Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Chapter 4
Space Preparation
and Cabling Support
Systems
Chapter 4 focuses on the specific activities and
requirements of creating, preparing, and installing
cabling pathways and spaces. Attention is given to
frequently encountered spaces and pathways by the
ICT systems cabling installer, including the preparation
of ERs, TRs, EFs, and TEs as well as conduit, cable
tray, and other cable support systems. Included are
requirements and recommendations from applicable
codes, standards, and industry best practices.

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Table of Contents

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

© 2022 BICSI® AA-1 ITSIMM, 8th edition

 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

© 2022 BICSI® AA-1 ITSIMM, 8th edition

 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

© 2022 BICSI® AA-1 ITSIMM, 8th edition

 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

© 2022 BICSI® AA-1 ITSIMM, 8th edition

 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Introduction
This chapter describes the requirements and activities to be performed by the ICT
systems cabling installer prior to the installation and termination of copper and
optical fiber cabling used in a structured cabling system.

Section 1 addresses the layout and preparation activities that are required for
telecommunications spaces prior to beginning cable installation and termination
work. Section 2 describes the cable supporting structures, materials, and associated
hardware that may be required in an installation project. It provides an overview of
the methods necessary to properly plan, design, and install cable support structures
in telecommunications pathways and spaces.

While this chapter is not intended to identify the entire range of products available to
meet a specific need, the items outlined are representative of those available in the
marketplace. In addition to those identified, many specialty components allow the
installer to meet particularly difficult or unique requirements.

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Preparing Telecommunication Spaces

Overview
Telecommunications spaces provide a location for the placement and ongoing support of
ICT systems cabling and equipment. These spaces must be specifically designed to serve this
function and be equipped with adequate floor space, lighting, power, access (e.g., ingress,
egress), and environmental support.
Four common terms are used to describe these telecommunications spaces:
• Equipment room (ER)
• Telecommunications room (TR)
• Entrance facility (EF)
• Telecommunications enclosure (TE)
Lighting, Power, and Environmental Control Considerations
Prior to beginning work in a space, the installer should verify the:
• Power—Are the power (e.g., ac, dc) system components (e.g., panelboards, UPS,
receptacles) installed and energized? Do the locations, capacity, and quantity of the power
system components match that shown on the construction documents for the space?
• Lighting—Are the lighting fixtures installed and operational? Do the locations and quantity
match that shown on the construction documents for the space? Do the lighting levels
appear adequate in all portions of the space (i.e., no dim or dark areas)?
• Environmental control—Are HVAC systems installed and operational? Are temperature
and humidity ranges in the space within acceptable limits for equipment installation and
operation? Is the space dry (e.g., no actual or evidence of water leakage or damp area) and
clean (e.g., no debris, dirt, or dust present)?
If any of the of the above items do not appear to be satisfactory to the installer, they should
be documented and communicated to the installation supervisor and applicable design
personnel for any subsequent corrective action.

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Space Layout
The documentation that the installer is working from should indicate the size, location,
quantity, and nomenclature of the equipment to be installed in the telecommunications
space along with a routing diagram of the cables to be installed or that pass through the
space. The drawings should show the location of the pathways entering or leaving the
telecommunications space. When the drawings do not show a cable routing diagram or the
location of pathways entering or leaving the telecommunications space, the installer should
discuss these subjects with the installation supervisor and applicable design personnel to help
ensure a successful installation.

Depending on the amount of equipment or other items that are to be installed within a
telecommunications space, it may be necessary for the installer to verify with the installation
supervisor and applicable design personnel that the load capacity of walls and floors has been
evaluated and found to be sufficient for the installation by licensed structural/civil engineers.

It is important that the installer prepare at least a dimensional sketch of the space and
equipment to be installed to identify potential areas of conflict. Digital photos of the space
will be helpful. The simple concept of “build left to right” may not apply when faced with
cable terminals, cabinets and racks, overhead lights, network equipment, and patch panels.
Design field adjustments may be necessary. Any field changes to the initial design should be
reviewed and approved by the designer or owner. If cabinets and racks are to be installed, a
plan view of the space will indicate the footprints and how they relate to other equipment
being installed (see Figure 4.1). In most instances, the installer’s documents will indicate
where voice, data, and video cables are to be terminated. If the cabling infrastructure systems
designer did not provide a cabinet or rack elevation view specifying the location of active
equipment and structured cabling elements on the rails, the cabling installer may need to
provide this elevation view as a shop drawing submission for review by the responsible ICT
designer or as part of the project as-built documentation.

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Space Layout, continued

Figure 4.1
Main equipment room (ER) layout

UPS = Uninterruptible power supply

Always ensure that appropriate clearances are maintained around all pieces of equipment.
In the absence of a specified distance, plan for a minimum of ≈1 m (3.3 ft) of front and back
work space and aisle space between and around equipment.
NOTE: Specific working clearance distances may be required by applicable codes and the
AHJ. The ICT installer should obtain guidance from the installation supervisor
Or the ICT designer if working clearance distances are not provided in the
installation documentation or are unclear.
Equipment Room (ER)

If an ER layout is not provided, prepare one for approval before beginning work. Details for
laying out an ER are found in BICSI’s Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual
(TDMM) and can be referenced before beginning the work.

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Space Layout, continued

See Figure 4.2 for a design of a typical ER.

Figure 4.2
Example of a typical equipment room (ER)

AFF = Above finished floor

DP = Distribution panel
EDP = Electrical distribution panel
HVAC = Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
PBB = Primary bonding busbar
UPS = Uninterruptible power supply
NOTE: A luminaire is a complete electrical unit used to create artificial light. It typically
contains the light source (e.g., LED, lamp), ballast or driver, lamp holder, reflector,
and an aperture or lens for distributing the light. A luminaire also may be known as a
light fixture.
Telecommunications Room (TR)
If a TR layout is not provided, prepare one for approval before beginning work. Details for
laying out a TR are found in the TDMM and can be referenced before beginning the work.
See Figures 4.3 and 4.4 for designs of a typical TR and backboard layout, respectively. Figure
4.5 shows a backboard layout using 66-type termination blocks and includes dimensions for
block spacing and cable management hardware.

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Space Layout, continued

It is recommended that TRs have ≈19 mm (3/4 in) thick, A-C-rated fire-retardant
plywood backboards installed on at least two walls of the TR. The A side of the
plywood shall be facing the interior of the room with the fire-rated stamp showing.
If possible, install plywood backboards around the entire perimeter of the TR.
An ≈300 mm (12 in) minimum wide cable tray should be mounted on the same walls
as the backboard. If possible, mount the plywood and cable tray or ladder rack on all
walls of a telecommunications space to facilitate growth.
Figure 4.3
Typical telecommunications room (TR) layout

= Telecommunications outlet/connector
T = Thermostat
AFF = Above finished floor
DP = Distribution panel
EDP = Electrical distribution panel
HVAC = Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning
SBB = Secondary bonding busbar
UPS = Uninterruptible power supply

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Space Layout, continued

Figure 4.4
Typical telecommunications backboard layout

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Space Layout, continued

Figure 4.5
Example of a backboard layout using 66-type blocks

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Space Layout, continued

Conduits that enter a TR should be terminated at specific locations on the wall to
enable orderly routing of the cables to termination equipment in the TR or routed
through the TR to another location. Conduits terminating in the TR must be bonded
to the bonding infrastructure of the TR.
Conduit ends should be positioned adjacent to the left side of the backboard (in the
case of a single piece of plywood) or in the left most corner of the room (where
multiple sheets of plywood are installed around the perimeter walls of the room). If
conduits cannot be in these positions, ladder rack or cable tray should be used to
route the cables from one location in the room to another. This avoids encroaching
on wall termination space.
Conduits should be physically attached to the top of the plywood backboard using
channel stock and conduit brackets when entering from overhead. When conduits
enter from below grade, the floor cement slab or building structure is usually
enough support to provide for a fixed installation without the use of channel stock.
The designer’s drawings should indicate the location of each conduit and where it
terminates in the TR. If the telecommunications space drawings do not indicate the
location of each conduit and where it terminates in the TR, the installer should
discuss such matters with the installation supervisor and applicable design
personnel before undertaking work.
Plywood Backboards
Materials

Plywood backboards are mounted on walls in the ERs and TRs. Plywood is available
in two types (interior and exterior) and in four grades (A, B, C, and D) with A grade
representing the best quality finish.
Sheets of plywood usually are sized ≈1.2 m (4 ft) wide by ≈2.4 m (8 ft) high.
Appropriate thicknesses are readily available in a range of ≈19 mm (3/4 in) through
≈32 mm (1-1/4 in). The recommended thickness is ≈19 mm (3/4 in). Plywood that is
too thin does not offer enough strength to ensure that mounted hardware is
securely anchored. Plywood sheets thicker than ≈25 mm (1 in) are usually not
required. Thickness is contingent on properly attaching the sheet of plywood to the
building structure and the need to recess the heads of the mounting hardware.
The finishing grade of plywood describes the quality of the surface (e.g., degree of
knotholes and blemishes):
• A grade is the highest grade and is without any surface blemishes.
• B grade has the knotholes cut out and replaced with patches of clean wood.
• C grade contains some blemishes and an occasional small knothole.
• D grade contains knotholes without any repair or corrective action by the
manufacturer. A sheet of plywood may have a different grade for each side (e.g.,
grade A/B).

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Plywood Backboards, continued

Plywood should be void free. This means that the space in each layer inside the
plywood where the knotholes are removed is completely filled with replacement
wood patches. Voids inside a sheet of plywood may create a weak spot where the
attachment hardware (e.g., screws, toggle bolts) cannot hold fast. The plywood
should contain no more than 15 percent moisture to prevent warping.

For ICT systems use, minimum grade A/C plywood should be used. The A side is
exposed to the interior of the TR, and the C side is placed against the building
structure or cabinet wall. Generally, start mounting the plywood ≈150 mm (6 in)
AFF.
NOTE: BICSI strongly recommends that plywood be painted with two coats of fire-
retardant paint. Some local codes may require use of fire-retardant plywood.
If this applies, it is not recommended to paint the plywood. The effects of
the treatment may cause the paint to crack, deteriorate, and peel off the
plywood backboard. When local code requires use of treated plywood
painted with a fire-retardant paint, verify with the installation supervisor or
the ICT designer if the plywood’s fire-retardant stamp should be painted
over or left exposed to show the type of plywood that was installed.
Placement
Plywood sheets used for backboards should be installed with the longest dimension
reaching from ≈150 mm (6 in) AFF to an installed height of ≈2.6 m (8.8 ft). In the
case of a TR with an ≈2.74 m (9 ft) or ≈3 m (10 ft) clear working height, do not raise
the bottom of the plywood to split the difference. This will raise the working height
level in such a way that a ladder may be required to work on the equipment
mounted at the top of the plywood.

In the case of a TR with a clear working height of less than ≈2.6 m (8.8 ft), mount the
plywood sheets starting ≈100 mm (4 in) to ≈150 mm (6 in) AFF up to the maximum
clear working height in the TR.

Plywood should be installed in such a manner that there is no separation between

adjacent sheets. When installing plywood in a corner (see Figure 4.6), the plywood
backboard can be installed plumb and adjacent to the edge of one side of the wall at
the corner with the sheet on the intersecting wall butted up against the first sheet
to form a smooth, 90-degree corner

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Plywood Backboards, continued

Figure 4.6
Corner installation of plywood backboards

The plywood backboard must be rigidly affixed on top of the existing framed wall or
to the studs in the perimeter walls of the room. When installing the plywood, use
galvanized screws that are a minimum of ≈12.7 mm (0.5 in) longer than the depth of
wall covering, including plywood.

When installing plywood on framed wall, it is good practice to use a construction

adhesive between the plywood and framed wall. Position the plywood so that it
aligns with the studs. As a result, the screws can easily provide a secure anchorage
through the framed wall and into the studs.

When the plywood edges do not align with the studs, toggle bolts (butterfly bolts)
may be required to attach the plywood to the framed wall (see Figure 4.7). Always
verify the load rating of the wall prior to installing the plywood. These toggle bolts
should be a minimum of ≈6.3 mm (0.25 in) in diameter and must be sufficient in
length to allow the toggle (butterfly) to seat behind the framed wall after
installation.

