ICTCBL2136B Install Maintain and Modify Customer Premises Communications Cabling ACMA Restricted Rule LR V1

ICTCBL2136B
Install, maintain and modify customer premises

communications cabling:
ACMA Restricted Rule
Student Learning Resource
Student Name ________________________________________________

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resources developed by staff from TITAB & CITT”
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LR ICTCBL2136B NVR Standard 15.5 2 1 ACMA Restricted Rule 06/08/2014 Page 2 of 225
Student Information
Purpose:
The purpose of this learning package is to help you understand the technical and
theoretical knowledge and associated skills of your selected trade area. This package
contains a number of learning and associated documents for this unit of competency.
Please read all parts of this package to ensure that you complete and manage the process
correctly. These assessment tools address the mandatory requirements of the unit of
competency including, evidence requirements, range statements and the required skills
and knowledge to achieve the learning outcomes indicated in the document. Performance
criteria are described below. The contents of this unit will contain some or all of the
following as required:
Unit outlines / Performance Criteria

Self-Checks are self-tests for the student. These have in general been extracted from this
learning resource.
ELEMENT PERFORMANCE CRITERIA

1. Work within the 1.1 Prepare for restricted cabling work within the regulatory and cabling
constraints imposed by environment, cable type, cable identification, termination systems,
customer premises and earthing and protection, records and according to requirements of relevant
ACMA regulatory legislation, codes, regulations and standards
environment
1.2 Identify building infrastructure that places critical constraints on cabling
1.3 Develop strategies to manage other infrastructure in relation to cabling
1.4 Notify appropriate personnel of safety hazards at the cabling work site
2. Manage remote power 2.1 Identify and avoid the risks posed by contact with remote power feeding
feed services when performing cabling activity
2.2 Make site safe by identifying remote power feeding services that operate at
above telecommunications network voltage (TNV) inside customer premises
3. Install cables and 3.1 Install cables according to manufacturer's application specifications,
protective earth wires including tension and bending stress requirements
3.2 Identify and avoid sources of possible damage to cable, including hot
pipes, sharp edges and cable burn
3.3 Allow sufficient excess at cable ends to facilitate termination
3.4 Place and secure cable to maintain safety and interference segregation
according to legislative and industry standards
3.5 Install cable ties with correct tension to prevent cable sheath damage or
transmission impairment and trimmed flush to prevent risk of personal damage
3.6 Install underground cables to minimum depth of cover and segregation
from hazardous electrical and other services according to AS/CA TS009:2013
3.7 Install underground cables excluding blown fibre tube systems to
incorporate a blocking agent within the cable to prevent the ingress of water
3.8 Install aerial cables to minimum clearance, segregation from hazardous

ELEMENT PERFORMANCE CRITERIA
electrical and other services and minimum height requirements according to
AS/CA TS009:2013
3.9 Install over-voltage protection devices according to AS/CA TS009:2013 to
all cable pairs, where required, to suppress voltage surges and protect from
earth potential rise (EPR) hazards and protectively earth the devices
3.10 Protect earth wire insulation against damage and segregate protective
earths according to relevant legislative and industry standards
4. Terminate and test 4.1 Remove cable sheath to allow for correct termination length and without
cables and earth wires damage to underlying conductors and their insulation
4.2 Install NTD terminating modules according to manufacturer specifications
and with cable pairs neatly and sequentially fanned for termination
4.3 Terminate conductors according to recommended colour code sequence
using appropriate termination tools in the manufacturer's specified manner
4.4 Earth cable shield, if applicable, to manufacturer specifications, relevant
industry codes of practice and AS/CA TS009:2013
4.5 Conduct visual inspection to confirm termination colour code sequence has
been followed prior to end-to-end testing of wire and pair termination integrity
4.6 Terminate earth wires with connectors recommended by manufacturers
according to accepted industry codes of practice and AS/CA TS009:2013
4.7 Maintain earth wire continuity throughout and observe interface
requirements with electrical systems
4.8 Test earthing installation for continuity, insulation resistance and
conductive resistance according to accepted industry standards, including
AS/CA TS009:2013
4.9 Confirm compatibility of alterations with existing systems and test new work
both in isolation and when integrated with existing systems
5. Inspect cable route to 5.1 Inspect separations along the entirety of the cable route and rectify
ensure correct separations separations that do not comply with regulations
5.2 Install barriers to achieve separations where sufficient spatial separation
cannot be met
6. Create records 6.1 Provide the client with a job sign-off and telecommunications cabling
advice form, at the completion of each cabling task
6.2 Complete NTD record cards for the work undertaken
7. Monitor work activity 7.1 Supervise cablers not holding appropriate registration for the task to ensure
cabling activity is according to legislative requirements for safety and network
integrity, including AS/ACIF S008:2006 and AS/CA TS009:2013

UNIT DESCRIPTOR
ICTCBL2136B Install, maintain and modify customer premises

communications cabling: AMCA Open Rule
This unit describes the performance outcomes, skills and knowledge required to place,
secure and terminate structured cabling and to certify installation.
All customer cabling work in the telecommunications, fire, security and data industries
must be performed by a registered cabler. All cablers are required to register with an
Australian Communications and Media (ACMA)-accredited registrar.
ASSESSMENT
Overall Assessment Requirements

The instructional outcomes required at the completion of this training are satisfactory for
each form of evidence resulting in competent. If you do not achieve the required outcomes
of competent, for this assessment you will be required to re-sit a supplementary
examination within a reasonable time of the original examination date.
To achieve successful completion of this unit you should achieve a minimum of 3 forms of
assessment. Below are some of the forms of evidence that can be used.
Written Assessment
Third party reports (usually by your employer or supervisor)
Workshop/ On Site Activity (generally referred to as “Practical Assessment”)
Logbook Evidence (a record of the tasks you carry out for each unit)
Theory Examination
During the period of this learning you will be required to complete a written theory
examination to establish the level of understanding of technical content.
Self Checks
Self-checks are to be completed on pages provided when requested by your trainer.
These exercises are used mainly as a learning tool; they may form part of your overall
assessment if deemed necessary by your Trainer.
Verbal Questions
Verbal questions may be used and recorded to establish your level of knowledge of the
competencies of this learning package.
Practical Observation / Assessment

Practical may be assessed in either of the following formats: -
Practical observations will be undertaken in the workplace. Where the assessor observes
the student completing a task in the workplace the observation will be recorded in the
observation checklist.

Where a student is not able to undertake an activity in the workplace a simulated practical
activity will be setup by the assessor. (Refer to the practical exercises outlined in this
Student Learning Resource.) The observation checklist will be used to record the student’s
performances.
Where a student undertakes an activity in the workplace and the trainer is not able to be
present the employer / supervisor will confirm the activity on the Third Party Report. The
student and employer / supervisor will provide photographic evidence of the activity with
an explanation of the task undertaken.
The assessor will contact the student by phone or face to face to question the student
about the activity to confirm the students understanding and skills. The outcome of this
contact will be recorded in the Practical Assessment.
Log Book or Training Record Book

It is the responsibility and requirement for the learner to complete the training record
based on the on-the-job and structured training tasks received by the employer or
Supervising Registered Training Organisation (SRTO) or as indicated in the training plan,
which may be produced to the employer and SRTO at reasonable intervals of not more
than 3 months. Log Book evidence from your employer and other forms of evidence
relating to this unit of competency will contribute to the outcome of this learning package. If
the required activity is not part of your employer’s scope of activity you will be required to
complete the skill learning process within a simulated environment. Logbook evidence
must reflect the “Elements” shown for this unit.

Results
A statement of Attainment may be printed for this unit if required, but in general your
achievement of this unit will be recorded and presented to you on completion of the entire
qualification. Your certificate will record all the units you have completed.
RPL and Acceleration

Recognition of prior learning is available to all students. This provides an opportunity for
being credited for previous learning. Acceleration provides an opportunity to reduce the
allocated learning hours for this unit of competency. There is a separate RPL kit for this
process.
Methodology
This unit may be provided as a separate learning instruction or provided with other units of
competency in a practical or theoretical learning experience.
Due care
Every care has been taken to ensure that the information in this learning guide is correct,
but trainers are advised to check the currency and the relevance of the content to their
own training package.
Copyright protects this publication. Except for purpose permitted by the Copyright Act
1968, reproduction, adaptation, electronic storage and communication to the public is
prohibited without prior written permission.
Pre-requisites
There are no Pre-requisites for this unit
Feedback to the learner

The trainer will provide feedback to the learner on the progress of assessment.
This learning package is intended for use by those completing the qualification –
ICTCBL2136B Install, maintain and modify customer premises communications cabling –
ACMA Restricted Rule - as part of Telecommunications Stream Skills within the
Innovation and Business Skills Stream of the National Competency Framework.

Regulatory and Legislative Requirements
Regulatory and legislation requirements applicable to this unit of competency may be
found in:
Work Health and Safety Act 2011
Work Health and Safety Regulation 2011
Environmental Protection Act (1994)
Telecommunications Act 1997
You should make yourself familiar with and apply any
regulatory and legislative requirements to your relevant
work area.
Australian Standards
Standards are published documents setting out specifications and procedures designed to
ensure products, services and systems are safe, reliable and consistently perform the way
they were intended to. They establish a common language, which defines quality and
safety criteria.
Standards can be guidance documents including:
Australian Standards®;
AS/CA S009:2013
AS/CA S008:2010
AS/NZS 3000:2007
International Standards and Joint Standards;
Codes;
Specifications;
Handbooks; and
Guidelines
ACMA Competency Requirements
Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules 2000
NOTE: The AS/CA documents are available to download free from

http://www.commsalliance.com.au
These documents are practical and don’t set impossible goals. They are based on sound
industrial, scientific and consumer experience and are constantly reviewed to ensure they
keep pace with new technologies.

They cover everything from consumer products and services, construction, engineering,
business, information technology, human services to energy and water utilities, the
environment and much more.
Work Instructions
Before commencing any job, you will need to receive specific work instructions. These are
often presented to employees in the form of a Works Order. The instructions may vary
according to the size of the task or project and there may even be some circumstances
where no work instructions are given e.g. emergencies.
Obtain, confirm and apply work instructions for the allotted task. Work instructions may
include:
• Verbal or written and graphical instructions, signage, work, schedules/plans/specifications,
work bulletins, charts and hand drawings, memos, safety data sheets (SDS) and diagrams
or sketches
• Plans and specifications
• Quality requirements, including dimensions, tolerances, standards of work and material
standards
• Safe work procedures related to the operation of small plant and equipment on construction
sites
All safety requirements for the tasks you have been asked to do should be written down in
the Job Safety Analysis (JSA) or Safe Work Method Statement (SWMS) for the job. Read
this carefully and ask questions of your supervisor if these requirements are not clear to
you, so that you will correctly follow all safety requirements for the task. Furthermore
detail regarding any site safety requirements should be detailed in your organisation’s Site
Safety Management Plans.
Safe Working Procedures/Safe Operating Procedures

Many organisations standardise the way in which they carry out a task, or operate
machinery to ensure it is done to achieve a quality product and maintain safety. Previously
discussed in this manual is a safe work method statement, this is a form of Safe Working
Procedure. Another form is a Safe Operating Procedure (SOP), which is often a
standardised way of operating an item of plant or equipment.

Manufacturers Specifications
Manufacturers Specifications are written instructions, which outline the installation,
maintenance and safe use of the manufacturer’s product.
Environment
The environmental impact from Installing telecommunications
equipment can be easily controlled.
Safe work practices that consider working in the vicinity of
chemicals or harmful substances can identify the correct use,
storage and disposal.
The most common risk is the chemicals used in the wet and dry
wipes for the cleaning of fibre optic connections and general
waste. Proper waste management controls this issue.
Reporting and Record Keeping

Make sure you record any action you have taken and talk to your supervisor and WHS
officer about the control strategies in place.
Reports and records include:
• Risk assessment reports
• Incident reports
• Job safety analysis (JSA)
• Safe work methods (SMWS)
Keeping records is important as they can help ensure
that any risk management activities are traceable.
Records also provide a basis for improving methods and tools in the risk management
process as well as improving the overall process.
Safety Data Sheets
The hazards of chemicals cannot usually be identified by their

name since they often have a trade name, giving no information
about how to work with them safely. The information for the safe
handling and storage of chemicals comes from the document
that generally accompanies the product, known as the Safety
Data Sheet (SDS).
The SDS will give information about the make-up of the
substance, how to store it, first aid instructions and how to clean
up spills or fires. There is a great deal of useful information on a
SDD, which will assist in managing the chemical

The other source of information is the label, with very strict legislative requirements for the
information that must be included. There are specific risk and safety phrases that form part
of the label, and these phrases assist in managing chemicals and training employees.
Site specific
Sites may have their own processes and procedures for working managing associated
hazards. Include in your development of SWMS (Safe work method statement) or JSA
(Job Safety Analysis) an authorised person who can inform you of any site-specific
considerations and ensure they comply with your company requirements
Convey any safety related information to the relevant people. This may include a site
supervisor, other work parties or the public as necessary. Communication can be through
relevant mediums e.g
• Email
• Direct conversation/phone call
• Toolbox talks
• Signage
• Barriers
Identified hazards
Inform appropriate personnel of identified hazards on worksite.
Identified hazards may include but limited to:
Access points that may contain:
• Remote power feeding services which operate at above telecommunications network
voltage (TNV).
• Earth potential rise.
• Hazardous light or non visible light laser.
• Hazardous conduit as according to AS 1345:1995 conduit colours associated with
hazardous service.
• Event at a site, such as an electrical distribution substation, may expose
telecommunications personnel, users or plant to hazardous voltages.
• Radio frequency equipment emitting radiation.
• Live power lines.
• Building debris.
• Manual handling.
• Mud and water.
• Natural gas and other gas build up.
• Slippery surfaces.
• Vermin.

Access Barriers
Whilst barriers are intended to keep unauthorised or uninformed persons out – the type
used will be determined by the worksite and the risk and severity of the hazard involved.
On Civil, commercial and industrial worksites – exposed people are usually well informed
and practiced in safety requirements. In the event of low risk and low consequence
hazards present on these sites simple witches may be sufficient.
Don’t just assume that a barrier will stop someone from entering the area. The public
especially are likely to walk straight through simple barriers such as witches hats, go under
tape and climb over bollards if you it prevents them from impeding their journey by even
seconds.
If the work area is accessible to the public or the associated risks pose a greater
consequence then more permanent barriers may be required.
These could include:
• Warning tape
• Temporary bollards

Hand Tools
Various hand tools may be required depending on the task. Ensure you have the correct
tools for the job and that it is in good condition. Check for burred or sharp edges, cracks
and excessive wear.
If tools are required to be insulated ensure that insulation is in good condition to be
effective.
Crimpers
Keep hands and foreign objects clear of crimper jaws while crimping as large amounts of
pressure are applied at the jaws due to the mechanical advantage. Injuries may occur or
jaws may be damaged by applying excessive force.
NOTE: All tools and equipment should be cleaned and stored in the appropriate place after
use each day.

Typical cable installation tools
Cable Strippers
Cable strippers themselves are inherently relatively safe due to their design. Only use
them on the materials they are intended to strip and they will last a long time.
Cable strippers designed for use on coax can be used on structured cables with care.

Punch Down Tool or Insertion Tool
A punch down tool, also called a punchdown tool or a krone tool (named after the KRONE
LSA-PLUS connector), is a small hand tool used by telecommunication and network
technicians. It is used for inserting wire into insulation-displacement connectors on punch
down blocks, patch panels, keystone modules, and surface mount boxes (also known as
biscuit jacks).
Test equipment
Test equipment must be in correct operating order. To maintain insulation resistance
insulation must be clean and in very good condition. Ensure that any calibrated equipment
is in current test date.
Test equipment is generally more fragile than ordinary hand tools and more care must be
taken. Always return it to its protective case, keep clean and dry and do not use cleaning
chemicals as this may damage the plastic and seals, use a clean dry cloth.

BASIC TELEPHONY
As technology leaves the traditional telephone behind it is important that
telecommunications workers have an understanding of the origins of the telephone and
how the early systems worked. Here is some of that history.
Sound
All sound is created by mechanical vibrations that in turn disturbs the molecules of air
adjacent to the vibration source. The air becomes the medium for the transmission of
sound waves to the ear, which detects the sound. Hence, there are three requirements:
• A source of sound
• A medium for sound transmission
• An ear to receive and detect the sound
The Sound Effect

The word "sound" is the common term for oscillations in air-pressure that are detected by
our ears. When the ear detects these oscillations, we describe this as "hearing a sound".
Sound oscillations travel outwards from the point of origin in waves. As the sound waves
travel outwards from their source they diminish in amplitude, for the listener, this equates
to a reduction in volume. Sound waves have a velocity of 332m/sec in air. Sound needs a
medium to travel in; it cannot travel in a vacuum. The medium can be any solid, liquid or
gas, although some mediums do transmit sound better than others.
The human ear and voice have developed to operate within a particular range of
oscillation frequencies. The human voice creates complex waves (made up of different
frequencies) whose component frequencies lie in the range between 100 and 20,000 Hz.
Loudness of sound
The intensity or loudness of a sound depends on the amount of energy that goes into
making that sound. The more energy used, the higher the level of the sound. It can be
measured, as pressure, in Pascal’s (term most commonly used in physics), which is
equivalent to 1 Newton per square metre. Loudness of sound is normally expressed as a
ratio compared to the lowest intensity level that a healthy human ear can perceive.
Pitch of sound and frequency
The pitch of a sound wave depends on the number of vibrations per second made by a
sound-producing object. The number of vibrations per second is called the frequency of
the sound. The higher the frequency, the higher the pitch. The unit of frequency is the
Hertz (Hz).
Audio and Voice frequencies

Audio frequencies cover the range of human hearing, which is from about 20hz up to
approximately 20,000Hz. This is the audible range. These limits vary from one individual to
another. As people age, they are less able to hear the high frequencies, so that for a 55
year old, the high-frequency limit may be 12,000HZ or less.
Voice frequencies in speech vary from approximately 80Hz to 8,000Hz. A telephone limits
this range to about 300 - 3400Hz.
Pure and complex waveforms

The sound waveform produced by a tuning fork is a pure sound, that is, a single frequency
or sine wave.
However, when two or more frequencies are combined, a complex waveform is produced.
Measurement of sound pressure and level

The perception of loudness or intensity of sound varies between individuals, so accurate
measurements are usually made with a sound level meter, which measures in decibels.
Decibel (dB) is a ratio of output power to input power, equal to 10 times the common
logarithm of that ratio. This corresponds to the sensation of hearing, which is proportional
to the logarithm of the intensity of the sound. That is, if the intensity of the sound increases
by ten times, this represents an increase of 10dB. If there were a power gain of 1,000,000
it would equal 60dB.

This allows us to represent very large power levels as small numbers. Refer to this table
for more ratios.
Intensity of Sound Decibels (dB)
X1 0
X2 3
X 10 10
X 50 17
X 100 20
X 1000 30
X 10000 40
X 100000 50
X 1000000 60
The zero reference level is chosen to be an intensity that corresponds to the threshold of
human hearing and is about the lowest sound pressure level (SPL) that the average ear
can perceive. This is equal to 0dB SPL.
NOTE: The decibel is only a ratio, however, dB SPL is an absolute level.
The image below shows the relationship between dB SPL for various sounds up to and
beyond the threshold of pain.

The threshold of pain is approximately 128dB SPL, which is almost ten million million times
louder than the threshold of hearing.
Temporary loss of hearing can occur at 90dB SPL and permanent damage to hearing can
occur at 120dB SPL.
TRANSMISSION OF SOUND
Rarefaction and compression

When the vibrating source moves forwards and backwards it compresses then rarefies the
air adjacent to it in the plane of vibration.
The compressed molecules of air push forward, compressing those in front. Thus a
compression wave travels rapidly from the source. The backward movement of the source
produces rarefaction that pulls on the molecules in the high pressure Wave in front.
As the compression wave rapidly moves away, the rarefied air chases it. However, the
next compression does not "fill in" the rarefied air because they are both travelling at the
same speed and so it never catches up.
In this way the sound wave quickly passes through the air like a shock wave, radiating in
all directions, even though the actual movement of the air molecules is limited.

Transmission limits
Sound waves distribute in all directions (omni-directional) from a vibrating source. As the
area of the expanding wave front increases, the intensity of the sound wave rapidly
diminishes. The sound energy is dissipated as heat.
The decrease obeys a square law. At twice the distance from the source, the level drops
to one fourth, at five times the distance to one twenty-fifth and so on. Fortunately, the huge
dynamic range of the ear automatically compensates for the rapid reduction of sound
levels over distance.
Speed of sound
Sound travels fast, but is much slower than the speed of light. An example is the few
seconds’ delay of the clap of thunder from distant lightning. Also, echoes represent a delay
due to sound being reflected from distant walls.
The speed of sound varies with both the temperature of the transmitting medium and the
density of the medium. The velocity of sound through air is generally considered to be 332
metres per second at zero degrees Celsius. This is approximately 1200 kilometres per
hour.
It increases by about 0.6 metres per second for each degree increase in temperature.
Sound travels about four times faster through water and about 15 times faster through a
steel rod compared to air. In a vacuum, there is no sound transmitted.
Telephone Transmitter
The telephone transmitter or microphone is actually a transducer that converts acoustic
energy to electrical energy. A transmitter can be described as an input transducer. Not all
of the sound energy entering a transmitter is converted to electrical current, as no
transducer is 100 percent efficient.

Recall that normal conversation reaches a person's ear at approximately 60dB SPL,
however, because the transmitter is very close to the users mouth, the received sound
level is around 80 to 90dB SPL. This increased sound level allows the microphone to send
the signal a longer distance down the telephone line.
A telephone transmitter must be efficient, that is, have good sensitivity to produce a
relatively high output for a given sound source of loudness. A telephone transmitter should
also have a flat frequency response from 300Hz to 3400Hz, be physically robust and
produce minimum distortion.
This frequency range is where the highest level of energy exists within the wider voice
frequency range, and has been selected as the telephony frequency range.
Directional response of telephone transmitters

A telephone transmitter should exhibit a directional response or have a pick-up pattern in
only one direction. That is, the transmitter is most sensitive to sounds at the front of the
transmitter, and least sensitive to sounds at the rear of the transmitter. A microphone or
transmitter with this type of response is often called a Cardioid pattern (heart shaped)
transmitter.
An Omni-directional transmitter or microphone has the characteristics of being sensitive in

every direction.

Up until the late 1980's the majority of telephone transmitter were of the carbon type. The
telephones of the 1990's have an electronic transmitter in the form of an electret
(capacitor) transmitter or a dynamic transmitter.
Capacitor Transmitter
The capacitor or electric transmitter (also often called an electronic transmitter when used
in a telephone) is now the most popular transmitter used in telephones. It uses the sound
to vary the capacitance of an electronic circuit.
The diaphragm is mounted close to a second plate thus forming a capacitor whose value
depends on the area of the plate and their separation. The back plate is fixed and the front
plate serves as the diaphragm. When the diaphragm is moved by sound waves, the
distance between the plates varies and so does the capacitance. This causes a fixed
voltage across the plates to vary. The output voltage will be a representation of the sound
Waves. The DC voltage required for the capacitor is also used to power an amplifier within
the case.
Capacitor transmitters have an excellent frequency response, give a fairly high output at a
reasonable impedance level and have low distortion characteristics.

Moving Coil or Dynamic Transmitter
The moving coil transmitter is also called an electromagnetic or dynamic transmitter.
The dynamic transmitter is somewhat similar in principle of operation to Bell's original
telephone transmitter.
The moving coil transmitter is the only transmitter of the three types used in telephony that
does not require a voltage to operate as it generates its own output.
However, for normal telephony use, the output is amplified.
The principle of operation relies on the movement of a coil suspended between the poles
of a permanent magnet. The coil is connected to a movable diaphragm. When sound
waves cause the diaphragm to move. The coil that is located in the magnetic field also
moves. A current is induced into the coil that is proportional to the sound wave.
Telephone Receiver
The telephone receiver or earpiece is a transducer that converts electrical energy to
acoustic energy or sound waves. The action of the receiver is the exact opposite of the
transmitter or microphone.
The performance of the receiver has to be similar to the transmitter. That is:
• Have good sensitivity to reproduce adequate sound levels for a given electrical input
• Adequate frequency response for the telephony networks
• Be physically robust and
• Have minimal distortion
All telephone receivers in common usage nowadays use electromagnetic principles similar
to Bell's original telephone of over 100 years ago.
Types of Telephone Receivers

The three common receiver types are the rocking armature, the dynamic receiver and the
loudspeaker. Only the dynamic receiver is common in modern telephones.
The dynamic receiver is essentially the same as the dynamic transmitter and in fact, often
they are identical units in the same telephone handset.
In the receiver, electrical signals change polarity and produce magnetic fields, which either
aid or oppose the permanent magnetic field. The resulting forces cause a metallic
diaphragm to vibrate.
DEVELOPMENT OF SWITCHING SYSTEMS
Evolution, not Revolution

As a species, mankind has been communicating ever since we walked upright; maybe
even a few million years before then. As we became more sophisticated, and as our skills
increased so did the means by which we communicated our thoughts and feelings to
others. Evidence of these early communications is found all over the world, in cave
paintings, ancient scrolls and the like.
Later forms of communications even solved the problem of the tyranny of distance, at least
to some extent. (Smoke signals, jungle drums and semaphore). The problem is that these
methods of communication require both the sender and the receiver to be in line of sight or
for the message to be physically delivered to the receiver.
It was not until last century when two quite separate developments were brought together
that these restrictions were forever conquered - The development of Morse code by
Samuel Morse in 1844 and the experimentation and development of electromagnetism by
Michael Faraday.
The Telegraph
The combination of the then new technologies resulted in the development of the
Telegraph system. It was first demonstrated in May 1844: when a signal was sent over
64km of wire from Washington to Baltimore in the US.
The telegraph system expanded rapidly. It used a series of repeater stations located about
200 km apart, connected together by a single conductor strung from a series of poles,
trees, buildings, or just about anything else that was convenient at that time.
The repeater stations were manned by operators (telegraphists) who would receive the
message and then relay it on to the next station down the line.
The message was transmitted by simply closing and opening an electrical circuit causing
current to flow in bursts. The period of time the circuit was closed and the number of tunes
it was opened and closed corresponded to a code of signals that were developed by
Samuel Morse.

The popularity of the telegraph service was such that telegraph lines soon connected
many cites all over the world. Submarine cables were laid that provided links between
continents. This made it possible for a message to be transmitted from Australia to
England in the space of a few hours, rather than months.
Australia's first land telegraph link was installed in March 1854 between Melbourne and
Sandridge (now Williamstown).
The Telephone
The telegraph expanded and extended worldwide communications until some 32 years
later when, in March 1876 Alexander Graham Bell, demonstrated the first telephone.
The advantages of the telephone over the telegraph was quickly realised and people all
over the World began to install these instruments as their communication devices. In many
cases, the existing telegraph lines were used.
Australia’s first telephone link, was again in Melbourne, and was installed by Robeson
Bros. a firm of brass founders. The installation was made just 3 years after Bell's
successful demonstration.
Early services consisted of two telephone instruments permanently connected via
dedicated aerial lines. These lines remained connected between the instruments whether
the telephone instruments were actually being used or not.
This system was somewhat limited in that it only allowed communication with one fixed
location, so it was an obvious advance to have lines gong to other locations.
Initially, this is what happened - each telephone had lines going to many other telephones,
which meant many wires and there were practical limitations as to the number of phones
one could connect to.

SWITCHING
The Need for Switching

These point-to-point links halted the flexibility of the system to cope with a constantly
increasing number of users of this new telephone instrument. It soon became obvious that
a better and more flexible solution was required, and a switching system was developed.
Telephone Switch
The system or device that connects one telephone line to another telephone line is the
switch. It allows two or more people to carry on a conversation over their respective
telephones. It allows your computer modem to be connected to a remote modern which
turn allows connection to the Internet.
Nevertheless, it is more than that. Unlike a switch that allows a person to turn on and off a
bedroom light, a telephone switch or switching system is rather complex in that it has to do
more than just connect two wires together. It has to know when you pick up your
telephone's handset to make a call. It has to provide "supervision" of the call while the call
is in progress. It has to disconnect the connect path on completion of the call.
Manual switches
The first centralised switching location commenced operation in 1878, in the United
States. Initially, it was a simple arrangement where individual telephones were connected
on a grid of horizontal and vertical wired bars allowing the interconnection of any two of
the 21 telephones within the manual exchange grid. Australia’s first telephone exchange
opened in August 1880.
As the number of subscribers increased, exchanges became bigger and connected any
two telephones by a set of flexible cords. Thus switchboards were developed where upon
lifting your receiver, an operator was alerted and you would tell her (it was always a
female) whom you wished to speak to.
The operator would use a set of connecting (patch) cords to connect your socket with the
other person’s socket. When you completed the call, you would hang up your handset, the
operator would be alerted, and remove the plug from both sockets. A note of your call was
made which served as a billing docket.
As the popularity of the telephone grew, the number of operators grew. Large exchanges
had many tens of operators. Operators also offered value-added services such as social
information, call diversion and call waiting. Australia’s first manual telephone exchange
was installed in 1880. The last manual exchange in Australia was taken out of service in
1992. The same principal of operation applied to switchboards installed on private
premises.

Step by Step (Strowger) switching
Despite the excellent service offered by the operators of manual exchanges, commercial
pressures led to the development of an automatic telephone switching system. We can
say that the market forces of the early 1890’s prompted the development of the first
automatic telephone exchange.
Almon Strowger was an Undertaker in Kansas City. He found himself exposed to a serious
form of unfair competition. The woman who operated the manual exchange was the wife
of Strowger’s competitor, and she connected anyone who asked for an undertaker to her
husband. This obviously greatly frustrated Strowger so he set about devising a system for
doing away with the human part of the equation by developing an automatic system.
This switching system was referred as Step by Step, because of the nature of the
switching technique. Progress of the switching was directly controlled by the originating
telephone. Pulses from the telephone dial contacts operated relays (solenoid) in the
exchange equipment. The switch had ten vertical levels. Each level had ten horizontal
contacts. This gave a selection of 100 services. Ten verticals multiplied by the ten
horizontals.
The diagram below is a simplified example where the originating caller has dialed the
number 58. The first number dialed raised the mechanism vertically to the fifth level. The
second number moved the mechanism horizontally eight steps within the fifth level.
Each item of equipment used to set up the call was also used for the duration of the call.
Step by Step exchanges ceased operating in the Australian Public Switched Telephone
Network (PSTN) in the 1980's
Cross - Bar switching

The operation of the Cross Bar process is the same as if an operator was to answer the
calling subscribers call request and connect the required subscriber. While the call was in
progress, the operator would be connecting another call. This principle of operation was
incorporated in the electro-mechanical "cross-bar switches" (X-bar).
During the conversation, the system would monitor the call and save data of the call for
billing while connecting other calls.
Crossbar, introduced the concept of common control equipment. When a subscriber lifted
the handset, a relay operated and notified the controller that a call was being originated.
The controller identifies the calling line of the subscriber and provides dial tone.

The subscriber would then commence to dial the number required. The common control
equipment received the dialed digits, analysed them, operated the required crossbar
switches to connect the caller to the required destination, and then, once the call was
connected, the control equipment would release and was available to connect other calls.
The talk path between the two subscribers is now monitored. At the end of the
conversation, the two parties hang up, and all equipment released. The LM Ericsson
version of cross bar exchange technology was first installed in Australia in the early 1960's
and ceased operating in the mid 1990’s.
Stored Program Control (SPC)

With the introduction of computers in the early 1980's, the electromechanical common
control equipment in the crossbar exchanges was replaced.
As a result, new functions and facilities were added to the crossbar exchanges that were
of benefit to both subscribers and network operators. These functions enabled faster call
connectors, and facilitated supervision, charging and the gathering of statistics. The
improvements also provided additional benefits with the maintenance, operation, and
control of the exchanges.
The remainder of the switching was still electro-mechanical, relay switching. This
equipment was retried in the early 1990's. Switches using all digital technology and no
moving parts then replaced it. This is the current method of operation in Australia, a fully
digital exchange system.

Time Division Switching (informative only)
The heart of the technology in switching telephone calls in a digital exchange is the Digital
Time Division Switch. The calling subscriber signal is first changed from analogue to
digital. The exchange devices then takes the digitalised voice signal, and uses time
division multiplexing (TDM) to combine a number of the digital signals onto a single path.
This method is also referred to as time domain switching or slot interchange switching.
First, channel one is sampled, then channel two is sampled, and so on. These samples
are then passed on to a common encoder where they are converted into a single bit
stream and passed on sequentially. The time division switching techniques interconnects
many different calls simultaneously and keeps the conversations separated.
The example below shows telephone A1 connected to the input time slot A1 that is
connected to the output time slot that has telephone B3 connected to it. Telephone A2 is
connected to telephone B1 via timeslot A2, while telephone A3 is connected to telephone
B2 via timeslot A3.
Typical Digital Time Division Switch

During the era of analogue telephony, the purpose of interconnecting two subscribers was
to establish a purely physical Contact between their lines. In current digital switching and
transmission, it is the time slots containing the two subscribers eight-bit voice samples that
are linked together to form a logical connection. While this method is quite simple, it is
rather daunting to newcomers to the industry.
This approach has many advantages over the earlier analogue switching techniques in
that maintenance, reliability, operation, and power requirements are simpler, and of course
the voice signal can remain in its digital form for the entire transmission path.
The difference between conventional switching and electronic switching is the difference
between "hardware" and "software". In the former case, maintenance is done on the spot,
with screw diver and pliers, while in the case of electronic switching, it can be done
remotely, by computer, from a central point, making it possible to have only one or two
technicians moving between exchanges.
Developments
Customer Access Equipment (CAE) development has followed the same development
path as the PSTN equipment. A study of the development of the PSTN, equates to a study
of the development of CAE.
CUSTOMER ACCESS EQUIPMENT (CAE)

The term Customer Access Equipment (CAE) is a generic term used to describe a range
of telecommunication switching devices.
CAE are located within customers premises and are:
1. Designed with multiple ports (local or network) that provides or is intended to provide
access to a Telecommunications Network, and
2. Capable of switching, storing, processing, conversion, integration, line isolation/coupling or
multiplexing of analogue or digital voice or voice equivalent communication.
The details and CAE layout referred to in this document are general in nature but
represent a typical system installed on a site. CAE are installed to meet the individual
requirements of users that can be extremely wide-ranging. Generally, a CAE is usually
made up of:
• The main access equipment hardware
• Extensions and various other user equipment
• Distribution frames
• Interconnecting cabling
• Exchange and remote extension
A typical Customer Access Equipment layout

The CAE contains electronic circuitry that co-ordinates, monitors and controls the
operation of the whole system. It can be housed in either a floor or wall-mounted cabinet.
CAE can be made up of either one or many Printed Board Assemblies (PBA's).
Cabling connection to the CAE is similar for the numerous brands and models available on
the market and already installed. The distinctions between the various CAE capabilities
are made within the equipment. It is also important to note that components may be
referred to by different names by different people.
Manual Systems
Before the automaton of the private exchanges in customer premises, there were two
general types of manual switchboards, (a) cord type and (b) the cordless type.
A manual cord type Private Manual Branch exchange (PMBX) consisted of a frame
containing a jack field where all of the extension telephones and incoming exchange lines
terminated. A quantity of cords was then used to connect these jacks together by an
operator. The units were similar to the one shown below.
A small manual switchboard
The cordless manual PMBX consisted of a cabinet with rows of keys. The operation of
corresponding keys connected extensions to exchange lines. The attendant, to answer
each and every call through the switchboard, used a standard telephone or an operator’s
headset.
Automatic Systems
Step-by-step automatic PABX's consisted of an assembly of by-motional, step-by-step
switches. All extensions were able to dial then own internal or external numbers. Incoming
calls were answered by the operator and then transferred to the required extension.
A crossbar PABX consisted of one or more crossbar switches and associated
electromechanical controlling circuits. All were mounted in cabinets and often contained
their own built in power supply.
NOTE: The development of the above types of systems has been the same as the
larger systems used by the public carriers. This development lead the way to the
current technology of equipment that has been reduced in size and enhanced with
an overwhelming amount of features.

