
created thereof. It is not recommended that HVAC systems, gets powered by
any of the circuits providing power to the telecommunication equipment, but
powered by a separate circuit.

Keep changes in temperature and humidity to a minimum.

Lighting Proper lighting types and a minimum of 500 lux is above the floor is
recommended in some standards.
AC power Electrical recommendations are for a minimum of two dedicated 15A, 240VAC
duplex outlets on separate circuits and service convenience. Emergency power
such as un-interruptible power supply (UPS) should be considered for critical
equipment.
Physical construction Walls, floors, ceilings, etc.
Dust protection Filtration systems may be required to minimize particle levels in the air.
Finish color To enhance lighting
Earthing/Grounding According to local electrical codes and regulations

Many of these guidelines may have an impact on the placement of the TR/cabinet or rack. The
designer and ultimately the customer will have the most influence on the size and placement of them.

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Equipment Room (ER)

An ER is a large TR that may house the CD,

PABXs, secondary voltage protection, etc. Some
of the functions of a TR or BEF may
alternatively be provided in conjunction with an
equipment room to allow shared air
conditioning, security, fire control, lighting and
limited access.

The ER provides a centralized controlled

environment for the housing of
telecommunications equipment, distributors
connecting hardware, splice enclosures,
grounding and bonding facilities and protection
apparatus. The ER will generally contain most of the LAN Network Devices (Core, Workgroup
Switches) and WAN (Routers, Modems, Multiplexers) electronic equipment on a campus or
building. Other equipment that may be located in the ER includes Data Backup Devices, PABX, PA
Systems, Backup Power Devices and UPS.

ERs are treated differently from TRs because of the nature or complexity of the equipment (e.g.
PBXs or extensive computer installations). It is a geographical area that may contain the CD and/or
BD and/or FD. The room shall house only equipment directly related to the telecommunications
system and its environmental support systems. ER locations that are limited to future expansion
should be avoided. In addition, the CD and backbone and horizontal cabling may also be terminated
in the ER

Equipment Room (ER) Design Considerations

The ER shall be sized to meet the known requirements of specific equipment. Where a room or
space is intended to be use for more than one equipment (e.g. the main terminal and/or EF) its size
shall increased accordingly.

The placement of the ER (where the BD

or CD is located) is very important in
the layout of the telecommunications
TR (FD) TR (FD)
infrastructure. A number of major
factors need to be considered when
choosing the location for an ER. The
most obvious is the space required for (BD/CD)
the installation of large equipment. HALLWAY ER
Accessibility for the delivery of large
equipment to the equipment room from
the building’s loading bay is a major TR (FD)
consideration. It is recommended that LIFT
access areas accommodate for at least a
pallet. Floor loading capacity in the ER EF
shall be sufficient to bear both the SP
distributed and concentrated load of the
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installed equipment. Another consideration for the ER is what floor to place it on in a multi-storey
building. The placement of the ER may also depend upon the BEF.

Building facilities that serve and are served by the ER and Access Provider’s requirements are
important issues. Many Service Providers will only install the entrance cable to the EF in the building.
This may be the first point of entrance into the building and not necessarily the location chosen by the
customer. Placing the ER away from the EF may require copper and/or fiber connectivity between the
two areas.

It is desirable to locate the ER close to and with ready access to the backbone pathway and central
to the building. The site selection should avoid locations that limit expansion such as outside walls
and lifts.

HVAC (Heating Ventilation Air Conditioning) should be included in the design considerations of
the ER to maintain a temperature the same as the adjacent office area.

For example, the following environmental limits are recommended in some standards:

Environmental Factor Requirement

Availability 24 hours/day, 365 days/year

Temperature 16 °C to 24 °C
Relative humidity 40% to 70%
Room Pressure Positive

Keep changes in temperature and humidity to a minimum. HVAC sensors and controls must be
located in the ER. Ideally, the sensors are placed 1.5 m above the finished floor.