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Plywood Backboards, continued

Figure 4.7
Installation using toggle bolts in framed wall construction

For this framed wall application, toggle bolts may be installed at ≈600 mm (24 in)
spacing around the entire perimeter of the plywood board (see Figure 4.8). The
finished installation shall have a flush appearance with counter-sunk screw heads to
prevent splitting of the plywood.
NOTE: Use of drywall screws as an attachment method is not acceptable.
The toggle bolts should be installed ≈50 mm (2 in) from the edges of the
sheet of plywood on a maximum of ≈600 mm (24 in) centers. Locate the
toggle bolts and use care to avoid the studs when drilling. The studs will
prevent the toggle (butterfly) from opening behind the framed wall.
Figure 4.8
Plywood installed using toggle bolts

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Cabinets and Racks

Floor- or wall-mounted cabinets and racks all have common installation and setup
issues, including:
• Attachment.
• Bracing.
• Design layout.
• Cable routing and management.
• Bonding and grounding (earthing).
Verify the installation methods specified by the manufacturer before installing
cabinets and racks. Ensure that the cabinets and racks will fit the footprint allocated
for them prior to installation. If there is a question regarding the space allocated,
review the designer’s drawings or contact the designer for further clarification.
NOTE: When securing equipment to a cabinet or rack, there are four popular
standards-based thread sizes for the mounting screws: M5, M6, 12-24, and
10-32. Each should be used in conjunction with external star (lock) washers
inserted between the rack and the panel for bonding purposes. Cabling
installers may reference CEA-310, Cabinets, Racks, Panels, and Associated
Equipment.
Attachment
Floor-mounted cabinets and racks must be securely attached with code compliant
anchors and bolts with both flat and lock washers. This will require a concrete bit
with hammer drill and a vacuum to clear the hole for the anchoring device. It
generally will require the use of a socket set and screwdrivers to complete the
assembly and setup.
Anchoring details may be provided as part of the installation documentation and
shall not be deviated from. If anchoring details are not available to the installer, it
may be necessary to obtain guidance from civil or structural engineering personnel
or submit proposed anchoring details, methods, and hardware for engineering
review and approval.
WARNING: The installer shall ensure that the anchoring methods being utilized
are compatible and suitable for use with the existing floor/slab
construction, meet the specific seismic requirements in place for the
designated zone in which the premise is located, and meet
applicable client and AHJ requirements. Any questions or concerns
should be forwarded to the installation supervisor for resolution.
If a cabinet or rack needs to be electrically isolated from the floor or current-
carrying materials, an isolation plate kit (also referred to as an insulator kit) should
be installed. This generally consists of isolation plates and grommets for placement
under the cabinet or rack.
NOTE: Isolation (insulator) kits are used primarily on concrete floors and may not
be necessary when mounting cabinets or racks on access (raised) floor
applications.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

A fully loaded wall-mounted rack (see Figure 4.9) can put a significant strain on a
building’s structure and must be attached to material that can support the planned
load (e.g., rack, cable, all other equipment). Wall-mounted cabinets and racks must
be solidly anchored with the appropriate hardware. Simple metal or wooden studs
may not be sufficient to support the weight. The placement and attachment to the
building structure should be verified with the architect, structural engineer, general
contractor, or owner as applicable.
Figure 4.9
Wall-mounted rack with hinge

Bracing
The top of the floor-mounted rack, when required, must be connected to the:
• Wall.
• Support barrier.
• Cable runway (e.g., ladder rack).
• Cable tray.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Design Layout Most equipment designed to be placed in racks is defined by the
amount of space it requires in a rack. The minimum spacing is considered one RMU
(see Figures 4.10 and 4.11). One RMU is equal to ≈45 mm (1.75 in).

Figure 4.10
Rack unit

Figure 4.11
Typical cabinet and rack mounting hole spacing arrangements

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

The installer must be aware of the number of RMUs required to support all the
equipment to be installed plus any open space recommended for airflow between
electronic components or space for cable and cable terminations. If the designer
provides no installation details, the installer should sketch the projected
components, the required open spaces, and the total number of RMUs required.
Work back from that point to define where on the rack the placement of
components should start.

Wall-mounted cabinets and racks are available in several depths with or without
easy rear access (hinged brackets). Hinged-type wall-mounted cabinets and racks
require additional side clearance to allow the front of the cabinet or rack to swing
open without obstruction. If electronic equipment is to be installed on the wall-
mounted cabinets or racks, allow for equipment depth when ordering and installing
these wall-mounted cabinets or racks.

Power Considerations
Many electronic equipment manufacturers use external ac/dc power supplies to
power their equipment that plugs directly into an ac receptacle. If the cabling
installer is expected to provide PDUs, also known as power strips, they should install
a PDU that is designed with adequate spacing for these power transformers, or
every other receptacle will be obstructed.

PDUs should provide both overvoltage and overcurrent protection and supply a
minimum of six receptacle positions. It is important to understand the total load
(amperage) of the equipment that will utilize the ac outlets on the PDU before
selecting the PDU. The type of PDU receptacles and PDU power cord plug will vary
depending on the type of interface required for the client’s equipment and the type
of plugs furnished by the electrician for connection to the power source within the
telecommunications space.

In North America, the NEMA 5-15R is the common 120 V two-pole, three-wire
straight-blade receptacle rated for 15 A. Sharing the same electrical rating, the
NEMA L5-15R is a locking design that is not physically compatible with the straight-
blade NEMA 5-15 design. The NEMA 5-30R has the same two-pole, three-wire
straight-blade configuration and 120 V rating, however it is rated for 30 A. See
Figures 4.12 and 4.13 for examples of typical PDU receptacles and plugs.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Figure 4.12
Power strip

Figure 4.13
Plugs

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Cable Routing and Management
Cables should be routed on the rear sides of the cabinet or rack using cable
management hardware attached to the rear of the cabinet’s or rack’s vertical
channels or in cable management channels mounted vertically on the sides of the
cabinet or rack. Some manufacturers offer cabinets or racks with built-in cable
management hardware that have deeper and wider vertical channels to allow cable
management inside the vertical channels. These cabinets or racks offer a neater
installation with easy rear access to equipment.
NOTE: If the cabinet or rack layout is not well planned, installed equipment can
obstruct access to cables inside the channels.
Where equipment cabinets or racks are separated from a wall (e.g., more than the
width of one cabinet or rack), ladder rack or cable tray should be installed overhead
from the wall to the top of the cabinets or racks and be equipped with a radius drop
(waterfall) to transition from the horizontal to vertical plane into the cabinet or rack.
This will provide a pathway for cables to be routed to and from the racks. Without
such support, cables may incur damage, at a minimum. Degradation of signal may
occur without the use of such radius drop transitional hardware. Conduits do not
offer sufficient cross-sectional area for large numbers of cables and are not easily
attached to the tops of the racks. This is especially true when cabling from
telephone PBX cabinets to equipment racks or from computer equipment cabinets
to adjacent structured cabling cabinets.
The designer’s drawings should indicate the method of supporting cables routed to
the cabinets and racks and the means for attaching such supports. If the means and
methods are not provided in the designer’s drawings, the cabling installer should
review cable routing options with the installation supervisor or cabling designer
prior to starting this stage of the work.
The primary use for cabinets and racks in TRs is the support of the client’s
telecommunications active equipment electronics and their interconnection or
cross- connection to the structured cabling system. The HC (FD), located within the
TR, is the point at which the horizontal cabling is either interconnected or cross-
connected to a patch panel or connecting block in or near the active equipment.
The layout and configuration of cabinets and racks must support the actual
termination of the horizontal cable and the equipment cords and patch cords
necessary to complete the connection. It will be difficult, or even impossible, to
install patch cords to exact lengths needed for connection to active equipment. The
rack layout must make allowances for extra equipment cord or patch cord slack as a
part of the design and installation.
When laying out and installing cable routing components on the rack, it is important to
understand in which order the active and passive equipment will be interconnected. In
some cases, network managers may designate specific connecting hardware jack
positions (e.g., patch panel jacks) to individual electronic component ports, allowing
them to be vertically collocated on a rack. More often, flexibility requires two
groupings—network equipment and cable. The installer must
ensure that there is sufficient space to make cable attachments and run the patch cords
to both components.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Design layout refers to the placement of components within the cabinet or rack
(see Figure 4.14).
Figure 4.14
Equipment rack elevation

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Sometimes the designer will specify cabinets or racks containing PDUs, cooling fans,
or other electrical apparatus (e.g., UPS). When these are required, it is especially
important that the electrical and bonding and grounding (earthing) requirements
contained within the applicable codes, standards, and regulations be carefully
followed.
NOTE: Equipment, equipment mounting racks, equipment cabinets, and overhead
racks must be properly bonded and grounded (earthed). See Chapter 8:
Bonding and Grounding (Earthing) and Electrical Protection for additional
guidance for bonding and grounding (earthing) installation of cabinets, racks,
and equipment.
Administration
Depending on the work site, cabinets and racks may be required by the client to be
identified with labels affixed to the cabinets and racks in a consistent manner in
accordance with the client specifications for size, color, contrast, and content (see
Figure 4.16). Labels should be placed or affixed at the top of the cabinet or rack and
centered between the sides. In data centers and other applications which have a
higher density of cabinets or racks, an additional label may be required on the back,
following the same guidelines as the front.
Figure 4.16
Example of a rack/cabinet identification label

Cabinets and Racks on Access Floors

When cabinets are installed on access (raised) floors, they should be placed to
permit floor tiles in front and behind to be easily lifted. It is generally recommended
that cabinets be placed with one edge flush with the floor tile cut line to ensure that
no more floor tiles than necessary are captured and to minimize the distance
required to reach under cabinets. Additionally, rows of cabinets and racks should be
placed parallel (rather than at an angle) to the rows of floor tiles.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Where placing one edge of the cabinet creates unequal aisle sizes, the front aisle
should be the larger one as it provides more working space for the installation of
equipment into cabinets and a greater area for providing cool air to cabinets via
perforated floor tiles. Any one of the following methods can be used to secure
cabinets and racks to the underfloor or permanent slab:

• Attachment to metal struts that are captured below the floor by two or more
access floor stringers.
• Attachment to metal struts below the access floor that are suitably attached to the
permanent floor.
• Attachment via threaded rod directly to the permanent floor.
• Attachment to channel bases bolted to the floor slab.

The mounting surface should be prepared for the specific anchors required for the
application. Refer to the recommended practices of the manufacturer and structural
engineers and verify that those practices are acceptable to the AHJ. Cabinets and
racks in a lineup where they are properly attached together may require fewer
anchors per unit than those installed as standalone units.

When drilling into the mounting surface, use proper techniques to ensure that dust
or particles do not become airborne. Vacuuming with a HEPA-filtered vacuum is
effective in containing dust or particles while drilling in floors or walls. Special
hollow hammer drill bits are also available for use with a vacuum attachment to
remove concrete dust as the hole is being drilled. These recommendations are
especially important if working in an operational data center environment or
operational equipment room environment.