It is unsuccessful calls that have led to the development of many of the PABX features and
facilities available today. All of which are aimed at increasing the amount of connected and
answered calls and increasing the productivity impact within an organisation.
The other advantage of having a PABX is that the privately owned equipment, effectively
provides a "free" internal service by switching the internal calls within an organisation.
ISDN PABX
Integrated Services Digital Network is a digital service that has a greater capacity and
speed for transmitting data, voice, video and images.
The services available are Basic Rate Access being a 2-channel service and the Primary
Rate Access offering 30 channels. These services are also known as Microlink and
Macrolink respectively. Most modem systems are able to connect to ISDN services with a
built in facility.
Telstra Spectrum / Customnet / Centrex

This is a service offered by Telstra where the switching equipment is housed in the carriers
telephone exchange building. It is also referred to as ‘Virtual PABX' as the equipment is
actually part of the local exchange equipment and is fully maintained by the carrier.
The switching system has up-to-date facilities and being part of the PSTN, users do not
need to purchase their own hardware or software. There is also no requirement to provide
a dedicated room or floor area within the customer premises for any equipment.
Customers are spared the need to purchase, rent or lease there own PBX equipment or
the periodic expense of having to keep up date with technology changes.
This service is suitable for medium to large companies with diversified sites.
Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX)

Private: The unit is located on the customer's site and is owned, leased or hired by the
customer for it’s own exclusive use.
Automatic: The unit provides all switching functions automatically.
Branch Exchange: Its role is to provide the same sorts of functionality to its owner as the
public telephone exchange does. It can be considered as a branch of the overall PSTN.
A modem PABX/PBX offers users many functions, facilities and features. PABX's have
developed from being an insignificant part of the overall telephone network to where they
play a major role in the everyday communication services in nearly all types of business.
Unless otherwise indicated when extensions are described, means telephone extensions.
PABX services are provided by means of an assembly of equipment components.
Some are relatively simple such as combined telephone set containing all that is needed
to meet most residential service requirements. Businesses may require anything from a
simple system to an extensive PABX containing thousands of major components or a
network of PABX’s. The equipment and apparatus required for these services is housed
on the customer’s premises.
Specific information on the installation and maintenance of PABX equipment is supplied
from the manufacturer.

Sizing
Currently, if a large organisation requires a high number of telephones, a PABX is often
the first choice. Instead of every employee having a dedicated telephone line to the
PSTN, each person shares an appropriate number of exchange lines. This increases the
utilisation of the exchange lines that are available, since users typically use the telephone
only about 20% of the time.
The calculation to arrive at a particular number of lines required to give a desired 'grade of
service ' to an organisation is quite complex and relates to the Busy Hour traffic. A rule of
thumb often used allocates one exchange line to between 3 to 4 extensions.
Physical make-up
Today's PABX's are modular in construction. Traditionally they have been constructed in a
cabinet, often based on a standard 19 inch rack mounted design.
With the constant miniaturisation of components, a PABX can now be the size of a
shoebox. Functional components of the system are usually provided on Printed Board
Assemblies that make up the whole system. A system may consist of just one cabinet or a
series of cabinets, the cabinet may be wall mounted or floor mounted, depending on the
size. This design philosophy often allows for simple expansion or upgrade if or when
required by the needs of the customer or owner.
Typical Constructions
Quite often, manufacturers will label a unit with the capacity of the unit. When a model
number 416 is seen, it can indicate that the unit can have a maximum access represents
of 4 external services and 16 internal services. The number 824 or 1236 has the same
format for external and internal connections. The current practice is to label a model with
the total number of ports (connections) of its designed capacity.

PABX Components
The configuration of a PABX is generic to all suppliers. While different names for each of
these modules may be used, their principal functionality is the same. The more common
modules are shown below:
Switching Module (Time Division Switch)

This is the heart of the PABX and provides for the connection between desired telephone
extensions, the PSTN lines, or other devices that are connected to the CAE.
The switch module provides connections under the control of the system CPU.
Most time division switches provide sufficient input and output ports (connections) to
accommodate every line on the CAE simultaneously. This functionality is an improvement
on the earner electromechanical switches that provided only a percentage of ports for
connections. This meant that on occasions, a user could not make a desired connection
because there were no free outlets available on the switch and the user would get a
congestion tone.
Line Cards / Line Interface Cards

The line card is also referred to as the Line Interface Card, (LIC) and provides the
connection between the user's equipment and the PABX equipment. This card provides
the connection to other extensions, to exchange lines or tie lines, data connections, and
video. One card can provide connections for four, eight or sixteen users.
Different line cards are required depending on the type of extension used. A manufacturer
may have line cards for analogue telephones, digital telephones and for system integral
telephones.

Line cards for exchange connections will support incoming, outgoing or both way lines. Tie
line cards are used to connect two PABX's and can be used as 2 wire or 4 wire analogue
lines or digital lines.
Every telephone is connected to a LIC that provides the conversion from analogue signals
to digital signals. A LIC normally includes:
• Limited over voltage protection in case there are voltage spikes on the telephone line
• Ringing voltage to the telephone in the form of alternating current of up to 90Va.c.
• Supply of 50Vd.c. And approximately 20ma current to operate the telephone or device
• Detection of hook state (both off hook and on hook)
• Detection of either DTMF or pulses generated by telephone
• An Analogue to Digital (A/D) converter
• Test equipment that can be connected to facilitate automatic troubleshooting of a telephone
(test access)
• A hybrid for the conversion from two wire working to the instrument and four wire working to
the system
Port Microprocessor
The port microprocessor provides the necessary supervision and monitoring of the port
line card and its interfaces. It negotiates for CPU time when any activity occurs that
requires the use of the line card. The port microprocessor will also initiate alarms
associated with the ports under its control.
Central Processor Unit (CPU)

The CPU is the brain of the PABX and will be either a 32 or 16 bit processor. In
conjunction with the PABX operating system, it maintains control and supervisory
functions for the other modules in the PABX.
When power is applied to the system for the first time, the CPU will operate in a standard
or default mode. The system needs programming to perform the specific customer
requirements. The data for these requirements is stored in memory
Memory
PABX memory is usually divided into two types, Read Only Memory (ROM), and Random
Access Memory (RAM).
The ROM is generally used to provide the basic operating system for both the CPU and for
the distributed processors.
The RAM is used to store the temporary information relating to the particular calls in
progress and to provide storage for the facilities and "Class Of Service" relating to a
particular extension. In the event of a power failure, a small back-up battery maintains this
memory; otherwise it would be lost, requiring re-programming.

Operator Maintenance Interface
All current PABXS provide an interface to a PC. Earlier models provided an interface to a
sample asynchronous terminal.
The two most common functions associated with these terminals are maintenance, and
moves and changes. Maintenance staff can initiate diagnostic programs that identify faulty
or malfunctioning equipment. Maintenance activities also include the installation of PABX
software upgrades and software patches.
Moves and changes defines the activities associated with allocation of particular classes of
service to individual extensions as well as the commissioning of any new extensions or
removal or alteration of existing extension.
Power Supply
The power supply for the system consists of circuitry that provides step-down of the 240V
AC that is rectified and filtered. The resultant regulated DC voltage is distributed to the
entire system. Typical voltages used are: +5v, -5v, +l2v, +24v, and +50v. These voltages
are constantly monitored at carious test points. Alarms are actuated if excessive changes
to these values are detected. Re-chargeable battened are used to provide DC power to
the entire system in the event of a power failure. The minimum supply's requirement and
duration is specified in the manufacturer manual. Back up batteries are an optional extra
and often neglected during installation.
Safety components are often included to protect PABX equipment from current or voltage
surges that are produced either from man-made equipment or from lightning strikes. These
surges could find their way into the system via the AC maims and/or the exchange lines
causing system failure.
Uninterruptible Power supplies (UPS) are currently being used in an increasing number of
installations. This ensures full service for a short period of time that is determined by the
size of the UPS as Well as the usage of the CAE.
Operators' console
An operator console/station/telephone can handle incoming calls from the public network,
transfer calls between stations of the PABX, provide access to the public network via the
available exchange lines and offer other services to the PABX users.
The operators console can also be described as the window to the PABX that allows the
operator to monitor the current state of the equipment as well as providing the status of the
exchange lines and extensions. Most PABX vendors will also equip the console with
indicators of any alarm and fault condition.

User Equipment
A wide range of compliant user equipment can be connected to PABX's. Customer
equipment types include:
Standard handsets
This is a simple general purpose telephone that allows calls to be made and received with
other extensions within the customers premises, with external extensions, another PABX
or through the PSTN to other telephones. Depending on the PABX, the handsets may be
either analogue or digital.
Advanced handsets
These telephones come with additional features such as hands-free option, a Liquid
Crystal Display (LCD) screen to provide additional information such as clock, date, time
and many additional features needed by the user of the telephone.
Paging equipment
Provides for the announcement of an incoming call for someone either at one or all
stations, with or without the operators assistant.
Facsimile machine
Provides for the transmission of digital or analogue data corresponding to scanned
documents from the customer's premises to a similar machine across the PSTN and on to
other premises.
Answer Machines
Voice messages recorded by outside or internal callers are placed on this equipment for
persons at unattended stations. Current PABX's have this facility as an optional
feature in the form of voice mail.
Personal Computers / data terminals

PC allows the transmission and reception of data via the CAE to the PSTN then to another
PC.
Music-on-hold equipment
This provides for incoming callers, when placed on hold, to have the accompaniment of
music, either electronically generated by the system, or from an external source such as a
Compact Disc. The use of promotional recorded messages is also extensively used.
Station amplifier
With this device, incoming ring tones at a station are further amplified to allow them to be
heard within a defined area.

Explosion proof instruments
In certain locations, a telephone instrument is required to be located in an explosive
atmosphere that could be ignited by a spark produced when the switch hook is operated,
special instruments have been designed so that they will operate safely under any adverse
conditions.
PABX FACILITIES
The fundamental role of the PABX is to
• Provide extensions with shared access to the Public Switched Telephone Network
• Provide interconnection of extensions without call charges.
Modem PABX's provide over 200 facilities. Unfortunately, as there are no standards
governing the way these facilities operate or the way each of them is described, each
manufacturer's facility can be the same but described differently.
Not all facilities are used or important to the operation or productivity of an organisation,
but are available as the standard facilities offered in the many systems available.
Some of these facilities are listed below and are briefly described.
Alternate routing
Allows the PABX to route a call via an alternative path if the "first choice" path is busy. This
facility performs a similar function to least cost routing but the routing decision is based on
call traffic costs.
Barring
This facility allows the PABX manager to control extension access to the public network
depending on the business needs of the extension user. The access level offered is often
referred to as the 'class of service '. Examples of classes of service are:
• No outside access (Internal calls only)
• Local area calls only
• STD access barred
• IDD access barred
• STD and IDD access barred
To make a call using a class of service not provided on a particular extension a caller
needs to contact the operator who would manually connect the call and record the details.
Call back
Allows a caller encountering an engaged extension, (busy on a call) to have the call
automatically connected when the busy extension becomes free.

Call forward
The extension user sets up the facility. Call forward allows incoming calls to an extension
to be automatically forwarded to any another telephone number.
Call Forward consists of these types
• Call Forward All Calls: - forwards all incoming calls immediately
• Call Forward Busy: - forwards calls when the called station is busy
• Call Forward No Answer - If calls are not answered within a predetermined number of rings,
the call is forwarded to a pre-programmed station
• Call Hold (Exclusive) - A call is placed on hold. The phone will ring every
• 30 seconds as a reminder.
• Call Park: - A call is placed on hold (parked) and can then be answered from any other
location.
Computer Telephony Integration (CTI)

Integrates telephone features into your computer, giving you the ability to use your PC as
your phone. Increase the efficiency and productivity of your business with CTI.
Group Hunt
A call directed to a particular extension number will hunt through all extensions nominated
as part of that hunt group to fad the first "free" extension. Extensions within the group can
share a common extension number.
Group Pickup
An extension user can answer a call directed to another extension, within a predetermined
group of extensions, by dialing an access code.
ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network)

ISDN is the digital carrier service for phone, fax and PC. ISDN gives direct in dialing
facility, access to voice, data, and multimedia applications. Other features include calling
line identification, advice of charge, and Malicious Call Trace (MCT).
Least Cost Routing (LCR)

This facility allows the PABX to select the best carrier route (PSTN, ISDN, Tie Line, etc) for
any call at any time of the day automatically selecting the cheapest option. The decision is
made in accordance with the LCR tables that have been entered in the PABX memory.
Not all PABX's are capable of implementing LCR. Some vendors refer to this feature as
Automatic Route Selection (ARS).
Metering
The PABX can be equipped with facilities to monitor automatically any extension usage. A
typical example is a hotel where guests' telephone usage is monitored and they are
charged for any outside call made. This facility is also referred as 'call accounting’

Outgoing trunk queuing
Allows a caller encountering a busy signal, when selecting an outgoing exchange line, to
be placed in a queue and be recalled when an exchange line becomes free.
Overflow
Similar to alternate routing, but allows a PABX to route a call via the PSTN If the "first
choice" tie lines are unavailable. The lines are direct and dedicated connections between
remote PABXS.
PABX Networking
PABX equipment can be interconnected via tie lines with a full signaling capability or via a
data link. This networking between the PABXS is transparent to users and provides a
simple numbering access. A common form of PABX interconnection today is a single high
speed (2Mbps) data link that provides for 30 simultaneous conversations.
Tennant service
Multiple tenants can share a telephone system. Each tenant can program to its own
operator, extensions and trunks for incoming and outgoing calls.
Speed dialing
Regularly called numbers, particularly long STD or International numbers can be stored in
a memory of the PABX. The required number is dialed by using a two or three digit code.
The stored list of numbers can be used by everyone.
System Programming
Modern CAE’s are programmed using web based programs. This intuitive software guides
the installer through the required programming steps. The system programming port
connects directly to the technician’s PC using USB or is directly connected to the network.
Remote off-site programming via a modem is inbuilt into larger systems and is optional on
the smaller systems.
PABX/CAE data storage

Initial loading of ‘customer data’ into the system is a manual task and can be quite time
consuming. Thereafter, the customer data is electronically stored and can be automatically
reloaded in the event of failure. This of course means that proper management of the data
should be employed by ensuring regular updates are maintained and duplicate copies are
made and kept both on and off site.

Typical system features and facilities
(User Features)
Abbreviated Dialing Callback Busy Extension Intrusion
Agent Help Callback Busy Route Lock/Unlock Extension
Agent Log on/off Callback Busy Line Lookup Directory
Agent Wrap up time Camp On Numbers
Alert Conference Message Waiting
Answering Machine Conference Messaging
Emulation Unsupervised Mute
Authority Code Data Call No-Ring Transfer
(Travelling COS) Data Rate Selection Off Hook Voice
Auto Answer On/Off Default Settings Restore Announce
Automatic Conversation Directory Dialling Page Answer (Meet Me
Record Page)
Direct Station Select
Automatic Hold (DSS) Page Receive
Automatic Line Selection Distinctive Ringing Paging
Auto Message Do Not Disturb (DND) Pulse to DTMF
Notification DND Override Conversation
Automatic Transfer Extension Feature Check Automatic Busy Redial
Background Music (ABR)
Extinguish Lit Voice Mail
Call Forward Direct LED Last Number Redial
Call Forward Busy (LNR)
Feature Key
Call Forward Follow Me Programming Saved Number Redial
Calling Number Display Flash Reminder Call Service
Calling The Attendant Group Listen Special Dialling – Pause,

Flash, Wait
Call Pickup (Directed) Headset Mode
Uniform Call Distribution
Call Pickup (group) Hold – Individual
Monitor
Call Pickup (Exge Line or Hold System
UCD Route Override
Loud Bell) Hot Keypad
Call Transfer Hotline

(System Features)
1 Pair Connection Day/Night Service Station Message Detail
2B+D Digital Extensions Dialling Type Selection Recorder
(ISDN) Direct Inward System PC Remote
Alarm Clock Access Programming
Attendant External Call Forward Least Cost Routing
Authority Code External Music Source Tenant Groups
Background Music External Paging Voice Mail
Battery Backup – System Hold Reminder Auto Attendant
Battery Backup – Line Assignment Door Phone
Memory Line Group Door Release
Camp on busy line Line Type /Assignment Hunt Groups
Class of service Loud Bell Control Tenant Groups
Conference
Small Business Systems (Key Systems)

Small business systems (SBS) are also referred to as Key Systems and in today’s
technology there is little to separate their facilities and features from the PABX.
Many of the facilities found in high end PABX’s are also found in Key Systems.
Architecturally, key systems will follow the same modular approach as described for the
PABX albeit generally on a smaller scale.
Key Systems are used to address the small end of the business market. While they
provided less facilities than a PABX, many are providing additional facilities that may be
required by a unique customer.
Often key systems are installed as extensions of large PABX’s. This provides the user all
the benefits of a PABX and Key System. Traditionally a Key System handset has been
referred as a station. This was to distinguish this handset from a handset connected to a
PABX.

The station of a key system differs from a PABX telephone in that all the incoming lines will
normally have an appearance on each station. To make a call a user picks up the handset,
receives dial tone and dials the required number. It is also possible that the system is
programmed so that the user is required to select a free line indicated by a blank light on
the station. The user may now be able to initiate a call without the need to dial ‘0’.
Key Systems can be organised to also have extensions of a PABX. While extensions to
extension “dialling” is normally a one key operation for units with less than 10 stations,
larger systems required three or four digit numbers to be entered.
The heard of the system can be a small cabinet, usually wall mounted, requiring no special
accommodation or power requirements apart from a dedicated power point. Cable
distribution is the same as for a PABX.
Care should be taken with the wiring of some Key Systems as the station may require
power to be supplied from the control cabinet by the second pair of the distribution cable.
Key System phone with DSS (Direct Station Select) and a DSS add on module
Some Key System phones have an additional module that allows the operator to have a
visual indication of the status of each station.

Key System Facilities
Facilities offered by Key System are the same as those listed above for PABX systems.
Check manufacturers information for specific features.
THE ACD SYSTEM

An Automatic Call Distribution (ACD) system is a specialized facility which can be provided
as a software option or by an ‘auto attendant’ card installed in a telephone system. An
ACD can also be a stand alone hardware unit, as used in call centres, with the architecture
of an ACD being the same as for the PBX.
The ACD used in call centres provides a large number of operators with a telephone
answering service to an even larger number of customers. The size of an ACD and of the
call centre can vary from size from five agents to 5000 agents.
The principal function of an ACD is to automatically answer incoming calls and if there are
no free agents to answer the call, to queue the call. A call that has bee waiting the longest
will then be switched to an agent that is free and has been idle the longest compared to
other agents or in accordance with a programmed preference.
Calls are answered on a first in, first answered basis.
An example of this is the Good Friday Royal Children’s Hospital appeal where hundreds of
volunteers answer incoming calls in a central location, from anywhere in the country. A
company can have an ACD for its incoming calls directly into its service and sales
department. Other areas are reservations services, technical support areas, appointments,
functions and registrations etc.

Resource Management
The use of an ACD is aimed to make more efficient use of operator resources by levelling
out the peaks and troughs of call arrival patterns. In the case shown, without an ACD
facility, callers will receive a busy signal, are not answered and will hang up. By queuing
the calls as they come in, the callers who would have been turned away are now
answered, asked to wait and queued for presentation to the next available operator.
ACD Facilities Management

ACD Software also allows calls to be switched to other locations if the wait times in the
queue are too long, ensuring that all callers receive the best possible service from an
organisation. This is referred to ‘overflow’.
Apart from the obvious facility of placing callers in a queue and allocating the longest
waiting caller to the first available operator, an ACD will also provide a number of
instantaneous management statistics and historical data to allow better management of
the call centre.
For example, the number of callers that are in the queue at any instant time, what is the
average waiting time of the calls in the queue, the average call holding time of the calls
received and the number of callers who hung up. These and other statistics allow a call
centre manager to match the operator numbers with the number of customer calls.
VoIP TELEPHONY
VoIP telephony (Voice over Internet Protocol telephony) is a general term for the
technologies that use the Internet Protocol’s packet-switched connections to exchange
voice, fax and other forms of information that have traditionally been carried over the
telephone networks of the PSTN or (Public Switched Telephone Network).
Typically VoIP is deployed in a converged network as a replacement for tie lines or inter
office trunks to “bypass” the PSTN and therefore reduce the cost or “toll” associated with
the PSTN use.
Quick Overview
IP Telephony with it’s high scalabilities and low cost is finding its way into the enterprise at
a surprising rate. IP Telephony has already been integrated into many diverse businesses
as an alternative to the legacy PBX system. The latest in IP Solutions provides reliability,
improved application-integrations and business quality voice calls. As companies look to
reduce operating costs, IP Telephony becomes a solution.
In Today’s PBX environment vendors technicians support PBX systems, but while Network
Convergence takes place in the enterprise, IT professionals are becoming responsible for
“Dial Tone”. For most IT professionals “Dial Tone” is a new arena for them and as a
business critical application should not be taken lightly.
IP Telephony PRO’s
Price – Less expensive than the traditional PBX. There is no yearly maintenance or
service contracts required and can be simpler in administration
Easy Application integration – You can add many new applications to enhance your
product such as Unified Messaging and Call Accounting software or some open systems
allow you to develop your own.
IP Based – Can be easier and less expensive to manage and monitor
IP Telephony CON’s
Reliability – IP Telephony is NOT built to the Telecommunications standard that requires
99.999% up time or less than 30 minutes down time a year.
Implementation can be difficult to integrate or incorporate into an existing enterprise.
Not as robust as a PBX. PBX’s have hove 30 years of tested and developed features.
Most IP systems have the basics but some systems are still very limited. Some traditional
PBX’s can have over 300 specialised features.
With the constant development in technology, these shortfalls are being overcome.
INSTALLING CUSTOMER ACCESS EQUIPMENT

The installation of Customer Access Equipment consists of the combining together a
number of components and items to form a working unit.
Customer equipment can consist of a wide range of devices. In the majority of cases these
devices will be telephones but may be other terminal equipment (TE) connected to
telecommunications outlets (TO’s). The TO’s will be installed at various locations within the
customer premises and cabled back to the Customer Access Equipment either directly or
via a series of distribution frames.
The cabling must be capable of carrying speech, data or any other information from the
terminal equipment to any other terminal equipment either within the customer premises or
via the PABX and the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to other terminal
equipment anywhere in the world.
The number of outlets that can be installed are determined by customer needs and the
capacity of the CAE. The number can vary from a four extension systems to a larger 24+,
200+ or even 5000+ extension systems.

The overall connectivity of a customer access system will be similar to the figure below.
The changes will occur with the size of the equipment, the number of outlets and the type
of features the customer requires and is willing to pay.
Each manufacturer has its own method and style of programming their systems and
terminal. Modern practices are that on completing the installation of the hardware, the
installer uses a PC to program the configuration of the system so as to comply with the
customers’ requirements. With experience and practice, the programming can be
performed very quickly. It is also important that copies of the system’s settings and
customer data be kept on and off site.
Important Information
Installation of and service to CAE equipment should only be carried out by suitably trained
and qualified personnel. The cabling within a CAE environment and distribution frame may
be performed by non-registered personnel provided they are supervised by an open CPR
registered cabler. In this context ‘supervision’ is taken as meaning that the registered
supervisor is on site when the work is being done. The unregistered installer must be able
to locate the registered supervisor (cabler) when asked to do so by an ACMA inspector.
If the registered supervisor can not be found, the unregistered cabler will be regarded as
installing telecommunications cabling without a registration. The unregistered cabler will
receive an on the spot fine of $1320 or can be fined up to $13,200 in a court.

Regulatory background and Standards
All cabling work is to comply with the Australian Standards. Some of these standards are
vendor based and some are both Standards Australia and Australian Communications and
Media Authority (ACMA) based.
Prior to 1989, all cabling was installed to Telecom Australia Standards either by Telecom
Staff or by cabling contractors registered with Telecom. Installation inspections and all
cable maintenance was then owned and performed by Telecom. After 1/1/1989, all cabling
and terminations on the customer side of the Network Boundary (the Main Distribution
Frame or the first socket outlet) was deemed to belong to the building owner or the
customer. This introduced a number of areas of ownership, competition and inspections.
The Telecommunications Act 1997

The current Act is administered by the Australian Communications and Media Authority
(ACMA) and reflects on customer cabling, mandating of standards to ensure safety of
personnel and integrity of a carrier network and the sale of compliant equipment and
cabling product. The ACMA is the government authority and ahs endorsed five cabling
Registrars to provide cabler registration. Any cabling installed on the customer side of the
network boundary, is open to competition, and must be performed buy a registered cabler.
ACMA inspectors may inspect an installation at any time. Telstra may refuse to connect
any customer cabling to their network, if it is not compliant with the mandatory installation
standards for network integrity and safety.
An important part of the ACMA’s role is the mandating and enforcement of technical
standards.
Compliant Cabling Product

The original industry regulator developed and maintained a list of products that were
proven to be compliant. This list was know as the Certified Components List (CCL). This
list is no longer updated but is still valid. It is available on the ACMA web site.
Manufacturers and importers of CAE’s and any equipment that is connected tot eh
telecommunications network must label their product to show compliance.
THE WIRING RULES

AS/CA S009:2013 covers the minimum requirements for the installation of customer
cabling, cabling products, and the installation of outdoor aerial and underground cable.
The requiems include acceptable construction practice, the definition of authorsed
materials, safety and the separation from harmful and hazardous materials.
Particular attention is paid to the needs and requirements of the earthing to ensure
1. Personnel protection
2. Customer equipment functional purposes and
3. The relationship between the two

Manufacturer Installation instructions and checks
It is a cabler requirement to follow the manufacturer directions when installing any type of
system. These are typical manufacturer directions and check list to ensure proper
operation of the installed system. It is important to note that the directions will vary from
manufacturer and model to model.
• Secure the unit tot the frame using bolts and washers (Spring & Tooth Lock for correct
earthing procedure)
• Ensure that the copper earth connectors fitted to each slot-position are intact and secure.
• Ensure that a separately cabled and fused 240Vac socket outlet is provided for the unit
• Twisted pair cable must be used where digital handsets and/or Data module are specified.
• It is recommended that any new cabling on any install be category 5 UTP or above
• Install the modular line sockets and modular line cords as supplied with the Key station
equipment and Data Module. The Modular line sockets and modular line cords are ACMA
approved for this purpose
• Install a digital key station in the programming station port and assign to a low priority user
• An ACMA approved LIU (Line Isolation Unit) must be fitted when music on hold or
background music is connected to a customer provided radio, iPod player etc
• When connecting external equipment or the external paging ports an LIU must be fitted to
these ports
• The connection of the alarm port on the miscellaneous interface is via the MDF and only an
ACMA approved dry contact must be used
EARTHING THE CAE
Earthing requirements – differences in the courses 2136 and 2137

(Restricted and Open)
Sound knowledge of the three telecommunications earthing systems is a requirement of
ICTCBL2137A (Open Cablers Registration) however those with a restricted Cablers
registration may come across the different systems hence it is important to be aware of
them.
Types of earthing
Earthing equipment is required to be performed when the equipment is installed.
Depending on the type of equipment and its configuration, one of the following earthing
methods is mandatory. Manufacturers provide the type of earthing required for their
system.
Telecommunications Reference Conductor (TRC)

A telecommunications reference conductor as defined in AS/CA S009:2013 is required
where functional earth is necessary for the operation of CAE equipment. This conductor is
to be hard wired to the equipment by the installer of the equipment in accordance with
AS/CA S009:2013.

Protective Earth (PE)
This conductor is generally supplied via the third pin of a power cord. However in some
systems this must be hard wired to the equipment by a licenced electrician. A hard wired
PE connection is specified in those instances where it is required.
Earthing Options
1. TRC and PE
The TRC and the PE must be connected to the equipment on separate terminals, in
accordance with the individual TRC and PE requirements listed above. The manufacturer
will indicate this in the installation manual.
2. None
Neither a PE nor a TRC is required to be connected to this equipment. The manufacturer
will indicate this in the installation manual.
3. TRC or PE
Either a PE or a TRC must be connected to this equipment. However in some uses of the
type of equipment, a TRC must be used. (E.g. a CAE mounted behind another CAE may
need earth recall to access the first CAE. A TRC is required for this functional use). If this
is the case, a note appears under the equipment listing in the installation guide. The
manufacturer will indicate this in the installation manual.
Communication Earth System (CES)

Communication Earth System as defined in AS/CA S009:2013 may be used for any
functional or PE reference. Where either a TRC or a protective earth or both TRC and PE
are specified, the CES can be substituted for these requirements. If a TRC is specified and
the CES in not suitable (noisy, etc.) a TRC compliant to AS/CA S009:2013 will need to be
installed.
Reinstalling Recovered CAE

If a system is recovered from an installation which originally required a
Telecommunications Service Earth (TSE) – then that system, when reinstalled must use
the TRC in place of the TSE.
Note: TSE will be coloured red.
Most of the older systems were authorised by Telecom and AUSTEL and are therefore
permitted to be used by the ACMA, however they may not carry permit label (e.g.
A95/84G/2222 or LG71). If a system is listed in the ACMA’s Technical Approval guide
number 7 then it is permitted. If it is not listed, contact the ACMA to obtain the necessary
installation information.

BUILDING STRUCTURES
Telecommunications cables and their associated support systems inevitably have to be
supported by the building or structure into which they are being installed.
The type of structure is going to affect the type of cable support system used. The
contractor installing the cable support system will therefore need to have an understanding
of the materials used and the general practices employed in fixing and repairing these
materials.
At the planning stage the contractor must be able to interpret architectural and structural
plans and specifications. The contractor must have a working knowledge of the
terminology used in buildings construction in order to have meaningful discussions with
engineers, architects and builders.
This section of the learner’s resource is intended to help the leaner in gaining a basic
knowledge of the above issues.
Building materials
There are several ways in which buildings can be classified. One way is by what the
building is used for or in other words by its specific occupancy such as:
• Single domestic – houses with one occupant
• Multiple domestic – flats, home units, hotels etc.
• Commercial – office blocks, schools, universities, shopping centres
• Industrial – factories, workshops etc.
All of which can be single or multi-story.
Of more interest to the cable installer is the type of structure. Therefore we get brick
buildings, brick veneer, timber-framed, steel framed, pre-stressed concrete and poured
concrete buildings, A structure as a whole can be made up of the following definable sub-
structures:
• Footings
• Support frame or structure
• External walls or cladding
• Internal walls or partitions
• Floor
• Roof
Material used for these sub-structures can be:
Foundations
Concrete, Concrete blocks, brick
Support frame or structure
Steel, steel reinforced concrete, brick, timber, and masonry blocks

External walls or cladding
Metal, pre-stressed concrete panels, brick, timber (“weatherboard”), masonry blocks, and
fibrous cement
Internal walls or partitions
Steel, aluminium or timber frame with plasterboard, fibrous cement, hardboard and other
covering or self supporting partitions made of brick, masonry blocks, pre-stressed concrete
panels, fibreglass.
Floor
Timber or concrete
Roof
Timber or steel frame with tile, formed sheet metal, fibrous cement, concrete.
Foundations
The foundations of a building or structure is the part of the structure which is in direct
contact with the ground and transmits the loads of the structure tot the ground.
Foundations must have an adequate factor of safety against bearing capacity failure of the
supporting soil or in other words be strong enough to cope with any local soil settlement
under a portion of the foundations.
The settlements (vertical movements) and the differential settlements between adjacent
parts of the foundation must be kept within acceptable limits for the structure.
Shallow foundations (or footings) are most frequently used to support relatively light loads
whereas deep foundation can be used to support much heavier loads or to provide support
in weak soils.
Stumped (or spread or pad) footings

These are shallow foundations that support a single column or load. They are used
generally only on comparatively stiff soils where the loads are relatively light. The stumps
themselves may be timber in older structures and brick or concrete in newer buildings.

Stumped (or spread pad) footings can be used for commercial and industrial structures
provided the soil has adequate bearing qualities. In this case the sole plate and the stump
are formed as one unit of steel reinforced concrete.
Strip footings
Strip footings are long shallow foundations that support a number of columns, piers or
stumps. For industrial and commercial structures the strip footing is used in soils of
medium to low compressibility or where some control of differential settlement is desired.
Concrete slab or raft footings

The concrete slab or raft slab is a continuous shallow foundation of relatively large extent
and supports the whole structure. Slab footings are used where differential settlement
might be a major problem such as when buildings are erected on areas of varying soil
compressibility like landfills.
For residential dwellings concrete slab footings are now the most common footings used.
Support Structure
The supports structure or frame of a building is the part that holds the building up. And
provides the strength and rigidity to withstand internal and external forces. This support
structure can be simply the load bearing external walls of the building or a combination of
load bearing external and internal walls or a separate framework covered with lightweight
non load bearing cladding.