The physical structure of an ER includes specific design requirements of the following provisions,
similar to that of the TR. These include sizing, clearances, floor loading (heavier than TR
requirements), room penetrations, security, fire protection, environmental control (more stringent),
lighting and AC power requirements.

Other considerations include the physical construction, dust protection, Earthing/Grounding,

flooding (water pipes, water table, etc) Electromagnetic Interference and lightning protection and
loud noise.

Recommendations are also given covering acoustics and vibration of the computer room
environment. Acoustic walls and ceiling tiles may be required to reduce the effects of noise. Air
conditioning may be a source of noise as well as vibration and provisions should be made to protect
sensitive equipment.

The room shall be located away from sources of electromagnetic interference. Special attention
shall be given to electrical power supply transformers, motors and generators, x-ray equipment,
radio or radar transmitters, and induction sealing devices. Provision for electrical services needs to
be balanced against possible proximity to EMI sources (less than 3 V/m across the frequency
spectrum).

Static electricity also needs to be carefully considered, as this will have disastrous effects on the
computer equipment. Floor and wall coverings are mainly responsible for such effects.
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In some installations, site security is very sensitivity and intrusion detection and access control have
to be provided.

The electrical requirements of computer room are critical. Voltage supply tolerances, neutral-to-
earth voltages and phase balancing in computer room installations are critical in the proper
operation of sensitive electronic equipment.

Ultimately, the ER needs to be placed within the allowable backbone distance from the FDs. Again,
this is also measured via straight lines and 90º angles.

Rack Spacing and Clearances

Generally, if the application requires a cable-to-cable

cross-connect, a wall mount frame is ideal and will save
on floor space. And, if the application requires a cable to
1.2 m
equipment cross-connect, then a rack/cabinet mount frame
configuration is ideal. 150 mm

Rear Rear

The designer should pre-determine the exact placement

and spacing of racks/cabinets. There are Front Front
recommendations from standards providing spacing and
clearance guidelines that the installer should take note
of. 1.2 m

Industry standard recommends a clearance of 1.2 meters

Electrical Equipment
to all faces where access is required. The side of the rack
should be a minimum of 0.15 meter away from a wall
where access is not required

When positioning the racks, it is recommended that the horizontal cable should typically enter the
space from one side and the backbone cable entering from the opposite side.

Telecommunications Rack Elevation Drawing

The telecommunications rack elevation drawing typically shows how patch panels and equipment
might be mounted in the telecommunications racks. This typically includes 2-dimensional drawings
of each rack in the TR.

Rack sizing and the use of rack space is one of the important factors in premises cabling design. A
rack is measured in units (RU’s). 1 RU is equal to 1.73 inches (44.25 mm) or 3 cavity-mounting
slots. RU units are typically used to state the physical height of Patch panels and cable management
panels as well as network equipment. For example, a 24-port AMP NETCONNECT Patch Panel is
one RU high on a standard rack.

The designer should be aware of how many rack units (RU) will be taken up by the patch panels
and cable management to leave the appropriate space for the network electronics, and that the
appropriate number of racks may be specified.

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There are no requirements to how a rack is specified, which leads to many different rack
implementations - it all depends on the customer’s existing racks, electronics, and/or requirements.

Some simple “suggestions” may be:

In a single rack implementation, specify the electronics down low and the patch panels on top.
When more than one rack is needed, put the electronics on one rack and the patch panels on the
other. Finally, keep copper and fiber separated - either different racks or put fiber panels and
devices on the top (easier to work with) and copper on the bottom.

Building Entrance Facilities (BEF)

The BEF consists of the telecommunications service entrance to the building, including the entrance
through the building wall and continuing to the entrance room or space. BEFs are required
whenever campus backbone, public and private network cables (including from antennae) enter
buildings and a transition is made to internal cables. It comprises an entrance point from the
exterior of the building and the pathway leading to the CD or BD. Local regulations may require
special facilities where the external cables are terminated. At this termination point, a change from
external to internal cable can take place.
NOTE: In some instances, such as small buildings, the CD or BD, FD, ER and BEF may be combined
into one place and be one and the same.