In geographic areas where seismic zone codes, standards, and regulations require a
seismic certification report to be approved by a professional engineer, a licensed
structural engineer shall be consulted prior to installing cabinets, racks, and cable
tray systems. See Figure 4.17 for an example map of U.S. seismic zones.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Figure 4.17
U.S. seismic zones
United States Seismic Zones Map

It is recommended that the design of the attachment methods and the installation
be reviewed by a licensed structural engineer. Many jurisdictions will require a
seismic certification report signed by a professional engineer.
Cabinets and racks should be placed so that hardware used to secure cabinets and
racks to the underfloor slab (e.g., threaded rods) does not penetrate access floor
stringers.
Sharp edges at the top of the threaded rods should be capped using plastic covers,
domed nuts, or other means. The exposed threads under the access floor should be
covered using split tubing, capping nuts (domed nuts), or other methods to avoid
damaging the cable.
Cabinets and racks should be set in place and leveled throughout the lineup.
Leveling foot adjustment or shimming of any anchoring point should not exceed ≈13
mm (0.50 in) unless specified by the project engineer. If cabinets or racks require
more than ≈13 mm (0.50 in) of adjustment, use a manufacturer recommended
solution to ensure that cabinet or rack lineups are properly supported. Connect
adjacent cabinets or racks together in the lineup before anchors or bracing are
installed. Install anchors or bracing per the manufacturer’s specifications, making
sure all shims are properly located. Doors and panels that may interfere with
leveling feet or anchor installation should be removed during installation.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Complex Cabinets
To address issues related to the generation of heat from IT equipment, some
cabinets incorporate one or more of the following features:
• Liquid cooling.
• Top exhaust or chimneys.
• Supplemental fans.
• Rack mounted refrigerant cooling.
• Integrated power, cooling, and monitoring.
The installation of these types of cabinets requires coordination with other
disciplines (e.g., electrical, mechanical) to ensure that the necessary support
systems are available and in place. Cabinets with exhaust chimneys may require
additional ducting to be installed or have additional AHJ requirements. The
manufacturer should also be consulted for proper installation methods, as
installation requirements of these types of cabinets vary.
Access Floor Pathway Systems
Access floors can accommodate most cabling pathway systems. Access floor
pathway systems shall be secured in accordance with the AHJ, seismic requirements
for the location, and the planned long-term loading. When access floor systems are
used, any one of the following methods shall be permitted for pathway:
• Attachment by directly latching basket tray sections beneath the floor pedestal
adjuster nuts, directly below the removable access floor tiles.
• Attachment to metal struts that are captured below the floor by two or more
access floor stringers.
• Attachment to metal struts below the access floor that are suitably attached to the
permanent floor.
• Attachment via threaded rod directly to the permanent floor.
• Attachment to channel struts bolted to the floor slab.

Access floors may contain electrical and mechanical systems (see Figure 4.18).
Additionally, some jurisdictions or sites may require fire detection, suppression, or
other monitoring systems underneath the access floor. Verify the presence and
location of these systems before installing pathways to minimize clearance and
accessibility issues. Clearance from the bottom of the access floor tile to the top of
the cable tray or other raceway shall be at least ≈50 mm (2 in) to permit cable
bundles and innerduct to exit out the top of the tray without incurring damage.

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Cabinets and Racks, continued

Figure 4.18
Example of an underfloor cable tray installation

Underfloor cable trays may be installed in multiple layers to provide additional

capacity. Typical installations include two layers of cable trays: one for power
cabling, and one for telecommunications cabling.
These underfloor cable trays may be supplemented by a duct or tray system to
manage optical fiber jumpers, patch cords, and equipment cords. There should be
≈300 mm (12 in) and no less than ≈150 mm (6 in) clearance between layers of
underfloor cable trays run in parallel and stacked directly above each other.
If cable trays are installed under an access floor used as an air supply plenum, they
should be installed in the hot aisles (aisles facing the rear of the cabinets) to not
interfere with airflow in cold aisles. Additionally, cable trays should be placed to
minimize disruption of airflow into or out of air-conditioning equipment. Wire mesh
tray is preferred with low cable densities (no more than ≈50 mm [2 in] high) to
minimize airflow obstruction. Where foam matting is used as an underfloor pathway
or containment, it should be a minimum of ≈13 mm (0.5 in) thick and fill the aisle
between the floor pedestals. Foam matting shall be secured to prevent lifting where
cables are low or not present and to prevent disturbance of the underfloor airflow.
Foam matting shall also comply with the fire performance requirements for the
space it occupies.
Where underfloor cooling is utilized, limit floor tile cuts both in size and quantity to
minimize loss of underfloor air pressure. Employ brushes, grommets, or other code-
compliant methods to minimize the loss of air through cable openings in floor tiles.

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays

As shown in Figure 4.21, ladder rack or cable tray is installed from one wall to the
opposite wall in a TR using wall angle support kits (see Figure 4.19) and triangular
support wall brackets (see Figure 4.20). Ladder rack and cable tray should also be
anchored to the top of each equipment rack as each is installed. Verify the weight of
the cable load and manufacturer’s recommendations to ensure sufficient support
for cabinets and racks and that the installed cables are provided. The installer may
instead choose to support the ladder rack or cable tray from the ceiling using
channel stock, threaded rods, and code-compliant anchors.
NOTE: The installer should verify requirements with the designer or the AHJ for
local seismic zone installation requirements for ladder rack or cable tray.
Specific attachment, support, bracing methods, and materials may be
required to comply with the seismic zone designation for a particular
geographic location.
Figure 4.19
Wall angle support kit

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

Figure 4.20
Triangular support bracket

Figure 4.21
Plan view of a typical telecommunications room (TR) with ladder rack installed

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

It is suggested that ladder rack or cable tray be installed on every wall in the TR. This
will ensure that a proper pathway exists for cables that route from a point on the
backboard of one wall to a location on a different wall. D rings should not be used as
a substitute for ladder rack or cable tray.
Where several large backbone cables are passing vertically through the room, a
vertical cable runway (e.g., ladder rack) should be positioned appropriately to
support the cables from ceiling to floor level (see Figure 4.22). The cables should be
secured to the cable runway in an orderly fashion to ensure that they are supported
properly and that the entire weight of the cable is equally distributed over several
cable supports. Each cable outer sheath should be labeled for identification.
Figure 4.22
Vertical ladder rack

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

Distribution Rings (D Rings)
Figure 4.22 shows the hardware required to accomplish vertical support. Many
manufacturers will provide a CAD drawing and a list of materials required.
The designer’s documents already may include the details referenced above; if so,
the documents must be used for the installation.
D rings are used to support small bundles of cables and cross-connections as they
route from one termination point on the plywood backboard to another. However,
the D rings should not be substituted for ladder rack or cable tray.
D rings are available in many sizes, shapes, materials, and colors. D rings are
manufactured in metal (aluminum) and plastic and are formed in the shape of the
letter D.
A half D ring is available in both metal and plastic. The half D ring is used to provide
support and management primarily where cross-connect jumpers turn at a 90-
degree angle.
Figure 4.23 gives an example of a typical metal D ring.
Figure 4.23
Typical D ring

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

Spools
An alternate to the half D ring is the spool (mushroom). Spools are constructed with
plastic and either contain a center-mounted screw for attachment to plywood
backboards (see Figure 4.24) or a through-hole to accommodate a user-provided
screw that is suitable for a given installation. Spools are also available with threaded
bolts for installation on equipment racks or equipment cabinet mounting rails as
desired.
Figure 4.24
Spools

Conduit Terminations in Telecommunications Spaces

If questions arise, discuss with the installation supervisor or the ICT designer for
permitted conduit materials. If the service entrance cable must be extended past
the EF or main entrance room to another room, a properly sized heavy-walled metal
conduit should be used.
NOTE: Refer to the Entrance Facility (EF) section in this chapter for additional
information Conduits that enter a TR, ER, or EF should be terminated at
specific locations on the wall to enable orderly routing of the cables to
termination equipment in the room or routed through the room to another
location.
Backbone conduits should be terminated where they enter or leave a TR or ER. The
recommended location for terminating the conduit is in a horizontal plane where
the conduit penetrates the wall of the TR or ER. Allow no more than ≈75 mm (3 in)
of conduit and bushing to extend into the room. Conduits shall have a bushing
installed to reduce cable sheath damage during the pulling operation.
Conduits that enter a TR should terminate near the corners to allow proper cable
routing. Terminate these conduits as close as possible to the wall where the
backboard is mounted to minimize the cable route inside the room.
Entrance Facility (EF)
EFs follow the same requirements and recommendations as TRs and ERs. An EF
typically contains the building entrance transition point for AP or SP services to the
building and several elements of the telecommunications bonding and grounding
(earthing) infrastructure. See Chapter 8: Bonding and Grounding (Earthing) and
Electrical Protection for additional guidance for bonding and grounding (earthing)
installation of required components.

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Telecommunications Enclosure (TE)

The TE is dedicated to the telecommunications function and related support
facilities of a specific work group (see Figure 4.25). In areas with restricted access,
TEs may be used to provide a suitable option for MACs. For instance, a TE may be
used to extend structured cabling into an area of a health care facility to help assure
structured cabling access without compromising infection control measures and
other restrictions. The TE may contain access points for wireless services. Although a
TE serves in the same capacity as that of a TR, a TE is used in addition to a TR and
should be located on the same floor as the work group served.
Figure 4.25
Telecommunications enclosure (TE) used as a fiber distribution point

Access
TEs must be accessible. Access to TEs should be controlled against unauthorized
access (e.g., with a lock and key held by the facility or property manager or an
electronic access control system).
Bonding and Grounding (Earthing)
If the TE consists of metallic components, it must be bonded to the
telecommunications bonding and grounding (earthing) infrastructure.
Door
A TE door may be hinged or removable. If the door is hinged, mount the enclosure
so that the door swings open a minimum of 90 degrees or otherwise provides
unobstructed access to the inside of the enclosure.
The door should provide and maintain sufficient working space for an installer or
technician to gain ready and safe access to the TE.

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Telecommunications Enclosure (TE), continued

Electrical Power
A minimum of one dedicated, non-switched 120 Vac/20 A branch circuit with a
NEMA 5-20R duplex receptacle should be available for each equipment cabinet or
rack in each TE.
An accessible means of disconnecting power to the TE must be provided. If standby
power is available, automatic switchover of power should be provided.
Fire Protection
Fire protection of the TEs, if required, must be provided per applicable code. If fire
sprinklers are required within the area of the TE, the sprinkler heads should be
provided with a protective cover to prevent accidental operation.
TEs should not be installed where subject to leakage from fire suppression
sprinklers. Drainage troughs must be placed under the sprinkler pipes to prevent
leakage onto the TE.
Heating, Ventilation, and Air-Conditioning (HVAC)
When active devices (e.g., heat-producing equipment) are present, enough air
changes should be provided to dissipate the heat from all sources. Active device
manufacturers should be consulted for guidelines. Audible noise created by the
equipment within the TE should not adversely affect the productivity or satisfaction
of nearby workers.
When mounting client-provided active equipment in cabinets, care should be taken
by the installer to ensure that the cabinets are also equipped with air circulation
fans. If not provided with such cooling equipment, the installer should bring this
oversight to the attention of the installation supervisor and cabling infrastructure
designer.
Interior Provisioning
To facilitate the mounting of hardware, mounting holes should be installed where
appropriate within the enclosure. Optionally, the TE may be equipped with a
plywood backboard that is secured to the back or side of the interior portion of the
enclosure.
Lighting
Light, as measured within the TE, should be a minimum of ≈538 lux (50 foot-
candles).
Location
The TE should not be installed in furniture systems unless that unit of furniture is
permanently secured to the building structure.
Pathways
Pathways must not pass through TEs. Cables that enter and exit the TE are to be
protected from sheath abrasion and conductor deformation by means of grommets,
bushings, and suitable management hardware.

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Telecommunications Enclosure (TE), continued

Size and Spacing
Each TE should serve an area not greater than ≈335 m2 (3600 ft2). Size the TE to
accommodate immediate requirements and foreseeable growth. Sufficient space
within the TE should be provided to ensure compliance with cable bend radii
limitations.
Cables and Cords
Equipment cords and patch cords should be factory assembled, tested, and match
the category rating of the horizontal cabling system to which they connect. Balanced
twisted-pair equipment cords may be constructed from stranded cable. Stranded
cable allows flexibility; however, stranded cables may attenuate up to 20 percent
more for24 AWG [0.51 mm (0.020 in)] and 50 percent more for 26 AWG [0.41 mm
(0.016 in)] than solid cables, depending on wire gauge and cable construction.
Telecommunications cabling standards also recognize the use of
28 AWG [0.32 mm (0.013 in)] equipment cords and patch cords. The
28 AWG [0.32 mm (0.013 in)] cords are almost half the size of
24 AWG [0.51 mm (0.020 in)] cords. These smaller wire gauge cords feature an
insertion loss derating factor of 1.95. When using 28 AWG [0.32 mm (0.013 in)]
cords, the installer will not be able to utilize an ≈100 m (328 ft) channel. For
instance, if ≈10 m (33 ft) of 28 AWG [0.32 mm (0.013 in)] cord is used in a cabling
channel, the horizontal cable run length will be derated to a maximum of ≈82.5 m
(270 ft) for an overall channel length of ≈92.5 m (303 ft).
Benefits of smaller diameter cords include:
• Additional space.
• Improved airflow around the cords.
• Easier handling in tight spaces.
• Smaller (tighter) cord bend radius.
Each 4-pair horizontal cable shall be terminated in an eight-position modular outlet
at the work area in a telecommunications outlet box or a MUTOA. When
application-specific adapters (e.g., baluns, modular Y adapters) are needed at the
work area, they shall be installed external to the telecommunications outlet box,
attaching to the telecommunications outlet/ connector as required.