Timber frames
For residential buildings timber is the most common material used for support frames,
although lightweight prefabricated stele frames are becoming increasingly popular.
For buildings other than residential, the cost of timber in the sizes required is prohibitive.
Timber finds uses in non residential buildings where appearance is important and is
usually left exposed. Buildings such as theatres, churches and public halls are sometimes
framed in timber to take advantage of its natural beauty.
Reinforced concrete frames and Concrete walls

Reinforced concrete is widely used in the structural framework for large buildings. It is
used to form columns, girders and beams which can be cast on site with suitable formwork
or prefabricated and transported to site.
A popular and fast method of constructing factories, commercial premises and high-rise
buildings is to use prefabricated reinforced concrete panels. These are cast to suit the
design of the structure and may be cast on site or more likely in a factory and transported
to the building site. Doorways windows, holes for plumbing, electrical and other services
are cast into the wall panels. A decorative finish can be cast into the panels if required.
Conduits may be embedded into the panels at the casting stage and used fro electrical
and communication services.

Steel frames
The properties of steel make it on of the most efficient materials available for use in
building frames especially so for high rise buildings. It has a high strength to weight ratio,
is ductile and equally strong in compression and in tension and can be formed and
fabricated into any shape without any detrimental effects to physical properties.
A variety of steel sections are used which are normally cut and drilled off site. On site the
structural members are assembled, welded, bolted or riveted as necessary.
Walls
Brick cavity walls

A brick cavity wall consists of two brick walls (or leaves) built independently of each other
with a space of approximately 50mm between them. This cavity or space provides
insulation against dampness, heat and cold. The walls are tied together with galvanised
steel ties at regular intervals. This type of wall is primarily used as an external wall in
single domestic and small multiple domestic structures.

This type of wall construction will usually have a flashing or waterproof liner.
Solid brick walls

A solid brick wall is constructed with two or more brick leaves and no cavity. This type or
wall has greater load bearing properties and is more suited for factories, warehouses and
the like. The two brick leaves are joined together with a continuous vertical mortar joint and
with metal ties or mesh reinforcement anchored in some of the bed joints (horizontal joints)
of the two leaves.
Masonry Block walls

Although the term “masonry” refers to either brick or concrete, it is usually taken as being a
structure made from modular hollow concrete blocks. They are available in several sizes
but a popular size is 200H x 400L x 200W. This type of call construction is popular for
factory units and warehouses because of its relatively low cost and usually because
appearance is not of primary concern.

Load bearing walls may be single block thickness or two or more thicknesses. Where tow
or more thicknesses of blocks are used the wall may be solid or cavity type. In a cavity wall
an air space is maintained between the leaves, which in many cases is filled with
insulation to increase thermal efficiency. The masonry blocks are bonded together using
cement based mortar. Where openings are required for windows or doors, a continuous
horizontal joint reinforcement is required and pre-cast lintel sections are used to support
the masonry blocks above the openings.
Brick veneer walls

Brick veneer buildings are timber framed with a single brick wall as the outer covering. The
timber frame is fixed to the brick outer shell with galvanised iron wall ties. This type of
structure is almost exclusively used for domestic dwellings and can be constructed using a
raft slab foundation or strip footings with brick or concrete piers.
Brick Veneer walls may also include flashing or a waterproof liner in between the brick and
timber frame.

Concrete walls
The supporting framework of some types of structures provides the total strength and
support for the building. The cladding or outer covering of the walls can then be a non-load
bearing lightweight attractive material used only to keep out the weather and to provide
heat and noise insulation. Cladding for external walls can be any suitable weatherproof
material such as non load bearing concrete panels, brick, glass, fibrous cement panels,
fibreglass etc. External non load bearing walls are often know as curtain walls. For internal
load bearing framework suitable cladding is any material that suits the purpose or the
design i.e. privacy, security, heat and noise insulation etc. Materials could include timber
panelling, plasterboard etc.
Roofs
Roofs basically come in two varieties, one that has accessible space between the roof
cladding and the ceiling and one that does not.
The pitch of a roof is variable however it should be noted that even on a “flat” roof has a
mandatory minimum slope of 3° to allow water run-off. The roofing material is usually steel
decking and fixed directly to the ceiling joists. Thermal insulation is normally placed in the
space between the decking and ceiling.
Industrial roofs are usually flat but often have an accessible gap (sometimes large enough
to walk upright in) to run services.
Pitched roofs more often have accessible space than flat roofs.

The hipped roof has four sloping sides that meet at a common ridge. The cladding material
for a roof can be any suitable durable weatherproof material such as terra cotta or cement
tiles, fibrous cement corrugated sheets, galvanised steel corrugated sheets, corrugated
fibreglass sheets, steel decking etc.
Ceilings and floors

Single level – slab foundations
For a single level structure that uses a concrete slab footing, the floor can be the slab
footing itself.
Single level – pier foundations
For a single level structure, which uses pier or stump foundations, the floor is usually
timber framed and covered with floor boards or particle board sheets.
Multi-level - Concrete floors
The upper floors of multi-level commercial and multiple domestic structures and indeed
some single tenant domestic dwellings are usually poured concrete or prefabricated
concrete slabs and in many cases the floor of one level forms the ceiling of the level
below.
In multi-story commercial buildings the frame of the building that supports the slab floors
can also be poured concrete or steel girders.
Multi level – suspended ceilings
In multi storey commercial buildings it is a common practice to install suspended ceilings.
A system of rods is used to suspend a T-bar from the underside of the floor slab. The T-
bar grid is used to support modular ceiling tiles usually made from a fibrous material, which
has thermal insulation properties, and sound absorption properties. The space between
the tiled ceiling and the slab is used to house a variety of services such as air conditioning,
plumbing, electrical, fire alarm and communications.

Multi-level – timber frame
This type of construction is mainly used in residential buildings. The upper floor is
supported by timber joists. The floor of the upper level is fixed to the top of the joists while
the ceiling of the lower level is fixed to the bottom of the same joists.

Other services
As well having a working knowledge of building materials and methods of construction, it is
essential to appreciate that other services must use the same walls, floors and ceilings.
These services include electrical, water, sewerage, gas, air conditioning, fire sprinkler
systems and specialist reticulated services such as compressed air and other gases.
Concrete slabs
It is normal practice to run conduits carrying electrical services through concrete slabs, that
is, conduits are laid when the formwork for the slab is set up. The conduit is placed so as
to be as close as possible to halfway through the thickness of the slab to have the least
effect on the structural strength of the slab.
Cavity walls
Cavity walls can contain electrical services very often without any further mechanical
protection than sheathing. Cavity walls can also contain plumbing for both hot and cold
water services.
FASTENERS
Walls, floors, ceilings and other sub-structures in addition to forming the essential
components of a building are also used to support an assortment or equipment,
accessories, furnishings, decorations and services. In order to make this possible the
building materials have to be drilled, chiselled, cut and hammered.
Cable support systems i.e. conduits, trays, ducts, ladders and cable distribution require
fixing devices, otherwise known as fasteners or anchors to secure carious items
otherwise known as fixtures to walls, ceilings and other structural components.
The types of materials that are required to hold a fixing or support are:
• Lining and hollow materials
• Timber
• Masonry
• Metals
In selecting the appropriate fixing method the following points should be considered:
• Stress to be placed on the fixing under normal use and during installation
• The material that is to hold the fixing (timber, brick etc.)
• Number of fixings required
• Relative cost of each fixing
Fixing into hollow materials and structures

Hollow materials and structures refers to:
• Framed structures lined with plasterboard, fibrous cement sheets and similar lining
materials
• Hollow masonry blocks

The plastic toggle
This usually refers to a range of light duty anchors made from polyethylene and used for
fixing to cavity walls lined with plasterboard, Masonite, plywood and other lightweight
building materials. The wall material is drilled with the correct size hole (very important)
and the plastic toggle inserted. A self-tapping screw is then placed through the object to be
fastened and screwed into the plastic toggle. As the screw is tightened the wings of the
toggle expand radially forming a secure anchor. This type of fixing is used only for
lightweight fixtures. (Will accept a load of up to 100N).
Gravity Toggle
The wall is drilled with the correct size hole. The machine thread screw is placed through
the object to be fixed then screwed into the nut of the toggle. The toggle is the inserted
into the hole and as it merges on the other side of the wall board the toggle is the inserted
into the hole and as it emerges on the other side of the wall the toggle swings down under
gravity and straddles the hole as the screw is tightened, this type of fixing is used for
lightweight to medium weight fixtures and a 5mm version can support a shear load of
175n. Because of its design the gravity toggle can be used only on vertical surfaces and
can only be used once as once the screw is removed the anchor section usually falls down
the wall. This particular type of fastener is available in two screw diameter sizes, 3mm and
5mm with length options of between 50mm and 100mm.

SPRING TOGGLE
Spring toggles do not rely on gravity to operate and therefore can be used both vertically
and horizontally.
The wall material is drilled to the correct size hole. The machine thread screw is placed
through the object to be fixed the screwed into the nut of the spring toggle and inserted
into the hole. As it emerges on the other side of the wall board the “wings” of the toggle
are pressed together and inserted into the hole. As it emerges on the other side of the wall
board the wings spring open and straddle the hole as the screw is tightened. This type of
fixing is used for lightweight to medium weight fixtures. A 5mm version can support a
shear load of 200N. This particular fastener is available in two screw diameter sizes, 3mm
and 5mm with length options between 50mm and 100mm.
Fixings into timber
Nail type fixings

Fixing to timber may be achieved by nailing however in practice is limited in used due
mainly to its permanent nature. Where used, nails or clouts are the flat head types. Nails
come in a variety of lengths and gauges and the can be hammered through the lining
material through to the timber framing.
Wood Screws
Where fixing of a less permanent nature is required, wood screws are almost exclusively
used. Wood screws come in a range of lengths, gauges, metal and shapes.
Wood screws are designed with the thread forming a conical helix. They are designed this
way so that they will cut their own threads in the wood as they are driven. The heads are
slotted for a screwdriver and may be round, elliptical or countersunk. Wood screws are
threaded for approximately two thirds their length.

Installing a wood screw requires the correct size screwdriver and a pilot hole drilled
approximately the same diameter of the root of the screw.
The hole in the object to be fixed through which the screw
passes needs to be a clearance diameter for the shank of
the woodscrew. For small screws being driven into soft
timber making a pilot hole with a bradawl is usually sufficient.
Where large quantities of screws have to be driven an
electric screwdriver may be used.
Bradawl
Self Tapping screws

Although primarily designed for use on metal, self-tapping screws are quite often used for
fixing timber in preference to wood screws. The advantage being that self-tapping screws
have a hardened construction and are therefore more robust, can be used on other
materials and are threaded all the way up to the head. As with wood screws self tapping
screws come in a range of lengths gauges and head shapes. They are installed using the
same tools as wood screws.
Fixing into masonry

Because of its widespread use as a building material the range of products for fixing to
solid concrete, brick and stone is broad. Some of the different types are outlined below.
Fixing to masonry usually requires drilling a hole to accommodate the masonry anchor.
Holes in masonry are drilled using a tungsten tipped drill bit. Standard type power drills are
suitable for relatively soft masonry such as brick or sandstone or the mortar between
bricks. When drilling into harder masonry such as concrete, glazing or the material may
occur as the drill penetrates, impeding further progress and causing the drill bit to become
hot. For this reason an impact type drill makes drilling into hard masonry easier. The
combined twisting and hammering action of an impact drill breaks up any glazing or hard
aggregate encountered.
Tungsten tipped drill bits can be resharpened using a grinding wheel.

Plastic plugs
Plastic plugs are used for light to medium weight fixtures.
They consist of a hollow nylon tube, which is inserted into a
neat fitting hole drilled into the masonry. A standard wood
screw of a sixe compatible with the plug can then be
screwed into the hollow centre. As the screw is driven, the
plug expands in diameter and jams firmly against the hole
circumference. The plug is made with a ribbed outer
circumference to prevent twisting as the screw is driven in.
The plugs are available in a number of sizes and are colour
coded to indicate length and size.
Fixing to metal
Fixing to metals involves either fixing to load bearing structural members or to non load
bearing metal. Load bearing structural members should not be drilled for purposes of
fixing. Any doubts as to whether a metal component can be drilled or not should be
resolved with a structural engineer. Some of the methods available for fixing to metal
(mainly steel) are as follows:
• Clamping
• Spring saddles
• Welding
• Explosive powered fixing
Where access is available to both front and back of a steel member and it is permitted to
drill that member, then a simple way of fixing is to use a nut and bolt.
If access is available to only one surface of a steel member then fixing can be achieved by
drilling and tapping. Where thin metal such as sheet metal or metal decking is involved
then self tapping screws may be used for fixing of light loads only.

CABLE SUPPORT HARDWARE
Cable clips may be used conditionally that they are sized so that they do not squash the
cable. Cable clips can be attached to rafter and beams plus the nails used are usually
suitable to be installed into concrete. Clips can be a cery effective method to segregate
cables from other services.
For broadband cabling or other cables supporting high frequencies fix ties at irregular
intervals to avoid interference and harmonic reflection patterns.
Cabling can also be run in conduit. This provides support, some segregation and
mechnical protection. When running several cables in the same conduit consider the
intereference between cables. This can be partly compensated throught the use of the
correct category cable (with the relevant sheilding).
Low or high voltage cable cannot be run in the same conduit however the use of conduit
reduces the segregation distance required from these services. Refer to AS/NZS S009 for
more detailed information. Conduit containing telecommunications cable is to be
coloured white.

Table 2 from AS/CA S009:2013
Additional separation requirements

AS/CA S009:2013 (Section 9) contains additional information regarding separation from
other services. Familiarise yourself with this standard.
Minimum Bend Radius (MBR)

Manufacturers will generally specify a minimum bend radius for their cable. This is to
protect the structural integrity of the cable and also protect the sheath during installation if
the cable is being pulled/hauled around corners.
As the spacing between pairs can be critical (particularly if a former is used) damage to the
cable due to exceeding the MBR may not be visible hence why it is so important to
observe this.
Table 37 from AS/NZS 3080:2013

Pulling Cable
Excessive tensional force can be very as detrimental to the cable. Excess tension can
cause the twisting of the pairs to straighten out reducing the effectiveness of noise
isolation properties. The foil shielding can break having the same effect and even the
copper wire itself can break rendering the pair/cable useless.
Manufacturers will supply information regarding the torsional stress for the cable.
NOTE: Cable tension may also affect the Minimum bend radius – as the cable is more
likely to be damaged from tight bends when it is also being pulled – check to see if the
minimum bend radius needs to be increased during installation. As an indication the
minimum bend radius of a cable under haul is often double the normal minimum bend
radius.
Never haul the cable through more than 3 x 90° bends even if the MBR is being observed.
Cable Trays and Trunking

Depending on the installation location and application (Domestic, Office,
Commercial/Industrial) and the customers budget effects the selection of cable mounting
hardware.
Mainly used in industrial applications – Cable Trays and Cable Ladders provide a simple,
sturdy medium where cables can be installed and modified quickly if needed. They are
usually installed above general reach negating the need for most mechanical protection.
(Each installation must be considered individually as there may still be additional
requirements for mechanical protection, which can be provided with tray/ladder lids and
covers). Drops and curved sections (sometimes called waterfalls) maintain the minimum
bend radius of the cable
Trays and ladders are available with the ability to run power or other services along the
same route due to sufficient spacing or inbuilt barriers.
Cable Trunking is constructed from mainly galvanised steel or PVC.
Trunking has a “Removable lid”. Galvanised Iron trunking is mainly used in industrial
applications where mechanical protection is required or outdoors for UV protection.
In the PVC or plastic range many aesthetic variations are available ranging from white and
coloured plastic to wood grain effect. It can be disguised as skirting boards, additionally
used to mount outlets or designed to run across the floor and walked on while preventing
trip hazards. If the trunking has a barrier that separates the trunking into two
compartments it can be used to run LV cable (according to AS/CA S009).
PVC trunking enables running of cable in commercial and office blocks where installation
of concealed cable is not possible or not a viable option due to cost vs benefit however
aesthetics (appearance) is still important. Some trunking particularly in the PVC range may
not have the same range of accessories to maintain minimum bend radius so when
installing cable into trunking take care to ensure that cable is installed such that MBR isn’t
compromised.

Column Trunking
Column trunking or service columns are used in areas where telecommunications cabling
and other service are mainly run in the false ceiling space. The service column is a multi
compartment duct that provides a pathway from the false ceiling area to the workstation or
to skirting or partition trunking. The service column is also designed to accommodate
telecommunications and power egress fittings.

In floor ducting
Conduits can be laid in a concrete slab prior to the slab being poured. The conduit is
positioned in the centre of the slab minimising effects of structural integrity of the concrete
and is hence inaccessible except were it emerges from the slab.

INSTALLING CONDUIT
While installing conduit consider AS/CA S009:2013 Clause 5.4: -
Protection against damage

All parts of an installation shall be adequately protected against damage which
might reasonably be expected to result from mechanical injury, exposure to
weather, water or excessive dampness, corrosive fumes, accumulation of dust,
steam, oil, high temperature, or any other circumstance to which they will be
exposed under the conditions of their use.
Single conduit runs
Saddles
Saddles are metallic or non-metallic clips used to support a single run of conduit. In the
metallic version saddles are also available as half saddles – that is they have only one
fixing hole. The half saddle is used for convenience (it is quicker to install) where the strain
on the fixing is not excessive or where a conduit needs to be run in a corner. A full saddle
is used for a more secure fixing. In timber or cladded timber saddles can be nailed or
screwed. Conduits where permitted can be saddled directly to the surface of a building.

Where specifications require the conduit to be spaced away from the supporting wall or
structure (usually to prevent accumulation of dust and for ease of cleaning), a stand-off
device must be used. Versions are available that fit under the saddle and held in place by
saddle fixing screws or combined saddle spacer sometimes known as a stand off saddle.
The bottom half of the saddle is fixed to the supporting surface by a single fastener and
whatever anchoring device is necessary. The conduit is the put in place and the top half of
the saddle secured using two screws that engage threaded holes in the bottom half of the
saddle/spacer.
Conduit clips
Conduit clips (Sledgy clips) are used for non invasive (no drilling is necessary) attachment
of conduit to structural steel members. The clips are made of spring steel and clamp the
conduit onto the steel member.
Sledgy.

Hangers
Where a conduit has to traverse a ceiling, which has exposed structural beams, or
perhaps other services running along it then the conduit run can usually be installed more
efficiently by the use of hangers.
Hangers are basically metal rods usually cut from continually threaded solid metal rod.
This type of rod is normally available in standard 1m or 3m lengths to suit the particular
application. The rods come in various diameters from 6mm to 24 mm depending on the
load to be supported. One end of the rod is fixed to the ceiling or the underside of a
horizontal surface using a suitable anchoring system and the other end has a conduit
clamp or bracket fitted to it. The conduit does not have to be threaded through but can be
placed into the open bracket and the bracket closed and tightened.
Multiple conduit runs

When more than one conduit is to be run along the same route and especially if it’s an
addition to an existing installation then the simplest method is to duplicate the support
system for a single conduit run. Where multiple conduits are planned for then a number of
more efficient methods can be used.
Plastic channel and ‘snap-in’ saddles

For plastic conduits run in a plane parallel to the supporting surface a parallel mounting
channel is available. The channel is manufactured from plastic, as are the conduit clips.
The channel has slots for fixing to the building material using any appropriate anchoring
system. The conduit clips are designed with a slot on either side that mates with the
channel. The conduit is snapped in and requires no fixing screws.
Cable Trunking
Freestanding trunking
Freestanding trunking is used where:
• There are too many cables for easy installation in conduit
• Easy access is required for adding or moving cabling
• Conduit is too unsightly for the particular area
The metallic trunking can be installed with open face upward or on the side attached to
walls. The trunking can be fixed directly to a surface or a standoff arrangement can be
implemented using one or more of the arrangements for cable trays. Fixing is implemented
by drilling the back surface of the duct.
All the types of support systems used for cable trays can also be used for the metallic
freestanding duct with the due consideration to maximum support intervals as
recommended by the manufacturers and any ACMA and AS/NZS 3000:2007
requirements.
Plastic ducting because of its lack of rigidity cannot have excessive unsupported spans,
and is best fixed to a continuous flat surface. Smaller plastic ducting can be fixed to a
suitable surface using double sided adhesive tape and in fact some manufacturers supply
the ducting with adhesive tape already fixed to the underside.

Infloor Trunking (Flushduct)
Fixing procedure for the type of trunking known as “Flushduct” or “Trenchduct”.
The ducting system is assembled on top of the structural slab. It is bedded down on a
mortar strip, adjusted using the fixing/levelling brackets, then permanently fixed with
masonry anchors. The final step is finishing off the floor with a fine aggregate screed flush
duct lid
Skirting trunking
Skirting duct is normally installed prior to the floor coverings being laid. The trunking is
secured to the walls by screws using appropriate anchors if required. After the cables have
been installed the cover strip is fitted into place.
Skirting duct can be linked to floor duct (Flushduct) at walls or holes can be provided at
rear for cable access.
Partition trunking
Partition trunking forms part of a modular partition system. The duct can be positioned at
any required height within the partition. Partition end posts secure the partition panels and
trunking into a single unit and also provide access into the trunking for installation of
cables.
Column trunking
Column trunking is used in some cases to provide the access channel between the main
cabling pathway and partition trunking and also infloor ducting as well as providing egress
points for the enclosed services. A column trunk has to be secured at the top to the main
suspension channel for the false ceiling or directly to the structural material of the ceiling.
At the bottom it must be secured to the floor.
Infloor ducting
Infloor ducting as is either conduit embedded in concrete floors or formed duct within the
floor. Conduits are laid onto the steel reinforcing before the concrete pour making sure that
any outlet pints are temporarily sealed against the ingress of concrete and that drawlines
are installed.

PENETRATING WALLS, FLOORS AND CEILINGS
Building design related to cable pathways
Domestic
Single domestic residences do not normally have any provisions designed into them for
cable pathways. Existing structural features are used for running cables that is wall
cavities, space between ceiling and roof and sub-floor areas.
Fire resistant Compartmentation

Relevant building codes are in place to ensure the satisfactory performance of a building
during a fire. Bu satisfactory performance is meant minimising the risk to personnel and
property. In the concept of fire-resistant compartmentation, a building is pictured as
consisting of compartments all insulated from one another and the spread of fire taking
place by the successive failure of the compartment boundaries. Compartment boundaries
are occupied by fire walls, walls that have been tested to certain standards.
Openings in walls for cable support systems

A well planned and designed structure will have provisions made for running
telecommunications and other services throughout the structure, that is any apertures
required for trays, ladders and conduits will have been designed into the plans. However it
is not always possible to plan for all contingencies and drilling and cutting of substructures
becomes necessary. Before any drilling or cutting of walls, floors or ceilings is carried out it
is essential that the cable support system installer should:
• Determine from the builder if the intended wall or other sub-structure is load bearing i.e.
does it help to hold the building up
• Demine from the builder if the intended wall or other sub-structure is a fire wall
If a wall or structure is load bearing then depending on the size of the aperture required it
may be necessary to make structural modifications around the area to reinstate the
structural integrity.
If a wall or structure is deemed to be a fire wall then apply AS/CA S009:2013 16.1:
Cable flammability
Customer cable installed inside a building shall –
a. Comply with the flammability requirements of AS/CA S008:2010
or
b. be installed such that the installation complies with the Building Code
NOTE: This requirement relates mainly to cable installed wholly within a building and in
particular cable that is run between FRL (fire resistance level) rated compartments within
larger buildings or between adjoining living units.

Holes through timber lined timber frame
For single conduit or sheathed cable

For penetrating a timber framed wall lined with plasterboard or fibrous cement a suitable
drill and drill bit or hole saw should be used. If the hole is close fitting then no further
making good is required. The timber framework should not be drilled and a support such
as a saddle should be used near both entry and exit of the wall. There the hole is irregular
or oversize then the space around the conduit should be made good with a plaster filler. If
the wall is deemed to be a firewall then a fire prevention mortar, putty or mastic to AS
1530 should be used to seal around the conduit or cable.
For multiple conduits

Multiple conduits passing though a timber framed wall lined with plasterboard or fibrous
cement, a neat method is to form a framed aperture at the point where the conduits pass
through the wall. If the aperture needs to be sealed against air movement or sound then a
polyurethane foam can be injected into the aperture. If the wall is deemed to be a firewall
then a fire prevention mortar, putty or mastic to AS 1530 should be sued to seal around
the conduit or cable.
NOTE: Safety glasses, ear protection and breathing mask will be required to drill
masonry.
For cable trays ducts and ladders
Use the same method as for multiple conduits, that is form a framed aperture at the point
where the cable tray, duct or ladder passes through the wall. Seal with polyurethane foam
or fire stopping compound if necessary.
Holes through Brick or Masonry

For penetrating a brick or masonry wall a suitable power drill and a tungsten drill bit is
used. For larger diameters, a diamond tipped hole saw (sometimes know as a core bit)
can be used. If the hole is close fitting then no further making good is required.
For multiple Conduits, Cable Trays Ducts and Ladders, if it is structurally acceptable then
a complete brick or several bricks can be removed to form an aperture. Use a suitable
power chiselling tool for removing the mortar around the bricks
If the wall is deemed to be a fire wall then a fire prevention mortar, putty or mastic to
AS1530 should be used to seal around the conduit. If it is not a fire wall then a
polyurethane foam can be used or no sealing at all.
masonry.
Holes Through Reinforced Concrete

For penetrating a reinforced concrete wall, a suitable impact drill and tungsten drill bit is
used. For larger diameters, a diamond tipped hole saw/core bit with a suitable hand held
or rig mounted drilling machine, is more accurate and efficient. If the hole is close fitting
then no further sealing is required.
For multiple conduits a rectangular portion is cut out of the wall if it is structurally
acceptable. This will need to be done using a diamond tipped saw and the appropriate
power tool. If the wall is deemed to be a fire wall then a fire prevention mortar, putty or
mastic to AS1530 should be used to seal the conduit.
masonry.

TERMINOLOGY
Enclosure
A complete enclosure consists of a backbone, cable distribution equipment, door or cover
Final Distribution Point (FDP)
The frame or box on which is typically terminated the floor distribution cabling.
Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF)
An assembly of strip mounted wiring modules on which customer cabling typically
terminates on each story or section of large buildings.
Main Distribution Frame (MDF)
An assembly of strip mounted wiring modules on which are terminated the lead in cables
and cross connection to customer cabling
RESTRICTED CABLERS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO WORK ON

JUMPERABLE DISTRIBUTION FRAMES
CABLE CHARACTERISTICS
All cables that contain electrically conductive elements have the following properties
• Inductance (L)
• Resistance (R)
• Capacitance (C)
• Conductance (G)
The diagram shows a typical pair of conductors and their basic electrical characteristics.
On a perfect cable UTP, STP or coaxial cable, the properties shown below affect the
signal evenly along the entire length of the cable.
Inductance
When current flows through a conductor a magnetic field is created around the conductor.
When the current flow diminishes or increases the surrounding field weakens or
strengthens. If the magnetic field extends to, and cuts nearby conductors then changes in
field intensity will result in current flows in those nearby conductors. The circuits are then
magnetically coupled. In this way electrical energy is transferred from one circuit to
another. This causes attenuation to result.
Grouping wires in pairs and twisting them together and spiralling this twist out over the
length of the cable ensures that no two wires are in close contact over the entire cable
length.

Resistance
In an electrical circuit, Voltage drives the current flow. Current is the flow of electrons and
resistance is the property of a substance to resist the flow of electric current.
Different metals have different resistances for the same diameter conductor. The physical
dimensions of the conductor i.e. the cross sectional area. The larger the diameter of the
conductor, the less resistance it has to the current flow.
0.40mm – Higher Resistance
0.80mm – Lower Resistance
For two conductors made of the same material and of the same diameter, one twice the
length of the other will have twice the resistance of the other.
0.40mm – Lower Resistance
0.40mm – 2x Length - Higher Resistance
Heating
Resistance in a cable means that heating will occur. Even the best quality copper wire has
some resistance that creates loss. The higher the resistance, the more heating occurs.
The heating itself is very minor.
Radiation
The signal emits into free air like a wave from a radio antenna. This happens due to the
fact that a signal in a cable is essentially a radio wave signal and an antenna is essentially
a conductor in free space. The amount of energy lost to radiation is usually fairly minor
Capacitance
A capacitor is a device that stores electrons. A capacitor is formed whenever there are two
electrical conductors separated by an insulator. The number of electrons stored is a
measure of the capacitors “Capacitance”. Unit of measure is the “Farad”
The capacitance of a cable is measured in picoFarad (pF) per metre.
Capacitance exists between the wires in a pair and between adjacent pairs. This
capacitance between adjacent pairs is called mutual capacitance.
The symbol for capacitance is show below

The symbol shows two conductors separated by an insulator. If we apply this to the
various cables used in Telecommunications we find, irrespective of the type all cables with
metallic conductors have two conductors separated by an insulator.
Cable capacitance
Capacitors act as electrical conductors to voice and data signals.
Capacitance in a cable is a problem for 3 reasons:
1. It takes energy to charge the capacitance as the signal moves down the line. This is related
to impedance
2. The signal passing down a cable pair is shunted between the paired wires and loses power
the further it travels. This is problem magnifies a frequency of the signal increases
3. The signal can be shunted to nearby conductors carrying other messages
Loss of Signal
As the signal passes along one cable pair, the mutual capacitance tends to couple the
signal into an adjacent pair. When this occurs on a telephone call one conversation would
be heard in the background of another. This effect is called ‘Crosstalk’.
Crosstalk
In the case of perfectly balanced link or channel there exists no electromagnetic coupling
from the pair to the environment. In practice there is, however, always more or less
electromagnetic coupling caused by imperfect balance. Unwanted electromagnetic

coupling from one pair to another pair is called crosstalk. In addition to imperfect balance,
also impedance mismatches and ways of termination affect the crosstalk phenomenon.
The unwanted crosstalk signal can be measured at near end and at far end. Near end
means the same end as where the (disturbing) signal is transmitted to the cable and far
end means the other end. Pair to pair near end crosstalk (NEXT) loss is the measure of
near end crosstalk from one pair to another pair. The unit of NEXT is dB (decibel).Far End
Crosstalk (FEXT)
Frequency
The losses on communications cables are very dependent on frequency. As stated above,
the higher the frequency – the higher the loss. Frequency is measured in Hertz (Hz). 1
Hertz is the time it takes for one complete cycle to pass a given point in 1 second.
The above cable constants all affect the attenuation, propagation and quality of the signals
sent to line and this is proportional to the length of line.
1 Cycle in 1 Second = 1 cycle / second = 1 Hertz

Impedance
Characteristic impedance is an electrical property of every pair of wires. It is based
completely on the cables physical characteristics.
Impedance Calculation
In technical descriptions of cables, the characteristic impedance is given the symbol Z.
Impedance is simply the ration of the voltages and currents on the line. In simple circuits
the equation –
!
!=
!
V = Voltage
I = Current
When circuits or currents become more complex other factors come into play.
Matching of Cables
It is extremely important to match the characteristic impedance of cables when installing a
data, telephone or video/TV network. If the cables are not matched then signal energy is
not transferred efficiently and will cause reflection. This reflection or return loss leads to
attenuation of the signal. In much the same way, it is important to use the correct
connectors on the ends of the cables and to ensure that they are fitted correctly.
Mismatching of cable properties results in interference, turbulence and reflections similar to that by mismatching water hose
sizes.
Information Capacity
The amount of information that cab be carried on a transmission system is directly related
to the maximum frequency signal that can be sent along a length of cable with a given
loss.

Shielding (Screening)
Electric and Magnetic Fields

The cable can also act as a radio-receiving antenna and pick up stray signals from other
sources e.g. noise from old electric motors and fluorescent lights. Noise induced into a
cable carrying voice signals can produce an audible noise (a buzz or hum) across the
conversation.
Shielding
Shielding is required to stop signals leaking from the cable and to prevent other signals
from nearby cables from interfering with the wanted signals.
Electric signals create electric and magnetic fields as they pass through the conductors.
Together they combine to form electromagnetic radiation or radio waves. The cable itself
acts as an antenna connected to the transmitter.
Water in cables
In any telecommunications cable that has metallic conductors, a change in the dielectric
can cause a reduction in the performance of the signal. If water enters the cable then
water changes the electrical properties of the cable. For the same transmitted power it
would not be as strong as it would normally be in dry air.
The dielectric constant of the insulation also determines just how fast signals can travel
down the cable. The dielectric constant affects only the electric field, not the magnetic
field.
CABLE TYPES
Transfer of data occurs at very high speeds therefore the correct selection of cable (and
matching components) is critical for the optimum operation of the network.
When communications are transmitted on cable one of four basic different types are used:
• Unshielded twisted pair
• Shielded twisted pair
• Coaxial
• Optical Fibres

Unshielded Twisted pair (UTP)
UTP cabling is a type of wiring in which two conductors of a single circuit are twisted
together for the purposes of canceling out electromagnetic interference (EMI) from
external sources; for instance, electromagnetic radiation from other unshielded twisted pair
(UTP) cables, and crosstalk between neighboring pairs. It was invented by Alexander
Graham Bell.
By twisting the pair each wire picks up a similar amount of EMI. The receiver can ignore
the EMI noise as it only considers the difference “between” the two wires as a relevant
signal.
UTP is typically used to connect telephone and other communication systems in

residential and business premises. UTP commonly comes in sizes of 2-50 and 100 pair
cable of diameter 0.4 – 0.9mm.
Shielding of pairs (STP)

Twisted pair cables are often shielded in an attempt to prevent electromagnetic
interference. Because the shielding is made of metal, it may also serve as a ground.
Usually a shielded or a screened twisted pair cable has a special grounding wire added
called a drain wire which is electrically connected to the shield or screen. The drain wire
simplifies connection to ground at the connectors.
This shielding can be applied to individual pairs, or to the collection of pairs. When
shielding is applied to the collection of pairs, this is referred to as screening.
Shielding provides an electric conductive barrier to attenuate electromagnetic waves
external to the shield and provides conduction path by which induced currents can be
circulated and returned to the source, via ground reference connection.