The entrance room shall be located in a dry area not subjected to flooding and should be as close as
practicable to the building entrance point. It may be located next to the electrical service room in
order to reduce the length of equipment potential bonding conductors to the electrical earthing
(grounding) system.

The location of other utilities, such as electricity, water, gas and sewer, shall be considered in the
selection of the telecommunications BEF location. An alternate BEF should be provided where
security, continuity of service, or other special needs exist.

The BEF may contain the backbone pathways that link to the main terminal space and to other
buildings in campus situations. Antenna entrances may also constitute part of the BEF.
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All carriers and telecommunications providers involved in providing service to the building shall be
contacted to establish their requirements and explore options for delivering service. A service
entrance pathway shall be provided. In determining the total number of pathways required, the
planner should consider

a) type and use of building;

b) growth;
c) difficulty of adding pathways in the future;
d) alternate entrance in case of resilience requirements;
e) type and size of cables likely to be installed

Building Entrance Facility

Service Entrance

Building Entrance Facilities (BEF) Termination

According to most building codes, any cable used indoors shall meet the fire performance
requirements of an indoor cable. Any Outside Plant Cable that enters a building needs to be in
compliance.

Any such cable that does not meet this requirement must be either continuously enclosed in a metal
conduit system that is grounded to an electrode, or in concrete or other fire resistant material.

Telecommunications Outlet (TO)

A minimum of two TOs shall be provided for each individual WA. One TO may be associated with
voice and the other with data. Consideration should be given to installing additional TOs based on
present and projected needs. The two TO/connectors shall be configured as:

i. One TO shall be supported by a four-pair 100-ohm cable, Category 3 or higher (Category 5e

recommended).

ii. The other/second TO/connector(s) shall be supported by a minimum of one of the following
horizontal media. This media choice should be based on present and projected needs.
• A four-pair 100-ohm cable, Category 5e or higher
• Two-fiber multimode optical fiber cable, either OM1, OM2 or OM3

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The transmission performance of the jacks at the WA shall match that of the installed horizontal cable.
The patch cords should also be the same category as the fixed cabling. The copper outlets may be
shielded or unshielded. The optical fiber outlets shall be the duplex SC type. Small form factor optical
fiber connectors, such as MT-RJ and LC can be considered at the WA.

Telecommunications Outlets (TO) Design Consideration

There are many different scenarios the designer may come across regarding the TO locations in a
building. Sometimes the customer will have a floor-plan of where the desired outlet locations are and
sometimes not. At other times the customer may know where the outlets will go but does not have a
floor-plan or the customer may just say, “I want the entire building cabled”. In many cases the
customers have no idea what he/she is doing and would like the designer’s and/or architect’s
recommendations.

These are just a few examples of the situations that the designer may come across. Many questions
need to be asked of the customer regarding the placement of the TO. The designer must take the
requirements of the customer and the requirements from the standards to place the outlets in a
mutually compliant and aesthetically pleasing location.

Most industry standard recommends a minimum of two TOs, whether singly or in groups, to be
provided per WA. The WA TO should be installed within a maximum distance of 1 meter of a power
outlet, or vice-versa and should be installed at the same height as the power outlet. (This means that if
there is power outlet already installed in the WA, the designer should take its location into
consideration when placing the TO).

Where possible, locate the TO in the WA Telecommunications Outlet

such that the WA cord required to reach the Placement Requirements
equipment will be no more than 3 meters
Work Area 102 m
long.
WA
1 meter
Outlets should be marked with a permanent
label that is visible to the user. This is more Max.
of an installation requirement, but keeps the
designer aware of an administration and
labeling plan. FD

In any case, the designer must consider the

maximum distance of 90 meters from the TO
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to the FD. And, this distance is measured via straight lines and 90º angles. So, the placement of the FD
requires the knowledge of the placement of the TOs.