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Modular Furniture
Modular furniture provides flexibility in configuring large open office areas while
minimizing issues with supplying power, voice, and data connectivity to individuals
within the open office area. Most modular furniture systems provide built-in
solutions for voice and data cabling pathways and telecommunications outlet boxes,
often accessible behind access panels in the furniture partitions. Power and cabling
are supplied primarily using utility columns (i.e., power or data poles) that provide
pathways from the furniture vertically to a ceiling access space (e.g., plenum space
above ceiling tiles). Floor boxes or fire-rated poke-through devices may also be used
to service the modular furniture pathway system.
When working with modular furniture, the utility column has often been placed by
the electrical personnel on site (see Figure 4.26). Most utility columns allow both
power and cabling to be routed in separate pathways to minimize EMI issues.
Figure 4.26
Utility columns for use with modular office furniture

For installation, the manufacturer’s installation procedures are recommended to be

followed. These procedures typically include guidance on fasteners and mounting
hardware, reconfiguration of modular furniture elements, and pathway dimensions
for cable bend radius and cable fill ratios.
For cabling, modular furniture pathways are most comparable to conduit and
covered raceway. There are several different sized openings in modular furniture
systems used to accommodate various furniture faceplate inserts.
Telecommunications outlets/connectors and furniture faceplate inserts should be
verified as compatible with the specific manufacturer of furniture.
In some instances, modular furniture may be supplied through a floor conduit or
other pathway that has been previously installed.

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Installation of Cable Support Structures

Overview
This section describes supporting structures and associated hardware that may be
required in an ICT systems cabling installation project. It provides an overview of the
methods necessary to properly plan, design, and install cable support structures in
telecommunications pathways and spaces.
Telecommunications pathways and spaces must provide for the proper cable
support structures to make the installation function properly.
Proper cable support:
• Assures that building, fire, seismic, and electrical code requirements will be met.
• Accommodates future retrofits and new technologies.
• Can be a component of EMI protection.
Particular attention must be paid to the requirements of relevant codes, standards,
and regulations when planning and installing these support structures. Proper use of
the components described in the standards leads to a successful initial installation
and makes future additions and rearrangements possible. Failure to adhere to these
requirements may cost hours or even days of delay or additional work to complete
the job, which will have an adverse financial impact.
The components identified in this section are readily available from a variety of
manufacturers and vary in size, color, configuration, and cost. The installer must
become familiar with the various manufacturers’ products and how they may be
best used for the individual installation requirements.
Proper support structures are critically important for the implementation of a
cabling system. They provide a pathway for the cable, thus reducing and eliminating
stress that could damage the copper conductors or fiber strands inside a cable
sheath. Proper cable supports help ensure the cabling will perform to the cabling
standards and the customer’s expectations.
Cabling support systems include the following:
• Plywood backboards, clamps, rings, and hangers.
• Cable trays and associated support hardware.
• Cable runway and associated support hardware.
• Conduits and associated hardware.
• Enclosed cabling pathways and associated support hardware.
• Open-top non-continuous cable supports (J-hooks).
When installing cable pathways, it is important to ensure that the route is verified
prior to installing the support structures. Fire- and smoke-rated barriers may have to
be penetrated, and they must be restored in compliance with codes, standards, and
regulations.

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Overview, continued
Obstructions (e.g., HVAC ducts, large pipes, shear walls and structural beams within
the building) may have to be overcome. The installer must be sure that the chosen
route will provide a clear path and still maintain appropriate pathway bend radius,
which in turn affects the installed cables bend radii. The chosen route should ensure
the pathway is readily accessible for the cable installation. Adequate clearances
need to be maintained around all obstacles.
NOTE: The ICT installer may have to work with the building architect and structural,
mechanical, and electrical engineers to plan pathways within a work area.
Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Considerations for Support Structure
Installation
Do not place telecommunications cabling systems and associated pathways next to
active equipment that can generate EMI. Keep electrical feeders and branch circuits
of interfering equipment separate from the telecommunications systems cabling
and associated pathways.
Likely sources of EMI are heavy-duty electromechanical equipment (e.g., copiers,
door openers, elevator systems, factory equipment, transformers, UPS, computer
room air conditioner units).
The following precautions should be considered to reduce EMI:
• Proximity to other systems:
– Maintain an adequate physical separation between potential EMI sources and
susceptible
telecommunications cabling or equipment.
– Surge protectors (e.g., overvoltage, overcurrent) in power branch circuits and
telecommunications cabling may limit the propagation of electrical surges and
associated interference.
– Localized magnetic barriers when telecommunications cables are routed close to
electrical switchgear. Consult with an electromagnetic compatibility expert for
guidance in such cases.
– Minimize proximity to radiating antennas, radiating coaxial cable, and WAPs.
Electric field strength can overwhelm sensitive receivers.
• Pathway materials and routing:
– Where cables of different signal conditions (e.g., category 6 Ethernet cable and a
PA system speaker audio cable) must cross, crossing should be at 90-degree
angles.
– Cable tray and conduit separation spacing should be considered in potential
problem areas when designing, installing, and maintaining telecommunications
cabling systems.
– Metal conduit for metallic telecommunications circuits in critical areas (use of
Shielded telecommunications cables in these areas is preferred). Metal conduit is
recommended, especially in the vicinity of electrical power conductors.

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Electromagnetic Interference (EMI) Considerations for Support Structure

Installation, continued
• Bonding and grounding (earthing):
– Use grounded conduits and enclosures. Continuously grounded metal conduit
helps to reduce emission and reception of EMI.
– Provide effective bonding between the grounding (earthing) terminals of any
surge protection devices placed on the signal circuits of the telecommunications
unit.
– Grounded metallic pathways may limit inductive unwanted signal coupling
between the telecommunications cabling and potential sources of EMI.
For safety purposes, keep power cabling physically separated from
telecommunications cabling. Maintain specified distances from possible sources of
EMI as shown in Table 4.1. For branch circuits of 5 kVA or less, no additional
separation should be necessary.
If any codes, standards, or regulations establish different separation rules or require
maintaining distances that differ from those provided in Table 4.1, the more
stringent requirements must be met.
Table 4.1
Recommended minimum separation distances from possible sources of electromagnetic
interference (EMI)

* The minimum separations may be reduced provided that appropriate cable management systems
are used or product suppliers’ guarantees are provided.
† Where product suppliers’ guarantees do not exist, analysis shall be performed regarding possible
disturbances (e.g., frequency range, harmonics, transients, bursts, transmitted power).

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware)

Anchors
Many types of anchors are available, including:
• Concrete screws—A type of anchor used in concrete block or brick that requires a
hole to be drilled first. Typically, a hexagonal high-strength steel screw is installed
with a hammer drill or wrench. The screw is held in place by sharp thread cutters
threaded directly into the concrete block or brick.
• Plastic anchors—Anchors made of plastic represent a popular anchor used
throughout the industry (see Figure 4.27). This type of anchor is used to attach
almost everything to any type of surface. These anchors are manufactured by
screw or bolt size. The diameter and length of the screw determines the choice of
anchor. When used in masonry or concrete formations, these anchors provide a
secure attachment only for light loads.
Figure 4.27
Examples of plastic screw anchors

• Expansion (wedge) anchors—This type of anchor requires that a hole be drilled

into the wall or floor where the attachment is to be made. This can be in masonry,
or concrete construction (see Figure 4.28).

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Figure 4.28
Example of an expansion (wedge) anchor

• Toggle bolts (butterfly anchors) —The types of anchors used in a framed wall are
sometimes referred to as butterfly anchors because, once installed, they flare out to
resemble the wings of a butterfly (see Figure 4.29). A framed wall is not a high load-
bearing structure, and care should be exercised to prevent overloading.
Figure 4.29
Example of a toggle bolt (butterfly) anchor

• Masonry and concrete block anchors—Masonry walls are generally made of brick
or concrete block (see Figure 4.30). Bricks can be solid or can have interior cavities.
Concrete blocks are similar in that they have interior cavities; however, their cavities
are more expansive than those found in brick.
Anchors used on masonry and concrete block walls are made of metal and expand
when the bolt is installed inside the anchor. This causes the walls of the anchor to
expand, forcing them against the wall of the hole and securing the anchor in place.

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Figure 4.30
Example of a masonry/concrete block anchor

• Epoxy resin anchors—When high loads are supported by anchors, it may be

necessary to install special epoxy resin anchors. These anchors use a chemical
bonding agent to prevent them from coming loose under most conditions.

The same installation methodology should be employed for epoxy resin anchors as
the one used for the expansion anchors in masonry or concrete block walls.
However, the addition of a chemical bonding agent will be used to ensure the load
rating of the attachment. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions
and ensure the use of proper PPE and safety precautions. Failure to do so could
result in an installation that will not support the designed load.

Epoxy glues require a chemical reaction for the glue to set. Most of these glues form
permanent bonds. Reaction time for the glues may vary, depending on the chemical
makeup of the agents and the accelerator used to cause the chemical reaction.

It is important to verify the size hole required for each anchor and to dry fit each
anchor into its hole. Keep in mind that the epoxy agent must be applied prior to
insertion of the anchor
(see Figure 4.31).

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Figure 4.31
Injecting adhesive into a hole for an epoxy resin anchor

Fasteners
Fasteners are available in many sizes and shapes and have different uses. They can
be used in conjunction with many different clamping mechanisms to affix conduit,
cables, and other types of hardware to building structures.
Fasteners fall into the following categories:
• Screws.
• Bolts, nuts, and washers.
• Specialty fasteners.

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Screws
Common screw head types are straight slot, Phillips, square socket, hexagonal, and
hexagonal socket (see Figure 4.32). Additionally, the star head (Torx) is a screw head
with six sides.
Figure 4.32
Examples of screw head types

Screws are available in three basic styles: wood, metal, and framed wall screws.
• Wood screws—Used primarily for insertion into wood products. Examples are
wood building studs, plywood, and wood sheathing. They can be installed directly
into the wood by hand or with electric screwdrivers. Some types of wood products
split when the screw is installed. A pilot hole should be drilled into this type of wood
product prior to installation of the screw to prevent splitting. The size of the screw
indicates its capabilities in fastening power. The larger the load, the larger the
screw.
• Metal screws—Self-tapping and machine screws. The self-tapping screw has sharp
threads that go all the way from the head to the sharp (pointed) tip of the screw.
These sharp threads bite their way into the metal when the screw is inserted and
twisted into a hole. This process causes the screw to tap the hole with threads to
match the screw. Machine screws have threads that are usually finer than self-
tapping screws. In addition, they usually have a blunt tip rather than a sharp tip.
Both types of screws require preparing pre-drilled holes in the metal surface prior to
inserting the screw into the hole. If a machine screw is used, the hole must be
tapped to match the threading on the screws. Machine screws are available in both
metric (M-series) and standard American equivalent or SAE threads. Both are used
in the telecommunications industry.
• Framed wall screws—Similar to self-tapping metal screws, with sharp threads and
points. The threads and points are durable enough to allow the screws to penetrate
galvanized metal studs without pre-drilling. Framed wall screws are available in
galvanized and untreated finishes. Galvanized screws can be used outside or in areas
where the presence of moisture is likely. Untreated screws should be used inside
only. Most framed wall screws are available with a Phillips head. They can be easily
installed with a Phillips driver bit and a power drill or power screwdriver. Framed
wall screws can be used to mount equipment on wood or thin sheet metal.