STP cables are mostly used for high-speed data transmission and low level analogue
signals. The shielding prevents the signal from ‘leaking’ out of the cable and prevents
other external electrical signals from interfering with the signals on the cables.
Coaxial Cable (Coax)

Coaxial cable consists of a copper inner conductor surrounded by a Dielectric former then
sheathed with aluminium foil, wire braiding or both.
Coax cable was originally used for Local Area Networks (LAN) or Ethernet (that has now
generally been replaced with Structured cable or wi fi).
It is still used on some CCTV and commonly on Radio Frequency and microwave
equipment and Pay TV communications.
Coaxial cable offers lower power loss to the signal than other types of cables.
Optical Fibres
An optical fibre is composed of two concentric glass layers called the core and the
cladding that are made of an optical transparent material (e.g. silica glass). In addition to
these layers a surrounding layer of acrylate coating provides protection and flexibility.
The coating around the core/cladding may be coloured and consist of either UV cured
acrylate (250µm) or nylon (900µm). These coatings provide significant protection and
flexibility to the physical characteristics of the glass and do not have any adverse effects
upon the properties of light within the fibre.
Variations on cable types
External UTP
High pair quantity Underground UTP incorporates multiple bundles each separated by
whipping of differentiating colours that indicates ‘group’ number. External cable is
manufactured to the same basic specificaitons as internal cable howver there is a different
colour code and the insulation and sheath is of a type that will prevent penetration of
moisture that meets standards AS/CA S008:2010.
Extrenal cables are normally available in pair sizes 2-50, 70 and 100.

Whipping
Aerial cables are available with integrated strain member called a messenger.
Steel Messenger (Strain Member)
Black PVC Sheath
Twisted pair cables

Colour code tables
AS/CA S009:2013 APPENDIX B Common cable colour codes
(INFORMATIVE)
Cables are required by AS/CA S008 to have some method of coding that
enables pairs, conductors and optical fibres to be visually distinguishable
from one another.
Common colour codes for various types of cable are provided in Tables B1
to B7. While it is not mandatory for cable manufacturers to follow these
colour codes, they usually do.
Where a cable colour code does not correspond to the colours in the tables
in this Appendix, the colour code provided by the manufacturer of the
cable should be followed as required by Clause 5.2 of this Standard.
2-pair (quad) and 3-pair telephone cable colour code

Pair number Colours
1 White Blue
2 Red Black
3 Orange Green
1-pair to 5-pair cable colour code

Pair number Colour code variations
1 White Blue White-Blue Blue White-Blue *
Blue-White *
2 White Orange White-Orange White-Orange *
Orange Orange-White *
3 White Green White-Green White-Green *
Green Green-White *
4 White Brown White-Brown White-Brown *
Brown Brown-White *
5 White Grey White-Grey Grey White-Grey *
Grey-White *
* The first-named colour is the predominant colour

CABLE INSTALLATION TECHNIQUES
Most copper cables are very strong and fibre optic cables can be used in very harsh
environments. Generally fibre optic cables are considered easier to install in cable trays
and in conduits than are copper cables because of their comparatively small size and light
weight.
The rules and procedures that apply to installing all cables are very similar. However there
are a number of important differences between copper and fibre that need to be carefully
considered.
Initial Preparation
The successful execution of any cable installation requires that the project be carefully
planned and contingencies be allowed for before the installation commences.
Site Survey
Before planning of the cable system begins, it will already be known what services the
cables are to carry and the locations that the cables will be required to be run between.
With this information in mind the first requirement is to carry out a comprehensive site
survey of the location the cables are to be installed. The site survey should focus on
determining the following:
• The most appropriate route for each cable. This may be in with existing cable runs or in
newly installed cable housings. It will generally be more cost effective to use existing
infrastructure but the decision depends on the amount of space in the existing housing and
on the condition of the housing. Also an existing cabling route may take a longer path and
the extra cabling costs associated with this may exceed the cost of installing a new route.
• The need to run the cables in cable trays, underground in roof tops or as aerial cables.
• The condition of the existing cable housings. Will costly maintenance be required before
new cables can be installed? Is there potential for damage to be caused to the cable
because of the poor condition of the housings? For example are the housings subject to
flooding?
• Is there any locations that need special attention. Are tradesmen with special skills
required?
• Are any cables in a chemically hazardous environment?
• Are there any locations where the cables will be subjected to extreme temperatures? If so
plan to use a different type of cable e.g. fibre or explosion proof cables.
• Will the cable route be near high voltage power cables? If so fibre optic cable that does not
contain any metal may be required.
• Will the cable route be near areas of high transient voltages (e.g. lightening?) If so ensure
the appropriate cable is used.
• Ensure that all the Electrical and Fire Codes of Practice that apply in the country in which
the installation is planned can be adhered to.
• Will there be sufficient room to use the cable pulling equipment? If not what equipment
needs to be moved to carry out the installation without hindrance.

• Will cars or trucks be driving over the cable, people be walking over it or heavy objects laid
across it? If so plan to take the necessary precautions to protect the cable (e.g. conduits)
and/or to use the correct sheathed cables.
• Locate all the immediate points from where the cable is to be pulled and where junction
boxes are to be located.
• Locate appropriate locations for installing termination cabinets, distribution boxes and
splicing trays.
• Determine the exact locations for each distributor or data equipment
• Talk to local employees to ensure any foreseeable problems that may arise during the
installation be averted now by careful planning.
• All this information should be carefully noted during the site survey and then officially and
fully documented after the survey is complete. This information can then be successfully
used for cable system design.
ACTIVITY: SITE SURVEY

Conduct a site survey for the premises in which you are currently being trained. Make a
note for each of the points explained above.
Route for each cable.
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Cable trunking, underground, in roof tops or as aerial cables
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Condition of existing cable housings
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Special skills required?
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Extreme temperatures
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
High power cables or lightning
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Room to use the pulling equipment
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

Precautions to protect the cable
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Hardware locations – Junction box, termination cabinet, distribution box, splicing tray
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________
Foreseeable Problems
_____________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________

Minimum Bend Radius (MBR)
When installing cables one of the most important considerations is ensuring that the MBR
is not exceeded.
• Manufacturers will specify a minimum bend radius for their cable. This is to protect
the structural integrity of the cable and also protect the sheath during installation if
the cable is being pulled/hauled around corners.
• When a cable bend is too sharp the physical properties of the cable change. The spacing
between conductors is reduced therefore interferences such as crosstalk and signal
“reflections” from kinks are increased.
• In fibre optics sharp bends cause the light ray to travel “through” the cladding and out of the
fibre rather than reflecting along the inside.
• In both fibre and metal/copper excessive bending increases the chance of cable to crack
particularly internally.
When the cable being pulled the effects from sharp bends are amplified hence cables will
often have a MBR rating at “rest” and an MBR “under tension” or “Hauling” MBR.
If not specified a general rule is:
Cables at rest – MBR = 10 times cable diameter
Cables under haul – MBR = 20 times cable diameter
Table 37 from AS/NZS 3080:2013
Pulling Cable
Excessive tensional force can be very detrimental to the cable. Excess tension can cause
the twisting of the pairs to straighten out reducing the effectiveness of noise isolation
properties. The foil shielding can break having the same effect and even the copper wire
itself can break rendering the pair/cable useless.
Manufacturers will supply information regarding the torsional stress for the cable.
NOTE: Cable tension may also affect the Minimum bend radius – as the cable is more
likely to be damaged from tight bends when it is also being pulled – check to see if the
minimum bend radius needs to be increased during installation. As an indication the
minimum bend radius of a cable under haul is often double the normal minimum bend
radius.
Never haul the cable through more than 3 x 90° bends even if the MBR is being observed.
Pull the cable part way along the run, lay it out in a figure 8 as you go. When pulled to the
required length flip the figure 8 pile over then pull the next section.
Cable Reels
• Cable’s should be given a number that is noted on the cabling diagram during installation.
Cable suppliers usually place a serial number on the side of the reel that can be used for
this purpose.
• Each cable reel should be tested for continuity before installation commences
• Cable manufacturers will normally leave the end of the cable that is on the inside or the reel
pointing out so that it cab ne used for testing. After each reel of cable is installed (if using
fibre) a second test should be carried out on each fibre to ensure that there has been no
significant damage incurred during installation. The results of these tests should be
recorded with the result of the pre installation tests.
• The cable en that is on the inside of the reel should be taped firmly to the side of the reel so
that it does not catch on the outgoing cable during runoff.
• In order to minimise damage and unnecessary handling of the cable during installation it is
advisable to runoff directly from the reel. This cab be achieved by holding the reel on a rod
and directly unreeling it as you walk along the cable tray or trench, or by placing the reel of
a payoff stand at the beginning of the cable run and directly runoff from there. This method
of a runoff also helps to prevent unwanted twisting and torsional tension of cables.
Installation in Cable trays

• Laying the cable directly onto the cable tray from the reel will cause the least stress and
damage to the cable. This is often very difficult because of the space restrictions around
the cable trays and the tray hangers.
• If the cable cannot be laid directly then it should not be pulled against hard sharp bends.
Have a second person pull cable slack into the bends or set up a system of temporary
pulleys or blocks
• Ensure the cable does not cross any cable tray hangers
• Ensure the cable is laid flat in the tray and not over any uneven cables
• It is recommended that the cables be laid loose in the cable tray and not be tied to other
cables prior to the tray itself
• It is possible to simply tie the pulling rope to the conductors in copper cables and to the
strengthening member for attaching a pulling line to a fibre optic cable.
o Strip back the cable to expose 15cm of the strengthening member only
o Attach the pulling line by a series of half hitches
o Place the pulling rope 30cm back from the stripped end and using electricians tape
tightly tape the rope to the cable moving from the end of the rope to the end of the
cable
o Continue to tape the cable until a smooth transaction is reached between the
strengthening member and the cable

Installation in Conduit
• Ensure the cable is sufficiently covered in lubricant before it is pulled into the conduit
• The cable should be pulled by hand where possible
• If the cable is to be pulled by winch it is essential that a tension gauge be attached to
ensure that the maximum permissible cable tension is not exceeded
• The ends of the cables must be completely sealed and made waterproof before pulling
commences. Moisture around the conductors or fibres will cause permanent long term
damage
• The larger the surface are of the cable compared to the surface area of the conduit the
more friction that will exist as the cable is pulled through the conduit. To determine the
number and size of cables that can be pulled through a given size conduit, a general rule of
thumb is to divide the cross sectional area of the cable by the cross sectional are of the
conduit and compare this calculated percentage figure with maximum permissible
percentage figures. Approximate figures used for the X% value are illustrated below
o Less than 55% for a single cable
o Less than 30% for two cables
o Less than 40% for three or more cables
• It is possible to simply tie the pulling rope to the strengthening member with a knot. This is
satisfactory for very simple pulls with very low resistance. But for conduit runs this is
generally considered unacceptable as the knot may catch along the route and may suffer
from breakage.
• The following is the recommended method for attaching a pulling line to a fibre optic cable
using a “pulling eye”
o Strip back the cable to expose 15cm of the strengthening member only
o Cover the end of the cable with tape to ease the transition between strength
member and cable. This also protects the end of the fibres and stops the ingress of
dirt or water
o For long cable runs use intermediate pulling points where the cable is pulled
through and coiled up in a figure 8 pattern on the ground and then fed into the next
conduit section
o At the intermediate pulling points reapply lubricant to the cable before pulling
through the next conduit section
• For cable runs greater than 500m it is advisable that intermediate junction boxes be
installed with several meters of cable slack at each entry. The junction boxes should be
strategically located to account for possible future expansion for the cabling system to other
locations
• Another very popular method of attaching a pulling rope to a cable is the “Chinese basket”
or hauling sock. This works most effectively on larger diameter cables (generally greater
than 0.75cm diameter). It consists of a pulling eye with a long cylindrical weave (up to 1
meter) attached to it. The weave is placed over the end of the cable and is glued or taped
to the cable. If it is glued then the end of the cable is cut off and thrown away after the pull
is complete.

• If the fibre optic cable has pre-terminated connectors the following is the recommended
method to attach a pulling line.
o Place the pulling rope 3m along the cable and using electricians tape tightly wrap
the rope to the cable until approximately 10cm from the connectors.
o Ensure that the protective caps have been placed on the ends of the connectors.
o Place a metal pipe with a sealed end over the connectors and tightly wrap the pipe
to the pulling rope with electricians tape. The main purpose of the pipe is to prevent
the connector ends from being bent back and the fibres from being broken while the
cable is being pulled
Leaving Extra Cable

• It is considered mandatory that significant cable slack is left at the beginning and end of
very cable run. Cable sufficient excess should be left at all termination cabinets, junction
boxes, splicing trays and at the end of equipment’s. This cable slack is useful for cable
repair, entry into the cable along its length and equipment moved.
• Cable slack is important when a cable requires repairing. If the cable is accidently cut or
dug up, the cable slack can be shifted to the damaged location, necessitating only on
splicing point in the permanent repair, rather than the two splices that would be required if
additional cable were added. This results in reduced costs and less link loss.
• Generally 3 to 6 m of cable at each end of a cable run is sufficient for this contingency.
• Additional cable slack at any planned future points of cable system expansion will provide
significant cost and labour savings when the new cable drip is required. For this purpose a
minimum of 10 meters of cable slack should be left at these points. Additional cable slack
will allow the relocation of equipment, terminals, hubs and the cable itself with relative ease
and without requiring new splices.
• Splicing of cables is a relatively involved process and requires significant working space to
be performed correctly. Splicing cannot be performed in confined spaces or in mid air.
Enough slack cable must be left to allow the cable to be taken to a table to be spliced. This
may be as far away as 5m and should be planned for and written into the cabling
installation plan before installation commences. In this case allow approximately 10m of
cable slack.
• Consideration should be given to where the cable slack is to be stored once installation is
complete. The location where it is to be stored should have sufficient space so the cable
does not suffer from macrobends, kinks and should be located where it will not be disturbed
and will therefore be protected from potential damage. For external cables it is often
convenient to use round at least 1m diameter jointing pits and to coil the cables back into
the pit after jointing above ground.
• Space conductors or fibres should be coiled up in the distributors or splice trays and
carefully clipped out of the way
• Remember to include all cable slack requirements in the cable length calculations

Lubricants
• Use standard cable pulling lubricants for installations where excessive friction is anticipated
• For long pulls of external cables water is the best lubricant. Flood the ducts with water
continuously throughout the pulling in process and “float” the cables in
• For cables that are to be pulled through conduit it is recommended that lubricants always
be used
• Use of lubricants is subject to the advice in the MSDS

Environmental conditions
Avoid installing cables when the ambient temperature is less than 0 degrees C or greater
than 60 degrees C. Beyond these limits it is possible to damage the cable sheath and in
some cases the internal components of the cable including conductors.
• Avoid installing cables when the humidity is greater than 95% at high temperatures
• Cable suppliers will specify maximum temperature and humidity at which the cable should
be stored before installation
Indoor cable Installations

• If the cables are to be installed on to floor areas that people will walk over, rubber floor
ducts should be used to protect the cable
• If the cable are to be installed under the carped then cable type has a strong sheath and is
of the correct construction. Special cables are available specifically for installing under
carpet
• If the cables are to be laid around the walls of a room near the skirting then ensure that
they are enclosed in conduit or duct. This will prevent damage tot eh cable or it’s
connectors from cleaning equipment and other objects
• Tubber grommets should be used where the cable enters or leaves a plastic or metal cable
duc.t his protects the cable from sharp edges and from bending tighter than the minimum
bending radius
• As the majority of indoor installations are only short cable runs, then it is sometimes more
cost effective to have any fibre cables pre-terminated on one end in the factory before
being transported to site for installation. This procedure generally saves both time and
money.
• Cables that are installed under raised floors are subject to crushing and kinking. Therefore
cables should be of a high quality and have a strong sheath (e.g. external type cable). Fibre
cables should have a crush resistance suitable for this type of installation.
• If the cable is to be laid directly into the ceiling (which is often the most cost effective
method of indoor installation) care should be taken to avoid cross members ceiling hangers,
sharp edges and corners, sharp screws or nails or metal studs and around areas of heavy
potential maintenance (e.g. Air conditioning ducts, water or gas piping, electrical
installations). If the cable is to be unavoidably run near these dangers then install it in
conduit, even if the conduit lengths are only of short sections.
• For vertical installations cables must be clipped or supported at regular intervals making
sure that the sheath is not damaged and the cable is not squashed which will cause
damage to the conductors. For most tight buffered fiber cables in risers they will self

support approximately 100m of their own weight over the life or the cable. Ensure the
bending radius is not exceeding at any vertical transitions and use clamps on the sheath at
regular intervals.
• For installations in cable risers or elevator shafts all telecommunication cables must be
enclosed in metal conduit.
• Connection to any data equipment or patch panel should be with a large loop of slack cable
(generally about 1m)
Note: Avoid sources of possible damage to cable, including hot pipes, sharp edges and
cable burn.
Outdoor Cable Installations

• Obtain the relevant permission or permit that is required to run the cable through
government or private property that does not belong to the cable owner.
• Carefully plan all installations and carry out thorough cost analysis, so that the final cable
route is of minimum cost.
• Be suer to take into account any environmentally sensitive situations that may cause the
cable route to be changed from the most economical method.
• For outdoor installations it is vital that the correct cable be used. The cable should be
chosen to suit the application and the environment in which it is to be used. Do not hesitate
to seek professional advice from cable suppliers if required. The parameters of copper
cable type, fibre cable type, sheathing, diameter, moisture barrier, strengthening members,
connectors and splicing / jointing type all need to be carefully considered.
• It is recommended that all underground cables be installed in conduit. The conduit will
provide protection from water, excessive temperature variations, physical stress from cars
or trucks that drive over the top of digging at the cable with spades and mechanical diggers.
Also of significant importance, it allows new cables to be installed without having to dig the
trench again and for damaged or old cables to be easily removed.
• Cables can be buried directly in the ground but they should have a suitable sheath that
provides protection against vermin and a good moisture barrier (preferably jelly filled). The
sheaths can be double jacketed, nylon, Teflon and/or metal armoured.
• The deeper a cable is buried the less likely it is to suffer from temperature variations,
physical stress or attacks from vermin. A depth of 1 to 1.5m is ideal however a lesser depth
is required by regulation.
• Allow a minimum of 3-6 m of cable slack at the end of each run to reduce any possibility of
undue cable tension and to allow for the possibility or repairs
• Place a termination cabinet and or patch panel at the end of each cable: -
a. Run between buildings so that the system can be easily reconfigured; and
b. Maintenance can be carried out as is required
• At intermediate points where cable is pulled out and stored on the ground before being
pulled through the next section of conduit, the cable should be laid on the ground is usually
in a figure ‘8’ pattern. This helps to prevent twists and tangles forming in the cable when it
is pulled into the second stage of the route

• If pressurised cables are to be used that the cable pressure is checked before and after
installation. With this type of cable particular care should be taken to ensure that the pulling
eye and end cap seals are not broken during installation.
Hauling External Cables

As for large internal cable installations an installation plan must be prepared for all external
large cable installations. The plan must show the sections and the numbers of the cable
drums and cable lengths to be installed in each section. Joints should be minimised to
reduce possible faults in the future and the cable should be pulled through as many
intermediate pits or access holes as practical.
The hauling tension for copper cables can be as follows
150!!!!!!!! ! !"#$!!"#$%&'(!")
!"#$%&'!!"#$%&# = !
1000
Where P is the number of pairs in the cable and d is the conductor diameter in mm.
For fibre optic cables the manufacturer supplies a list of hauling tensions and these must
be strictly followed at all times.
For copper conductors the hauling tension should never exceed 40kN. Hauling tension in
excess of 40kN can cause damage to conductors and/or cable sheath must be well
lubricated. Optical fibre is limited to 2kN
Hauling Speed
An even tension should always be applied and stopping and restarting should be avoided.
The tension required to start hauling the cable from rest is much larger than is required to
keep it moving. A hauling speed for approximately 30 meters per minute is desirable to
prevent surging and to reduce tension.
Hauling Cable Downhill

Hauling tension can be reduced by drawing the cable downhill where practical. On steep
gradients a braking system is required on the cable drum to prevent the cable from
accelerating out of control. The cable must be secured to prevent it moving downhill after
installation.
Use of pipe as Feeder Tube

A feeder tube of polyethylene pipe or equivalent can be used to guide the cable into the
conduit or duct. By holding this, the cable is then protected from damage against the edge
of the pit or access hole, helps control the rotation of the drum, provides a convenient
point for application of lubricant, and protects existing cables in the pit or access hole. An
alternative method of guiding cable into the duct is to use a cable hauling roller, which is
positioned, at the edge of the access hole.

Aerial Installations
Telecommunication’s cable including fibre optic cables are often installed as aerial cables
hanging from electrical power poles. Special cables are manufactured that have and
integral bearer wire with enough strength to be installed hanging directly between two
poles. Other cables are designed to be supported along a steel support wire (also referred
to as a catenary wire). It is also possible to tie a fibre optic cable to the power cable itself.
The use of a support wire for fibre is generally preferred because it provides extra strength
and puts less stringent strength requirements on the fibre optic cable itself.
Aerial cables are designed to withstand the large forces that result from strong winds and
extremes of temperature. The sheath of the cable is made from UV stabilised plastic and is
designed for an extended operating life.
If the aerial cable is to be attached to a steel support wire the cable should be securely
tied or taped to the support wire every 30cm. The ties of tape that is used should be UV
stabilised and designed for outdoor weather conditions. At the midpoint of each 30cm
span the cable should have a droop of approximately 3 cm to allow for expansion and
contraction of the steel support wire. The support wire often passes through a pulley block
on the pole or is attached to a ring bolt on the pole using dead end grips.
Most loose tube fibre optic aerial cables are compatible with the other telecommunications
cables. The fibres have a plastic coating and lubricant coating facilitates their installation.
Up to six fibres can be installed in each Microduct and fibres can be blown into the duct
over the existing ones at a later date enabling fibre provision to be deferred.
ACTIVITY: CABLE HAULING

In an area designated by your instructor install conduit and haul a communication cable
through the conduit using the techniques outlined. This will be a point to point haul which
will be much simpler than the multiple haul plan you prepared above.
Outline a simple cable haul plan below before starting.

REMOTE POWER FEED (RPF)
NOTE: Restricted cablers are not permitted to work on equipment consisting of “Remote
Power Feed” sources unless the cable and terminations connected to RPF are completely
segregated and access is restricted.
Registered cablers working with telephone lines carrying broadband services need to take
precautions to avoid electric shock. Carriage service provider (CSP) broadband equipment
within the customer’s premises requires increased voltage, which is called power feeding.
The risk of electric shock increases when working with these higher voltages. Network
cables carrying power feeding circuits may bypass the main distributor frame (MDF) to
extend through to the CSP’s equipment or they may be installed on the MDF. Usually the
power feeding network cable will be laid in areas accessed by cablers.
With broadband services, carriers and CSP’s may install terminal equipment that is
remotely fed using a current limited circuit. This has an open circuit voltage, which is
higher than normal telecommunications network voltage. (TNV) limit. (See below for a
definition of TNV).
Authorisation from the relevant carrier of CSP is required to work on these network cables
and should exercise caution when working near any accessible termination.
The increased voltage also has the capacity to damage test equipment.
The ACMA makes the following recommendation:
The ACMA wiring rules AS/CA S009:2013 prevent the use of customer cabling for any
service that exceeds TNV limits, such as remote feeding telecommunications current
(RFT-C) circuits. Consequently carriers and CSP’s using RFT-C should cable directly to
the terminal equipment bypassing the existing customer cabling infrastructure. The power-
fed terminal equipment must be network equipment between the carrier or CSP and the
customer.
The Communications Alliance Ltd. Has developed an industry code that specifies a
maximum voltage of 300Vdc and the current limitation parameters that carriers and CSP’s
should observe when power-feeding within their networks. CSP’s and carriers are required
to provide separation, barriers and warning labels to identify potential hazards.
Holding a cabling provider registration does not permit a cable to work on or interfere with
any carrier equipment or cables on the carrier side of the network boundary. RFT-C cables
and carrier terminations are all part of the carriers network.

What is a TNV?
From AS/CA S009:2013
3.1.88 Telecommunications Network Voltage (TNV) a voltage not exceeding -
(a) When telephone ringing signals are not present
(i) 71 V a.c. peak or 120 V d.c.
or
(ii) if a combination of AC voltage and DC voltage is present, voltages such that the
sum of the AC peak voltage divided by 71 and the DC voltage divided by 120 does
not exceed ‘1’
and
(b) When telephone ringing signals are present, voltages such that the signal complies with
the criteria of either Clause M.2 or Clause M.3 of AS/NZS 60950.1 (the signal is required
to be current limited and cadenced).
Note: Adapted from AS/NZS 60950.1.
3.1.89 Telecommunications Network Voltage (TNV) circuit

A secondary circuit to which the accessible area of contact is limited and that is so
designed and protected that:
(a) Under normal operating conditions, the voltages do not exceed TNV limits;
and
(b) Under single fault conditions, the voltages do not exceed TNV limits for longer
than 200 ms and, in any case, do not exceed 1500 V peak at any time.
Note 1: An example of a TNV circuit is a standard telephone line.
Note 2: Adapted from AS/NZS 60950.1.
Note 3: AS/NZS 60950.1 further classifies TNV circuits as TNV-1, TNV-2 and TNV-3 in
accordance with the table below.
Normal operating voltages

Overvoltages from Overvoltages from cable
telecommunications distribution systems Exceeding SELV circuit
networks possible? possible? Within SELV circuit limits limits but within TNV circuit
limits
Yes Yes TNV-1 Circuit TNV-3 Circuit
No No SELV Circuit TNV-2 Circuit

From AS/CA S009:2013 Appedix F.2
Power feeding limits
(a) Be within the TNV-3 limits of AS/NZS 60950.1
Or
(b) If the TNV-3 limits are exceeded –
(i) Only DC power feeding is to be used
(ii) The power feed voltage is not to exceed 300Vdc
And
(iii) Current limiting is to be used
Remote power feeding circuits that meet the requirements of item (b) above are referred to
herein as “Remote Feeding Telecommunications – Current-limited” or “RFT-C” circuits.
Implications for cabling providers

Cabling providers need to be aware that RFT-C circuits may exist on telecommunications
networks and may appear on some lines at an MDF, NTD or other cable termination
device used to connect carrier or carriage service provider equipment at customer
premises.
While RFT-C circuits are not considered to be dangerous, like normal ring voltage on
standard telephone lines, they may deliver a nasty shock to cabling providers under
certain conditions. Consequently, cabling providers should heed the general warning
notice in the introductory part of this standard and be particularly careful when working on
ladders or in restricted spaces as physical reaction to any electric shock may result in
personal injury.
Electric Shock
Electric shock is the worst outcome of working close to electrical plant. It can range from
an unpleasant sensation to fatal. Most aspects of the power safety training are concerned
with ways of avoiding electric shock or dealing with it if it happens.
The Body and Electricity

Even voltages as low as 24V can have an effect on the human body. That is because
muscular control is achieved by use of electrical impulses. The nervous system’s control of
muscles can be distributed by externally induced electric current flows (commonly known
as “electric shocks”).
This results in loss of muscular control. If the heart muscles were affected then cardiac
arrest could result. Other kinds of sever muscular contraction can have unfortunate
consequences such as dropping objects, falling off ladders etc.
When large voltages are involved a combination of loss of muscular control and large
currents flowing in the body can result in overheating and burning tissue.
Electricity should be regarded as a hazard and steps taken to avoid exposure to it.

The Science of Electric Shock
The primary variable for determining the severity of electric shock is the electric current
which passes through the body. This current is of course dependent upon the voltage and
the resistance of the path it follows through the body. An approximate general framework
for shock effects is as follows
Current Reaction
1 mA Faint tingle
5 mA Slight shock felt, not painful but disturbing; average

individual can let go; strong involuntary reactions can lead
to other injuries
6 to 30 mA Painful shock, loss of muscular control. The freezing

current or let-go range; individual cannot let go; but can be
thrown away from the circuit if extensor muscles are
stimulated
50 to 150 mA Extreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe muscular

contractions, death possible
1, 000 mA to 4, 300 mA Rhythmic pumping action of the heart ceases; muscular

contraction and nerve damage occur; death likely
10, 000 mA Cardiac arrest, severe burns; death probable
One instructive example of the nature of voltage is the fact that a bird can sit on a high-
voltage wire without harm, since both of its feet are the same voltage. You can also see
that the bird is not “grounded” – you will not be shocked by touching a high voltage if there
is no path for the current to reach the Earth of a different voltage point.
Typically if you touch a 110 volt circuit with one hand, you can escape serious shock if you
have insulting shoes, which prevent a low resistance path to ground. This fact has led to
the common “hand-in-the-pocket” practiced by some electrical workers. If you keep one
hand in your pocket when touching a circuit that might provide a shock, you are less likely
to have a path to ground; which would result in serious shock.
Current Involved in Electric Shock

The current (measured in amps) is the most important physiological variable that
determines the severity of an electric shock. However, this current is in turn determined by
the driving voltage and the resistance of the path that the current flows through the body.
One difficulty in establishing the conditions for electrical safety is that a voltage, which
produces only a mild tingling sensation, under one circumstance can be a lethal shock
hazard under other conditions.

The International Electrotechnical Commission gives the following values for the total body
impedance of a hand to hand circuit for dry skin, large contact areas, 50 Hz AC currents
(the columns contain the distribution of the impedance in the population percentile; for
example at 100 V 50% of the population had an impedance of 1875Ω or less)
Voltage 5% 50% 95%

25 V 1,750 Ω 3,250 Ω 6,100 Ω
100 V 1,200 Ω 1,875 Ω 3,200 Ω
220 V 1,000 Ω 1,350 Ω 2,125 Ω
1000 V 700 Ω 1,050 Ω 1,500 Ω
Resistance)of)the)Body)
7000$
6000$
5000$
Resistance)in))
4000$
5%$of$Population$
3000$ 50%$of$Poplulation$
95%$of$Population$
2000$
1000,$1500$
1000$ 1000,$1050$
1000,$700$
0$
0$ 200$ 400$ 600$ 800$ 1000$ 1200$
Voltage)

How Severe of a shock could a 110V source cause?
Using a resistance figure of 1,875 Ω (50% of people at 100V)
!
!=
!
110
!=
1875
! ≈ 56!!"
I.e. capable of producing a shock resulting in “Extreme pain, respiratory arrest, severe
muscular contractions, death possible” for 50% of the population
Same calculation for 5% of the population
!
!=
!
110
!=
1200
! ≈ 92!!"
Well into the range of potential death.
TERMINATION TECHNIQUES
Cable Sheath Removal

2 and 3 pair cables do not have ripcords to assist with sheath removal. Sheath lengths or
100mm to 150mm can usually be removed in on piece. Greater lengths may have to be
done in repeat actions. When the sheath has been removed, inspect the conductors to
ensure that none have been damaged.
When cables with various types of protective screens etc are encountered, refer to the
manufacturers documentation for the recommended method of sheath removal.
Various tools are available to make the job of removing a cable sheath easier. For small
cables of up to 4 pair construction, a tool shown below can be used to slit the cable around
its circumference. A larger tool is available for slitting lengthwise. This tool is particularly
valuable when working with polyethylene sheathed outdoor cables or cables with a tight
fitting sheath.

IDC
Current termination practices mostly utilise the
proven IDC method. This involves a conductor
being forced into a slot where a termination cuts
into the insulation on both sides and knicks the
conductor in the process.
A cross section of a Krone IDC is shown.
Krone refer to their system as LSA-PLUS.
LSA-PLUS is a German acronym (Lötfrei,
Schraubfrei, Abisolierfrei, Preiswert, Leicht zu
handhaben, Universell anwendbar, Sicher und
schnell) that translates to: no solder, no use of
screws, no insulation removal, cost effective, easy
to use, universal application, secure and fast.
Insertion tool (Termination Tool)

A tool called a punch down tool is used to push the wire down firmly and properly into the
slot. Some will automatically cut any excess wire off. The exact size and shape of the tool
blade varies by manufacturer, which can cause problems for those working on existing
installations, especially when there is a poorly documented mix of different brands.

Punch-down blocks are a very quick and easy way to connect wiring, as there is no
stripping of insulation and no screws to loosen and tighten. Punch-down blocks are often
used as patch panels, or as breakout boxes. They are sometimes used in other
applications, such as in reconfigurable patch panels.
The Krone tools shown in the bottom two images contain two foldaway attachments fitted
into the handle, one has a hook on the end and it is used to remove terminated wires and
the other is a blade used for removing modules from a back mount.
Terminating Procedure for Krone Modules

1) For removal of the cable sheath, the cable terminated will have to be measured to a position
below the module that the cable will be connected.
2) For 2 & 3 pair cables the sheath will have to be cut using a tool made for the job or a knife
taking care not to cut the insulation on the wires inside.
3) Hold the cable firmly and pull the sheath off the cable.
4) For 10 pair cables and above cut the sheath around the cable at the measured position
taking care not to cut insulation of the cable pairs inside. Then using the rip cord split the
sheath from the cable end to where the sheath has been cut.
5) Remove the sheath and cut away any other tapes and plastic wrapping that may be around
the cable.
6) Fan out the cable and twist individual pairs of wires together at the end to prevent splitting.
This should be done in accordance with the colour code.
7) Secure the cable by tying it to the backmount with cable ties.
8) For cables 20 pair and above separate the cable into 10 pair groups as per the colour code.
9) Select the module required and holds it in the hand and fit the 10 pair of cable into the holder
on the rear of the module.
10) Select 1 pair at a time in order using the colour code and place the wires through the guides
provided on top of the module and then down the front into the allocated pair position.
11) When all 10 are in place fit the module to the backmount or profile frame
12) Terminate the wires using the insertion tool directly in line with the slot in the module and
exert pressure until the click is heard.
13) Discard surplus wire
14) Perform a visual inspection to confirm that the colour code sequence has been followed and
all wires are terminated accurately
15) On completion of terminating all cables, number plugs can be inserted into the module if
required

ACTIVITY: KRONE MODULE TERMINATION
Terminate a single or 4 pair cable into a Krone Module. When complete call your instructor
to check your work. Correct any mistakes.
1) Place the wire into the contact slot and use the insertion tool to terminate the wire
2) Remove excess wire
3) Repeat for each additional wire
4) Perform visual inspection to check the termination is correct and on the correct pairs

Terminating a Screw Terminal Socket
This type of cabling work is now rare because this equipment has been superseded but it
may still be found in older premises. (Referred to as ‘legacy’ fittings)
To terminate a facility cable onto a 610 socket follow the steps below.
1) Unscrew the cover retaining screw and remove the cover.