For areas where it is difficult to add more TOs at a later date, a minimum of two separate outlet
locations should be provided in the initial design for that area; they shall be located to offer
maximum flexibility for change within the WA, e.g., on opposing walls in private office space.

Telecommunications Outlet (TO) Elevation Drawing

The TO elevation drawing is one of the key AMP Cat 5e,

drawings in a design plan. The drawing should P/n 406372-6
Blue Color
include all of the components (and their respective
manufacturer and part number) required for the
installation and mounting of the outlet.
Voice
Typically a 2-dimensional and/or a 3-dimensional
drawing depicting the outlet connectivity is
appropriate, but the 3-dimensional drawing give a Data AMP Cat 5e,
P/n 406372-6
better representation due to the fact that it shows the Blue Color
cable connectivity and breakout. An outlet elevation
drawing should be done for each and every outlet
type in the design project.

Work Area (WA) Cabling

The WA is the space in a building where the occupants

interact with their telecommunications devices. The WA
cabling extends from the TO connector end of the
horizontal cabling system, to the terminal equipment.

A typical WA is usually an area of approximately 10

square meters (10 m2). This is the space where the user
would interact and work with the terminal equipments.
WAs includes the components that extend from the WA
outlet to the equipment. These components can include
equipment such as telephones, data terminals, video
equipment, and computers which are outside of the
scope of cabling standard. Also included within the WA
is the WA patch cord which routes from this equipment
to the WA outlet.

When planning for WA cabling, keep the following items in mind:

• Patch cords are designed to provide easy routing changes.

• The maximum horizontal cable length has been specified with the assumption that a
maximum length of 5 meter of patch cord has been used in the WA.
• A patch cord with identical connectors on both ends is most commonly used.
• Patch cords should be factory manufactured.
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 • Copper patch cordage is required to be constructed with stranded cable. This allows for
flexibility. Patch cords induce 20% higher attenuation.
• Where application-specific adapters (i.e., baluns, modular adapters, etc.) are needed at the
WA, they shall be external to the WA outlet.

Routing to the Work Area (WA)

The design of generic cabling should provide for TOs to be installed throughout the usable floor
space. A high density of TO will enhance the ability of the cabling to accommodate future changes.
There are a number of options available with regards to the number and type of outlets serving each
WA.

Aesthetic considerations are a primary concern many customers have when considering the
horizontal cabling of their facility. The designer needs to determine how cables will be aesthetically
routed from the horizontal portion of the cable run to the outlet. Whether cables are routed
vertically down from a ceiling space, or routed vertically up from an under floor system, a path
needs to be defined for the route to the outlet location that facilitates proper media installation and
is aesthetically pleasing.

A variety of outlet boxes, surface trunking, and conduit types exist to provide a path for the cable.
Again the key is to know the structural composition of the WAs (i.e. hollow gypsum walls, plaster
walls, block walls, wire-managed furniture, open bay, etc.). The designer must select an outlet
position and size that facilitates the space requirements of the media, provides for the storage of
slack cable length, and allows the cable to be dressed to the connection point without exceeding
minimum bend radius. Adequate strain relief and protection of the cables must also be considered
when designing outlet positions.

Wall Mount Outlet Box

Wall-mounted outlet boxes can be installed in plasterboard, plaster, or concrete block wall, and
typically require the surface to be cut out for its installation. If the plasterboard is not yet installed,
be sure to identify the thickness of the plasterboard to be installed to determine the correct
mounting depth.

Depending upon what was specified; the box may be

plastic or metal and can be installed with screws or
nails. All metallic boxes must be earthed
(grounded).

Boxes should be as deep as possible to allow for

better cable management and addition of connectors
at a later date. It always depends upon what type of
box was specified by the designer.

A requirement according to the many standards is that the wall-mounted outlet boxes should be
mounted within one meter and at the same height as the electrical outlet boxes. In regards to the
same height, check local codes and be aware of height restrictions or guidelines.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 16 of 27
Surface Mount Outlet Box

Surface-mount outlet boxes may be mounted to a

panel surface using screws, double-sided tape, or
magnetic tape. They do not require any junction
boxes, box eliminators, etc.