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Bolts, Nuts, and Washers

Bolts have different thread patterns. Select the nut that exactly matches the bolt
diameter and thread pattern. Using a nut that is too large may cause the thread
pattern inside the nut to strip out, rendering it useless. Using a nut that has the
wrong thread pattern may cause cross threading.

Cross threading occurs when a thread pattern on a bolt and a nut do not
correspond, causing the threads to mismatch when the nut is rotated onto the bolt.
While the nut may appear to seat onto the bolt, it is stripping out the thread pattern
on the bolt, inside the nut, or both. This will compromise the holding power of the
assembly and may cause it to fail.

Bolts and nuts with hexagonal heads are available (see Figure 4.33). Conventional
hand tools are used for their installation.

Figure 4.33
Typical bolts and nut

Washers are available in many types. As a rule, they fall into lock washers and flat
washers. Lock washers are available in two versions—split washers and star
washers. Star washers are available with internal stars or external stars.

A split washer is a round washer that has one point on the washer that has been
interrupted, causing it to rise on each side of the split (see Figure 4.34). In addition,
the washer is under tension so that the split is separated, forming jagged edges.
When the washer is installed and compressed against the bolt head or nut, the
jagged edges bite into the bolt head or nut and resist rotation in the opposite
direction. This locks the nut or bolt head into place.

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Figure 4.34
Typical lock washers

Star washers have manufactured tines (see Figure 4.35). These tines are sharp and
durable. They can appear on the inside or outside edges of the washer. When the
washer is installed and compressed against the bolt head or nut, the tines bite into
the bolt head or nut and resist rotation in the opposite direction. This secures the
nut or bolt head into place.

Figure 4.35
Typical star washers

Flat washers may be round or square (see Figure 4.36). Round washers are typically
used because they match the circular pattern of the hole and bolts. The size of the
washer depends on the load rating of the assembly. The load rating of the assembly
depends on the size of the bolt. Together, they must match to ensure the stability of
the installation.

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Figure 4.36
Typical flat washer

The area (size) of the washer will vary depending on the job to be performed. When
used with wood products, a bigger area prevents the wood from deteriorating
around the area where the bolt is installed. When using flat washers with a smaller
area on the wood, the area immediately under the washer may become compressed
so much that the wood is weakened, causing the assembly to become loose or fail
completely. Do not overtighten these assemblies on wood installations.

Large diameter washers in relation to the hole size are commonly known as fender
washers (see Figure 4.37).

Figure 4.37
Typical fender washers

Specialty Fasteners
Specialty fasteners make up a large group that are used for a single specific purpose
and may require special tools for installation. Some fasteners provide capabilities in
addition to attaching an object to a specific surface. For example, drive rings are
metal nails with metal loops affixed to them. The loop is used for supporting the
cable after it has been installed. Drive rings are used with wood structures and may
be used with masonry structures along with an anchor. Drive rings are not
recommended for use in supporting high-performance cables (e.g., category 5e and
above) because of their narrow surface area.

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Anchors and Fasteners (Hardware), continued

Another specialty fastener is the bridle ring, which is a metal ring formed out of
galvanized wire stock with one side open. Bridle rings can be obtained with wood
screw threads for installation on wood structures or with machine threads for use
with beam clamps or pre-tapped holes in metal structures. Bridle rings are not
recommended for support of high-performance cables (e.g., category 5e and above)
because of their narrow surface area. A powder-actuated fastener is a tool used for
attaching material to concrete or steel (see Figure 4.38). It uses a nail-type fastener
driven by the force of an ignited blank cartridge to drive it into the base material,
generally without pre-drilling the material.

Figure 4.38
Example of a powder actuated tool, fastening studs, and powder cartridges

NOTE: These tools require manufacturer training and certification prior to use, and
possession of the certificate is required when using the tool. Appropriate
PPE, such as safety glasses, must be worn when using these tools.
Work Areas
Outlets and Cavity Boxes
In new construction, telecommunications outlet boxes, sometimes called wall cavity
boxes or mounting frames (box eliminators), should be installed prior to the
installation of wallboard, sheetrock, or other wall coverings (see Figures 4.39 and
4.40). These telecommunications outlet boxes should be mounted to a wall stud or
other framing member with suitable fasteners. Telecommunications outlet boxes
should not be installed within the same wall cavity as an electrical outlet box.
Installation of telecommunications outlet boxes attached to a conduit system should
be coordinated with conduit installation and cable pulling tasks to minimize issues
with all the elements. Both metallic and non-metallic outlet boxes are available with
either pre-installed or field-installed dividers to provide separate code-compliant
compartments for both ICT and electrical power wiring within a single box.

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Work Areas, continued

Figure 4.39
Example of an outlet box

Figure 4.40
Example of a cavity box

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Work Areas, continued

When adding telecommunications outlet boxes to existing walls, the following items
should be verified prior to start of work:
• Type of wall construction.
• Proposed routing of new cable.
• Restrictions on methods of installing telecommunications outlet box (e.g., limits on
drilling or cutting, removal and reinstallation of wall materials).
• Obstructions or other elements (e.g., electrical wiring, telecommunications
cabling, plumbing or other piping) in the proposed path.
• Fire or smoke-rating.
Depending on wall construction and code requirements, a cavity box may be
specified or used. A cavity box is similar to a telecommunications outlet box but has
a different configuration which may have places to terminate cabling onto a
connector or allow cabling to emerge from the wall. In some designs, the use of two
cavity boxes in the same wall cavity enable the hiding of cabling and are often used
in conjunction with displays.
Steps to Installing Telecommunications Outlet Box or Cavity Box
in Existing Walls with Wallboard/Sheetrock
Step Installing Outlet or Cavity Box
1 Verify boxes meet wall requirements.
2 Locate wall studs or frame members around the area for the box to
be installed.
3 Place the back of the box against the wall over where you want to
install it.
NOTE: Outlet boxes should be next to a wall stud or frame member,
where cavity boxes should be at least 100 mm (4 in) away
from all wall members, where possible. Level the box and
draw the outline of the back of the box on the wall with a
pencil.
4 Cut out the outline with a drywall saw.
5 For boxes with terminations, run the cable through the wall and out
through the hole. For a pair of boxes serving the en-trance and exit
point of a cable, cut both holes for the boxes prior to running the
cable.
When running cable, feeding extra cable into the wall void of the box
eases the difficulty of catching the cable with hook rods. Conversely,
fish tape or pull string can be used.
All cables for the box should be pulled prior to the next step. It may
be necessary to keep cables from slipping back through the hole.
6 Feed all cables though the box.
7 Mount the box to the wall using the mounting methods appli-cable
to the type of box. If termination points will not be ac-cessible after
the box is mounted, terminate any cables prior to installing the box.
8 Terminate cables as applicable.
9 Restore fire or smoke rating as applicable.

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays

Ladder racks and cable trays may be mounted horizontally or vertically (e.g., to
support cable rising from a floor sleeve).
Cable Runway
A cable runway can be wall mounted or supported by the building structure from
above using threaded rods (including ATRs) and appropriate attachments. The
threaded rods shall be installed using properly sized anchors and correct hardware
(see Figure 4.41). In some installations, the design may call for the cable runway to be
mounted directly on top of the IT equipment racks and secured using appropriate
mounting hardware.
Threaded rods are available in various lengths and in a variety of diameters. Select the
proper diameter rod required to support the maximum load for which the ladder rack
is designed. Heavy-duty installations typically use ≈16 mm (5/8 in) size rod.
Figure 4.41
Suspended ladder rack

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

Wall brackets can support a cable runway (see Figure 4.42). Wall brackets are first
installed on a wall along the route of the cable runways. The number of brackets and
specific spacing interval is dependent upon the load the cable runways must support.

Prior to installing the wall brackets, install properly sized anchors to support the load
of the cable runways and the installed cables. The cable runways should be designed
and installed to support additional cabling beyond the initial requirements.

Figure 4.42
Wall bracket

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

Cable runways can be installed on one level or on several levels (see Figure 4.43).
Corners and changes in the horizontal plane are accomplished using sections of cable
runways cut from standard stock and connected through proper hardware.
Connecting hardware permits all vertical and horizontal angles to be accommodated
over the entire route of the cable runways.
Figure 4.43
Multi-level ladder rack

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Ladder Racks and Cable Trays, continued

Cable retaining posts are available in ≈150 mm (6 in) to ≈300 mm (12 in) lengths to
allow additional cables to be installed to a depth exceeding that of the cable runways
(see Figure 4.44). Without these devices, the cable would not be confined by the
edges of the cable runways and may fall.

Figure 4.44
Cable retaining posts

Cable tray can be supported using wall brackets or ATRs. When applicable, wall
brackets are first installed on a wall along the route of the cable tray. They are
installed at intervals, depending on the load the cable tray shall support. Supporting
attachment should be applied on a cable tray not more than ≈0.6 m (2 ft) from the
end and on each side of a joint between two sections. Additional supports are
required every ≈1.52 m (5 ft) thereafter.
Prior to installing the wall brackets, first install properly sized anchors. Improperly
sized anchors will not support the load of the cable tray and the installed cables.
Always follow manufacturers’ recommendations for installation of cable tray. Cable
trays of all types are required to be bonded per national code whether the cable tray
is used for power or low-voltage wiring. Many styles of cable tray joint hardware have
been tested for bonding adequacy without the use of a separate copper conductor.

Wire Basket Cable Tray

Wire basket cable trays can be installed on one or several different levels. Wire basket
cable trays may have alternate support configurations from those specified for ladder
rack and dual rail cable trays. Using the standard connecting hardware, all vertical and
horizontal angles can be accommodated over the entire route of the cable tray
without having to sever the entire cable tray. Corners and changes in horizontal level
may also be accomplished by selective cutting of the rods in the cable tray at specific
points using manufacturers’ approved cutting tools and connecting the points cut by
the appropriate hardware.
NOTE: Check with the installation supervisor or the ICT designer before modifying
wire basket cable tray (e.g., cutting and removing individual members or
portions of wire mesh) as field modifications may cause code and listing
violations.

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Pull Strings
A pull string is a thin cord used for pulling cable through a conduit. The pull string
must extend through the entire length of the conduit before cable can be pulled.
Pull string has a specific tensile strength rating that appears on the container. Tensile
strength ratings typically range from 330 N (75 lbf) to 880 N (200 lbf). Some pull
strings are designed to break if excessive tension is placed on the cable.
Methods for installing a pull string or rope include:
• Fish tape—A steel or fiberglass wire rigid enough to be pushed all the way through
the conduit, or in longer runs to a pull box (see Figure 4.45). It is used to retrieve the
pull string or rope from the far end.
Figure 4.45
Fish tape

• Air-propelled devices, including:

– A vacuum on one end and a foam ball attached to a pull string on the other end.
– A compressed air bottle or mechanical blower used to propel a pull string attached
to the propellant object.
Fish tape should be used for pulling the string through the conduit and not for pulling
the actual cable. The fish tape passes through the conduit to reach the pull string
attached to the cable at the far end. Some fish tapes have swivel-type clips on the end
for attaching to objects that need to be pulled back through the conduit.
NOTE: It is good installation practice to install a spare pull string in the conduit
during the cable pull.
When the fish tape method is not practical (e.g., placing pull string in excessive
conduit lengths), use pressurized air methods. These methods include a vacuum
cleaner, air compressor, or a compressed air bottle and a lightweight propellant
object (e.g., foam ball). These methods produce the intended result of retrieving the
pull string at the far end.

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Pull String Installation

The following steps explain the process of installing pull string with fish tape and via
pressurized air methods.
Step Placing Pull String in Conduit with Fish Tape
1 Determine the length of fish tape required. After estimating the
length of the run, add a few meters (feet) to each run to be sure
enough fish tape is available.
2 Feed fish tape through conduit.

• Put on all necessary PPE.