2) Remove approximately 110 mm of cable sheath from the cable
3) Remove approximately 60 mm of wire insulation
NOTE: Strip only the wires required
4) Feed the cable through the knock out hole in the rear of the socket or the clot in the socket wall.
5) Wrap the white wire in a clockwise direction under the washer and around the screw in
Terminal 2 to form a ‘U’ shape. Tighten the screw making certain that the wire does not overlap
itself under the screw and the insulation is butted up to the screw head. Push the ‘U’ shape
slightly away from the screw to prevent the wire from catching in the screw thread. This will
cause the wire to twist around with the screw. Use figure below as a guide.
6) Break of the excess conductor by rotating it until the conductor breaks off flush with the screw.
Do not use cutters to remove the excess as this may leave a short length of bare wire in the
connector
7) Wrap the blue wire in a clockwise direction around terminal 6 and repeat the procedure
detailed in steps 5 & 6
8) Leave the Red and Black wires tucked neatly in the socket.
Telstra’s Modular socket

Telstar have replaced the 600 series sockets with a Krone media socket. It is like the RJ45
8pin modular socket/jack which is common in the industry for data communications. The
socket/jack is refereed to as an 8P4C using the 4 centre pins of the 8 positions – namely
4, 5, 3 and 6.
The two common types of sockets used are 8P4C (replaces the standards 610 socket)
and the 8P4S with a blue front (replaces the 611 mode 3 socket). (Restricted cablers are
not permitted to work on Mode 3 sockets.

Many sockets (as shown on the left) allow for connection of the downstream cable without doubling up into the same IDC
slots.
Termination to a Telstra Modular Socket

The modular socket is different to the normal 8 position 4 contact in that it has 2 IDC
connections to each pin. Telstra use the closest to the front of socket of pins 4 and 5 to
terminate pair 1 of their lead in cable.
Cabling for a parallel phone or to extend the first telephone service to mode 3 socket (611
or (8P4S) for alarm panel connection is done by terminating pair 1 of the extending cable
to the second set of pins 4 and 5.
With this socket there is no disturbance to the carriers lead-in terminations when the
service is extended to a second socket.
Alarm cablers will know that in the case of the 610 network boundary socket, it was
necessary to unscrew terminals 2 and 6, possibly disturbing the carriers wires in order to
extend the first telephone service to a mode 3 socket.
Telstra have also chosen a second type of KRONE modular socket, the 8P4S with 8 pin
positions but only four pins used as a mode 3 switching socket.
To install this mode 3 socket for alarm connection, a cable is run from the network
boundary socket, (second pair of pin 4 and 5) to pins 4 and 5 on the mode 3 switching
socket. A second KRONE modular socket is installed for the first service telephone with
the wires for this service connected to pins 3 and 6 of the mode 3 switching socket.
Extract from
http://www.acma.gov.au/Industry/Telco/Infrastructure/Cabling-rules/installing-a-
mode-3-socket
If you are a cabler who cannot provide a mode socket in the manner prescribed in the
diagram below (i.e. connected at or after the first socket), then you must arrange for
the carrier staff to provide the mode connection.
Cablers who have an Open registration may install mode sockets for security systems
that connect to the telecommunications network at industrial, commercial or
residential properties.

Cablers with a Restricted registration may install mode sockets only in residential or
small commercial properties providing that they do not provide any cabling that
connects to jumperable frames at or after the network boundary frame.
Type 611 Socket

The type 611 socket is typically used for connection of “Mode 3” devices - security or
medical alarm diallers, computer modems and fax machines - that incorporate line
switching circuitry to isolate other wiring and equipment from the line when the alarm,
modem or fax is in use. The 611 socket was usually installed as the first TO (telephone
outlet) and other TO’s were wired away from it.
NOTE: The line switching circuitry will only isolate other wiring and equipment
‘downstream’ from the 611 socket.
Wiring 611 Socket

Wires from the telephone exchange coming into a 611 socket are skipped across one
terminal each.
2 to 1 and 6 to 5
Wires connecting to downstream outlets are connected to terminals 2 and 6 normally.
When there is no device connected to the 611 socket the terminals 1 and 2 are joined and
5 and 6 are joined hence the signal flows through the physical connection and
downstream outlets work normally.
When a mode 3 device is connected to the 611 socket the pins from the 604 plug separate
the terminals on the 611 socket. The phone line connects directly to the mode 3 device
and it can control whether to connect the phone line to the rest of the down stream devices
by sending the signal back into pins 2 and 6.

Contact/pair assignments and cable code for type 610, 611 and 612 sockets.
610 611 612 Pair 2 pair 3 pair 4 pair cable colour code variations
cable cable
2 2 2 1 White White White White-blue White-blue*

6 6 6 Blue Blue Blue Blue Blue-white*
1 1 1 2 Red Red White White- White-Orange*

5 5 5 Black Black Orange Orange Orange-white*
Orange
3 3 Orange White White- White-green*

4 Green Green green Green-white*
Green
4 White White- White-brown*

Brown brown Brown-white*
Brown
* The first named colour is the predominant colour
Mode 3 adapter’s are available that perform a similar function. They do not control any
existing downstream sockets permanently wired into the premises – only downstream
outlets that are connected into the adapter.

611 Socket (Mode 3) with RJ12 plug inserted

611 Socket (Mode 3) with RJ 12 plug not inserted

How it operates
When the alarm panels RJ12 plug is inserted into the switching socket, the (first)
telephone service is diverted through the contacts of the alarm system and back through
pins 3 and 6 of the mode 3 socket to the first telephone service.
The first telephone service operates normally until the alarms are actuated and the alarm
panel disconnects the telephone in order to take over the line for emergency dial out.

611 Socket (Mode 3) with RJ12 plug inserted
611 Socket (Mode 3) with RJ 12 plug not inserted

Patch Cords
RESTRICTED CABLERS ARE NOT PERMITTED TO WORK ON PATCH
CORD SECTIONS OF AN INSTALLATION.
Patch cords are a method of connecting ports of patch panels together. Flyleads are
suitable for connecting computers and other electronic equipment to face plates. These
leads can differ in connector pair position depending on the standard being used.
Patch cords or flyleads consist of a length of flexible (multi-stranded) data cable with
connectors at each end. There are several standards that dictate the pin configuration of
the connectors. The most important thing for the cabler to achieve is correct relationships
between pin out pairs and cable pairs.
For example, if the standard requires pins 4, 5 and 3, 6 to be pairs the wires to pins 4 and
5 must be a pair, likewise the wires to pins 3 and 6 must be a pair.
NOTE: The table below shows both flat and round cables. Be warned that flat cable
is not a paired cable and is not suitable for use on high speed LAN applications.
ACTIVITY: TO CONSTRUCT A PATCH CORD (FLY LEAD) TO AS/NZS 3080
Procedure
Using the table below as a guide, strip the cable sheath to the correct dimension
Terminating tool Modular Plug Jacketed Cable
Part No Die Colour Part No Description Type Strip Length
554720 8 Position Solid wire

554739 8 Position Flat oval
231652-1 Black 554169 8 Position Round 12.7 to 14.3
554170 8 Position, Keyed Round
554743 8 Position, Keyed Flat oval
641333 2 position, line Flat oval

231652-2 Red 641335 4 position, line Solid wire 6.3 to 7.1
554618 6 position, line Round, flat oval
4 position, Flat oval, tinsel

231652-3 Green 641334 6.3 to 7.1
handset
6 position, Under Flat under carpet

231652-4 Blue 553882 19 ±1.6
Carpet
555236 6 position, side Solid wire

latch
6 position, side Flat oval
231652-6 Orange 555237 6.3 to 7.1
latch
6 position side
555238 Round
latch
After achieving the correct wire sequence insert the wires into the connector until they
bottom against the connector tip.
Ensure that the cable sheathing extends into the sheath clamp area.

Insert the wired connector into the crimping tool and crimp the connector while applying
pressure to hold the cable into the connector.
Release the connector from the crimping tool and then inspect the crimp. The pins must
be a full insertion depth in the connector and the connector should clamp the cable
sheathing.
Repeat the above sequence to terminate the other end of the cable. Be sure to maintain
the correct wiring polarity.
Test the patch cord by inserting into a cable tester and perform a wire map test of the
cable.
TESTING AND RECORDS

Cablers must always make good records of the wiring plan they have installed. They must
also ensure that the installed system is working, as it should. This requires testing and if
there are faults some fault finding.
Cable Records
For a technician or cabling installer involved in providing services in a building the
interpretation of plans and the practical application is very important.
The diagram below shows a simple floor plan with details of building layout, room function
and position of outlets.

Simple floor plan
This plan represents a small business requiring 8 telephone outlets. These outlets are to
be supplied from a 10 pair distribution frame.
Recording Systems
This section deals with the process of recording cable distribution details in a record book
and maintaining these records.
Record books and record keeping can vary from installation to installation. Generally a
record style similar to the sample record forms illustrated below is used. For larger
installations, customised records are usually kept and these will be printed out as required.
Some installations now use a PC based records management system, which is similar in
format to the written records system shown here.

Record books
Three different types of record sheets are shown below. While all have a slightly different
format they all share common characteristics.
They require listing of information on the distribution frame vertical pairs in 10 pair groups.
All require details of the service listed (e.g. Equipment number, extension number, service
number or port, name or other particulars of service
They require details of jumpering/patching, source and destination of cables.
MDF records
MDF records will generally be established and maintained by the carrier (e.g. Telstra).
Jumpers run here are called “Network Jumpers” and are also usually run by the carrier.
There are records for both sides of the Distribution Frame i.e. both sides of the cross
connection.
Cable Details Pair No Service Number Other particulars of Jumpered to vertical
Service pair
Always complete records in pencil to allow for future changes.

Cabling Record Sheets
On the following pages are examples of cabling record sheets. Your instructor will explain
these then assist you in completing the next activity.
Termination records
Module 8
M8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Module 7
M7 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Module 6
M8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Module 5
M8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
Module 4
M8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Please note that this frame does / does not leave each 11th module position blank
Termination Records PABX TPF
Records correct as of _________________ Sheet ___________
Vertical ____ Equipment Extension Direct or Jumper Connected to

Pair Number Number Number
Note that this frame may use 20 pair modules for the PABX tails.

Vertical ______________ NOTE:
1. Write lightly with black pencil
2. Fill in all relative particulars
Cable Distribution Records

Service Number or Name or Other Jumpered /Patched to
Cable Details Pair
Port particulars of Service Vertical Pair
| 0
| 9
| 8
| 7
| 5
| 5
| 4
| 3
| 2
| 1
| 0
| 9
| 8
| 7
| 5
| 5
| 4
| 3
| 2
| 1

ACTIVITY: RECORDING A CABLE INSTALLATION
Use one of the tables on the preceding pages to record the Krone module termination
activity performed earlier.
Testing
Safe testing of a cable pair

Electrical safety is of particular importance when testing cables.
Cable pairs risk exposure to stray voltages from adjacent power systems or induction from
atmospheric disturbances. Some types of terminal equipment apply high voltages to the
pairs as part of remote power feed systems. Voltage may still be present as a capacitive
charge after removal of the power feed. All of these situations are dangerous to people
working on cables.
Before testing a cable pair the following procedure should be followed:
Remove any telecommunications equipment from both ends. Avoid actual contact with the
conductors of the pairs where possible.
With a voltmeter, check that no stray DC or AC voltages are present on the pair. Test
between legs and each leg to earth. If a hazardous voltage is detected, the pair should be
isolated and expert assistance obtained.
Discharge any stray capacitive charges by briefly short circuiting the legs of the pair
together and to earth with an insulated wire, avoiding actual contact with the conductors of
the pair where possible.
Test telephones – Buttinski’s

Test telephones are similar in operation to normal telephones. They are portable and used
to check the operation of telephone circuits. Test telephones are robust and conveniently
shaped and usually have additional features to normal telephones. These features of test
telephones include monitoring facilities, polarity testing and earth recall.
Test telephones are often called “Buttinski’s” or “Butts” for short. This name derives from
their ability to “butt in” on telephone lines.

Cable Identifier test sets
Various instruments are available for cable pair identification. Most of these instruments
use a signal generator (oscillator) that injects a test tone into a pair and a sensitive probe
that detects the magnetic field of the test signal around the pair.
Some cable test sets can detect and demodulate the high speed signals of digital carrier
systems. This will enable operators to identify working circuits that may not otherwise give
an indication on a test telephone or other simple test instrument. Accidental interference of
one of these circuits will result in the loss of a large number of telephone circuits.
The figure demonstrates the principle of a typical cable identification set.
Pair Continuity Testers

Continuity testers can be used to check that pairs are not open circuit. They work on a
similar principle to an ohmmeter but usually use light emitting diode or audible tone
indicators. Many modern digital multimeters have built in continuity testers.
Other devices
There are several instruments that can be used to identify low resistance faults such as
the Riser Bond, PET or C2300.
Multimeters
Two main types of multimeters are in common use, analogue or digital. Both types share
many common features and are equally good for general purpose testing. The digital
multimeter is a battery operated instrument that uses a digital display. The analogue type
is a simpler in design and has an analogue meter display.
All multimeters combine the operations of voltmeters, ammeters and ohmmeters and
usually offer the following:
• AC and DC voltage ranges from less than one to many hundreds of volts
• AC and DC current ranges from a few milliamps to several amps
• Resistance ranges from ohms to megohms

Many multimeters also offer additional test functionality:
• Transistor and diode testers
• Capacitor testers
• dBm meter
• Continuity tester
Analogue multimeters are prone to calibration and measurement errors due to the
characteristics of their meters. The following precautions should be followed:
• Check that the meter needle indicates zero before use. This can be corrected with the
meter zero control
• The ohmmeter should be calibrated before use. Connect its test leads together and
ensure that it read zero ohms in this condition. If necessary, set it to zero with the
calibrate control
• The meters tend to “load” circuits during voltage tests in high impedance circuits and
give inaccurate results. Use a digital multimeter in these situations
Combined instruments
Many manufacturers provide instruments that combine a number of functions. For
example one commonly available unit contains a test telephone, a cable identification
function and a multimeter. Other combinations of equipment are also available.
PICTURES OF COMBINED INSTRUMENTS
ACTIVITY – TESTING
For this activity you will need a typical test telephone, cable identification set, continuity
tester, megger and multimeter and their instruction booklets.
Method
Read the instruction booklet and then examine each unit in turn.
In the spaces below, write model identification details for each unit and list its features.
Perform a series of basic tests on cable or simulations to experience using each
instrument. Briefly summarise the tests completed and any observations made in the
spaces provided.
Test Telephone
Model Number ...........................................................................................................
Features ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Summary of activity
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
Cable Identification Test Set
Model Number ...........................................................................................................
Features ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Summary of activity
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
Pair Continuity Tester

Model Number ...........................................................................................................
Features ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Summary of activity
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
Megger
Model Number ...........................................................................................................
Features ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Summary of activity
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................

Digital Multimeter
Model Number ...........................................................................................................
Features ...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................
Summary of activity
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................
...........................................................................................................................................

CABLE PLANS
Buildings can be very complicated structures. Before any building can be constructed, a lot
of information must be gathered and a lot of planning is required.
Think about the people involved in building: designers, architects, local authorities and
councils, builders, estimators, tradespeople, material suppliers, service suppliers – all
these people have to work together if the building is to be functional and comfortable.
Buildings are constructed in stages. First the ground is prepared, foundations laid and the
basic structure built on. Then walls are built, floors laid, roof built and clad.
At some stage, services have to be brought into the building are connected. Buildings do
not function well without ventilation, plumbing electricity and communication equipment.
Apart from the materials used for the structure itself, a building contains all services to
cater for the needs of the people using it. Some of these services need to be planned and
installed at various stages of construction. Some like telecommunications and electrical
must be segregated. Others, like plumbing and air-conditioning are linked.
For a structure to be built and all these services to be included correctly, there must be
plans showing how and where they are to be installed and their relationship with the
building as a whole.
For a structure to be built and all these service to be included correctly, there must be
plans showing how and where they are to be installed and their relationship with the
building as a whole.
Types of plans
In order to locate cables already installed in a customer premises, you must be able to
read and interpret plans including: building plans, floor plans, plumbing and electrical
plans, cable plans, street plans and site layout drawings.
Building plans
For a technician or cabling installer involved in providing services in a building, the
interpretation of plans and the practical application of the information obtained is most
important.
Most buildings have a standard layout of details on a plan. This means that people using
these plans need to know where to look and what to look for.
The term “Building plans” covers a range of plans, which are all parts of a complete
working plan. To understand plan layout it is necessary to recognise all parts of a working
plan. These are
• Floor plan
• Front elevation, rear elevation, side elevations
• Site or block plan
• Section
• Details

Floor Plans
The floor plan provides much of the information required from building plans. The floor
plan is a horizontal section through the building as viewed from above.
Information that can be obtained from a floor plan includes:
• Overall building dimensions
• Room sizes (internal)
• Wall thickness (internal and external walls)
• Position of doors and windows
• Width of door and window openings
• Position of cupboards and benches
• Position of plumbing/electrical fixtures
• The functions of rooms
• The position of appliances, ducts, machinery
• Types of floors and coverings
• Section lines
• Floor level (1st, 2nd etc)

Plumbing / Electrical Plans
The plumbing and electrical plans for a building provide useful information for the
installation of telecommunications equipment and services. Telecommunications requires
power supply and space fro cable runs and service delivery. This cab be planned and
provided in conjunction with plumbing and electrical services.
Information that can be obtained from plumbing and electrical plans includes
• Point of entry into the building
• Ducting and service pathways
• Position of power, lights and electrical equipment
• Position of services, ducts and plumbing equipment
• Size and type of electrical equipment
• Type of plumbing fixtures
• Position of switchboards/substations
• Drainage plants

TELSTRA PLAN 23/3/2005
AERIAL AND UNDERGROUND CABLING

In customer premises cabling work there is very little need for underground or aerial cabling
unless the customer has two premises on the same site. There are also specialisations
within the registration framework fro these two types of cabling. These can be completed as
an addition to Open Registration.
The common theme is that customer cabling may be required to run between two buildings
– from a house to a separate home office or workshop. Cablers have two options:
• Install an aerial connection supported by a catenary wire
• Install an underground connection in a buried conduit
Underground Cabling
Underground cable will be enclosed inside an appropriate length of conduit buried to the
required depth and sealed to prevent the entry of water.

AS/CA S009:2013 requirements
Section 18 Underground cabling of AS/CA S009:2013 outlines a number of standards for
underground cabling that include the installation of pits and associated infrastructure. For
the purposes of basic underground cabling safety the following clauses must be observed:
AS/CA S009:2013:18.3.5.2 Bends

No more than three 90° conduit bends, or equivalent, should be installed between access
points and should be sized in accordance with Table 3.
Note: Bends should be prefabricated and not formed in the conduit by the application of
heat or a bending tool and should not consist of flexible/corrugated conduit. However,
conduit may be curved in the ground to a curvature radius of no less than 130 times the
nominal inside diameter of the conduit. Such curves do not count as bends in applying the
three-bend limit.
Table 3
Conduit curves, bends and distances between access points

Nominal Typical Minimum Minimum Minimum bend Maximum
inside actual curvature bend radius radius within distance
diameter (ID) inside radius mid-run 500 mm of an between
of conduit diameter (130 x ID) access point access points
(mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (mm) (m)
20 23 2600 300 100 50
50 53 6500 800 300 100
100 105 13000 5000 800 100
Note:
The conduit sizes are rounded to the nearest integer and are based on the values listed in
AS/NZS 1477 for PN 9 and PN 12 PVC pressure pipes, which are the values used by
carriers for their conduit.
AS/CA S009:2013: 18.6 Depth of cover

18.6.1 Public footways or roadways
Underground customer cabling located under a public footway or roadway shall be installed
at a minimum depth of 450 mm, measured from the finished ground/pavement surface to
the top of the cable or conduit, or as otherwise agreed with the relevant local authority.
Note: The permission of the relevant local authority is required to install customer cabling in
a public footway or roadway.
18.6.2 Places other than public footways or roadways
Underground customer cabling in a location other than a public footway or roadway shall be
installed to a minimum depth of 300mm, measured from the finished ground/pavement
surface to the top of the cable conduit unless soil conditions precluded a depth of 300mm
e.g. solid rock or shale. (Note further conditions apply – see AS/CA S009:2013)

AS/CA S009:2013 18.7.2
Where customer cabling crosses LV or HV power cabling –
a) It should cross above the power cabling;
b) Where it is necessary for power to be uppermost and it is not enclosed in heavy duty orange
conduit, a concrete barrier to clause 3.11.4.3 of AS/NZS 3000 shall be placed above the power
cables for 600 mm either side of the crossing; and
c) Whether or not the customer cabling crosses above or below the power cabling, separation
between the customer cabling and the power cabling at the crossing shall be in accordance
with table 4.
Table 4
Underground customer cabling separation from power cabling
Telecommunications Power Cable protection Minimum
Cabling Situation separation distance
Exclusive trench In or under covering to AS/NZS 3000 requirements (Note 1) 100 mm

crossing above LV
Exclusive trench No covering (Note 2) 300 mm

crossing above LV
Exclusive trench Heavy duty orange conduit or a concrete barrier to Clause 100 mm
crossing under LV 3.11.4.3 or AS/NZS 3000 above the LV for 600 mm either side
of the crossing
LV Exclusive trench In or under a covering to AS/NZS 3000 (Note 1) 100 mm

parallel run

parallel run
Shared trench in In heavy duty orange conduit marked ‘ELECTRICAL’ Nil (Note 3)
insulating conduit
Shared trench Under a covering to Clause 3.11.4.3 of AS/NZS 3000 (Note 1) 100 mm
Shared trench No covering (Note 2) 450 mm
Exclusive trench In or under a covering to AS/NZS 3000 requirements (Note 1) 300 mm

crossing above HV

crossing above HV
Exclusive trench Heavy duty orange conduit or a concrete barrier to Clause 300 mm
crossing under HV 3.11.4.3 or AS/NZS 3000 above the HV for 600 mm either side
of the crossing
HV
Exclusive trench In or under a covering to AS/NZS 3000 requirements (Note 1) 300 mm
parallel run

parallel run
Shared trench In or under a covering to AS/NZS 3000 requirements (Note 1) 300 mm
Shared trench No covering (Note 2) 450 mm
Note 1: Clause 3.11 of AS/NZS 3000 applies. This includes Category A systems where the
power cable is enclosed in a heavy duty cabling enclosure without further protection, such
as in orange (heavy duty) insulating conduit, and Category B systems where additional
mechanical protection is provided above the power cable in accordance with the
requirements of Clause 3.11.4.3 of AS/NZS 3000.

Note 2: Installation of underground power cable in customer premises without a protective
covering is not allowable under AS/NZS 3000. However, there may be cases where
AS/NZS 3000 does not apply or has not been followed, in which case unprotected
underground power cable may be encountered. In such circumstances it is recommended to
use the separation distances stated in ACIF C524 Industry Code.
Note 3: No separation is required if the customer cable is enclosed in insulating conduit,

coloured white (or with a white stripe) and is marked ‘COMMUNICATIONS’.
Note 4: For added cable protection, customer cabling may be enclosed in insulating conduit
that complies with AS/CA S008 requirements, but this does not reduce the minimum
separation distances required except for the case described in Note 3.
Aerial Cabling
Aerial cabling will be suspended on a catenary wire between the two premises being
cabled. It will meet the requirements for height or clearance and crossing power services
AS/CA S009:2013 requirements

Section 19 Aerial cabling outlines a number of standards for aerial cabling that include the
cable types and attachment methods. For the purposes of basic aerial cabling safety the
following clauses must be observed:
AS/CA S009:2013 19.2 Ground clearance

The minimum clearance from ground in any direction of an aerial customer cable shall be
as follows:
a) Over any customer premises land not traversable by road vehicles — 2.7 m.
b) Over any residential driveway — 3.5 m.
c) Over any commercial/industrial driveway or private roadway — 4.9 m.
d) Over any public roadway or footway — as required by the relevant authority but, in any case, no
less than 4.9 m.
Note: The ACIF C524 Industry Code may be used as a guide for cabling in public property.
AS/CA S009:2013: 19.5.7.3 Separation from aerial power lines and fittings
Aerial customer cabling, including any joint or termination enclosure, that attaches to the
same pole or structure as an aerial power line or that crosses an aerial power line in span
shall be separated from the aerial LV and HV power lines and fittings in accordance with
Table 5 below.

AS/CA S009:2013: Table 5 – Minimum separation of aerial customer cabling,
including joint or termination enclosures and telecommunications poles or
structures, from aerial power lines and fittings.
At a Telecommunications pole or structure
shared/comm
Type of power line, structure or Crossing (Note 5)
on pole or In span Separate parallel
fitting
structure route
Horiz. Radial
(Note 8)
Light fitting, stay fitting or power

50 mm n/a n/a n/a
conduit at a pole
LV cable independently secured to 50 mm or

Insulating
the came catenary support as the insulating n/a n/a
conduit
customer cable (Note 1) conduit
Independently supported, insulated

0.6 m 0.6 m 2.4 m 2.4 m 2.4 m
LV (Notes 2 and 3)
Uninsulated LV 1.2 m 0.6 m 2.4 m 2.4 m 2.4 m
≤ 11kV 1.2 m 2.4 m 3.7 m 10 m

2.4 m (Note 4)
> 11kV ≤ 33 kV 2.1 m 2.4 m 4.0 m 10 m
> 33 kV ≤ 66 kV 3.0 m (Note 4) 2.1 m 2.4 m 4.0 m 10 m
HV (Note 3) > 66 kV ≤ 132 kV 3.0 m 2.4 m 4.6 m 10 m
> 132 kV ≤ 200 kV 3.7 m 2.4 m 6.0 m 10 m

Note 6
200 kV ≤ 300kV 4.6 m 2.4 m 7.5 m 10 m
> 300 kV Note 7 Note 7 50 m
APPLICATION
You are working on a customer site where there are two buildings. You note that an aerial
lead between the buildings is 2.7m above the ground. While you are watching several cars
go under the aerial wiring on that appears to be a driveway. What action should you take?
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
CABLING REGULATIONS
This section introduces the learner to the requirements detailed in Standards Australia,
Communications Cabling Manual (CCM) Package Volume 1 and 2.
The emphasis of this section of the resource is on the application of rules and regulations
governing the installation of customer cabling systems in customer premises. The main
focus is on regulations governing the installation and commissioning of customer cabling
systems.
While this resource examines the requirements of the Standards Australia Communications
Cabling Manual (CCM) package, it does not remove the learner’s responsibility to read this
document thoroughly.

Resources Required
Written Resources
Access to Standards Australia, Communications Cabling Manual Package, 2007
Access to cable manufacturers information and brochures
AS/CA S008:2010 – Requirements for customer cabling products
AS/CA S009:2013 – Installation requirements for customer cabling (Wiring Rules).
The Communications Alliance (CA) documents are FREE and can be downloaded
from: http://commsalliance.com.au/Publications
AS/CA S008:2010 and AS/CA S009:2013 are part of the CCM Package Volume 1
which can be purchased from Standards Australia offices in each state or by mail.
Hardware
Access to various cabling products
Access to telecommunications distributors and record samples
USING THE COMMUNICATIONS CABLING MANUAL
ACMA Technical Standards
The Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) established the Cabler
Registration Scheme (CRS) to protect the integrity of the telecommunications network and
the safety of personnel. This is possible by ensuring registered cablers have a minimum
uniform standard of knowledge based on current technical standards.
The current technical standards AS/CA S008:2010 and AS/CA S009:2013 have been
developed under a Memorandum of Understanding between the ACMA and the
Communication Alliance (CA).
As of 2006, ACIF was restructured as the Communications Alliance to provide a unified
voice for the Australian Communications Industry and to lead it into the next generation of
converging networks, technologies and services. The communications Alliance has its
genesis in the merger of the ACIF and the Service Providers Association Inc. (SPAN).
The requirements in AS/CA S009:2013 Installation requirements for customer cabling
(Wiring Rules) are generally limited to:
(a) Protecting the health and safety of persons
(b) Protecting the integrity of a telecommunications network of a facility
(c) Providing informative content removed from previous editions
AS/CA S008:2010 Requirements for customer cabling products are limited to:
(a) Protecting the integrity of a telecommunications network of facility
(b) Protecting the health and safety of persons
(c) Ensuring access to emergency services
(d) Ensuring interoperability with a standard telephone service
(e) Providing additional information for guidance.
Both standards are a result of a consensus among representative on the ACIF Working
Committee to produce them as Australian Standards.
The Communications Cabling Manual (CCM) Package is produced in two volumes.
Standards Australia publishes the CCM package, which includes an update advice service.
The contents of the CCM are listed for your reference in these notes. Full details of the
CCM package are available on the following Standards Australia International webpage:
http://infostore.saiglobal.com/store/Details.aspx?DocN=AS148148019949
Organisation of the Communications Cabling Manual
The Communications Standards specify two categories of performance. These are:
• Mandatory requirements identified by the word ‘shall’ or ‘shall not’. Mandatory
requirements are the absolute minimum acceptable parameters.
• All other provisions are Voluntary
The communications Cabling Manual Package (as of May 2007) is available in two volumes.
CCM Volume 1—2007 Handbooks, codes and regulations
HB 252—2007 Communications Cabling Manual— Module 3: Residential
communications cabling handbook
HB 243—2007 Communications cabling manual—Module 1: Australian
regulatory arrangements
HB 29—2007 Communications cabling manual—Module 2: Communications

cabling handbook
AS/ACIF S008:2006 Requirements for customer cabling products
AS/ACIF S009:2006 Installation requirements for customer cabling (Wiring Rules)
CCM Volume 2—2007 Standards
AS/NZS ISO/IEC 14763.3:2007 Implementation and operation of customer premises cabling—

Part 3: Testing of optical fibre cabling
AS/NZS ISO/IEC 15018:2005 Information technology—Generic cabling for homes
AS/NZS ISO/IEC 24702:2007 Telecommunications installations—Generic cabling—

Industrial premises
AS/NZS 3080:2003 Telecommunications installations—Generic cabling for

commercial premises (ISO/IEC 11801:2002, MOD)
AS/NZS 3084:2003 Telecommunications installations—Telecommunications

pathways and spaces for commercial buildings (Incorporating
Amendment 1:2007)
AS/NZS 3085.1:2004 Telecommunications installations—Administration of

communications cabling systems—Basic requirements
AS/NZS IEC 61935.1:2006 Testing of balanced communication cabling in accordance

with ISO/IEC 11801—Installed cabling
AS/NZS IEC 61935.2:2006 Testing of balanced communication cabling in accordance

with ISO/IEC 11801—Patch cords and work area cords

AS/CA S009:2013
It is important to understand at this stage that AS/CA S009:2013 (Wiring Rules) is separated
into 20 different sections. The learning outcome of this resource is not only dependent on
knowing the contents of the standard but where to find the information contained in the
standard quickly. The following outline for the standard is provided to assist in
understanding what is covered by each section of the standard.
Forward An introduction to the Standard and its application
Introduction Outlines objectives and differences between this edition and previous
editions
Content Details what is in the Standard
Section 1 Scope
What is covered by the Standard
Section 2 References
All the subordinate references called up in the Standard. These become
part of the Standard
Section 3 Definitions and Abbreviations
Explains all the critical abbreviations, terms and definitions used in this
standard
Section 4 General Principles
Details the basic objectives, general approach and application of the
Standards
Section 5 General Requirements
Covers general installation requirements
Section 6 Hazardous conditions associated with HV power
Deals with Earth Potential Rise and Low Frequency induction
Section 7 Hazardous area and damp locations
Requirements for cabling in explosive atmospheres and damp locations
Section 8 Cable supports and enclosures
Customer cables support requirements
Section 9 Separation of services – general
Requirements for the separation of customer cables and other services
Section 10 Surge suppression
Provision of surge suppression devices
Section 11 Optical fibre and coaxial cable systems
General requirements for optical fibre and coaxial cable systems
Section 12 Distributors
General requirements for all distributors
Section 13 Main Distribution Frame
Requirements for the MDF

Section 14 Network termination device
Network requirements for NTD’s
Section 15 Telecommunications outlets
Installations requirements for telecommunications outlets
Section 16 Indoor Cabling
Details for installing indoor cabling. Includes separations, and under carpet
wiring
Section 17 Outdoor Cabling, general
Details for installing outdoor cabling, Includes surface cabling requirements
Section 18 Underground Cabling
Covers pits, pillars and cabinets and separation from other services.
Section 19 Aerial cabling
Details for installing aerial cabling including support structures, catenary
wires, crossing other services and separation from other services
Section 20 Telecommunications earthing and power distribution
Provides details for three telecommunications earthing systems CES, TRC
and ELV DC. Covers details such as cable size, earth bars and terminals,
cable joints and coupling. Also covers requirements for DC earth returns
and the use o TFEE when required. Earthing requirements for metallic
frames, backmounts. Informative tables and diagrams on the varioius
earthing systems installed.
Appendix A Restricted zones in damp locations
Appendix B Common cable colour codes
Appendix C Telecommunications outlets
Appendix D Recommended access clearances for MDF’s and NTD’s
Appendix E Direct current in the communications bonding conductor
Appendix F Current-limited power feeding in telecommunications networks
Appendix G LV telecommunications circuits
Appendix H Interference from HV power systems
Appendix I The IP code explained
Appendix J The various network boundary options are described
Appendix K Cabling provider Rules
Appendix M Aerial cabling requirements
Each subject within each section has been given a clause number and every number has a
heading. Clauses may contain paragraphs e.g. (a), (b), (c) etc, sub-paragraphs (i), (ii), (iii),
etc. These structural changes have been made to make it easier to find information.