They are usually available in single-gang and double-

gang versions and can be used with surface trunking.
If the surface trunking is being run from the ceiling to
each surface-mount outlet box, then each box should
be mounted at the same height as the electrical outlet
boxes. However, if a perimeter trunking system is
used, the TOs may be placed at a different height than
the electrical outlets, unless the cables feeding both are
run in the same partitioned raceway.

Raised/Access Floor Outlet Box

Raised/Access floor outlet boxes are designed for

mounting onto a carpeted access floor panel or in a
concrete or steel box used in floor trunking
applications.

To install a typical raised/access floor outlet box

module into an access floor panel, cut an opening
near one corner of the panel - usually no less 80 mm
from the two edges of the panel.

Specific floor heights may be required for proper

installation. This height is measured from the top of the raised floor to the top of the main floor. If
installing the raised/access floor module into a concrete form box, refer to the packaged
instructions.

Raised/Access floor outlet boxes locations should be in accordance with initial furniture layout. A
minimum of one power outlet should be installed near each TO. Independent and direct pathways
shall be provided from areas with heavy demands for Telecommunications equipment, e.g., data
centers, control centers, to the serving TR or equipment room.

Multi-user Telecommunications Outlet

Assemblies (MUTOA)

MUTOA shall be located in accessible, permanent

locations. These assemblies shall not be installed in
open office furniture systems unless that unit of
furniture is secured to the building structure.

MUTOA shall be administered in the same manner

as telecommunications cabling, hardware, pathways
and spaces.
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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 17 of 27
Telecommunications Outlet (TO) Connectivity

Even though the TO is located in the WA, it is considered part of the horizontal cabling system. The
TO elevation drawing is one of the key drawings in a design plan. The drawing should include all of
the components (brand, model and part number) required for the installation and mounting of the
outlet.

The designer should determine how the cables will be aesthetically routed from the horizontal
portion of the cable pathway to the outlet, i.e. directly to the outlet box, through conduit (pipe),
trunking, raceways, PVC casing etc.

The designer also must select an outlet route and termination that facilitates the space requirements
of the media type used, provides for slack storage and allows the cable to be dressed to the
termination point without exceeding the minimum bend radius.

Summary

The number and type of subsystems that are included in a generic cabling implementation depends
upon the geography and size of the campus or building, and upon the strategy of the user. The star
topology should be adopted and typically there would be one CD per campus, one BD per building,
and one FD per floor.

If the premise comprises only a single building which is small enough to be served by a single BD,
then there is no need for a campus backbone cabling subsystem.

On the other hand, a large campus premise may be served by multiple BDs interconnected via a
CD.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 18 of 27
 AMP NETCONNECT PREMISE SYSTEMS SOLUTIONS

Architectures and Distribution Systems

The AMP NETCONNECT Open Cabling Systems - Premises Systems Solutions highlights the
architectures, systems and components recommended by AMP to satisfy the growing
communication requirements within the premises cabling industry. By following the
recommendations presented within the Premises Systems Solutions, the user will obtain an Open
Cabling System which is standards compliant, flexible, manageable, highly supported by the AMP
distributor and Network Designer and Installer (NDI)/Network Installer (NI).

Building Cabling Architectures

A competent designer needs an in-depth understanding of the different architecture options, the
basis for its selection, and the respective advantages and disadvantages. Generally, the main
differences between the different architectures are related to where the electronics are deployed, and
how the connections to the outlets are distributed.

The two primary and distinctive building open cabling architectures supported by AMP
NETCONNECT are:

• Centralized Network Administration (CNA), otherwise known as Centralized Optical Fiber

Cabling.
• Distributed Network Administration (DNA)

The distinct difference between these two architectures is the deployment of the Local Area
Network (LAN) electronics and the cabling system connectivity used in support of this deployment.
CNA is based on having all LAN electronics in the building centralized within the BD versus being
distributed throughout the building in every FD.