• If there is a metallic folded loop on the end of the metal fish tape,
cover it with electrical tape to prevent snagging other cable
already in the conduit.
• Feed the fish tape into the end of the conduit.
• Do not force the fish tape if the conduit contains existing cables.
WARNING: Never feed fish tape into a conduit without knowing
where it may go. It could accidentally be fed into a
live electrical junction box.
• Push the fish tape through the conduit until it comes out the far
end of the conduit.

3 Attach pull string to fish tape.

• Go to the far end of the conduit where the end of the fish tape is
now located.
NOTE: The end of the fish tape will have a hook, a ring, or some type
of attachment device.
• Securely attach the end of the fish tape to the pull string to be
pulled through the conduit to prevent it from coming off as the fish
tape is pulled out of the conduit.
• If the clip at the end of the tape has been removed, secure the
attachment by wrapping a piece of electrical tape around the pull
string and the fish tape.
4 Pull the fish tape out of the conduit.
• Go back to the other end of the conduit.
• Slowly rewind the fish tape reel to retrieve the pull string from the
far end of the conduit, storing the fish tape in the holder as it is
taken up.
• Detach the fish tape from the pull string.
• If there will be a delay prior to cable pulling, tie off the pull string at
both ends. This will prevent accidentally pulling the string back into
the conduit and the need to refish the conduit.

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Pull String Installation, continued

Step Blow Pull String through Conduit or Innerduct
1 Select a lightweight propellant object (e.g., foam ball).
2 Tie a pull string to the object.
3 Place the propellant object in the conduit or innerduct.
4 Place the grommet on the conduit or innerduct and attach the air
hose.
5 Using pressurized air, blow the object attached to the string through
the conduit or innerduct until it reaches the other end (see Figure
4.46).
Figure 4.46
Blowing a ball with a vacuum

WARNINGS: Never look into the end of a conduit or innerduct

when a pull line is being blown through it.
Construction debris and moisture is often blown out
of the pathway and may injure someone looking into
the pathway.
Conduits and innerducts can contain water. Always
consider what could be damaged at the far end of the
conduit or innerduct if water were forced out (e.g.,
electrical and ICT electronic equipment, freshly
painted walls).
6 Go to the opposite end of the conduit or innerduct and tie off the
pull string, separating it from the propellant object.

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Pull String Installation, continued

Step Blow Pull String through Conduit or Innerduct
7 Attach a vacuum hose to the conduit or innerduct to pull a
propellant object forward from one pull point to the next (see Figure
4.47).

Figure 4.47
Pulling a ball with a vacuum

8 Retrieve the object with the pull string attached.

9 Secure the string at both ends of the conduit or innerduct.
10 If it is necessary to pull heavy cable, attach the pull string to a
heavier string or rope strong enough to pull the weight of the cable
to be installed.
WARNING: Always use a wet vacuum in case there is water in the
conduit or innerduct.
NOTE: Refer to Chapter 5: Cable Installation for additional
information on pull string installation methods and
procedures.

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Poke-Thrus
A poke-thru is a penetration through the fire-resistive floor structure that permits
the installation of horizontal telecommunications cables (see Figure 4.48). Given
their location of use, selection of a specific poke-thru should be left to the ICT
designer or structural engineer.
All poke-thrus installed need to be listed for the purpose and location and installed
per manufacturer’s instructions.
Figure 4.48
Poke-thrus

Poke-Thru Device Installations

The poke-thru method has significant drawbacks with regard to distribution and is
not generally recommended as a horizontal cabling solution. There are situations
where a poke- thru is the only available method, particularly for installations within
existing structures.
Poke-thru devices are:
• Designed to maintain the fire rating of the penetrated floor.
• Used primarily to provide power and telecommunications cabling to open space
environments where an alternate horizontal distribution method is not practical.
Poke-thru distribution is typically implemented by:
• Installing cable from the telecommunications space.
• Running cable beneath the floor where the telecommunications space is located
(e.g., within the ceiling of the floor below) to a point below where service is
desired on that floor.
• Penetrating the floor to allow the cable to be attached to a telecommunications
service fitting.
Floor openings for poke-thru devices will typically be performed either during the
floor construction for a new building by a general contractor or by a specialty
contractor in an existing building (e.g., core drill an existing floor slab).

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Poke-Thrus, continued
Step Poke-Thru Device Installation Steps
1 Poke-Thru Device Installation Steps Verify that the floor opening for
the poke-thru device is in the correct location, of the correct size,
and does not have any obstructions that would prevent the proper
placement of the poke-thru device.
2 Verify that the poke-thru device to be installed is correct based on
specifications in the contract documents and any listing markings
indicating compliance with applicable codes and AHJ requirements.
3 Install the poke-thru device per the manufacturer’s recommended
installation instructions.
4 Connect pathway if applicable (e.g., conduit) and cabling runs to
poke-thru device.
5 Observe cable fill limits and bend radii limits within the poke-thru
device.
6 Perform any bonding and grounding (earthing) work as required.
7 Install additional firestopping materials required by the
manufacturer, codes, or AHJ requirements upon completion of the
cable installation activities.
8 Label the poke-thru device as required by the contract documents
and applicable standards and document the location for inclusion
into as-built and record drawing sets.
NOTE: In some cases, poke-thru devices will contain compartments
for both ICT communications and electrical power service.
The ICT installer may need to coordinate the installation
activities with the electrical contractor to ensure a complete
and proper installation.
WARNING: Improper selection or installation of a poke-thru can expose the ICT
installer or technician to AHJ disapproval and possible liability claims.
Cable Raceway
Surface-Mounted Raceway
Surface-mounted raceway includes the fittings and surface-mounted boxes required
To complete installation. Three hand tools are essential for the proper installation
of surface raceway—a level, a straight edge, and a ruler. A PVC cutter is used for
cutting sections of non-metallic raceway to the desired length. A compound power
miter saw is helpful for cutting difficult angles. With the proper blade, it provides an
exact fit between the two sections of raceway. Using this power tool, any angle of
cut is obtainable, creating an almost imperceptible joint after the installation of
raceway.
NOTES: Raceways should be securely fastened using an appropriate anchor.
Adhesive-backed mounting means should only be used to temporarily
position the raceway.
Raceways rated at 600 V require a mechanical fastener.

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Cable Raceway, continued

Metallic Surface Raceway
The base is installed on the wall surface using fasteners. The cabling is installed, and
then the cover is installed over the top of the cabling. Typically, the cover is held in
place by snapping it over the base.
NOTE: Some surface mounted metallic raceway may have a metal divider installed
between electrical and low voltage sides. The AHJ may specify this type of
raceway be installed by a licensed electrical contractor.
Metallic surface raceway should be bonded and grounded (earthed). Some codes,
standards,
and regulations may require bonding and grounding (earthing) of metallic surface
raceway when used for power or low-voltage wiring.
Non-metallic Surface Raceway
Non-metallic surface raceway is available in single, two, and three channel versions
(see Figures 4.49 through 4.52). The dividers used for creating the channels are often
removable. Some manufacturers have snap-on dividers that allow easy removal and
reinsertion. By flipping the divider back and forth in a 180-degree arc, the attachment
to the base will be weakened, allowing the divider to be pulled out of the section of
raceway.
Some manufacturers allow the raceways to be painted after installation. This
increases the difficulty of re-entering the raceway after the paint has cured;
therefore, it may not be aesthetically desirable.
If adhesive backs are used on a project, be aware that some of the adhesive backing
will not fully adhere to all types of wall finishes. The backing is anticipated to hold for
a limited time, after which the raceway may fall off the surface to which it was
attached. This may necessitate use of an additional adhesive, anchors and screws, or
some other type of fastener to ensure the stability of the installation.
Figure 4.49
Typical outlet assemblies used with multi-channel surface mount raceways

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Cable Raceway, continued

Figure 4.50
Non-metallic single channel surface mount raceway

Figure 4.51
Typical outlet assemblies used with single channel surface mount raceways

Figure 4.52
Multi-channel surface mount raceway showing channel cable assignments

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Cable Raceway, continued

Non-Surface Mounted Raceway
Non-surface mounted raceway, commonly termed fiber duct or fiber raceway, is non-
metallic raceway that uses a support structure like the support methods of conduit
and cable tray. This support structure may include brackets, ATR, or anchors.
Additionally, non-surface mounted raceway have brackets allowing for attachment to
walls, equipment racks, and ladder racks (where allowed).
Open-Top Cable Supports
Open-top cable supports (e.g., J-hooks) should provide a wide base to distribute the
cables’ weight to prevent damage. Open-top cable supports should not be used for
installations of more than 50 cables. Do not overload open-top cable supports by
using plastic cable ties to retain additional cables.
Open-top cable supports should be attached to the building structure and installed on
a center spacing varying between ≈1.2 m (4 ft) to ≈1.5 m (5 ft). These cable supports
shall not be painted nor used for purposes not intended.
Where not specified by the AHJ, open-top cable supports should be installed to
maintain a minimum of ≈75 mm (3 in) vertical clearance between the cabling and
cable supports and elements such as ceiling tiles, electrical conduit, luminaires, and
piping and ducting. Open- top cable supports shall not be attached to a ceiling grid
support system but may require a secondary connection to the ceiling grid to prevent
lateral movement of the supports.
Additionally, devices (saddles) are available for facilitating the use of existing narrow
base bridle rings with category 5e, 6, or other high-performance cable installations.
Raceway and Conduit
BICSI does not recommend the use of 21 metric designator (3/4 trade size) or smaller
raceway in ICT systems cabling installations.
Electrical Metallic Tubing (EMT)
Correct measurement, including length of the elbow legs, is necessary to have
sufficient conduit length for secure joints. Be sure conduit ends are filed smooth, then
securely and fully seated in the coupling or connector.
Couplings are used to join sections of EMT together:
• Compression couplings are designed to reduce in diameter to that of the conduit OD
when tightened with a wrench. This process increases the friction between the
outer wall of the conduit and the inner wall of the coupling to a point where the
conduit does not slip or move under normal conditions.
• Setscrew couplings are placed over the end of the conduits (see Figure 4.53). They
provide little or no friction when installing cables through them. Once the end of the
conduits is installed and seated within the coupling, two screws are tightened to
attach the conduit to the coupling. The disadvantage to using this coupling is that it
can become loose over time, and the conduit can pull away from the coupling.

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Raceway and Conduit, continued

Figure 4.53
Electrical metallic tubing (EMT)

Electrical Non-metallic Tubing (ENT)

Because ENT (see Figure 4.54) is frequently made from PVC, codes may require ENT
be installed within walls, floors, ceilings, or assemblies that provide a fire rating. Refer
to the installation supervisor or the ICT designer for permitted uses. BICSI
recommends that PVC raceway not be used inside commercial buildings. To avoid
damaging the jacket, ENT must be securely fastened every ≈900 mm (35.4 in) so that
it does not bend when pulling cable.
NOTE: Because of the ease of bending ENT, avoid exceeding the maximum number
of bends or minimum bend radius.
Figure 4.54
Electrical non-metallic tubing (ENT)

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Raceway and Conduit, continued

Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC) and Flexible Metallic Tubing
Use FMC in situations where flexibility is necessary or it is the only alternative
(see Figure 4.55). If FMC must be used, limit the length to ≈6.1 m (20 ft) and increase
the conduit diameter by one trade size. Ensure proper grounding (earthing) of the
pathway is maintained.
Figure 4.55
Flexible metal conduit (FMC)

Flexible metallic tubing shall not be used.

NOTE: Some manufacturers provide an armored cable assembly with the cabling
pre-installed inside the FMC. Since such integrated cable/pathway design
eliminates or sufficiently diminishes the negative features of an FMC noted
above, the ≈6.1 m (20 ft) rule need not be applied.
Conduit Bodies
A conduit body is a separate portion of a conduit or tubing system that provides
access through a removable cover. Installers must consider codes, standards,
regulations, and AHJ requirements as well as aesthetics and other customer needs
when designing conduit systems.
It is important to meet the minimum bend radius requirements when cables are
installed into a conduit system and conduit bodies are used to change direction.
The telecommunications conduit body features an internal radius that
accommodates a standards-based cable bend radius and only the
telecommunications cabling style conduit bodies should be used in a
telecommunications cabling installation.
NOTE: Conduit bodies designed for use with electrical wiring systems, which do not
specifically address telecommunications cabling bend radius considerations,
are not recommended for use with telecommunications cabling.