Important Terminology
As you work through this workbook you will need to understand various definitions and
important telecommunications terminology used in the CCM.
Any Technical standard will include a definition section defining terms used in that standard.
A list of definitions and abbreviations & technical definitions is provided in Section 3 (page
8) of AS/CA S009:2013 and Section 4 (Page 6)
ACTIVITY
1) Summarise the definition of Customer Access Equipment (CAE)?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) Summarise the definition of ‘first socket’

_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
3) Summarise the definition of a Safety Extra Low Voltage (SELV) circuit?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
4) Summarise the definition of a distributor?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

CABLER REGISTRATION AND THE INDUSTRY REGULATOR
Introduction
The purpose of this section is to develop knowledge of the classes of cabler registration
available and the obligations of registered cablers. We will describe the Australian
Communications and Media Authority’s (ACMA) role under the current Telecommunications
Act, detail the ACMA’s authority under the current Telecommunications Act and describe
the fundamental principles pertaining to the various classes of cabler registration.
The role and function of the Australian Communications and Media

Authority (ACMA)
The Federal Government of the day established the former regulator “AUSTEL’ in July
1989. AUSTEL’s role was to supervise the introduction of completion in the Australian
Telecommunications industry. AUSTEL was not a supplier of telecommunications products
or services.
The federal Governments decision was to offer all Australians a greater choice in
telecommunications products and services. AUSTEL supervised the initial transition to full
completion in order to enable consumers to derive the full benefits of greater choice. Users
of telecommunications services became free to choose which telephone carrier they want to
use. Customers can also choose whether to rent from a carrier or buy their own telephone.
Competitive issues are now the responsibility of the Australian Competition and Consumer
Commission. (ACCC)
The following information has been downloaded from the ACMA website
www.acma.gov.au
The ACMA – a regulator for the communications industry.
In July 1997, the Australian Communications Authority (ACA) was established within the
portfolio of Communications Information Technology and the Arts. It’s roles included
management of the radio frequency spectrum, promotion of industry self-regulation and
other significant consumer responsibilities.
The ACA’s functions were designed to encourage and assist industry and consumers to
take advantage of the opportunities presented by current and future technologies, while
providing safeguards for consumers.
The ACMA is also a 'converged' regulator, created to bring together the threads of the
evolving communications universe, specifically in the Australian context the convergence of
the four 'worlds' of telecommunications, broadcasting, radio communications and the
internet. The ACMA was formed on 1 July 2005 by a merger of the responsibilities of the
Australian Broadcasting Authority and the Australian Communications Authority.
The ACMA exercises power under the Telecommunications Act 1997, the Radio
communications Act 1992 and other related legislation. It is funded through the Federal
Budget, and also collects substantial revenue on behalf of the Commonwealth through
telecommunications carrier and radio communications licence fees, as well as through
charges on telecommunications number.

The ACMA’s goals are:
. To provide an effective regulatory environment that:
A professional and highly committed workforce.

The ACMA provides a direct service to more than 100,000 clients from private individuals
applying for radio communications licences to major international corporations.
Codes and Standards

One of the ACMA’s major roles is to work with the communications industry in developing
self-regulation through industry codes and standards, and to:
• Register codes and enforce compliance with registered codes where necessary
• Determine and enforce mandatory industry standards when suitable voluntary codes are
either inappropriate or not developed.
Under industry-agreement arrangements, the codes have been developed by the Australian
Communications Industry Forum, (ACIF) in close consultation with the ACMA, industry and
the community and cover operational as well as consumer matters. There are now
registered codes covering issues such as billing, calling number display, compliant handling,
protection of personal information, and consumer information on prices, terms and
conditions.
• The ACMA may also set mandatory technical standards where necessary to:
• Minimise radio communications interference
• Avoid disruption to telecommunications networks
• Ensure interoperability of the standard telephone service
• Protect public health and safety
The ACMA investigates interference complaints and audits equipment and cabling to ensure
compliance with technical standards.
In developing regulatory standards, the ACMA consults widely with the industry and the
community through its biannual Consumer consultative Forum and various advisory and
Consultative committees. The ACMA is involved in a cooperative approach for determining
future regulation of exposure to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) from radio communication
devices.
The ACMA oversees compliance with EMC regulatory arrangements, which aims to
minimise interference between electronic products. Interference may reduce their
performance or disrupt essential communications. With the rapid growth in electronic
systems and digital technology for commercial and domestic use, this is becoming
increasingly important.
The EMC regulatory arrangements are mandatory for suppliers of an extensive range of
commercially available products. Suppliers must demonstrate that their products meet
relevant standards before the products are placed on the market.

The new regulatory framework is designed to promote:
• The long term interests of end users of telecommunications services
• The efficiency and international competitiveness of the Australian telecommunications
industry
Under this framework, industry self-regulation is encourages in all areas, including access,
technical standards, interconnection standards and consumer and customer service
standards. Government’s regulators have powers to intervene if industry self-regulation is
not working effectively in specific instances.
Functions and Responsibilities

Some of the functions of the ACMA
• Regulate industry compliance with mandatory standards and voluntary codes of practice
• Promoting self-regulation and competition in the telecommunications industry while
protecting consumers and other users
• Represent Australia’s communications interests internationally
• Maintain and administer the Telecommunications Numbering Plan 1997 (which sets out the
framework for the numbering of carriage services in Australia and the use of numbers in
connection with the supply of these services)
• Monitor compliance with consumer safeguards and service guarantees
• Administer universal service incentives
• Report on telecommunications industry performance
• Provide information about communications regulation for industry and consumers
• Manage access to the radio frequency spectrum by radio communications licencing
• Investigate and assist in resolving radio communications interference
• Licence telecommunications carriers and ensure compliance with the licence conditions
and carriage service provider rules
• Administer legislation relating to powers and immunities of carriers in constructing
telecommunications facilities
• Establishments of standards for standard telephone handsets that prescribe facilities to be
made available fro people with disabilities
International communications
The rapidly changing nature of communications and rapid growth of the industry worldwide
has led to increasing sensitivity being attached to international communication issues. The
ACMA has a primary role in representing Australia’s interests in discussions about such
issues.
Australia is taking a lead in Asia-Pacific forums convened to promote mutual recognition,
harmonise standards and enhance prospects for trade in equipment and services.

Such international cooperation benefits manufacturers and suppliers of equipment, as well
as users, by reducing administrative requirements and making it easier to export and import
communications equipment. It can provide access to new markets for local industry and
enable consumer to benefit from competitive imports.
A Mutual Recognition Agreement recently implemented in our region on assessment of
telecommunications equipment has participation from nineteen Asia-Pacific Economic
Cooperation (APEC) member countries.
As well as working through regional forums such as APEC and the Asia-Pacific
Telecommunications Community, the ACMA represents Australia’s communications
interests internationally by:
• Coordinating and leading Australia’s representation at the international Telecommunication
Union (ITU) including developing Australian and regional proposals
• Contributing to revision of ITU radio regulations and preparing Australian proposals for the
World Radio Communication Conference which is held every three to four years
Australia’s objective at the 2003 World Radio Communication Conference was to promote
international agreements for efficient and effective access to the radio frequency spectrum.
OTHER BODIES (REFERENCE)

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission – (ACCC)
The ACCC promotes competition and fair trade in markets to benefit consumers,
businesses, and the community. They also regulate national infrastructure services.
The ACCC regulates competition in the telecommunications industry. It took over these
responsibilities from AUSTEL on 1 July 1997. It’s major functions in relation to the
telecommunications industry are:
• Administration of the new telecommunications access regime
• Regulation of anti-competitive conduct
The ACCC is also responsible for general consumer protection and competition regulation
across all industries. For example, it approves access codes developed by the industry and
undertakes arbitration where industry is unable to agree
Communications Alliance (previously Australian Communications Industry Forum)
The CA is the peak communications industry body. It has primary responsibility for
developing technical, operational and consumer industry codes and standards. Any
organisation or individual can become a member of ACIF including carriers, service
providers, equipment vendors, industry association and user/consumer groups.
Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman
The Telecommunications Industry Ombudsman (TIO) is an independent dispute resolution
forum for the complaints made by residential and small business consumers of
telecommunications services. The TIO is funded through charges levied on carriers and
service providers on the basis of complaints received against them.

Australian Communications Consumer Action Network
ACCAN is Australia’s peak body for consumer representation and advocacy in
communications. We represent residential consumers and small businesses including not-
for profit organisations in so far as they are consumers. ACCAN focuses on goods and
services encompassed by the converging areas of telecommunications, the Internet and
broadcasting, including both current and emerging technologies.
Communications Law Centre
The Communications Law Centre (CLC) is an independent, non-profit organisation based at
the University of Technology, Sydney.
The vision of the Centre is to uphold freedom of expression within the proper limits of the
law.
The CLC acts in the public interest to influence the reform of media, communications and
online law and policy. This is achieved through a focus on research, educational services
and reform.
Service Providers Action Network
SPAN is the national association of service providers. Its main objectives are to support the
development and promotion of competition in the telecommunications industry, protect the
interests of members and provide a forum for information exchange.
Telephone Information Service Standards Council
Telephone Information Services Standards Council Ltd (TISSC) is an independent
regulatory body that handles public complaints about ‘190 premium services’, and conducts
monitoring and investigative activities of these services. The council consists of an
independent chairman, three industry representatives, and three consumer representatives.
TISSC is funded by the telephone information services industry. TISSC sets standards for
the message content and advertising of 190 services in a Code of Practice, which is
regularly updated to reflect community standards. Service providers of 190 numbers must
abide by the Code of Practice, and complaints received by TISSC are assessed against the
Code by an independent arbitrator. If a breach of the Code is determined by the arbitrator,
the remedies of a refund for the complainant via the service provider, rectification of the
breach, take-down of the service on either a temporary or permanent basis can apply. The
services of TISSC are free and confidential where required. Freecall 1800 025 213

ACTIVITY
Look at the ACMA’s website at www.acma.gov.au and locate:
1) Any information that relates to communications cabling registration
2) How many carriers’ licences have been issued and how many are current
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
http://www.acma.gov.au/Industry/Telco/Carriers-and-service-providers/Licensing/register-of-
licensed-carriers-licensing-i-acma

CABLING PROVIDER RULES
Introduction
This section examines the Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules (CPR) 2000, which
came into effect 3rd October 2000 and is now know as the CPR Registration System. In this
section we will describe the rules that the ACMA makes under the Telecommunications Act
1997. These include:
• Cabling Provider Rules (CPR’s)
• Definition of terms
• Application of rules
• Types of cabling work
• Registration
• Performance of cabling work
• Relationship ACMA
We will also describe the registration and supervision conditions of registration.
The following resources are required to complete this section:

• Standards Australia, Communications Cabling Manual
• ACMA information brochure on cabling provider rules
• TCA1 form (Available from ACMA website)
• Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules (CPR) 2000 plus amendments, as made by the
ACMA under subsection 421(1) of the Telecommunication’s Act 1997.
These rules can are available from:
http://www.acma.gov.au/Industry/Telco/Infrastructure/Cabling-rules/cabling-provider-
rules
or
http://www.comlaw.gov.au/Details/F2009C01013
Types of Cabling Work

Under the registration system, there are three types of registrations – Open, Restricted and
Lift.
Below is a summary of the type of work you can do under each registration. For full details,
refer to the Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules 2000.
If you wish to work in both commercial and domestic premises you will require an Open
registration. If you only want to work in domestic premises, you will require a restricted
registration.

Restricted Cabling Work
Restricted - This registration restricts you to doing work where the network boundary is a
simple socket or a network termination device – typically found in domestic homes and
small businesses, not in large commercial buildings. Cablers may also undertake work in
multi-storey and campus-style premises where cabling is performed behind a compliant
device (e.g. alarm panel or modem).
Those persons who obtain a restricted registration will be able to perform the
following work.
• Terminating on a socket or Network Termination Device
• Aerial or underground work on private property
• Aerial cabling work must not use poles that are also used for electricity
Open Cabling Work
Open - This registration allows a cabler to undertake all types of cabling work from simple
cabling in homes to complex structured cabling in multi-storey buildings.
Those persons who obtain an Open Registration will be able to perform any work
covered under a Restricted Rule Registration as well as the following work:
• All customer cabling work in locations with a distributor
• Terminating directly on a socket or NTD distributor
• Can supervise an unregistered or restricted registered person
Many of the original Cabling Licence rules are still pertinent to the new CPR registration.
Lift Cabling Work
Lift – This registration type is for installing and maintaining communications cables in lifts
and lift wells.
Lift mechanics obtain a lift registration to work on cabling that has been installed or is to be
installed in a lift environment.
ENDORESEMENTS
Registration and Registrars

A person (Cabler) performing customer cabling work (telecommunications, fire, security
and/or data) must be registered. Each registration type (Open, Restricted and Lift) has
prescribed cabling competencies that apply.
The ACMA has accredited five industry bodies to act as registrars fro the cabling industry.
Under the CPR’s a cabler is free to choose any of the five registrars.
ACMA accredited registrars are listed below (alphabetically):
Australian Cabler Registration Service (ACRS)
Phone: 1300 66 77 71 Fax: (02) 9744 3928
Email: enquiries@acrs.com.au
Website www.acrs.com.au
Postal: PO Box 1818, St Leonards, NSW 1590

Australian Security Industry Association Limited (ASIAL)
Phone: (02) 8425 4331 Fax: (02) 8425 4343
Email: cabling@asial.com.au
Website: www.asial.com.au
Postal: PO Box 1338, Crows Nest NSW 1585
BICSI Registered Cablers Australia Pty Ltd (BRCA)

Freecall: 1800 306 444
Phone: (03) 9867 4911 Fax: (03) 9867 5099
Email: info@brca.com.au
Website: www.brca.com.au
Postal: PO Box 1018, South Melbourne VIC 3205
Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia)

Phone: (03) 9890 1544 Fax: (03) 9890 1577
Email: cpr@fpaa.com.au
Website: www.fpaa.com.au
Postal: PO Box 1049, Box Hill VIC 3128
TITAB Australia Cabler Registry Services (TITAB ACRS)

Phone: (03) 9349 4955 Fax: (03) 9349 4844
Email: info@titab.com.au
Website: www.titab.com.au
Postal: PO Box 348, Carlton South VIC 3053
All five registrars offer Open, Restricted and Lift registrations, which provide a cabler with a nationally
recognised registration and endorsements/competencies
It is a requirement of the CPR that changes of registered cabler addresses are to be notified to the registrar
within 21 days.
Read the “Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules 2000” prior to answering the following.
1) What are the three grades of registration the registrars offer?
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) How many registrars are there and how many are you required to register with?
Depending on the cabling work performed, cablers must meet the ACMA’s ____________________
for one of the areas of cabling work

Supervision of Unregistered Cablers
An unregistered person cannot perform any cabling work that requires registration unless
the cabling is performed under the personal supervision of an ACMA registered cabler.
Supervision of unregistered cablers requires that registered cabler provides personal on-site
supervision of any and all unregistered cablers work during the complete installation phase
of the cabling. The registered cabler will take full responsibility for the standard of work
performed, ensure that all the work complies with the Wiring Rules and completes and signs
a TCA form.
The ACMA has the power to prosecute a cabler for non-compliance with the Act, or for
contravention of the Cabling Provider Rules (CPR’s) or cabling registration conditions. A
failure to comply with these requirements is a criminal offence that may be punishable on
conviction by a fine of up to $13,200.
Examples include
i) If an unregistered cabler is performing cabling work or not properly supervised
ii) If the work performed by a registered cabler doesn’t not comply with the Wiring Rules
AS/CA S009:2013
Read part 4 of the Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules 2000 prior to completing the
following
1) What is the possible fine for cabling without registration
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) Unregistered cablers undertaking cabling work must be ______________________ by a
registered cabler
Competency Standards
The ACMA requires that an applicant for registration as a cabler be required to have
sufficient competence, skills, knowledge and experience before being registered.
Competency consists of the specific knowledge, skill and application within an occupation or
industry, to the standard of performance required in employment.
Competency standards define those competencies for effective performance in
employment. This includes the specification of skills and knowledge. Competency standards
focus on what the workplace expects of an employee rather than on the learning process.
Read Section 4 of AS/CA S009:2013 prior to completing the following:
The objective of this standard is to protect ______________________ and
______________________ of any person who may (i) ______________________, (ii)
______________________, (iii) of any person who may (i) ______________________, (ii)
______________________ (iii) ________________________________ _____________
___________________________________________ or (iv) ______________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
A telecommunications network or a facility.

Inspection of Work
Inspection of work by a carrier
The carriers are responsible for their networks. They also have the right to inspect cabling
work. They may inspect work to ensure it satisfies current AS/CA technical standards in
relation to network integrity, personal safety and proper network functioning. The carriers
right to inspect is a condition of the cabling registration. If a carrier inspection reveals a
threat to safety or integrity of their network then they may disconnect or refuse to connect
some or all services. Refer to section 5.14 of AS/CA S009:2013.
Telecommunications Cabling Advice
It is a condition of the CPR registration that all registered cablers must complete a
“Telecommunications Cabling Advice” on completion of cabling work. A copy of this form
remains with the customer and a copy is retained by the registered cabler for a minimum
period of 12 months. The details contained in the TCA can be incorporated into the
installers invoice statement. This prevents the provisioning of multiple documents. A copy of
the TCA form is available from the ACMA website.
Read part 4 of the CPR for further information
Maintenance of cabling advice

It is the responsibility of the registered cabler to maintain all necessary installation records.
The registered cabler must maintain these ‘cabling advices’ in a clear and legible fashion. It
is not the responsibility of the employer to maintain the ‘cabling advice’ forms. When the
ACMA auditors or ACMA inspectors request to view the ‘cabling advice’ forms, the request
will be either in writing, by direct telephone call to the cable installer or by personal request.
The cabling advice is to include minor work such as the installation of parallel sockets in a
domestic installation. The ACMA does not require completion of a cabling advice for the
following:
• Running, transposing or removing jumpers from distribution frames
• Marking, replacing and upgrading cabling records
• All testing and transmission measurement activities
• Replacement of sockets or other minor cabling equipment for maintenance purposes
Shown below is a sample “Telecommunications Cabling Advice (TCA1)” for a typical
domestic residence work. Also shown is the optional additional TCA2 sheet that may be
used by registered cablers to alert the customer or building manager of any non-compliant
cable installations that are outside the contracted scope of work.
Copies:
1. Customer
2. Cabling provider
3. Employer (if applicable)

Telecommunications cabling advice (TCA1)
Copies required for customer, cabler and employer (if applicable)
Instructions for completion

Requirements Enquiries
A registered cabling provider must complete this form after each For advice on completing this form, please go to the ACMA
cabling job (except for certain exemptions). Cablers must retain a website at www.acma.gov.au.
copy of this form for at least 12 months and pass a copy to the
customer and/or employer. Technical enquiries about cabling should be directed to:
Print clearly. Email: comply.label@acma.gov.au
Tel: 1300 850 115
Where proposed works may be compromised by existing cabling,
a TCA2 form should be completed.
Registered cabling provider

Name Contact details
WORK ( )
SURNAME
MOBILE
GIVEN NAMES
Registration number
Address
Name of registrar
POSTCODE
Employer (IF APPLICABLE)

Name of company Address
Contact details
WORK ( ) POSTCODE
MOBILE
Description of work (INCLUDING ANY SUPERVISION)
Customer details
Name Contact details
WORK ( )
FAX ( )
Address
POSTCODE
Certification
I hereby certify that the cabling work described in this advice complies with the Wiring Rules (AS/CA S009 or its replacement).
SIGNATURE PRINT FULL NAME

DATE

Telecommunications cabling
advice (TCA2)
This form is an optional addition to the TCA1 Telecommunications Cabling Advice form. It may be used by
registered cablers to alert the customer or building manager of any non-compliant cable installations that are
outside the contracted scope of work.
Pre works advice
Post works advice
Outstanding matters
While undertaking the contracted cabling work, the following issues have been identified with the pre-existing
cable installation, which may require your attention:
Inadequate separation of communications Urgent safety hazard

and electrical cabling Attention required – non-urgent
Long term – low safety risk
Inappropriate or inadequate support provided Urgent safety hazard

to cables Attention required – non-urgent
Cables not secured or fixed Urgent safety hazard

Attention required – non-urgent
Non-compliant cabling product used Urgent safety hazard
Non-compliant customer equipment installed Urgent safety hazard
Non-compliant earthing Urgent safety hazard
Wrong colour conduit used Urgent safety hazard
Records are missing or out of date Urgent safety hazard
Pre-existing cables are worn or frayed Urgent safety hazard
Pre-existing cabling is not compliant (other) Urgent safety hazard

CPR Compliance
Under the CPR’s all cabling work must comply with the legislative requirements and
standards such as the Wiring Rules and the Labelling Notice, A cabler who fails to comply
with CPR’s or conditions or registration can be prosecuted under the Act.
Cabling without a current registration is a criminal offence and may result in a fine. To
monitor compliance, ACMA undertakes audits and inspections of cabling installations that
involve a physical examination of a cablers work.
The ACMA undertakes activities to promote compliance with the cabling standards and
consists of inspections and an audit program. In addition to assessing for compliance with
CPR’s the wiring rules and ACMA regulatory arrangements, audits and inspections are an
important mechanism in educating cablers and gathering information on the status of
compliance in the cabling industry.
ACMA Inspection and Audits

An inspection is usually initiated when the ACMA receives a written report. With sufficient
evidence that the cabler or the cabling work is in breach of the applicable standards, the
ACMA undertakes a site inspection. Where the ACMA determines that a breach of the
rules or a technical standards has occurred it can:
a. Issue a warning notice requiring the cabler to correct the defective work:
and/or
b. Issue an infringement notice including a fine; or
c. Prosecute the cabler in a court of law
Major areas of non-compliance include unregistered cablers performing cabling work,
cablers providing inadequate separation from hazardous services such as electrical
power, incorrect earthing practices etc. Under the CPRs’ and licensing arrangements
cablers must provide reasonable cooperation with and give assistance to inspectors at all
times.
The ACMA also monitors industry compliance through system of audits. Under the auditing
program, registered cablers are randomly audited fro adherence to:
a. The mandatory Wiring Rules
b. Cablers registration conditions;
c. Use of compliant customer equipment and cabling product
Contracted auditors examine cabling installations from a random selection of cablers and
verity that installations comply with the applicable Wiring Rules and standards. The audits
also provide an assessment of a cablers understanding of industry self-regulation
arrangements. Cablers are given the opportunity to provide feedback to the ACMA about
the auditing process.

Pre-existing cabling
The ACMA currently does not require cablers to rectify non-compliant pre-existing or in situ
cabling to comply with current wiring rules – unless the cabler removes and reinstalls that
in situ cabling. The Wiring Rules requires that every addition to existing cabling or
alteration of existing cabling installation is to comply with the current Wiring Rules.
Where a cabler removes an existing equipment to replace the old equipment with a new
system, without altering any of the existing cabling, then it is not the responsibility of the
cabler to ensure compliance of that existing cabling with current Wiring Rules.
If additional cabling is installed as part of this upgrade then the cabler is responsible to
ensure that all the additional cabling is compliant with the current Wiring Rules. This also
applies where an old system was removed prior to the cabler being contracted to install a
new system and the existing cabling does not require alteration or removal.
Where a cabler removed and reinstalled in a different location within the premises, some
portion of the existing in situ cabling then the cabler is responsible to ensure compliance
with the current wiring rules for that portion of the cabling that was removed and
reinstalled. In this case the reinstalled cabling is to comply with the current Wiring Rules
requirements. The cabler is to ensure that re-used cabling products comply with AS/CA
S008:2010.
Where a cabler finds in situ cabling is not compliant with current Wiring Rules and that
cabling in the cablers opinion poses a safety threat to the user, installer, the carriers staff
or the carriers network, the cabler is to notify the client and ACMA of the situation.

LEARNING CHECK (3)
Write your responses to the following questions.
1) Registered cablers can only install cables from a specified boundary. What is this boundary?
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) Which class of registration allows the licensee to perform work online in the premises having
exchange lines terminating on compliant sockets?
_____________________________________________________________________________
3) Is there a fee applicable for any cabling registration?
_____________________________________________________________________________
4) If an unregistered person is working without supervision who is liable to be fined?
(a) The unregistered person
(b) The registered cabler who is supposed to be supervising the installer
(c) The customer who has engaged the installer
(d) No one would be liable for a fine
_____________________________________________________________________________
5) An unregistered person can perform cabling work under the supervision of an ACMA
registered cabler. What does supervision mean in this context?
_____________________________________________________________________________
6) Before being registered, an applicant must possess sufficient
__________________________
And _________________________________________________________________________
7) What is the focus of competency standards?
_______________________________________
8) What is the maximum penalty for a person performing telecommunications cabling without
the appropriate registration?
(a) No penalties apply
(b) $1,300
(c) $2,100
(d) $13,200
_____________________________________________________________________________
9) What is the possible consequence of a registered cabler failing to install to the minimum
requirements specified in AS/CA S009:2013 resulting in a threat to health and safety?
(a) ACMA may change the conditions of the registration
(b) Penalty in the form of cancellation of registration
(c) The carrier may disconnect the customer cabling or equipment from the line.
(d) None as AS/CA S009:2013 is only a guide

_____________________________________________________________________________
10) If a registered cabler changes employment, a cabling registration stays with:
(a) The original employer of the cabler
(b) The person to whom it is issued
(c) Nobody as the registration becomes void
(d) It depends on who paid the registration fee
_____________________________________________________________________________
11) Who is responsible for the installation and maintenance of customer cabling, where there are
several customer cables on a campus and the customer cabling is comprised of both aerial
and underground cabling?
(a) A licenced electrician
(b) The carrier
(c) The customer
(d) The customers registered cabler
_____________________________________________________________________________

CABLES AND CABLING PRODUCTS
Cabling products consist of and include all equipment designed to form part of a customer
cabling installation. This includes cable, cable interconnection devices, terminal blocks and
telecommunications outlets of all kinds and designs.
AS/CA S008:2010 details the requirements for cables and cabling products.
Registered cablers must have a knowledge of the regulatory requirements that apply to
cables and cabling products intended for connection on the customer side of the network
boundary. This includes cable insulation, the certified components list, compliance
markings for cabling products, and regulatory requirements for common equipment, wiring
kits, jumper wires, and the minimum requirements of conduit/pipe.
AS/CA S008:2010 is required to complete this section as well as access to various items
of cabling products.
Cabling Product Markings

All cabling products available on the market must display the relevant compliance marks.
Products too small physically to support labelling of 3mm point size are exempted from this
requirement and the label may be applied to the packaging. For cabling products
required to be installed by a registered cabler, suppliers may provide a detailed list
of their products on a web site instead of attaching an ACMA compliance label. The
cabling product must bear a unique identification mark and this identification must
be registered with the ACMA.
Extract from ACMA website
Compliance marks
The ACMA has three compliance marks. These marks
are:
Regulatory Compliance Mark (RCM)
• The compliance mark suitable for use to indicate compliance to any

ACMA regulatory arrangement for suppliers registered on the national
database.
• Will be the only available compliance mark for ACMA and electrical
safety purposes after 01 March 2016.
• Downloadable RCM mark is available in 'zip' format
• The compliance label for the RCM mark under the new arrangements
comprises a compliance mark only
• Originally suitable for indicating compliance for electrical safety and
EMC, suppliers still using these arrangements have a compliance label
featuring the RCM mark and supplier identification.
The RCM has recently (1 March 2013) been confirmed as the single
compliance mark for all arrangements. Prior to this there were opportunities
for suppliers to use the RCM to indicate compliance with the EMC regulatory
arrangement where the RCM mark was used in conjunction with supplier
identification. There are transitional arrangements where suppliers were
previously labelling with the A-Tick, C-Tick or RCM under the previous
arrangements
A-tick and C-tick compliance marks

A compliance label for the A-Tick and C-Tick comprises the graphical
representation of the appropriate mark and information about the identity of
the supplier.
A-Tick
• Used to indicate the compliance of telecommunications customer

equipment and customer cabling
• Can continue to be used as a compliance label by suppliers issued with
a Supplier Code Number from the ACMA until 01 March 2016
• Where product is subject to telecommunications and EMC, EMR or
radio communications arrangements the compliance label bearing the
A-Tick and supplier identification would indicate compliance with all
applicable arrangements.
C-Tick
• Used to indicate the compliance of radio communications equipment,

electrical and electronic equipment subject to the EMC arrangement,
and equipment required to meet EME standards

• Can continue to be used as a compliance label by suppliers issued with
a Supplier Code Number from the ACMA until 01 March 2016
The A-Tick and C-Tick marks can continue to be used by suppliers with a
Supplier code number issued by the ACMA until 01 March
2016. Downloadable A-Tick and C-Tick marks in 'Zip Format' are provided
below.
Use of particular marks depends largely on when you first commenced

labelling products and the types of products you supply. Details of the correct
use of compliance marks are specified in the respective regulatory
arrangements. For convenience these requirements are also included in
the information booklets for the regulatory arrangements.
Information about usage

Use of the mark on a compliance label
A compliance label indicates a device has been certified by the supplier as
meeting any applicable standards that apply to that device. There are
requirements for compliance labels including durability, legibility, positioning
and font and symbol size. These requirements are addressed in the
respective labelling notices for the applicable regulatory arrangements.
Further Information
Further information about all the labelling and compliance requirements can
be found on the ACMA website.
End of extract

Permit numbers – AUSTEL and Telecom
Permit number is prefixed by a letter from the issuing authority.
A 90 / 16 T / 0624
A = Issuing Authority (e.g. A = AUSTEL or C or T for Telcom Australia)
90 = Year of issue
16 = Category of equipment (e.g. 16 = Telephone answering and message recording
machines – TMAR)
T = Sub-category of equipment (e.g. T = with telephone)
0624 = Sequence number in the year of issue.
Permit numbers may also be found incorporating the ‘C-tick’ in the format A96/0000. This
format no longer incorporates an equipment category number.
Legacy forms for labelling of compliant equipment

Telecom Australia
TELECOM Authorisation – used on items authorised by Telecom (Telstra) up to
Authorisation No.
June 1989.
C87/23A/999
AUSTEL PERMIT AUSTEL Permit – used on items permitted by AUSTEL from July 1989 to March
A93/23A/999 1996.
C-TICK and AUSTEL permit number – used on items approved from April 1996
to June 1997.
N####
The A-TICK and Supplier Identification have been used on items since July 1997.
N####
Equipment labelled with the above forms of identification is still approved to be connected
to the carriers network.
Electronic labelling
The Australian Communications and Media Authority’s (the ACMA) for device and
equipment labelling notices have been amended to allow suppliers the option of using
electronic labelling as an alternative to the traditional labelling of the surface of the device.
Suppliers can use electronic labelling for their device if the device has a built-in display.
Suppliers who choose to use electronic labelling are required to explain in the
documentation accompanying the device how the user can display the electronic label.
Suppliers must ensure that it is difficult to prevent the display of the electronic label when
the method specified in the documentation is used.

The electronic label must be displayed on the device’s built-in display. A built-in display
means a display or screen that is integral to the device and does not include a display or
screen that can be used independently of the device. Some examples of devices that use
a display or screen that is not integral to the device include personal computers, DVD
players and portable hard disks.
The labelling notices do not prescribe how the electronic label is to be displayed.
Examples of how the electronic label can be displayed include:
• During the device’s power up sequence
• Under the device’s system information page
• Under the devices help menu.
There is however a requirement for suppliers to indicate the method used for displaying
the electronic label in the documents that accompany the device.
Compliance Tick
Telecommunications Labelling Notice

The labelling notice “Telecommunications Labelling (Customer Equipment and Cabling
Notice) 2001” can be viewed and downloaded from the ACMA website.
The following extracts from the “Telecommunications Labelling (Customer Equipment and
Cabling) Notice 2001” have been included in this document to assist students with
understanding the more important parts of section 3.

Part 3 Form and placement of labels, marks and information
Simplified outline of Part 3
• Compliance labels must have certain characteristics (durability, size and position on the
item)
• A compliance label may, in certain circumstances, be placed on the packaging of an item.
This Part specifies requirements for the characteristics of such a label
• If an item is non-compliant, statements about non-compliance must be printed on the
external surface of the packaging and also be incorporated into the documentation supplied
• Labels may be applied electronically to customer equipment that has a built-in display
• Customer cabling and associated cabling equipment must also be marked with particular
information
• Equipment which may be installed or operated in a non-compliant manner must be supplied
with documentation to avoid such non-compliance
Read part 3.1 of the labelling notice.
A Compliance label consists of
a. The _______
or
b. If the label is applied before 1 March 2016 -
__________________________________________________
Customer Cables
Cables used for telecommunications cabling Shall be physically distinguishable from
products used fro mains power (refer to AS/CA S008:2010 5.1 & 5.6.1). All cabling
products shall be marked in English in accordance with the appropriate requirements
specified in the Labelling Notice (Refer to AS/CA S008:2010 5.2).
Basic construction
Two insulated copper conductors make the basis of the telephone service to the
customer’s premises. Twisting these insulated wires together forms a ‘twisted pair’. This
twisted pair forms the pathway for signals between the customer’s telephone and the
carriers exchange or for voice and data transmission within the customers premises.
Twisting the tow insulated wires into groups of two, forms a two pair cable. Twisting into
groups of four, forms quads of four pair cable. The number of twist varies so that no two
adjacent pairs or quads have the same rate of twist per meter. This reduces induction or
cross talk between pairs and between cables.