CNA can be implemented in small buildings using either balanced copper cabling or optical fiber in
a pull-through manner when all users are within 90 meters of the centralized closet. For larger
buildings where these distances exceed 90 meters, optical fiber must be used for LAN and faster
data or video and balanced copper cabling used for voice and low speed data.

DNA can be implemented using balanced copper cabling or optical fiber, typically all balanced
cabling for voice plus an optical fiber backbone/balanced horizontal implementation for data. DNA
requires the cabling system to provide the necessary connectivity in the distributors to allow
distributed electronics to be implemented effectively where all users are connected within 90
meters.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 19 of 27
Centralized Network Administration (CNA)

CNA is the AMP NETCONNECT premier architecture addressing the increasing operating cost of
network administration and the future requirement to migrate easily and cost effectively from the
low speed LANs of today to the high speed requirements of tomorrow.

The concept of the CNA involved collapsing all the network equipments into a single centralized
location. CNA was intended as a cost-effective alternative to the DNA in the long term. The ideal is
to support centralized electronics and ease the complexities of managing the network equipments.
CNA is most suitable for users in a single-tenant building.

CNA is intended for the following type of corporation or institution:

• Concerned with long term LAN equipment cost savings more than initial cabling installed
cost
• Having or wanting centralized management control of the LAN network
• Concerned about effective and flexible migration to higher speed networks
• Desiring to migrate effectively to and employ switched versus shared LAN technology
• FD space inadequate for housing LAN electronics
• Concerned for equipment security from fire/vandalism/terrorism

Note: This topology is in accordance with ISO/IEC 11801 and TIA/EIA 568-C.1.

Single User
Spice or
Interconnect Horizontal
Floor Cabling
Distributor

Pull-Through Zone Cabling

Fiber or Cables
Copper
Backbone

Centralized
Cross-Connect
Work Area

Equipment
Room

Centralized Network Administration

CNA brings all user connectivity to one centralized ER within the building (versus in every FD
throughout the building), providing the user with:
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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 20 of 27
• Easier administration resulting in lower operating costs
• Increased utilization of LAN electronic ports and hubs
• Ability to support interdepartmental work group LANs more easily
• Reduced requirements for closet space and outfitting
• A migration path to higher speed networks

Centralised cabling provides direct connection from the work areas (telecommunication outlets) to the
centralised electronics located in the equipment room (building distributor). These connections are
achieved by means of direct combined channels (backbone and horizontal). As an alternative to direct
pull-through, splice, inter-connections or cross-connections at the floor distributors can also be used.
Generally, CNA offers the client the capability to maintain or even reduce their operating costs by
providing easier manageability as well as enhanced security.

Advantages of CNA include:

• Moves, adds, and changes (MACs) are typically easier – Patching and un-patching
• Increase equipment ports utilisation efficiency
• Ease of equipment maintenance and manageability
• Lower administration time and costs are lower,
• Floor space saving in Telecommunication Rooms
• Quick upgrade path for network migration

Disadvantages of DNA include:

• Higher initial installation cost (especially fibre solution)
• Maximum twisted pair link distance of 90 metre
• Network Equipments centralisation perceived as a single point of failure

Distributed Network Administration (DNA)

The most common building backbone architecture is the Distributed Network Architecture (DNA)
and it is defined as a structured cabling topology that shall support a multi-product, multi-vendor
environment.

DNA is the AMP NETCONNECT architecture to address multi-tenant buildings and those
corporations and institutions who do not want their LAN electronics centralized or where LANs are
under individual departmental control. DNA architecture is the most common cabling architecture
in the industry and is widely supported by numerous vendors.

For DNA, the telecommunications rooms that are distributed through the building are expected to
host networking electronic devices that are connected via the cabling infrastructure to form the
network.