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways

Pathway Preparation
It is important to determine the entire route of a backbone pathway prior to
installing the supporting hangers, ATRs, and other support mechanisms.
The entire route should be planned with architects and structural engineers to
ensure that the conduit can be installed without unforeseen obstacles. This is
especially true when having to penetrate fire-rated walls and floors. If the
penetration cannot be established, then all the work done to install the support
hardware may need to be repeated at a different location.
In addition to coordination with architects and structural engineers, coordination
with other disciplines and trades (e.g., electrical, mechanical) to determine best
routes for ICT pathways and supports is necessary to avoid clashes and rework.
Always make penetrations through rated (e.g., smoke, fire, load) walls and floors
prior to installing the hangers, clamps, and trapezes. Once the conduit is installed,
firestop the penetrations using approved systems.
NOTE: See Chapter 7: Firestopping Practices for additional information.
Hangers
Hangers may be attached to ATRs, building steel, masonry walls, and other hangers
(see Figure 4.56). The installer should refer to the manufacturer’s specifications and
use only the correct type and size for the conduit to be installed. In seismically active
areas, additional seismic bracing requirements may be required by the AHJ.
Figure 4.56
Conduit hanger supports installed on channel strut

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways, continued

Pipe hangers are suspended from the building structure by a code compliant anchor
or beam clamp and a section of an ATR. The anchor is installed in the concrete
structure of the floor or beam. When concrete is not available and steel trusses are
installed in the building, beam clamps can be used to support the ATR and hanger.
The selection of anchors and beam clamps should be determined by the load weight
of the conduit and cable to be supported. The ATR is attached to the pipe hanger
with nuts and lock washers. Trapeze and other types of anchors shall also be
installed with code compliant andapproved mounting methods.
Support Requirements
Where heavy loads or abuse is anticipated, installers may choose to add extra
supports to ensure joints remain secure.
All exposed raceways are to be run as near parallel or perpendicular to walls and
ceilings as the installer can achieve.
Do not use raceways as support for equipment. Provide separate support unless
otherwise permitted by applicable codes, standards, and regulations.
NOTES: Installers should follow details on the construction documents regarding
proper support methods for raceways to ensure a secure attachment in
compliance with applicable codes and AHJ requirements. The installer
should refer to applicable installation instructions as recommended by the
manufacturer.
Additionally, standards exist for pathway installation such as NEMA VE2 for
cable tray installation and applicable global codes.
Install and inspect the complete raceway before installing the cables. Be sure all
joints are tight and that the raceway is securely terminated and held firmly in place.
Cutting Conduit
A hacksaw or band saw should be used to cut conduit. These tools will permit
reaming EMT without flaring the ends. A roll-type cutter should not be used on EMT.
Be sure to make a square cut. It is best to ream EMT with a tool that is designed for
that purpose. This will make fittings easier to install. If other tools are used (e.g.,
pliers), special care must be taken not to flare the ends. Be sure to measure the
exact length of conduit needed.

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways, continued

Bending Conduit
No more than two 90-degree bends are allowed in any one-conduit segment. A third
bend may be acceptable in a conduit segment without derating the conduit’s
capacity if any of the following exists:
• The run does not exceed ≈10 m (33 ft).
• The conduit size is increased to the next trade size.
• One of the bends is located within ≈300 mm (12 in) of the cable feed end. (This
exception only applies to placing operations where cable is pushed around the first
bend.)
NOTE: In practice, a third bend should not be used unless it is unavoidable. Offsets
in conduit runs (e.g., two reverse 45-degree bends used to avoid an
obstruction or provide a change in conduit height for a horizontal run)
should be counted as a 90-degree bend.
Table 4.2 provides guidelines for adapting designs to conduits with bends.

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways, continued

Figure 4.57
Conduit elbow installation

Various configurations of factory-manufactured elbows can be used to accomplish

the specific requirements. For example, one 45-degree elbow and one 15-degree
elbow can be coupled together to form a 60-degree elbow; two 30-degree elbows
can also be used to accomplish this. However, it is preferable to use one elbow of
the proper degree for easier pulling of the conductors.
Field-manufactured bends typically result in an elliptically shaped cross section
rather than being completely round. This is caused by the action of tools used for
bending the conduit. A hand bender (see Figure 4.58) can be used in the field to
bend 16 metric designator (1/2 trade size) up to 35 metric designator (1-1/4 trade
size).
Figure 4.58
Conduit hand bender

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways, continued

If a field-bend conduit becomes elliptical, it must be replaced or derated to the next
smaller size.
Conduit bend radius also needs to be addressed when installing conduit. The inside
bend radius shall be 10 times the internal diameter of the conduit when used for
optical fiber or trade size diameters greater than ≈50 mm (2 in). If the conduit is
53 metric designator (2 trade size) or less, the bend radius must be at least six times
the internal conduit diameter.
Conduit Terminations
Terminate conduits that protrude through the structural floor ≈25 mm (1 in) to
≈75 mm (3 in) above the surface. This prevents cleaning solvents or other fluids from
flowing into the conduit.
Turning conduits down should be avoided, but if necessary, terminate them above
the plywood backboard. This allows full usage of the plywood backboard for
termination and routing of cabling. Channel stock can be used to attach the conduits
in a fixed manner to the wall.
Securing Conduit Formations
Backbone conduits shall be secured on each end and throughout the entire route to
prevent swinging and swaying during the cable placement. When large, high pair-
count cables are installed in backbone conduits, the pulling of the cable places
significant tension on the conduit. Cable pulling machines, referred to as cable
winches or cable tuggers, usually are employed in this placing operation.

The winch sometimes is anchored to the building or attached directly to the conduit.
This tension causes swinging and swaying of the conduit and its hangers. Excessive
movement of the conduit can cause the hangers to loosen and possibly come free. If
this happens, the conduit and its cable could fall to the floor, resulting in damage to
the cable, the building, or create a safety hazard for the installers.

Conduits must be secured at each end in such a manner that they do not move.
Cross braces can be used throughout the route to stabilize the conduits and prevent
movement. This can be accomplished using conduit clamps, channel stock, or ATR
placed at opposing angles (180 degrees opposite from each other). This helps
prevent lateral movement of the conduit during placing operations.

Each conduit can be attached to the channel stock with an NRTL-listed pipe clamp.

The entire section of channel stock can effectively be grounded using a single
bushing and bonding conductor wire. An alternative method is to install a listed
bonding and grounding (earthing) lug onto the channel stock and then route the
bonding conductor wire to the appropriate busbar (e.g., PBB, SBB).

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways, continued

The same anchoring mechanisms can be used to secure the clamps and cross braces
used to hang the conduits from the building structure (see Figures 4.59 through
4.61).
Figure 4.59
Pipe hanger

Figure 4.60
Trapeze conduit support

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Placement of Conduit in Pathways, continued

Figure 4.61
Conduits on channel stock

Innerduct
Verify the innerduct flammability requirements (e.g., plenum, non-plenum), and
place the innerducts with the appropriate support, depending on the specific
location (e.g., vertical shaft, cable tray, open ceiling). If secured with cable ties in a
plenum area, use plenum-rated cable ties.

If the requirement is to place innerducts within a conduit, determine the size and
number of innerducts permitted.

Where optical fiber cables will be used, consider placing three innerducts
(two ≈38 mm [1.5 in] and one ≈25 mm [1 in]) inside each 103 metric designator (4
trade size) conduit designatd for this purpose to ensure physical cable protection.

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Bonding and Grounding (Earthing) for Raceway

Bonding and grounding (earthing) of an ICT systems cabling project is a significant
part of an installer’s job. It assists in protecting people and equipment from
electrical hazards and provides improved performance.
Proper bonding and grounding (earthing) provides protection from overvoltages or
accidental connection to foreign electrical voltages or currents. This may include
lightning protection systems and related bonding and grounding (earthing) of
cabling.
NOTE: Refer to Chapter 8: Bonding and Grounding (Earthing) and Electrical
Protection for more in-depth information.
Conduits
Metallic conduits must be bonded. Conduits shall be equipped with grounding
(earthing) bushings. These bushings are installed on the end of the conduit. With
EMT conduit, a setscrew bushing is placed on the end of the conduit and tightened
using the appropriate tool. On intermediate metallic and rigid metal conduits, a
bushing is screwed onto the threaded end of the conduit. Tighten the bushing until
it is secure. A threadless bushing, which can provide a more convenient means for
locating the ground lug, is available. These are installed with setscrews.
In places where a small number of conduits are installed, a grounding (earthing)
bushing should be installed at the end of each conduit for the attachment of a
6 AWG [4.1 mm (0.16 in)] copper wire, which connects to the PBB or SBB. Conduits
near each other can be bonded together. One conduit in the string must be bonded
to the PBB or SBB.
Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems
The following steps are general. Additional steps may be required, depending on the
size, quantity, and load rating of the individual supporting structures and seismic
requirements. Design documents should include all the information that will allow
the installer to select the necessary hardware and employ proper methods to
correctly install these structures.

If the information is unclear or incomplete, the installer should obtain clarification

before proceeding with the work.

NOTE: Prior to beginning installation activities, the installation team should

coordinate with other trades and disciplines (e.g., mechanical, electrical,
architectural) and come to a consensus regarding the location of pathways
and associated support systems to avoid clashes and rework.

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Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
1 Obtain the contract documents for the building structures
(e.g., drawings, specifications).
• Determine the size, type, and quantity of pathways to be installed.
• Determine the proposed route of the pathways between TRs, from
ERs toTRs, and from TRs to work areas. This includes underfloor
installations.
• Identify any obstructions along the proposed route and determine
how to overcome them.
• If it is necessary to pass through any walls, be prepared to make
The required penetration—concrete, concrete block, framed wall,
or other wall construction.
• When installing cables in a suspended ceiling without permanent
pathways, avoid cable paths that may increase obstacles.
• Identify the plan to support cable in suspended ceilings and the
type of hardware to be installed.
2 Review the designer’s documents and verify load capacity of the
cabling support system.
• Determine the weight of individual types and sizes of cable to be
installed.
• Identify the building structure to ensure a proper attachment of
the support system.
3 Verify the adequacy of existing cable support structures. In places
where existing supports are to be used, visually examine the
supports to determine if they are firmly attached, worn, or broken,
and capable of bearing extra weight.
4 Verify local seismic zone installation requirements for cable trays,
raceways, cabinets, and racks with the designer or the AHJ. Specific
attachment, support, bracing methods, and materials may be
required to comply with the seismic zone designation for a particular
installation location.
5 Verify the accessibility of the cable support installation. Examine the:
• Area where the building beams are located.
• Area where the concrete floor slab above is accessible and usable
for installing anchors or other cable supports directly to them.
• Paths in all directions from the point of observation to confirm that
The pathway is clear for cable supports.
6 Verify the cable separation.
• For safety and performance purposes, keep power cables
Physically separated from data and voice cables.

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Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
7 Verify the availability of materials and tools.
• Before beginning an installation of a cabling support system, be
sure that the required materials and tools are available. This should
include required PPE (e.g., safety glasses, hard hats).
8 Mount D rings on plywood backboards.
• Review the designer’s drawing and specifications to determine the
Exact placement, quantity, size, and type of D rings.
• Install the D rings, working from the top left side to the bottom
right side of the plywood backboard:
– Measure the location of the first D ring to be installed according
to the designer’s documents.
– Position the D ring on the backboard and mark the location of the
Holes in the D ring using a pencil.
– Using a drill and a bit, pre-drill the location of the D-ring holes.
– Position the D ring on the backboard, and install a No. 6, 19 mm
(3/4 in) sheet-metal screw using a screwdriver.
– Install the second No. 6, 19 mm (3/4 in) sheet-metal screw.
– Repeat the above steps for each additional D ring to be installed.
9 Mount individual cable supporting hardware in structures above the
suspended ceiling level.
• Determine the open-top cable support size required in each cable
path, and lay them out along the cable route.
• Identify the location of the first open-top cable support to be
installed.
• Position the open-top cable support at its proper location and mark
The holes for the anchors using a pencil.
• Pre-drill the holes and install the correct anchors; depending on
the type of structure, a masonry structure will require one type of
anchor while metal structures or framed wall will require others.
• Install the anchors.
• Reposition the open-top cable support at the desired location.
• Using the correct screwdriver, install the appropriate screw
through the hole in the open-top cable support and into the
anchor, securing the open- top cable support to the anchor.
• Repeat the above for the second screw.
• Using the same procedures, install the remaining open-top cable
Support until all open-top cable supports are installed.