Common cables
Telecommunication services use various styles of twisted pair cables. An unsheathed
twisted pair cable is used as a jumper or cross connect cable. Apart from jumper wire,
cables suitable for telecommunications use fall into two main categories. These categories
are:
• Indoor
• Outdoor
Both indoor and outdoor cables incorporate a sheath over a basic twisted pair
construction. A cable may consist of one pair or hundreds of pairs. A colour coded binding
tape (often referred to as “whipping”) is used to identify individual groups. AS/CA
S009:2013 Appendix B lists the colour codes.
The material used for the conductor must be copper or other suitable material. The
conductor finish should be plain or tinned. (Refer to AS/CA S008:2010). While the
recommended diameter for the conductor is in the range of 0.4mm to 0.9mm external
cables are normally 0.4mm, 0.64mm or 0.9mm while internal cables are typically 0.5mm.
ACTIVITY
Obtain a cable manufacturers brochure for telecommunications cable, the cable
manufacturers websites (Belden, Pirelli, Olex, etc.) or a local supplier and find out the
typical conductor diameter for internal cables & external cables supplied by that
manufacturer.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

General requirements for customer cables
Clause 5.6 of AS/CA S008:2010 specifies the general requirements for all types of cables
used for telecommunications purposes including internal and external cables.
Read Clauses 5.1 and 5.6 of AS/CA S008:2010
Complete the following statements
1) Cables and cabling products intended for telecommunications use shall not be of a design or
type used for _________________ ____ __________ ___ ____ __________
_____________.
2) A system of conductors or optical fibre __________________ shall be used in all multi wire
customer cabling.
3) The ____________________ and sheath materials used shall be suitable for
telecommunications use.
4) Cable intended for underground use may still need to meet the requirements of AS1049 for
cables exposed to _____ _______________.
Requirements of metallic customer cables

Conductors
Read Clause 5.6.6.1 and 5.6.7 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements.
1) Apart from the exceptions listed metallic conductors shall be either _________________ or
_______________ _____________ and may be either _____________ ___________
____________________ or __________ _____________
2) Conductor finish should be ___________ or ____________
3) Where a shield is provided it shall be _________________ continuous.
Electrical Characteristics of metallic customer cables
Clauses 5.6.6.2 to 5.6.6.5 of AS/CA S008:2010 detail the requirements of the different
electrical characteristics of metallic telecommunications cables. These include:
• Withstand voltage
• Mutual Capacitance
• Capacitance unbalance
• Insulation resistance
Look at tables 4 and 5 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements.
1) Cable withstand voltages (kV a.c.) for conductor to core for indoor cable is ________ and for
outdoor cable is ________.
2) Minimum insulation resistance (MΩ/km for indoor cable is) ________ and for outdoor cable
is ________

Metallic cordage
Read Clause 5.6.12 & 13 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements:
3) Conductors in cordage should be of either __________ or __________ conductor
construction.
4) Cords shall be __________ in any plug or socket ___________ to a cord by appropriate
anchorage or strain relief.
Requirements of optical fibre systems and cords

Read Clauses 5.6.16 and 5.6.17 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements.
5) Cords shall be ____________ in any plug or socket connected to a cord by appropriate
____________ or __________ __________
6) The outer tube or sheath of an underground blown fibre system _________ comply with the
requirements of AS60529.
Metallic jumper wire and jumper cable

The requirements for jumper wire are derived from the requirements for indoor cable and
relate to conductor material, electric withstand voltage, form of wire identification,
insulation resistance, type of insulation and specification for a shield if applicable.
Read clause 5.6.14 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statement:
The clause specifies that jumper wire shall have a minimum of _________ twists per
metre, which is greater than the basic indoor cable twist rate.
It is a requirement to employ a system of wire identification so that the wires are readily
identifiable from one another. It is common practice, in Australia to use a colour code
similar to the following:
Single pair jumper wire: Red and white or
Green and white or
Blue and white
Triple jumper wire: White, red and blue
Quad jumper wire: White, red, blue and black
Quintuple jumper wire: White, red, blue, yellow and black
Six wire jumper wire: White, red, blue, yellow, black and violet
Eight wire (4 pairs) jumpers are available for structured cabling sites and are referred as
patch cords. The colour code of the patch cords conductors is the same as the cable
colours.

Underground and aerial components
Pits
Read Clause 5.8.1 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following.
1) Mechanical integrity of pits shall not be adversely affected by ________ ________
exposure to _____________ and ____________________________
2) Entry holes should be capable of being __________ to prevent _________
3) The pit cover shall be ___________ and _______________ labelled with the work
___________________ or _________ to distinguish it from pits for other services.
Underground joint/termination enclosures
Read Clause 5.8.2 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statement:
1) Underground enclosures shall provide protection of the joint or termination to at least
__________ with test conditions to ____________ normal conditions.
2) Terminations may form part of the ______________ or be separate.
In either case they shall have a minimum protection to ________ when installed in the
enclosure.
Pillars and cabinets
Read clause 5.8.4 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements.
1) The mechanical integrity of the pillar shall not be adversely affected by long term exposure
to ______________ and _____________________________
2) Pillars and cabinets must offer a minimum protection of ___________
3) Pillars and cabinets must have provision for ___________
4) Pillars and cabinets should be ___________ and _______________ labelled to distinguish
them from those used for other services.
Aerial joint/termination enclosures
1) Enclosures must offer a minimum protection of __________
2) Aerial enclosure covers should be ______________ to allow access to terminations
3) Enclosures shall provide __________ _______________ ____________
________________ to 240V rms
4) The mechanical integrity of the construction of the enclosure shall not be adversely affected
by long term exposure to _____________ and _______________________

Underground Conduit
AS/CA S009:2013 requires that where conduit/pipe is used for outdoor communications
cabling, it must comply with the requirements detailed in AS/CA S008:2010.
Read section of 5.3 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements
1) Non-metallic conduit/pipe for _______________ uses shall be coloured __________ or
contain a _________ ___________
2) Conduit for underground use shall be ____________ and ___________ marked
___________________ at intervals not exceeding _____ metres
3) Marking shall withstand being rubbed by __________ for ______________ with a piece of
cloth soaked with water
Connecting hardware, plugs and sockets
Read section 5.7 of AS/CA S008:2010. Complete the following statements.
1) The insulation resistance between any two points which are required to be electrically
insulated shall be a ___________ or ______________
2) For connectors using a plug and socket on the interface resistance of the overall mated
connection shall not exceed _____________
3) Plugs and sockets intended for use in damp areas shall have a ___________ degree of
protection of __________
4) Six and Eight position modular plugs and sockets shall also comply with _______________
5) 600 series plugs and sockets are __________ ______________ for installations

LEARNING CHECK (4)
1) Cabling products other than cable, must display
a. The AUSTEL specifications under which the product was manufactured
b. The manufacturers name and time of the manufacture
c. One of a number of markings to identify the manufacturer or importer and a compliance mark
d. Any overseas regulatory compliance mark
2) What colour identifies non-metallic pipe as that of telecommunications, when used outdoors?
a) White as a full colour or stripe
b) Orange
c) Yellow
d) Grey as the full colour or a stripe
3) What would indicate that a customer equipment or customer cabling was compliant with the
relevant ACMA Technical Standards?
a) b)
c) d)
_____________________________________________________________________________
4) What material is suitable for the installation of underground customer cables?
a) PVC compounds
b) Any material that is suitable for telecommunications purposes
c) PVS, Polypropylene or other suitable material meeting the requirements of AS 1049
d) Polyethylene or other suitable material meeting the requirements of AS 1049
_____________________________________________________________________________

5) The conductors of metallic customer cables
a) May be solid conductors
b) Must be of stranded or tinsel conductor construction
c) Can be of any suitable material
d) May be of stranded or tinsel conductor construction with a maximum length of 5m
_____________________________________________________________________________
6) Underground jointing enclosures require a minimum rating to AS1939 of
a) IPX4
b) IPX6
c) IPX7
d) IPX8
_____________________________________________________________________________
7) The typical size of copper conductors for indoor cable is
a) 0.4 mm
b) 0.5 mm
c) 0.64 mm
d) 0.9 mm
_____________________________________________________________________________
8) The number of twists per metre for jumper wires is:

a) Maximum of 3/metre
b) Maximum of 9/metre
c) Minimum of 10/metre
d) Minimum of 13/metre
_____________________________________________________________________________
9) The conductors is metallic cordage:
a) May be solid conductors
b) Should be stranded or tinsel construction
c) Can be of any suitable material
d) Shall be stranded conductors only
_____________________________________________________________________________

10) 600 series plugs and sockets:
a) May be used in a new installation
b) Must comply with IEC 60603-7 Clause 6.2.5
c) Shall comply with Appendix A of AS/CA S008:2010
d) Are not supported for new installations
_____________________________________________________________________________

INSTALLATION AT THE NETWORK BOUNDARY
The location that identifies the carriers network that is restricted from the registered cabler
and the customer’s network where a registered cabler can work on and cabling and
equipment is the network boundary. This section will identify what defines a network
boundary in different locations. (The limit of where an open registration cabler can work is
different to that for a restricted registration cabler).
Important terminology
A glossary of definitions used in customer cabling is contained in section 4 of AS/CA
S008:2010 and section 3 of AS/CA S009:2013.
Use one of the above references as a guide to complete the following exercises.
1) Summarise the definition of Lead-in cabling
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) Summarise the definition of a Main Distribution Frame
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
3) Summarise the definition of a Network Termination Device
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
4) Summarise the definition Cabling Product
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
General
The Telecommunications Act 1997 provides the description of the network boundary. This
section looks at the physical point of the network boundary of a carrier or carriage service
providers network. This identifies the point of the telecommunications cabling from where
registered cables can work.
Read Clause 3.1.66 (including note) and Appendix J3 of AS/CA S009:2013.
Complete the following summary.

The network boundary of a carrier or carriage service provider’s network where it can be
accessed by registered cablers is either:
5) A
a) ____________ ________________ __________ in the building, or
b) a __________ ________________ __________, or
c) the __________ socket on the line
It should be noted that a carrier and a customer may agree to a Network Boundary point at
another location, possibly closer to the property entry point or closer to the customer
equipment.
Read Cluse 5.13 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
A carrier’s lead-in cabling for network boundary facilities shall not be _________,
___________ or ___________ without the ___________ authorisation of the carrier.
This NOTE in this clause (Clause 5.13 allows the carrier to authorise alterations in certain
situations. Telstra has recently provided such a document. All terms and conditions in this
document are adhered to.
Specification 012 882 “Alteration of Telstra facilities in Residential Buildings Information
for Cabling Providers” plus attachments a, b, and c are freely available on the Telstra
website:
http://www.telstra.com.au/smart-community/download/document/facilities-alteration-
0609.pdf?red=/smartcommunity/assets/facilityalteration_1108.pdf
Network Boundary Enclosures

Distributors (Restricted cablers can not work on Jumperable distributors or
distributors that consist of the network boundary)
A distributor, where it is used to terminate lead-in cables and customer cables, as a
network boundary for a service provided by a carrier or carriage service provider is known
as the Main Distribution Frame (MDF). AS/CA S008:2010 Clause 5.4.2 provides the
requirements for MDF’s.
Main Distribution Frames are typically used where a 10 pair or greater sixed lead-in cable
is installed and multiple modular type terminations are used.
Read AS/CA S009:2013 Clause 13 (Main Distribution Frame) & AS/CA S008:2010 Clause
5.4.2
Complete the following sentences:
6) The distributor should be suitable for mounting the ____________ standard
________________ modules on the carriers side of the distributor.
7) The MDF or enclosure in which it is located shall have provision for ____________ with a
__________, __________ or __________.
8) A minimum of __________mm clearance shall be provided between the carriers side and
termination modules and the inside face of the front cover or __________ of the distributor, in
the fully closed position to allow for the fitting of __________ ___________ __________.

NOTE: The standard termination system used by Telstra & Optus is the Krone LSA plus
system. The termination system for other carriers should be checked with those carriers.
Network Termination Device (NTD)

An NTD may be used by a carrier to connect twisted pair, coaxial or optical fibre lead-in
cabling at any type of premises. The NTD is normally installed by the carrier as part of the
carriers network. AS/CA S008:2010 Clause 4.2.33 details the requirements for an NTD.
Read Clause 3.1.58 of AS/CA S009:2013 and Clause 14 of AS/CA S009:2013
Complete the following statements.

9) An NTD is _______________ marked at manufacture with the words ___________
____________ ______ or the letters NTD.
10) A cabling provider shall not __________ or __________ and connection on the carrier side of
the NTD unless __________ __________ ____________ __________ ___________ in
____________ by the carrier.
11) The NTD may incorporate a __________, ______________ ___________ or
_____________ __________ to enable _________ or ___________ or the line by a cabling
provider.
NETWORK TERMINATION DEVICE

Connection to a Carriers Network
Premises with a Main Distribution Frame (MDF) – (ICTCBL2137)
In the current Telecommunications Act, a MDF is a distributor at which the carrier’s lead-in
cable terminates.
Terminology also used for a Main Distribution Frame includes:
• NBD Network Boundary Distributor
• CD Campus Distributor
• BD Building Distributor
Locations of the Main Distribution Frame

Read Clause 13 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
1) The installed position must be free from the ingress of __________ and ____________ and
not subject to damp and/or humid conditions.
2) The distributor shall be ____________ attached to a _____________ building element such
as a __________, __________ or __________.
3) The proposed location of the MDF should be _________ with the __________ prior to
installation.
4) It must be structurally ___________.
Prohibited Locations
Apart from the safety aspect, the remaining conditions relate to wet environments that
reinforce previous text relating to the fact that water in the enclosure of communications
terminations in a potential for corrosion and loss of signal.
Read AS/CA S009:2013 Clause 13.4. Complete the following
1) Note the three of the locations where a Network Boundary Distributor (MDF) shall not be
installed in
a) _____________________________________________________________________
b) _____________________________________________________________________
c) _____________________________________________________________________

TELSTRA MDF LABEL
A carrier will often leave jumpers for cancelled services in-situ within distributors to provide
the opportunity for the services to be taken up ‘in place’ by an incoming customer at a
lower cost. Nevertheless, not all cancelled services are taken up in place, and eventually
old jumpers for cancelled services (called ‘dead’ jumpers) may accumulate to a stage
where they clutter up the MDF and tie up spare pairs in the customer cabling connected to
the customer side of the MDF. It then becomes necessary to identify and remove dead
jumpers to free up pairs in the customer cabling.
A cabling provider must take all reasonable steps to ensure a working service is not
affected when removing dead jumpers.
Other Cabling Access Points
In premises where there is no distributor or a network termination device installed, the
carrier’s lead in cable may be terminated at any of the following:
• 610 sockets
• 611 sockets
• Modular socket
• Changeover switch
• Terminal strip of an obsolete wall phone (rotary dial type)
Clause 15.4.2 of AS/CA S009:2013 applies for these installations. Connection to the
carriers network is only allowed at these points and not at any other junction or terminal
box where the lead-in cable may be jointed by the carrier.
Clause 15.4.2 of AS/CA S009:2013 applies for these installations. Connection to the
carriers network is only allowed at these points and not any other junction or terminal box
where the lead-in cable may be jointed by the carrier.
Read Clause 15.4.2 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
2) The cabling provider __________ __________ connect cable to lead-in cable connection
__________ or _____________ other than those described in clause 15.4.2.1, 2 and 3.

LEARNING CHECK 5
1) The Network boundary of a carriers network in a domestic residence can be defined as:
a) The aerial cable terminal box on the pole outside the domestic premises
b) The first socket where the lead-in cable is terminated
c) A facia or other connector block from which the first telephone socket is directly wired
d) The first socket wired from a distribution frame.
_____
2) Who enters the service details of new network line terminations in the main distribution frame
records?
a) The carriers staff or the registered cabler who has authorisation in writing to do the cross
connection
b) The customer
c) The building or premises owner
d) The carrier
_____
3) When can an open registered cabling provider, install cross-connections to the lead-in cable?
a) Under the direct supervision of the carriers technician
b) With written permission from the carrier
c) When licenced by the ACMA or under the direct supervision of a licensee
d) Under no circumstances can a licensee install cross-connects at the network boundary
_____
4) What is the maximum height specified in AS/CA S009:2013 for terminations of an outdoor
main distribution frame or NTD
a) 1.8 metres
b) 1500 mm
c) 1000 mm
d) 350 mm
_____
5) Who provides and terminates the lead in cable(s)
a) The customer
b) The building owner
c) The licenced cable installer
d) A cabler representing the carrier
_____

6) In relation to the Telecommunications Act, the first socket is:
a) The first socket that a customer prefers to use
b) The first socket within a customers premises from which customer cabling can be installed by
a licensed carrier
c) The socket in a customers premises where carrier inspection rights cease
d) The socket within a customers premises that terminates a carriers network where there is no
distributor
_____

CABLING - GENERAL
Important Terminology
Activity
Look up the definitions that are applicable to cabling installation need to be understood.
1) Summarise the definition of Customer cabling
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) Summarise the definition of Customer equipment
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
3) Summarise the definition of Low Frequency Induction
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
4) Summarise the definition of Catenary Support System
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
5) Summarise the definition of a Hazardous Service
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
6) Summarise the definition of Low Voltage
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
7) Summarise the definition of High Voltage
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

8) Summarise the definition of Extra Low Voltage (ELV)
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
9) Summarise the definition and cause of Earth Potential Rise (EPR)
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
10) Summarise the definition and give an example of Terminal Equipment
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Safety and Integrity of Telecommunications Networks

Read Clauses 4.1, 4.4 to 4.6 and 5.1 of AS/CA S009:2013
List three items that a cabling provider should ensure when performing cabling work
a) _______________________________________________________________________
b) _______________________________________________________________________
c) _______________________________________________________________________
Installation standards and conditions

Cable and cabling equipment must be installed so that under normal use the installation or
equipment does not expose carrier personnel, cabling providers, customers or any other
persons to danger.
The cabling installation should also not adversely affect the proper functioning of the
telecommunications network.
Read Clauses 4.4 and 5.1 to 5.7 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
1) Customer cabling shall be installed in accordance with the appropriate requirements of
AS/CA S009:2013 and the principals of __________ and __________ practice.
2) Cable and other cabling equipment __________ be installed in accordance with the
_________________ instruction.
3) All parts of an installation shall be _____________ against damage.
4) A cabling product shall be __________ for its _______ ______ ____________ ________
5) A cable with a ______ sheath should only be used for a __________ _________ and
__________ __________ system.

Minimum mandatory requirements are indicated by the words shall or shall not in AS/CA
S009:2013. All other specifications are recommended or good practice. If these are
adhered to then safe and sound practice will be addressed. If a manufacturer specifies a
particular installation requirement then this becomes mandatory by way of clause 5.2.
6) List three cable installation practices this clause relates to
a) ______________________________________________________________________
b) ______________________________________________________________________
c) ______________________________________________________________________
Cable Joints
Incorrect jointing devices and procedures are the cause of the majority of cabling faults.
Read Clause 5.8 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
The cable joint __________ be suitable _____________, ____________ positioned and
supported to prevent the ingress of __________ or ________.
Alterations and Additions

Read Clause 5.12 of AS/CA S009:2013.
This clause means that all current work undertaken must comply with AS/CA S009:2013.
However existing installations do not have to be re-worked to current standards.
A registered cabler has a responsibility under the obligations of the Workplace Health and
Safety Act 1995 to inform customers of any hazardous cabling situations they may
encounter on their premises.
Coaxial and Optical Fibre systems

Read Clause 11 of AS/CA S009:2013. This clause provides details of:
• The listed Australian Standard that deals specifically with laser hazard warning labels and
installation guidelines, and the requirement to comply with AS/CA S008:2010
• Safety requirements when working with optical fibre systems
• Restrictions that apply when connecting coaxial cable to a telecommunications network
• Reference the standard AS/NZS 1367 and AS 3815 relating to coaxial cabling
Explosive Atmospheres
Read Clause 7.1 of AS/CA S009:2013.
This clause provides industry standards to comply with when installing customer cabling in
hazardous areas. The use of equipment and its installation is to ensure safe use in areas
where flammable materials are generated, prepared, processed, handled, stored or
otherwise used and which are therefore potentially hazardous. A typical area may be a
flourmill, a chemical plant or an installation at a liquid fuel dispenser.
In practice (depending on the degree of danger), hazardous areas are defined in terms of
class and zones - for example a ‘Class 1 Zone 2’ hazardous area. Site owners should be
consulted to determine area classification prior to works commencing.

AS/NZS 3000:2007 (Electrical Wiring Rules), Section 7.7 defines hazardous areas as
follows:
7.7.2.2 Recognized hazardous areas
Two general hazardous areas are recognized as follows:
(a) Hazardous area (gas or vapour) in which an explosive gas atmosphere is present, or
may be expected to be present, in quantities such as to require special precautions
for the construction, installation and use of apparatus
NOTES:
1 Hazardous areas are divided into zones based upon the frequency and duration of
the occurrence of explosive gas atmospheres.
2 Explosive gas atmospheres include flammable vapours (from liquids).
(b) Hazardous area (dust) in which combustible dust in the form of a cloud is present, or
may be expected to be present, in quantities such as to require special precautions
for the construction, installation and use of equipment.
NOTES:
1 Hazardous areas are divided into zones based upon the frequency and duration of
the occurrence of explosive dust atmospheres.
2 The potential of creating an explosive dust cloud from a dust layer should be
considered.
3 Combustible dusts may include fibres and flyings.
7.7.2.3 Reduction or elimination of the hazard
Through design and operation, it is possible to reduce the degree of hazard. This is
achieved by giving attention to items such as plant layout, product containment and
ventilation.
7.7.2.4 Electrical equipment 7.7.2.4.1 Selection
Electrical equipment selected for use in hazardous areas shall comply with the appropriate
requirements as specified in AS/NZS 60079.14.
7.7.2.4.2 Installation Electrical equipment shall be installed in accordance with the
installation requirements of AS/NZS 60079.14.
NOTES:
1 AS/NZS 60079.14 includes requirements for the competency of persons.
2 AS/NZS 60079.17 includes requirements for inspection and maintenance.
Low Frequency Induction
Telecommunications cables installed in the vicinity of HV power cables may have voltages
induces in them due to the inductive coupling effect of the power line.
Read Clause 6.2 and Appendix H of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following
statements.
7) Customer cables that contain ____________ ____________elements should not be installed in
the vicinity of HV power line where it is expected the 50Hz induced voltages under a _________
______ __________ __________ condition on the line may exceed ________ Vac.

Cable Supports and Enclosures
This section covers the general requirements for cable supports.
Read Clause 8 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following statements.
1) Customer cable shall be ____________ or ___________ at suitable intervals.
2) Customer cabling shall not be secured to a _________, ___________ or ___________ of
another service.
3) Customer cabling installed in a _____________ ceiling shall not be __________ on the
ciling tiles or their supports; or __________ to the ceiling hanger rods.
4) Customer cable whether indoor or outdoor, shall not be enclosed in conduit of a __________
specified for ___________ service.
5) An electrically conductive support system __________ be connected to protective earth.
6) Customer cable installed in or on a cable support system shall be _____________ form other
services.
7) Cable trays shall have all __________ __________ removed from their cable bearing
surfaces.
8) Cables and cable support systems shall not be installed _________ fire detection and alarm
system cables.
9) When can the ends of a conduit of a colour designated for a hazardous service be made
white in a durable manner?: - When the conduit is __________ _______ in concrete or
________________ under ______________ concrete.
10) When can an existing conduit /pipe of a colour designated for a hazardous service be sub-
ducted for communications use?: - When it does not contain a __________ circuit.
If a fibre cable having no conductive elements is installed within a pipe containing a
hazardous electrical service, then what is the safety requirement specified?: - That
the fibre cable shall be ____________ at all __________ __________ with a
suitable warning that it __________ ___________ _____ _____________ light
source.
11) Can customer cables containing electrically conductive elements share a duct, pipe, single
compartment (skirting duct, facility pole etc.) as cables of a hazardous service?: - Answer:
____
Cable terminations and associated single insulated conductors

Separation from electrical services
1) These clauses detail the requirements of separation between terminations of
telecommunications cables and terminations of electrical cables.
Read Clauses 5.9 & 9.1.2 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following.
Why must telecommunications terminations be enclosed?
To prevent _____________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
______________________________________________________________________
by a person who is not doing cabling work.

2) The conductors and terminations of customer cables shall be separated from single
insulated conductors and terminations of LV cables by either a minimum distance of
__________ mm or by means of a permanently rigid fixed ___________ or durable
insulating material of ___________. If the barrier id metal, it shall be bonded to the
protective __________ conductor via a minimum __________________ __________
____ _________ and ________________ _______________.

3) The conductors and terminations of customer cables shall not be located within the same
enclosure as conductors and terminations of HV cables. The enclosed conductors and
terminations of telecommunications cables shall be separated from conductors and
terminations of ____ ______________ ____________ HV circuit by a minimum distance
of _______ mm irrespective of whether there is an interposing ___________.
Separations of barriers are specified to prevent conductors from contacting the
terminations of other services, if they happen to pull out from their termination for any
reason.
High voltage terminations are a hazardous environment and must be kept clear of
customer cabling. Under certain conditions a flash-over can occur, let alone the safety risk
of cables working near HV terminations.
Separation from non-electrical hazardous services

Read clause 9.2 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following.
The minimum separation distance from non-electrical hazardous service is specified as
_______mm.
Separation from lightning down conductors

Read Clause 9.4 of AS/CA S009:2013. Answer the following question:
If separation of customer cabling and equipment by greater than 9 metres from the down
conductor can be achieved, is reference to AS 1768 required?
Answer: Yes / No

Power and Earth Distribution
Read clause 20.4 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following statement.
When customer cabling is used for power feeding, the cabling shall be _____________ from
excessive ___________ flow.
Surge Suppression Devices

A carrier may provide surge suppression devices at the network boundary on a service
that is located in a known surge risk area e.g. lighting. Where the user equipment is not in
the building where the network boundary is located, then a registered cabler must assess
the need for surge suppression as detailed in clause 10. These requirements are specified
to enable cablers to fit suppression devise to customer cabling in risk areas.
Read clause 10 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following statements.
1) An AS4117 – Class 1 or Class 3 device can be used within an __________ and a class ____
device at any other location.
2) A class 1 device will have a nominal firing voltage of _______ V or greater whereas a class 3
device will have a nominal firing voltage of _______ V or greater.
3) An installed surge suppression device shall be earthed to the ______________.
One or both of the outer chambers will ionise, providing a low resistance path to earth for
surge current on a line. The gas will return to the inert state when surge current
diminishes. The suppressor will handle many surges but will eventually need to be
replaced.

LEARNING CHECK (6)
1) Cables for telecommunications services must be separated from non-electrical hazardous
services by a minimum distance of:
a) 450 mm
b) 300 mm
c) 150 mm
d) 100 mm
_____
2) Ensuring separation from other services is the responsibility of:
a) The registered cabling provider
b) The customer
c) The ACMA
d) The carrier
_____
3) In AS/CA S009:2013, cables carrying low and high voltages are:
a) Harmful services
b) Hazardous service
c) Harmful services
d) Non-hazardous services
_____
4) Where a conduit is to be used exclusively for indoor telecommunications use:
a) It must not be of a colour designated for hazardous service such as orange and yellow ochre
b) It must be UPVC
c) It must be PVC as metal conduit cannot be used due to EPR problems.
d) It can be orange as long as it does not contain a power cable
_____
5) The registered cabler or equipment installer must check with the power supply authority as to
the extent of the EPR hazard in proposed locations where the installation has an electrical
supply exceeding:
a) 250 Vac
b) 415 Vac
c) 430 Vac
d) 1000 Vac
_____

6) The installation of customer equipment or cabling must be such as to not cause harm or
interference to the public telecommunications network. Where such installation does pose a
threat to the safety or proper functioning of the network:
a) The carrier will rectify the equipment or wiring causing harm or interference.
b) The carrier may cease to supply service to the cabler installing the equipment or cabling.
c) The carrier may cease to supply service to the installation
d) The carrier may seek review from ACMA
_____
7) The definition of Customer Equipment in the CCM is
a) Equipment that is or intended to connect to a telecommunications network operated by the
Australian Government
b) Any cabling or equipment on a customer premises that the customer wants connected to the
network boundary
c) Equipment that is or intended to be connected to the telecommunications network operated
by a carrier that is used or is intended for use beyond the boundaries of that network and has
a full Telecom permit.
d) Equipment that is or intended to be connected to a telecommunications network operated by
a carrier and is used or is intended for use on the customer side of that network.
_____
8) When can customer cabling including building control services be located in a common
sheath?
a) Only in multi-level building where separate cable runs would be constrictive
b) Only when the building control services are not hazardous
c) Under no circumstance can building control services share a common cable sheath with
customer cables
d) Building control services can share a common cable sheath with customer cables when
permitted by the carrier
_____
9) Where the installation of customer cabling and equipment is required in an explosive
atmosphere or hazardous area, the following requirements are applicable
a) No additional requirements as, AS/CA S009:2013 is the mandatory self contained
specification
b) Only those specified by the customer
c) Observance of the additional Australian Standards applicable to these situations as specified
in AS/CA S009:2013
d) The work is to be inspected buy a representative of the relevant government department
upon completion.
_____

10) What are three suitable methods for jointing cable in the Wiring Rules?
a) ______________________________________________________________________
b) ______________________________________________________________________
c) ______________________________________________________________________
11) A registered cabler proposed to make an addition to an existing block cabling installation. To
comply with AS/CA S009:2013, the new installation
a) Must be installed to the previous installation standards used
b) Must be installed to the current ACMA standards
c) Must be installed using both old and new standards
d) Must pass inspection by the local electrical supply authority
_____
12) How is segregation between LV power terminations and conductors, and adjacent
telecommunications and conductors achieved in a shared enclosure?
a) By providing a shared enclosure, which meets double insulation requirements specified in
AS/NZS 3000:2007.
b) By the installation of a metallic screen connected to the Telecommunications Reference
conductor.
c) By maintaining the minimum specified clearance of 50mm between the terminations
d) By incorporating a permanently rigidly fixed barrier of durable insulating material, or metal
connected to the building protective earth.
_____
13) What protection shall be provided when a cable is used for power feeding
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________

INDOOR CABLING
The following section develops knowledge of the regulatory requirements concerning the
installation of indoor customer equipment, cable and cabling products on the customer
side of the network boundary. We will look at regulatory requirements for indoor customer
cabling, separation required between customer cabling and other services, restricted
zones in wet areas, cables installed in lift and hoist shafts, indoor conduit, duct and tray
support systems.
Installation of indoor cabling

Read Clauses 16.1 and 16.2 of AS/CA S009:2013
Where telecommunications cables pass through fire isolating walls, floors or in riser shafts,
they must suitably be fire stopped in accordance with the relevant building codes.
It is important to separate all cables provided for services that connect to the telephone
network, from hazardous electrical services.
Outdoor cable sheath that does not comply with the flammability requirements of cable
designed fro indoor use must be installed in such a manner as to comply with the building
codes. This may be achieved by enclosing it in PVC or metal conduit or in a sealed riser
duct to prevent it transporting a flame through a building.
Cables in Common Trunking or Ducts

1) Customer cables that ____________ electrically conductive elements and which
__________ trunking or ducts with ______ cables e.g. skirting trunk, floor duct or service
column shall be run in a ____________ ___________ ______ _______________ of the
common trunking or duct provided the channel or duct is separated by a _________ and
continuous barrier complying with clause 16.3.1(b).
2) Provision is allowed for breaks in the barrier at intersections of modular office furniture
including abutments to service columns (due to assembly processes) where these can be
__________ ______ __________ provided that the cables do not cross into another
channels and have fixings fitted where required to maintain segregation at changes in
direction of __________ ___________ in the ducting or enclosure.
Separation from Hazardous Electrical Services

Separation from LV cables
The principle of separation of telecommunication cables from LV cables is not principally
for induction reasons as this has little effect (other than for long parallel runs) but for
mechanical protection, to prevent crushing, piercing or fusion under heat, of the
conductors of both cables, thus exposing users, cables and carrier staff to hazardous
voltages.
Cables can be separated by spatial (air gap) separation or by means of various barriers.
Read Clauses 9.5 and 16.3.1 of AS/CA S009:2013 Complete the following text.
1) Customer cables that have steel wire armouring (SWA) that is terminated to __________
_____ are exempt from the separation requirements for LV and ______ power cables
provided the LV or HV cables also have an earthed SWA and are fitted with _________
leakage circuit breakers appropriate to the site requirements.
In this case for either LV or HV services, the barrier is the earthed steel mesh that
surrounds both individual cables. The surge fault current that creates an inductive field is
minimised by the Earth Leakage Circuit Breaker.
2) Minimum separation of telecommunication and LV cables can be achieved by:
• A minimum of ______ mm or
• A ___________ of durable ______________ ________ or ___________
• Or building structural elements
Separation from HV cables

Read Clause 16.4 of AS/CA S009:2013 Answer the following:
1) What is the minimum separation of metallic conductor telecommunication cables from single
core HV cables with or without a barrier?
_____ mm
2) What is the minimum distance around barrier, sheath to sheath when a barrier is used with
multi core cables?
_____ mm
3) What is the minimum distance allowed between HV multi-core cables and metallic conductor
telecommunications cables when barrier is not used??
_____ mm
Here we have separation fro induction under fault conditions and for mechanical
separation. Single core HV has a strong magnetic field when greater currents flow under
fault conditions but when conductors are in a trefoil construction (multi-core) they tend to
reduce the fields due to opposing phase differences.
The barrier height requirement for reduced separation to 150 mm minimum for multicore
HV cables is to endeavour to prevent objects from being across both cable sheaths at
once and to protect the telecommunications cables should the HV cable “blow out” due to
insulation and sheath failure when under stress from a surge current.
AS/CA S009:2013 Clause 16.5 deals with the safety issue of not using flammable or
volatile conduit in lifts shafts or lift motor rooms or in areas in excess of 60°C where it may
catch fire.
Cables installed in lift and hoist shafts

These receive special attention because of the design of travelling cables, where they are
bundled or of a ribbon construction incorporating hazardous electrical services.
Telecommunication circuits in travelling cables where the telecommunications circuits
have their own sheaths and are then bundles under an overall sheath with hazardous
electrical circuits may comply with electrical withstand, but must be tested to prove this.
Cables with unsheathed cores only, need isolation at both ends of the cable by means of a
Line Isolation Unit (LIU). A telephone that also has the equivalent test compliance of a
LIU can suffice at the lift car.

To install a travelling cable associated with a building lift or building maintenance unit, a
Lift Mechanics Licence and CPR Lift Registration is required. A registered cable may be
called in to install a telephone at a later date and needs to be aware of the cable type he is
going to connect to.
Read Clause 16.6 of AS/CA S009:2013. This covers the requirements for cables in lift and
hoist shafts. Complete the following sentence.
If a travelling cable is not compliant to the relevant standards as indicated by a positive
compliance mark then compliant __________ _____________ devices are required to be
fitted to the conductors of each telecommunications circuit in use at __________
__________ of the common sheathed multicore cable. A compliant lift phone may be used
at one end.
Securing and supporting of cables

Read clauses 8.1 and 5.2 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following statements.
1) Customer cables shall be suitably _____________ or ___________ to maintain
______________ from hazardous services.
2) Cable and other equipment shall be installed in accordance with _________________
instructions including - in the case of cables – such things as cable __________
__________, ___________, _________ _______ ____________, colour code etc.
Under carpet wiring

Read Clause 16.3.4 and 16.7 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following
Apart from the 50mm minimum parallel separation and the right angled crossover, what
else is required at the crossover?
A __________ ____________ ___________ bonded to the building ______________
__________ via a _____ mm2 conductor.
The barrier extending at least _____ mm beyond the cable sheaths of both systems. With
the resultant lump in the carpet few crossovers may eventuate due to the trip hazard.
IP Rating
The IP (international Protection) rating defines the protection offered by a device against
the entry of solids and water. It consists of the letters IP followed by two numbers. The firt
number states the protection against the etry of dusts and solids while the second number
states the protection against the entry of moisture. The higher the number the better the
protection.
Protection against dust and solids has a value between 0 and 7 while protection against
moisture has a rating between 0 – 8.
The IP rating of AS 1939 details an X where no parameters’ are specified for that field.
The X field in this case deals with the intrusion of dust and probes such as fingers, wires
etc. These are covered by AS/NZS 3260.