DNA supports the distribution of LAN electronics in FDs and provides:

• Better support for multi-tenant buildings by not requiring shared facilities

• Support for the use of horizontal balanced cabling for high speed networks
• The lowest installed cost available
• Support for departmentally controlled LANs versus corporate controlled LANs
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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 21 of 27
 • Support for the existing investment in copper-based LAN electronics

DNA is the basic architecture of the ISO and many other regional industry cabling standards.
It is based on the star topology and is ideal for large buildings and multi-building campus.

Advantages of DNA include:

• Low backbone cable count

• Efficient use of cable routing space
• Lower cabling investment
• Allow for fault tolerant design

Disadvantages of DNA include:

• Moves, Adds and Changes (MAC) are more complicated – Patching and un-patching
• Inefficient equipment ports utilization
• Complexities in equipment maintenance, servicing and inventory tracking
• Additional cost involved in providing complementing equipments (HVAC, fire-protection
and UPS etc)

Active
Equipment Work Area

Floor Horizontal
Distributor Cabling

Low Fiber
Count
Backbone Active
Cable Equipment
Work Area
Floor
Distributor

Building
Distributor
Work Area
Equipment
Room

Distributed Network Administration

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 22 of 27
Horizontal Distribution Systems

The two distinct horizontal distribution systems which support either CNA or DNA and can be
implemented with either balanced or optical fiber cabling effectively are:

• Single-User Distribution Cabling

• Zone Distribution Cabling

The distinct difference between these two horizontal distribution systems is whether the distribution
system is in support of hard-wall, fixed offices (Single-User) or open, re-configurable office areas
(Zone). A typical office area may very well employ both single-user distribution and zone
distribution cabling systems, both being accessible to the user.

Single-User Distribution Cabling

The standard horizontal distribution connectivity for the telecommunication outlets commonly
deployed with DNA and CNA is simply called “Single User Distribution Cabling”. Single User
Cabling describes a connection where one or more outlet connectors are connected back, following
a star topology, to the distributor via a single or bundled cable.

This distribution system uses single-user cables (minimum two-pair balanced and/or two optical
fiber cable) directly installed from the FD to the single-user TO located in the user’s WA. While
single-user distribution cabling can be used in open office areas, (i.e., cubicles and wire-managed
furniture) it adds cost and difficulty during MACs. This distribution system is best suited for hard-
walled, non-moveable office areas and used with either CNA or DNA.

Single-User
Cable & Outlets
Floor/Building
Distributor

Single-User Cabling

DNA and CNA basically differ according to how the customer wants to manage and administer the
network system. It is the responsibility of the designer to determine, through the client’s
expectations, which architecture is most suitable to provide optimum performance at minimal cost.
It is important to consider both the short-term cost and the long-term investment. The other factor
that the designer must consider in balancing performance and cost is the media selection.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 23 of 27
Zone Distribution Cabling

This horizontal distribution system is intended for the open office area whether that is comprised of
modular wire-managed office furniture, a lab type application, a conference room requiring multiple
connections, or a school classroom. While typically slightly higher in installed cost than single-user
cabling, zone cabling offers significant cost benefits during its life-cycle, especially for plug-and-
play solutions, as the open office area is constantly reconfigured.

Floor MUTOU
Distributor

Consolidation
Point
Floor
Distributor

Zone Distribution Cabling

The concept of zone distribution is simple. The office is basically pre-wired by area and anticipated
user density rather than by individual outlets. The floor plan is divided into zones by area or number
of users. Zone Distribution Cabling uses bundles of four pair copper cables and/or 12-element
optical fiber cables. 25-pair balanced copper cables are not recommended for this topology because
they cannot be used to run more than one Gigabit Ethernet service or one Gigabit Ethernet service
and a different service). These cables are pulled from the FD to a single, fixed transition
(distribution) point within each zone. Individual cable runs are then connected from the transition
point to each workstation telecommunications outlet.