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Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
10 Install ladder racks/cable trays.
• Review the designer’s drawing and specifications for the locations
and paths of ladder racks/cable trays.
• Ladder racks/cable trays can be installed parallel to and against a
wall or suspended from the building structure using ATRs. They can
be supported using channel stock or special hanger brackets.
• Identify other utilities (e.g., HVAC, plumbing, electrical) or
Structural obstructions that will require the pathway to change
elevation and direction. Careful planning is important to minimize
changes in direction, which can increase material and labor costs.
• Identify any fire-rated walls that need to be penetrated by the
ladder rack or cable tray.
• For existing or occupied sites, fire-rated walls shall be restored
prior to the installation crew leaving the site.
Penetrations through fire-rated masonry walls are especially
challenging to the installer. Firestopping these penetrations
requires special knowledge and materials to comply with applicable
codes, standards, and regulations.The manufacturers of firestop
materials provide detailed instruction on how to install their
products to comply with special circumstances.
If a situation is identified where the selected firestop
manufacturer’s technical manual does not contain a certified
solution, contact the manufacturer. Provide all the pertinent
information regarding the penetration. In most cases, the
manufacturer can provide an engineered solution. This solution
may move the liability for its design and use from the contractor to
the manufacturer. Firestop solutions can be designed in the field
using the manufacturer’s design specifications.
See Chapter 7: Firestopping Practices for additional information.
• The process of installing ladder racks/cable trays is manufacturer
Specific because of the many different sizes, types, and
configurations. The installer shall consult the manufacturer’s
specifications and installation guidelines prior to installing these
pathways.
11 Install conduits.
NOTE: See the Raceway and Conduit section within this chapter for
further information.
• Review the designer’s drawing and specifications for the conduit
path, locations of conduit bodies, and types of conduit support
hardware (e.g., hangers) that may be required.

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Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
11, cont. • Identify any walls that need to be penetrated by the conduit
system:
– Non-rated walls can be penetrated at any time during the
Installation process although it is recommended that all
penetrations occur at the same time.
– For new construction, fire-rated walls may be penetrated at any
time. It is recommended that a fire-rated wall be restored as
opportunity allows.
– For existing or occupied sites, fire-rated walls shall be restored
prior to the installation crew leaving the site.
See Chapter 7: Firestopping Practices for additional information.
• If the use of conduit hangers (e.g., pipe hanger, trapeze) or pipe
racks is required, install these elements where indicated.
• Use code compliant anchors or beam clamps suitable for the
purpose of securing these elements to the building structure.
• The selection of anchors and beam clamps should be determined
by the load weight of the conduit and cable to be supported.
• Secure threaded rods, if used, with nuts and lock washers. Cut off
Extended sections of threaded rod below nuts.
• Install the first conduit body or outlet box. If a box or conduit body
is not required as the first element, move to the next step.
• Use appropriate fasteners or anchors.
• If the conduit body or box is already installed, verify that the body
or box is prepared to receive a conduit section (e.g., threads not
damaged, space present to connect a conduit, conduit body
matches type of conduit section to be installed).
• Measure the amount of conduit that will be needed for the section.
• Make marks on the conduit section where the first bend from the
conduit body will begin and end, as applicable.
• Note that if multiple bends are required, each subsequent bend
will need to be marked after the prior bend has been completed
and tested for fit.
• Cut the conduit to size the indicated length, as needed. If bends are
present, cut after the final bend has been completed.
• File and ream conduit as necessary to remove sharp edges that
may damage cable or interfere with proper connection to other
conduit elements.
• Connect the conduit section.
• Fasten the conduit section to the previously installed conduit
Hangers using applicable methods for the conduit. Secure the
conduit as required to walls and other support elements to prevent
movement during installation of the conduit system and cable.

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Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
11, cont. • Note that for conduit sections mounted to walls or in other areas
where limitations on work space exist, leaving the last section of
conduit unsecured may aid in the installation of the next section or
conduit body.
• Continue to add conduit sections and bodies until the conduit
System is complete.
• Inspect the conduit system to verify all joints are tight and that the
Conduit system raceway is securely terminated and held firmly in
place.
• Install conduit bushings to all exposed conduit ends.
• Install innerduct, as specified.
• Install pull strings.
12 Perform bonding and grounding (earthing) according to the
Requirements detailed in Chapter 8: Bonding and Grounding
(Earthing) and Electrical Protection.
Complete pathway documentation and labeling.
• It is important to properly document pathway installations to
identify the cables they house and support. Knowing where a
pathway originates or terminates is necessary for determining
where cables originate and terminate.
• Proper identification is especially important for pathways left
vacant at the completion of the project. A great deal of time may
have elapsed before they are used; however, the team who
performed the original installation may not be the same group that
performs the additional work. The pathways must be identified on
the drawings and should be physically equipped with labels that
identify them and state where they originate and terminate.
• When pathways are installed, an as-built drawing depicting the
route the installer used should be provided indicating the routes of
the various pathways. Installers should obtain the information
contained on the original design drawings and transfer it to their
work documents. Upon job completion, this information should be
contained in the final as-built package.
14 Complete general housekeeping.
• It is important to clean up behind a work operation when installing
pathways. Dust and debris harm electronic equipment if an
installation is performed within an existing ER. Larger equipment is
required to install these pathways, and the materials are bulkier,
taking up more space in the hallways and passageways of the
building. This causes congestion and, if left in place, can impact the
work efforts of other trades.
• Restore all non-rated fire walls back to their original condition.
Verify that all fire-rated walls have been restored.

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Steps—Installing Cabling Support Systems, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
14, cont. • The hangers, associated hardware, anchors, screws, and other
Materials present a safety hazard to workers and should be properly
stored during work operations and upon completion of the day’s
activities. If an area of work cannot be completely cleaned, safety
cones and barricades should be placed to prevent accidental
intrusion into the area until the work is completed and the area is
cleaned.
Keeping a clean work space reflects on the quality of the work the
installation team performs and on the company it represents.

Access Floors
Access floors are a common site in data centers and other mission critical spaces.
Access floors are generally installed as follows:
Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
1 Check the room dimensions and configuration against approved
drawings. If the floor cannot be installed per the drawings (e.g.,
target finished floor height will not fit under building elements), seek
direction for a corrective action.
2 Find the starting point in the room as shown on the drawings. Seek
approval to change the starting point if cut panels at the perimeter
will be less than ≈150 mm (6 in) wide.
3 From the starting point, lay out two chalk lines at right angles to
avoid issues with the room not being square (see Figure 4.62). The
chalk line system will provide a square reference point. If the
distance to the walls is over ≈610 mm (24 in) at any point, move the
entire line closer to the wall so that the greatest distance is ≈610 mm
(24 in) or less.
Figure 4.62
Chalk line system

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Access Floors, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
4 From the two chalk control lines, place the pedestals in a grid pattern
with spacing matching the floor tile side, starting from the starting
point (see Figure 4.63). For large spaces, using chalk lines will assist
in keeping pedestals properly spaced.
Figure 4.63
Pedestal grid pattern

5 Using a laser or transit, shoot in a pedestal assembly to the proper

Finished floor height every ≈2.4 or 3 m (8 or 10 ft) in both directions
(depending on the length of the leveling bar). By spanning two
pedestals at proper finished floor height with the leveling bar, adjust
all the pedestals in between to the bottom surface of the bar. By
adding spacing marks to the leveling bar, one can verify placement of
the pedestal while adjusting height.
6 Glue each pedestal base in the spread area to the sub-floor. Using a
spatula type device, tilt up the base plate without changing its
location and apply adhesive to the bottom of the base plate.
NOTE: When using fasteners to anchor pedestal bases, each base
Should be glued and stringers installed (if applicable) before
installing anchors. The type of fasteners used may also
require that panels be installed for later removal and
installation of fasteners.
7 If stringers are a part of the system, bolt them to the pedestal heads
beginning at the starting point.

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Access Floors, continued

Step Installing Cabling Support Systems
8 Beginning again at the starting point, lay four rows of panels along the
longest wall. Check to confirm that you are staying on control lines, and
that panels do not rock.
9 If a panel rocks diagonally when placed in the system, turn it one
Quarter (90 degrees) and check it again. If the panel continues to rock
when rotated, check to make sure the pedestal is not tilted, stringers
are properly seated, and that panel edges are flush. If the panel still
rocks, set it aside to be used as a perimeter cut panel. Pedestals should
not be adjusted unless three or four panels supported on them are
rocking. At this point, make a minor elevation adjustment to the
pedestal.
When installing textured or carpeted panels, the grain direction must be
controlled. Each panel has an arrow on the bottom indicating proper
grain. As these panels have directionality, they cannot be turned to
adjust for rockers. The panel can be bumped or the pedestal assemblies
adjusted. It may require two or three pedestals in a row to be adjusted.
10 After laying the first four rows of panels along the long wall, begin
again at the starting point and lay four rows of panels perpendicular to
the first rows. Follow Steps 8 and 9 for laying panels while following the
control lines. After laying in the L-shaped section, check that it is square.
Continue to install rows until the L-shape becomes a rectangle or
square.
11 After the first section of a floor is installed, check to see that all the grid
lines are straight. If the grid is not square, make them square by
bumping the rows of installed panel with your foot. If this fails, take up
every third or fourth row of panels and tap the bases in the direction of
the panels that must be moved. All grid lines should be straight before
cutting in the perimeter panels.
12 After installing the first section of access floor, only one chalked
control line along the long wall needs to be used for the remainder of
the floor. The initial section of floor normally dictates the squareness
and location of the rest of the floor. However, it is possible in a long
room to allow a curve to develop in small increments in the grid.
Therefore, a dry line should be kept
stretched along the short wall until at least a four-panel-wide section of
the floor is installed the entire length of the room.
In setting this dry line, secure one end at the starting point on the grid
line between the first two panels. Raise the line about ≈25 mm (1 in) off
the panel, then stretch the line to the other end of the floor and do the
same there. The line should not override the panel edges.
NOTE: If rolling materials, equipment, or gang boxes across an
installed access raised floor, then ≈6.3 mm (1/4 in) tempered
masonite or ≈12.7 mm (1/2 in) plywood should be used as
pathways to avoid any damage to the top surface of the
access floor panels.

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 Chapter4: Space Preparation and Cabling Support Systems

Housekeeping
During space preparation activities, ICT installers must practice proper housekeeping
activities. Consistent housekeeping will prevent:
• Safety issues related to obstructions, tripping hazards, and accumulation of materials
that can create a fire hazard or potential of falling objects impacting equipment and
personnel.
• The accumulation of dust and debris that may impact installed equipment and cabling.
At the end of each day’s installation activities within a space, installers should:
• Remove all shipping and packing material that remains from equipment and cabling
already installed.
• Remove all cable and wire scrap, cable sheath/jacket pieces and other disposable
items from the installation activities (e.g., cable tie tails, used pull lines, cable cleaning
items).
• Remove all personal trash (e.g., coffee cups, food containers, disposable PPE).
• Vacuum all surfaces to remove dust and dirt.
• Store tools, equipment, and materials in a neat and safe manner that does not create
Safety hazards or potential for damage but allows for ease of access for the next day’s
work.
• Dispose of all debris, trash, and other materials in accordance with applicable rules,
regulations, and AHJ requirements, particularly those applicable to recycling of
materials and procedures related to the disposal of hazardous materials.
Any questions or issues related to housekeeping activities should be directed to the
installation supervisor for resolution.
A clean work area is a direct reflection of professionalism and reflects the quality of
Work performed by the installer and their employer.

© 2022 BICSI® AA-1 ITSIMM, 8th edition