Rating Examples
IPX8 – Underground Enclosures – Terminations withstand total submersion
IPX7 – Bathroom – Temporary submersion
IPX6 – Shower – Forced jets of water – all directions
IPX3 – Distributors & TO’s – Water sprinkled to an angle of 60 degrees from above.
Appendix I of AS/CA S009:2013 gives detailed explanation of the IP ratings.

Installation in damp situations
Section 7 of AS/CA S009:2013 covers the requirements for installations in hazardous
areas and in damp situations.
The combination of electrical cabling and moisture can lead to the risk of mechanical
damage in the form of corrosion and the risk of electrocution due to reduced insulation
resistance and leakage paths. To help reduce these risks clearance requirements are
published when installing telecommunications cabling and equipment in areas known as
damp situations.
Read Clause 7.2 of AS/CA S009:2013. Answer the following situations
1) Can TO’s be installed within the wet area restricted zones?
_____
2) What are the requirements for installing CE sockets in damp situations outside the restricted
zones?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
3) What degree of protection (IP rating) must customer equipment in bathrooms have?
_____
4) What degree of protection rating must customer equipment in shower rooms have?
_____
Equipment may be installed in the restricted zones but it must be IP rated. When
equipment is wall mounted the TO is behind the equipment and may not be protected to
the required IP rating.
Complete the following statements.
5) Telecommunications cabling in damp locations shall be of such a __________ ______
_________ in such a manner so as to ___________ the ___________ of ________.
6) The installation of __________ and __________ in restricted zones in ______________ by
clauses 13.4 and 15.3.1.
Distributors
Section 12 of AS/CA S009:2013 applies to all distributors installed in customer premises
where cabling systems terminated. Additional requirements apply if the distributor is to be
used as a Main Distributor Frame. Section 13 of AS/CA S009:2013 details the additional
requirements for the main distribution frames.
Read clause 12 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following.
Records
Where cross connections are made by means of jumpers, the registered cabling provider
shall supply sufficient information (records) relating to the cabling work performed to
enable ___________ and _____________________ to be correctly ______________ and
_________. Records shall be ___________ and updateable.

This requires as a minimum, the cross connect details but not the service details etc as
this may involve privacy issues.
Outdoor Installation
If a distributor is installed where it is exposed to the weather it shall have a minimum
degree of protection of ________ to AS 6049
This degree of protection can be increased where the situation warrants, but as a
minimum rating it allows ventilation from underneath to prevent moisture build up in humid
areas. Moisture in cables and terminations causes noise/crosstalk and loss of signal
especially in circuits with metallic pair cables.
Construction
If an enclosure is made by a manufacturer or built on site, it shall comply with some
minimum requirements.
The enclosure cable entry holes shall be free of _________ __________ or __________.
Conductive enclosures shall have provision for connecting to ______________
__________.

LEARNING CHECK (7)
1) When can a cable that does not meet the requirements for indoor use be installed indoors?
a) A Polyethylene-sheathed cable cannot be installed indoors because it does not pass the
flammability test required by AS/CA S008:2010.
b) These can be installed indoors at any time because flammability of the cable sheath will not
affect a carrier’s network
c) When the cable is installed in a conduit or sealed riser thus ensuring compliance with the
building code
d) When any wall penetrations are fire stopped to ensure a flame is not carried through them by
the cable sheath
_____
2) Joints in indoor cable customer cables must be:
a) Wholly concealed in a suitable enclosure or wall, floor or ceiling space.
b) Suitable manufactured, enclosed, positioned and supported to prevent the ingress of dust or
moisture
c) Suitably concealed from public view and protected from interference or damage
d) Suitably insulated and protected to prevent injury to customers
_____
3) What is the requirement for installing Telecommunications Outlets (TO’s) in damp situations
outside the restricted zones defined in AS 3000.
a) The installation of TO’s in damp situations outside the restricted zones must be in such a
way as to minimise the ingress of moisture
b) There are no requirements for the installation of TO’s in damp situations.
c) TO’s installed in damp situations must be within an enclosure not inferior to IPX4
d) It is not permissible to install TO’s in damp situations outside the restricted zones
_____
4) Power and a customer cable enter a standard floor outlet from the ceiling space below, via a
32 mm diameter hole drilled through the concrete floor. What requirement must be observed
for installation of the customer cabling to comply with mandatory separation requirements?
a) The 240 volt power cable shall be double insulated and earthed at a power switchboard
b) The data cable installed shall be shielded twisted pair cable with the shield and drain wire
connected to the protective earth
c) The customer cabling shall be separated from the other cables by more than 100 mm before
entering the floor penetration
d) The customer cabling shall be enclosed in a PVC conduit that provides an insulated barrier
from the other cable in the 32mm diameter hole
_____

OUTDOOR CABLING
Outdoor cabling on a customer’s premises is cabling, including line links between
premises, which can be installed and maintained by a registered cabling provider.
Read Clause 17 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following
1) As with previous references to protecting telecommunications outlets and equipment from
splashing water, the minimum IP rating for outdoor TO’s and customer equipment is
________
2) Cabling which is installed in a ___________ __________ or covered walkway between
buildings may be treated as __________ cabling provided that the conditions for outdoor
surface cabling are met.
3) When can an indoor cable be used outdoors?
a) When __________________________________________________________________
b) Or ____________________________________________________________________
Where cable is exposed to water or sunlight, polyethylene sheathed or equivalent cable
should be used to reduce the effect of water “leaching” into the cable or the sheath during
out and failing, as happens to PVC sheathed cables. Carbon black is added to
polyethylene sheaths to block out UV light rays, which deteriorate the cables insulation
elements and cause breakdown of the cable. Hence if a cable is installed where it will be
protected from exposure to elements of nature it can have a PVC sheath.
If a cable is installed underground or exposed to weather, it should be one that is specified
for this application that will include a polyethylene sheath. These cables also have a
greater core to sheath electric strength rating than indoor cable to counter EPR from
lighting and power cable faults.
Dial 1100 before you dig
Dialling 1100 Before You Dig will help avoid damaging underground cables and pipes. As
more assets are being installed below ground, there is a greater need to exercise
increased care when digging.
DBYD provides FREE information preventing accidental damage to underground pipes
and cables.
1100 DBYD can be accessed through a variety of methods

• Telephone – 1100
• Internet – www.1100.comn.au
• iPhone/iPad app - https://itunes.apple.com/au/app/1100-dial-before-you-
dig/id525791653?mt=8
Read clause 17.2 of AS/CA S009:2013, view Dial Before You Dig Video
and/or read DBYD brochures.
Log on to http://www.youtube.com/user/DialBeforeYouDig1100
Cabling between separate premises

The Telecommunications Act 1997 does not place any restrictions as to who can install
and own infrastructure, including the line links (i.e. twisted pair, coaxial or optical fibre
cable). Under the Act, which came into effect on July 1 1997, it is no longer necessary to
obtain an authorisation from the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA)
for installation of line links between two distinct places where the use is for the owner’s use
(immediate circle). A distinct place is a property for which a separate leasehold or freehold
title exists. Approvals to install line links between distinct places may need to be obtained
from the relevant local government body.
If roads, areas of historical significance (heritage zone, sacred site etc.), then
environmental and other issues need to be considered. In this situation, the appropriate
authorities will need to be consulted or approvals obtained before the job can proceed.
In the situation where the owner of a single or multiple line links uses the line links for their
own use (immediate circle), it is not considered to be a network unit and does not require a
carrier licence. A line link between two premises may only be installed by a cabler with an
open registration. A cabler with a restricted registration may only cable within the
customer premises boundary.
Network units have other requirements that should be understood. AS/CA S009:2013 is
applicable to the installation as it local government jurisdiction. The use of existing
infrastructure (poles, pits etc) is not allowed unless agreements (if available) are in place.
If the network unit is used to supply carriage services to the public, then the owner of that
service must hold a carrier licence.
Complete the following:
1) A distinct place is a ____________ for which a separate _____________ or ____________
exists.

2) Explain what approvals may be required when installing line links.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Underground cabling
Read Clause 18 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
This clause covers the specific installation requirements of underground customer cabling.
Pits & access holes Clause 18.1
1) Pits and access holes shall be ___________ and _______________ labelled on the cover to
_______________ them from other services
2) Shared pits for LV and HV power shall not be used except:
a. If the cable is traversing the pit, it shall be ____________ in a continuous run of __________
insulating conduit, which is suitably identified
b. The telecommunications cable does not contain ____________ conductive ________
Due to practicalities of placing pits over shared trench conduit runs, the sharing of pits with
power cables is allowed (but not encouraged), provided segregation of services is
maintained as provided for in AS/CA S009:2013. The segregation is to prevent mechanical
contact of the cable elements of each service. This could be a pit lid crushing cables if
dropped into the pit, the pit being crushed by a vehicle, or burning fuel or lightning fusing
the cores together. If a service is “sleeved” through a pit, this at least offers a barrier to
reduce the chances of conductor contact.
3) What are the requirements for installing pits or access holes in driveways?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
4) Why is it recommended to seal entry holes of conduit/pipe into a building?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Pillars and cabinets Clause 18.2
5) What are the requirements for pillars and cabinets installed in a public place?
_____________________________________________________________________________
Conduit and marking tape Clause 18.3
6) Underground cable installed under a __________ ____________ or ___________ shall be
enclosed in ______________ ___________ or covered by a white ___________
__________ which identifies the service, installed a minimum of __________ above the
cable.
Cable type Clause 18.4
7) Cable installed underground shall meet the requirements for ______ __________ and
_________ _______________whether or not it is installed in a ___________

Blown Fibre tube systems clause 18.5
8) A blown fibre tube system installed underground shall be ______________ between
__________ holes
Depth of cover Clause 18.6
9) What is the minimum depth of top cover for telecommunications cables installed
underground, in the following situations:
• Under a public footpath or roadway _______ mm
• Other than a public footpath or roadway _______ mm
Where shale or rock prevents the minimum 300mm trench depth, the alternative cabling
protection practices are
Cable installed in medium duty metallic conduit, installed so as not to be a hazard to
pedestrians
Cable installed in a compliant conduit to a vertical surface such as a retaining wall or fence
Installed under at least 50 mm of aggregate concrete
Use of steel wired armoured cable (SWA)
Crossing other services Clause 18.7
10) Where telecommunications cables cross power cables they should cross __________
__________ cabling
11) Where a power cable which is not enclosed in a heavy duty conduit or pipe is required to
cross above the telecommunication cable then a ____________ ___________ must be
placed above the __________ __________ for __________ on either side of the crossing
12) This installed protection at the point of crossing is to prevent subsequent cablers from hitting
the power cable first if digging to access the telecommunications cable.
Running alongside electrical power cables/trenches Clause 18.8
When telecommunications cables run parallel with LV or HV services the separation
distance may be measured ______________ or ______________
Shared trenches with other services Clause 18.9
13) When telecommunication cables cross over, or are installed in a shared trench with public
utilities what are the separations required?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
14) Where cabling is installed in a shared trench with LV cables and both services are installed in
appropriately coloured conduits the minimum separation shall be 0 mm
When calculating the depth of shared trenches you will need to take into account:
• Minimum distance from ground level to the upper most conduit
• Minimum separation requirements
• Conduit sizes of both services

The following information is intended to help you understand the principles applicable to
underground separation of telecommunication services from hazardous electrical services.
This applies to either a shared or an exclusive trench.
The basic premise for separation of underground cabling is to protect cablers from contact
with hazardous service. This could be through subsequent access to the buried plant and
accidentally making contact with hazardous service buried in close proximity to the
telecommunications cabling. When we analyse the separation requirements we find
figures of 0mm, 100 mm, 300 mm & 450 mm.
The basis for separation is whether or not the power cable is protected.
Underground Separations
NOTE: This diagram does not represent the physical layout of cabling in a trench, but is
provided as a learning aid to assist in understanding the basic principle of separation from
hazardous electrical services in an underground installation.
Refer to Table 2 of AS/CA S009:2013 for a full explanation and description of underground
separation.
For LV services
If both the customer cabling & power are enclosed in their respective coloured conduit in a
panel run, then no segregation is required. Otherwise:
• If only one LV power cable is protected then maintain a minimum of 100 mm separation
• If the LV power cable is unprotected then maintain a minimum 300 mm separation

For HV services
• If the HV power cable is protected then maintain a minimum of 300 mm separation
• If the HV power cable is unprotected then maintain a 450 mm separation
Similarly if the customer cabling crosses under an unprotected power cable, then a barrier
must be placed on top of the power to prevent subsequent cablers from hitting the power
cable first if digging to access the customer cabling.
Analyse Table 4 of AS/CA S009:2013 and apply the criteria above.
Complete the following
1) The minimum separation from an unprotected HV cable at the point of crossing or on a
parallel run is _____ mm
2) The minimum separation from a protected LV cable at the point of crossing or on a parallel
run is _____ mm
3) The minimum separation from a protected HV cable at the point of crossing or on a parallel
run is _____ mm
4) The minimum separation from a parallel running unprotected LV cable is _____ mm
Aerial cabling
Minimum installation heights
Read Clause 19.2 of AS/CA S009:2013. Write your answers for the following questions
1) What is the minimum height above ground for aerial cables in a non-trafficable area of a
customer premises?
_____
2) What is the minimum height above the ground for aerial cables in a non-trafficable area of
customer premises?
_____
3) What is the minimum height above the ground for aerial customer cables over a public
roadway or footpath?
_____
Bearer fastening
The termination of bearer wires must be such that, under adverse weather conditions, the
termination provides adequate support to the installation. It is preferable to install a
termination that tightens under increasing strain. Clause 19.4 (a) of AS/CA S009:2013
requires fastening to walls or other supporting structures to be capable of supporting the
load of the cable under the conditions of installation. When determining adequate support,
the following factors require consideration:
• Length of span
• Wind velocity
• Ambient temperature
• Sag
• Appropriate safety factors
Crossings with power lines
Read Clause 19.5 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following statements.
This clause details the requirements for the installation of aerial cabling when crossing with
power lines.
1) It is not possible for aerial customer cabling to cross aerial power lines, where the power
lines exceed ____ kV.
2) Electronically conductive aerial customer cables may attach to structures carrying high
voltage cables, provided that low voltage power lines are installed below the ______ power
cables.
3) The telecommunications cable at the crossing shall incorporate an _____________
____________ __________
4) Where telecommunications cables cross under 22kV HV lines in span, a minimum vertical
separation of _______ shall be maintained at the crossing between the telecommunications
cables and the HV lines.
5) Aerial customer cables are required to cross __________ aerial power lines except in
unusual circumstances, whereupon conditions apply.
6) If the aerial telephone cable must be uppermost then its height and span much be such tat in
the event of failure at either end it will clear the power cable by at least ____ m. The power
utility must also be in agreements.
Cabling across watercourses
Read Clause 19.7 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following statement.
Aerial cabling over waterways shall comply with the ________________ of the relevant
_______________
Shared Poles
Read clause 19.5 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following.
This clause and Table 3 in the standard details the requirements for the installation of
aerial customer cabling on shared poles.
1) What is the requirement for aerial customer cabling having an integral bearer wire?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2) Aerial customer cabling shall not be installed __________ power cables.
3) The cables of what other service can be present on a shared pole, where an engineered
solution has been devised when there are long parallel telecommunications cables that
contain electrically conductive elements? Answer Those of __________
4) What is the minimum separation specified for aerial customers cabling, when sharing a plie
with LV aerial services under the following conditions?
• The LV aerial service has insulated conductors and the separation is measured at a pole?
________ mm
• The separation is measured mid span between cables? ________ mm
• The LV aerial services are un-insulated and the separation is measured at a pole? ________
mm
5) What is the minimum separation between customer cabling, joint terminations or enclosures
and uninsulated LV aerial lines at a pole?
mm
6) What is the minimum separation between aerial termination enclosures and conduits light
fitting and stays?
mm
7) What is the requirement for power earth cables on a shared pole?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Separation of cables of different services mid span on a cable route is a mechanical
separation to prevent cables tangling or chaffing when power cables sag due to heat or
are blown around by turbulent wind. Separation of service at poles and the requirement for
any earth conductors to be insulated if for the safety of cablers when required to work on
the poles.
Mark the minimum dimensions of W, X, Y & Z on the following diagram.

LEARNING CHECK 8
1) In AS/CA Standards, outdoor cable is:
a) All cabling that is external to buildings
b) All surface mounted telecommunications cable
c) All customer cabling installed external to buildings
d) Telecommunications cable entering the customer premises from the street
_____
2) Where customer cabling is in a trench together with pipes supplying services for public
utilities such as gas and water, the customer cabling shall be:
a) Be uppermost in the trench
b) Be alongside, not above or below the other services
c) Be enclosed in conduit
d) Separate from the utility pipes in accordance with the utility requirements
_____
3) When can cable designed for indoor use, be used on the outside of a building?
a) Only if the insulation is of polyethylene or equivalent
b) When the cable is installed in a position that is not exposed to direct sunlight or it is
otherwise protected against exposure
c) When the cable is installed in a position that is not exposed to rainfall or it is otherwise
protected against moisture
d) Only when it is installed on the sheltered side of the building
_____
4) Where customer cabling is in a trench together with LV power cables and neither cables are
installed in conduit then separation must be such that:
a) The telecommunications cables are above the electrical cables
b) The cables are side by side
c) The telecommunications cables are below the electrical cables
d) Each service can be accessed without disturbing the other
_____

5) Where an outdoor customer cable installed in an exclusive trench runs parallel with existing
LV cables, the minimum separation required between the two systems is
a) 100 mm where power lines are installed under a protective covering to AS/NZS 3000:2007
clause 3.11.4, or 300 mm without such a protective covering
b) 300 mm where power lines are installed under a protective covering to AS/NZS 3000:2007 or
450 mm without such a protective covering
c) 300 mm irrespective of whether the power lines are installed under a protective covering
d) 450 mm irrespective of whether the power lines are installed under a protective covering
_____
6) Where an outdoor customer cable in an exclusive trench crosses power cables, a concrete
barrier to AS/NZS 3000:2007 must be placed over the power cables:
a) Where the telecommunications cables are installed subsequent to the installation of the
power cables
b) For 600 mm either side of the crossing where the power cables will be uppermost and are
not enclosed in heavy duty UPVC orange conduit
c) For 300 mm either side of the crossing where the power cables are not enclosed in heavy
duty PVC conduit.
d) Where the power cables share a common trench with water or gas services
_____
7) Where a customer cabling is in a trench together with LV power cables and both systems are
in conduits, the minimum separation between the conduits is:
a) Nil, provided that heavy duty PVC conduit is used for both telecommunications and electrical
power cables
b) Nil provided that both conduits are identified by the colours, white for telecommunications
cables and orange for electrical power cables
c) 50 mm provided that the telecommunications cables are installed above the electrical power
cables
d) 100 mm
_____
8) The minimum height of aerial cables above the ground in a non-trafficable are on private
property is
a) 2.7 m
b) 3.5 m
c) 3.7 m
d) 4.9 m
_____
9) The minimum height of aerial cables above ground over a residential driveway is:
a) 2.7 m
b) 3.5 m
c) 3.7 m
d) 4.9 m
_____
10) The minimum separation between aerial cables and uninsulated LV power main conductors
in span is:
a) 450 mm
b) 600 mm
c) 1.2 m
d) 1.8 m
_____
11) The minimum separation between aerial cables and an insulated service, lead or main power
conductor is:
a) 450 mm
b) 600 mm
c) 1.2 m
d) 1.8 m
_____
12) What separation is required between an aerial telecommunications cable and light fittings,
conduits and stays?
a) 50 mm
b) 100 mm
c) 300 mm
d) 600 mm
_____
13) Telecommunications cable installed as aerial cabling at a crossing of power lines, or on a
shared pole route, shall:
a) Have an earthed integral bearer (IB)
b) Be affixed to separate bearer cable
c) Have a polyethylene sheath
d) Have IB that is insulated from earth
_____

14) Where outdoor cable, outside the boundaries of customers premises extends across a public
road, private property and a council reserve then what are the requirements for this cable?
a) It can use pits, pipes, ducts or poles supplied by the carrier without their agreement
b) It requires written authorisation from the carrier
c) It can only be provided, installed and maintained by an open registered cabler without the
need for an ACMA authorisation
d) It must be provided, installed and maintained by the carrier if the distance from property
boundary to property boundary is at least 500 meters and is for own use
_____
15) What level of registration must a cabler have to install a Line Link cabling between premises?
a) Open
b) Open with competencies for aerial & underground cabling
c) Restricted
d) Restricted with endorsements for aerial and underground cabling
_____

Equipotential bonding
Equipotential bonding minimises the risk associated with the voltage differences between
the accessible live parts of electrical equipment and accessible metallic parts not
associated with the electrical installation.
Read clause 20.11 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
The TRC or CES requires bonding to the protective earth. The bonding of a TRC must be
at one point only within the building containing the TRC.
1) The bonding conductor must be a multi stranded copper conductor having
________________ coloured insulation
2) A CET shall be installed in a ______________ and ___________ _______________
location and not within an __________ switchboard
3) The size of the bonding conductor shall have a minimum cross sectional area of ______
mm2
4) The length of the bonding conductor shall be as __________ and ______ __________ as
practicable
5) The bonding conductor must be ___________ _______ ___________ ____________
“Communications Bonding Conductor” or “Telecommunications Bonding Conductor” at the
electrical installation end or at both ends of the bonding conductor where both ends are not
readily identifiable
6) A cabling provider __________ __________ do anything to degrade the _____________ of

the earthing system
7) Only licenced ______________ ______ may cut or rearrange the main earthing conductor
and a licenced cabler cannot make any connection within the electrical _______________
8) The resistance of the ______________ ______ conductor shall not exceed 0.5 ohms
Communications Earth System (CES)

The CES allows for equipotential bonding from a CET to various locations on the
protective earth system. Access points are detailed in Figs 3 & 4 of AS/CA S009:2013.
This provides for a minimal cost access to an earth for protective or functional purposes.
Read Clause 20.12 of AS/CA S009:2013. Answer the following

1) Resistance of the CES measured between the point of connection to the earthing system of
the electrical installation and the earth bar or terminal at any NTD, MDF, distributor or CAE
shall not exceed ____ ohm.
Bonding the CES to the protective earthing conductor
The CES may be bonded to the protective earthing conductor by the following methods:
• From a sub-main earthing conductor to a CET
• From an electrical distribution switchboard to CET
Examine fig 3 & 4 of AS/CA S009:2013 and list the names of the points on the protective
earth system to which a cable from a CET may be connected. Endorse your answer “by an
electrician” where applicable.
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Telecommunications Reference Conductor (TRC)

Read Clause 20.13 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following:
This clause details the particular requirements applicable to the installation of a TRC.
Minimum cable sizes and colours are indicated in Table 5 of AS/CA S009:2013.
Exclusive to telecommunications systems
1) Where provided, the TRC system shall be _________ to telecommunications services and
____________ and distinct from protective earth or any other building earth systems apart
from a single _________________ _____________ connection to the main earthing system
Connection to the main earthing system

Cabling Method
2) A TRC system shall emanate from the ______________ distributor and be cabled in a
__________ or __________ topology
TRC link bars
3) How can the required insulation value of 1.5kV between an earth bar and any metal or earth
be achieved?
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
Diagrams of a TRC installation are shown in Fig 5 and 6 of AS/CA S009:2013

Equipotential bonding of TRC
1) A TRC shall be equipotential bonded to the earthing system of the electrical installation at
________ __________ only
2) When a TRC is equipotential bonded with a differential earth clamp:
a. A ________ shall be provided
b. All TRC link bars and terminations shall be ____________ or ___________ ______ to
prevent customer access
c. Where the maximum limiting voltage of the differential earth clamp exceeds ELV then all
TRC link bars _______ ____________ __________ be suitable ____________
AS/CA S009:2013 Fig 6 details in diagrammatic form, the installation of differential earth
clamps.
Bonding the TRC to the protective earthing conductor
Essentially there are three alternatives available for bonding of the TRC, these are:
• From the designated distributor link bar to the main earthing bar (within an electrical
switchboard) via a CET. Only a licenced electrician can make the connection to the
electrical switchboard
• From the designated distributor link bar to the main earthing conductor via a CET
• From the designated distributor link bar, direct to the electrical earth electrode. AS/NZS
3000:2007 Clause 5.8.2.6 precludes the use of an enclosed terminal (CET for a direct
connection to the earth electrode.
Refer to AS/CA S009:2013 Figures 5 and 6 for a diagram of earth connections.
TRC in a separate building Clause 20.13.10
1) Where a TRC is required in a separate building on customers premises and the building has
its own switchboard, the TRC __________ _______ be connected to the main building TRC
Resistance of the TRC system Clause 20.13.11
2) The maximum resistance between the TRC earth bar at the designated distributor and that of
any distributor or CAE is _____ ohms.
Refer to table 6 of AS/CA S009:2013 for details on how to determine the resistances of a
TRC and a CES.
Telecommunications functional earth electrode (TFEE) Clause 20.13.8
It is not essential to provide a Telecommunications Functional Earth Electrode (TFFE)
unless a differential earth clamp is fitted in line with the communications bonding
conductor. Is this case, the TFEE will be the only earth reference normally found on a TRC
installed in this configuration. (See Fig 6 AS/CA S009:2013 for connection of a differential
earth clamp). A TFEE may be used for operational purposes or to limit the direct current
flowing in the communications bonding conductor.
1) Where the TFEE uses a driven rod, the rod must be driven to a depth of ______ m
2) The TFEE shall be permanently labelled “______________________ __________”
3) The conductor connecting the TFEE to the TRC link bar at the designated distributor shall
have __________ coloured insulation and be a minimum of ______ mm2

D.C. Earth Return Circuits
Some old mechanical Teleprinters (that are retained by some financial institutions and
some booking agents) use an earth as a third wire signal earth. The d.c. current flow to
ground exceeds normal limits and erodes the earth electrode, hence the restriction on
bonding to the protective earthing system of a building.
Read Clause 20.16 of AS/CA S009:2013. Answer the following.
This clause details the requirements for DC earth return circuits.
1) Where customer equipment requires a functional earth for DC earth return circuits, the earth
connections shall be ___________ ____________ from the TRC and CES systems, and
earthing system of the electrical installation and __________ _______ be directly
connected to any other earthing system or any building metalwork
2) The telex (d.c. functional) earth may be indirectly connected to the main earthing conductor,
TRC system or a CES via a ________________ __________ __________
3) Cables used for the extension of the dedicated telecommunications functional earth
electrode to the distributor or customer equipment shall have ______ ___________ cross
sectional area of _____ mm2, have PVC insulation and shall be legibly identified “______
______________ __________” at each termination point of the cable.
Earthing of Cable Shields and Drain Wires

Read clause 20.18 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following
Cable shields are for signal protection from external influences. This is of a protective
nature not a functional one associated with the operation of equipment. Hence shields and
drain wires shall not be connected to the TRC except where the TRC is equipotential
bonded to the main earthing bar, conductor or electrode.
The cable shield may be connected to any point on the CES.
1) Where shielded cable is installed between separate buildings or structures where the shield
is earthed, either intentionally or unintentionally, as the distant end or at an intermediate point
the shield shall only be connected to an earth reference via a ________________
__________ __________ with a ___________ ________ firing voltage of _______ volts
Earthing of Metallic Barriers, Supports, Frames, Backmounts,

Enclosures and Steel Wire Armouring
Read Clauses 20.17 and 20.19 of AS/CA S009:2013. Complete the following.
Metallic components of cable support or enclosure components are not required to be
earthed, other than where specified in relation to separation arrangements between cables
or terminations or manufacturers requirements.
1) When these are connected to an earth reference it shall not be connected to the _______
and will use a minimum _______ mm2 _________ / __________ insulated conductor

Earthing of Surge Suppression Devices
Read clause 20.20 of AS/CA S009:2013. Answer the following:
1) The colour and minimum conductor size specified of connection of a surge suppression
devices to an earth reference in customer cabling is __________ / __________ ______
mm2
2) Two earth references specified to connect to the surge suppression devices are
a. AS 4262.1
b. AS/NZS 1768
Note that the cable from the surge suppression device to the protective earth connection
should be as short as possible. This is from known data, that surge suppressors are
less effective if longer cable lengths are used.
3) The preferred length is no longer than ______ m
A method of reducing the length of cable is to install a protective earth electrode (if
possible) closer to the surge suppression devices and the bond this electrode to the
building earth electrode.
ACTIVITY
From Table 7 and figs 3, 4, 5 and 6 of AS/CA S009:2013 complete the following diagram
adding colours and references to minimum sizes of conductors used to:
• Equipotential bond to the designated distributor to the other distributors
• Run the TRC from the designated distributor to the other distributors
• Connect a CES to distributors (Shown as )
• Run a cable to a CET from an electrical distribution board to a distributor
• Run a cable to a metal barrier from the CET provided above
If you have the correct coloured marking devices then use those
• Using green for green yellow, and Blue if necessary for any violet insulated conductors

LEARNING CHECK 9
a. What is the size and insulation colour of the equipotential bonding conductor?
b. 6 mm2 violet
c. 4 mm2 violet
d. 6 mm2 green and yellow
e. 4 mm2 green and yellow
_____
a. In AS/CA S009:2013 the protective earthing conductor is defined as:

a. A connection to the general mass of earth in such a way as will ensure electrical isolation of
defective equipment from mains voltages of fuses and the like
b. A conductor connection any portion of the electrical earthing system to the portion of the
electrical installation or electrical equipment required to be earthed
c. A connection to the general mass of earth in such a way as to provide a functional
requirement for the telecommunications cabling and equipment.
d. A conductor for signalling and other functional telecommunications purposes having no
personnel protective status
_____

CABLING SUPERVISION
Supervision of cabling work by unregistered cablers involves two main steps – monitoring
and communicating. When a registered cabler is supervising an unregistered cabler then
the supervisor is ensuring the unregistered cabler’s work meets the regulations.
Monitoring for compliance
When cabling work is in progress it is the supervisors role to know if progress is meeting
the time lines and work is meeting the required standards. Steps in monitoring cabling
work include:
Assessing progress against a plan
Reviewing work competed for quality and non-compliance
Giving feedback on any non-compliance and discuss how to rectify it
Inspection requires the supervisor to continually monitor and inspect the job that is
underway.
Feedback
Being able to give feedback is an important part of supervision. When feedback is given in
a constructive manner it helps the worker do a better job. It also makes supervision easier
if you are seen to be positive.
When giving feedback:
• Check the goal you have set. No one can do a job well if the goal is unreasonable
• Be quick. If someone starts to do something wrong then tell the person quickly
• Be specific. Describe exactly what is wrong
• Criticise the action not the person. It’s the action that’s wrong not the person
• Plan a new approach. Provide coaching, change the goal, arrange assistance
Communicating
To be effective as a supervisor good communication skills are essential to avoid
supervision becoming confrontational and potentially costly.
Being Assertive
To provide good supervision it is important to be assertive. This simply means knowing
where you stand and making sure that others know where you stand. Being assertive
means being confident in your knowledge and skills. It does not mean being aggressive or
“heavy”. Nor does it mean being soft or passive.
Planned Communication
When we are communicating it is always important to say exactly what we mean, and to
mean what we say. This means speaking clearly and making sure the other person
understands what we are saying. To do this you need to keep a few points in mind when
giving us feedback.
• Be sure of your facts. Know the cabling regulations well
• Know what information is required. Be sure which regulations are not being met

• If you have a lot of information to give then make sure it is organised in a way that can be
understood and remembered
• Stress the important parts of the message
Application
Think about the people who have supervised you. Some were better than others no doubt.
List the things that better supervisors did. How can you use this list?
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Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules 2000 (CPRs).
Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA) has statutory powers to impose
requirements on cabling providing concerning customer cabling.
The Telecommunications Cabling Provider Rules 2000 (Cabling Provider Rules) regulate
the cabling industry and establish an industry-managed registration scheme. The Cabling
Provider Rules ensure minimum cabling requirements are in place to promote safety and
maintain network integrity.
The principles behind CPRs are summarised in the 10 rules below:
CPRs promote safety and maintain network integrity with requirements including:
1. All customer cabling work in the telecommunications, fire, security and data industries must
be performed by a registered cabler.
2. Depending on the cabling work performed, cablers must obtain an Open, Restricted or Lift
registration that meets the ACMA's requirements.
3. Cabling work must comply with the Wiring Rules. The wiring rules detail the minimum
requirements for cabling installations to ensure that the network integrity and the health and
safety of end users, other cablers and carriers personnel protected.
4. A key requirement of the wiring rules is that telecommunications cabling is separated or
segregated from electrical cabling to avoid creating a dangerous situation.
5. Cablers are required to install only cabling product (including cable) and customer equipment
that complies with the requirements of the Labelling Notice.
6. Cablers must, at completion of each cabling task provide the client (i.e. the customer or
employer, whichever is appropriate) a job sign-off form, such as a Telecommunications
Cabling Advice 1 form (TCA1).
7. Registered cablers must directly supervise an unqualified cabler's cabling work. This is
known as Supervision Rule.
8. Under Supervision Rule a qualified cabler must accept full responsibility for the work done by
an unqualified cabler and ensure that it fully complies with the Wiring Rules including signing
TCA1 form.
9. Cablers provide all reasonable cooperation and assistance to ACMA inspectors and cabling
auditors. Cablers can be subject to fines if they do not abide by their registration conditions.
10. Cablers notify their registrar of any change of contact details within 21 days.

Self Checks
Self check questions are located as appropriate throughout the Learning Resource. They
are labelled as Learning Check 3 to Learning Check 9.
You are required to answer check questions as they occur throughout they Learning
Resource.

Practical Tasks
You must demonstrate competency in this unit by providing evidence of the ability to
complete a cabling installation and termination including:
• Three different types of telephone sockets.
• Australian modular socket.
• United States modular socket.
• Mode 3 alarm socket.
• One (1) network termination device (NTD).
• One (1) alarm panel including completion of a TCA compliance form and NTD records.
• One (1) Ethernet cable.
• Apply cable conductor identification codes.
• Conduct and interpret cable test results.
• Interpret and apply standards and regulations.
• Comply with all related OHS requirements and work practices.


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