The CP allows for an additional connection point in the horizontal link between the user and the
distributor. The CP typically serves a zone of twelve users and is located outside the WA, usually in
the ceiling or floor. Each CP is capable of providing cabling to each outlet in its respective zone.
When the office area is reconfigured, the zone cabling is disconnected from the building cabling at
the CP. This approach not only can be employed with open office furniture but also modular-wall
office configurations. The CP is specified in ISO/IEC 11801 and is specified as the Consolidation
Point in TIA/EIA 568-C.1.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 24 of 27
Backbone Cabling Systems

There are two distinct backbones cabling systems which support either CNA or DNA and can be
implemented with balanced or optical fiber cables for voice and optical fiber for data and video
applications; they are:

• Building Backbone Cabling System

• Campus Backbone Cabling System

Building (Riser) Backbone Cabling System

The building backbone cabling system is that system which connects the horizontal distribution
system to the BD. This is typically supported with the use of 50/125µm (AMP NETCONNECT
recommendation) or 62.5/125µm multi-mode optical fiber cables for LAN and video networks.
The distinct difference is whether the building optical fiber backbone cabling system is in support
of centralized or distributed network administration. For distributed networks the backbone is
typically a 12 to 24 optical fiber cable terminated into a patch panel at both the FD and the BD. For
centralized networks the fiber count of the cable is significantly greater with the fibers being
terminated in a patch panel at the BD but the connection to the horizontal distribution system at the
FD may be performed with splices (fusion or mechanical) or inter-connection.

Campus Backbone Cabling System

The campus backbone cabling system provides connectivity between buildings in campus or
industrial park environments. This network is typically supported by the use of outside plant
optical fiber cabling, both 50/125µm (AMP NETCONNECT recommendation) and 62.5/125µm
multi-mode and single-mode fiber for voice, data and video applications.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 25 of 27
Review

1. The structures of generic cabling system can be broken down into several ______________
____________ and ____________.

2. The ____________ ___________ cable provides interconnections between the Floor

Distributors and the Building Distributor. It is also typically referred to as the “vertical” or
“riser” cable.

3. A generic cabling system typically comprises of a hierarchical of cabling subsystems made

up of the functional elements. They are _____________ _____________, _____________
_____________ and ______________ _____________ subsystems.

4. The ___________ ___________ subsystem extends from the campus distributor to the
building distributor(s), usually located in separate buildings.

5. The _______ _______ is the space in a building where the occupants interact with their
telecommunications devices.

6. The _____________ ______ provides a centralized controlled environment for the housing of
telecommunications equipment, distributors connecting hardware, splice enclosures,
grounding and bonding facilities and protection apparatus.

7. Interconnections between any two Floor Distributors shall not pass through more than
_________ distributors/cross-connects.

8. The two primary and distinctive building open cabling architectures supported by AMP
NETCONNECT are _______________ ________________ ________________ (CNA)
and _______________ ________________ ________________ (DNA).

9. The _____________ distribution system is best suited for hard-walled, non-moveable office
areas.

10. The most common building backbone architecture is the _____________ ______________
__________________ (DNA) and it is defined as a structured cabling topology that shall
support a multi-product, multi-vendor environment.

11. Advantages of DNA includes the following except

a. Low backbone cable count
b. Efficient use of cable routing space
c. Lower cabling investment
d. Efficient equipment ports utilizations

12. Single User Distribution Cabling describes a connection where one or more outlet
connectors are connected back, following a ______ topology, to the distributor via a single
or bundled cable.

13. With Zone distribution cabling, when the office area is reconfigured, the zone cabling is
disconnected from the building cabling at the _________________ ____________.

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System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2011-11) Page 26 of 27
 14. Most industry standard recommends a minimum of ______ telecommunications outlets,
whether singly or in groups, to be provided per work area.

15. Depending upon what was specified; the box may be plastic or metal and can be installed
with screws or nails. All ______________ boxes must be earthed (grounded).

16. A single distributor should not service more than __________ m2.

17. The _______ _____________ space may combine features of a building entrance facility
and equipment room. It is commonly used as a separate space in multi-tenant buildings to
serve all tenants.

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AMP NetCONNECT System Training – Premises Cabling Structures and Telecommunication Spaces (Rev. 2009-04) Page 27 of 27