Hisd Network Cabling Standards

Effective Date: 01/01/2000 Revision Date: 10/07/2015

HOUSTON INDEPENDENT SCHOOL DISTRICT

Hattie Mae White Administration Bldg., 3830 Richmond Avenue, Houston, Texas 77027

HISD NETWORK CABLING STANDARDS

Offices of Technology and Information Systems

Effective Date: 01/01/2000 Revision Date: 10/07/2015

HISD Network Cabling Standards

Background Background A well designed and implemented generic network wiring system within HISD buildings can save significant dollars and can make it much easier for the district to implement new technology-based systems within the existing network infrastructure. As an analogy - one does not worry when moving from one office to another whether there will be power in the new office, or whether the power will be compatible with existing electronic equipment. A standards-based network wiring system can provide the same level of functionality for telecommunications and computer systems.

A successful, long-term district-wide network cabling solution should be based on open industry standards, and will provide the following benefits for HISD:

• Support for multi-vendor equipment and services • Improved management of building space resources • Reduced costs for network wiring installation, support and management • Reduced training requirements for support personnel • Consistency of wiring at different locations • Improved reliability of network cabling infrastructure • Improved trouble-shooting and fault isolation • Improved ability to manage system moves, adds and changes • Based on proven industry standards from IEEE, EIA/TIA, ANSI, BICSI

The network cabling standards and recommendations documented in this section are adapted from relevant industry standards and practices from the IEEE, ANSI, EIA, TIA and BICSI, and are based on current HISD practices for new cabling installations. Since industry standards and practices will continue to change in accordance with new technologies, this set of standards will need to be updated accordingly.

The Electronics Industry Association (EIA) and Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) are large industry trade groups with memberships drawn from all facets of the telecommunications industry. EIA/TIA standards are drafted by technical committees and these standards are reviewed frequently. The EIA/TIA standards detail the architecture, engineering, cable specification and management of wiring systems. The Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) manual provides a detailed description of wiring layout and installation.

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The IEEE is a professional engineering society. IEEE standards specify LAN architecture and engineering. Relevant industry standards published by these organizations include:

• EIA/TIA-568-A: Commercial Building Telecommunications Wiring Standard • EIA/TIA-568-B: CAT5e • EIA/TIA-568-B.2-1: CAT6 • EIA/TIA-568-B.3: Fiber • EIA/TIA-569: Commercial Building Standard for the Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces • EIA/TIA-570: Residential and Light Commercial Telecommunications Wiring Standard • EIA/TIA-606: Administration Standard for the Telecommunications Infrastructure of Commercial Buildings • EIA/TIA-607: Grounding • TSB-36: Additional Cable Specifications for Unshielded Twisted Pair Cables • TSB-40: Additional Transmission Specifications for Unshielded Twisted Pair Connecting Hardware • TSB-67: Testing Standard • BICSI Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual • FCC Docket 88-57 and related rules regarding inside wire and demarcation points • IEEE 802.3 Specification • IEEE 10BaseT Specification

The standards and specifications in this section provide for the installation of all network cabling for the HISD. All cabling must meet the EIA/TIA-568-B and related standards for Category 6 or better wiring. Any deviations, changes and revisions from these standards must have the prior approval of the HISD Network Operations Department.

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System Overview System A wiring system can be divided into several different types of building Overview blocks that include specific subsystems and wiring components. The major subsystems for a wiring system include the following:

• Vertical Distribution System • Horizontal Distribution System • Building and Floor Communication Rooms

The vertical distribution system, also known as the riser or network backbone system, provides the means to distribute data and voice communications between floors of a building. Fiber-optic cables are used for this. There may be more than one vertical distribution system within a building since it is often practical from an implementation standpoint to logically subdivide the building into halves or quarters. This is also done for disaster backup and redundancy.

The horizontal distribution system, also known as the floor cabling system, is used to connect each user's computer equipment to the required communications systems on that floor.

The communication rooms are the locations in the building where the horizontal and vertical wiring systems come together, or interconnect. There are a number of different types of rooms including the Building Communications Room (BCR) and the Floor Communications Room (FCR), described in detail below. The FCR contains the wiring, patch panels and communications equipment required for that floor. The BCR is connected to every FCR using the vertical distribution system and it contains the patch panels and communications equipment required for the entire building.

The most common wiring components that are used in a generic wiring system, such as the one described in this standard and implemented at HISD, are 100-ohm unshielded twisted pair cable (UTP), and 50/125 micron fiber- optic cable and related patch panels, connectors, etc. These components are discussed later in this section as well.

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Standards For Building Communication Room Standards There are three different types of building communication rooms and they For Building each support critical functions as part of the building wiring system. In Communication general, each room must be large enough to accommodate the wiring and Rooms equipment, which will be located within them, plus additional space allocated for growth. The general environmental requirements include sufficient power and HVAC. In addition, they must be secure and must meet all applicable building and safety codes.

All HISD new construction, remodels, and, to the extent possible, installation of network wiring infrastructure into existing buildings, should adhere to these standards. A description and requirements for the three types of building communication rooms follows.

Building Demarcation Point (BDP)

The BDP is the point of interconnection between the communication facilities provided by the telephone company and the building's communication facilities. The actual physical point of interconnection to the carrier-provided telephone services is typically a standard telephone company jack, or other means as specified in the applicable tariffs.

It is important to note that the BDP may not be located within the Building Communication Room and, in these circumstances, sufficient cable conduit must be installed between these two locations. It is not unusual for the demarcation point to be located in the basement and the Building Communication Room to be located on a higher floor. Regardless of the location of the carrier's demarcation point, the BCR should serve as the main communications room.

Building Communications Room (BCR)

The BCR is the primary communications room for a building or facility. Other common terms or abbreviations used to describe this room are Building Equipment Room (BER), Main Distribution Frame (MDF), or simply Equipment Room (ER).

The BCR is used to distribute communication services to all of the Floor Communication Rooms (FCR) within the building and, as such, it can be viewed as the center of the star for wiring and cable distribution. The room contains the necessary wiring cross connects, punch down blocks, fiber patching equipment, and other components to connect to each FCR within the building.

Every HISD building should have one Building Communications Room and the room should be centrally located in order to minimize the cable distances within the building. In multi-story buildings, this means the BCR should be located on a middle floor even though the Building Demarcation Point might be located on the first floor or in the basement.

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The technical and architectural requirements for a BCR can be found in the EIA/TIA-569-A standard and also the BICSI Methods Manual. It is important to note that the BCR must be a secure room and that disaster backup plans must be in place for this facility. General room requirements are summarized below:

• Building communication rooms should be sized to meet the requirements of the current and planned communications equipment. When requirements are not known, the EIA 569 standard recommends that there be a minimum of 0.75 square feet of space for every 100 square feet of workspace. (A minimum of 150 square feet is recommended.). • Interior walls in the room at the point of demarcation should be covered, floor to ceiling, with ¾" plywood that is raised away from the wall a minimum 1¾". • All interior walls and other surfaces should be painted with fire retardant paint which meets applicable fire codes. • There should be, at a minimum, one duplex convenience outlet every ten feet along each wall in the room. All outlets should will be backed up via the building UPS if available. • Dedicated electrical service should be provided as required for the installed communications equipment and should be backed up via the building UPS if available. • Rooms should not have a false or drop ceiling. • Flooring should be tile or other finished surface to keep dust at a minimum. Anti-static protection should be taken as required by equipment. • No building water or steam carrying pipes shall run through or above the room, except for sprinkler systems if required. • Lighting should be maintained at 50 foot-candles, measured at 3 feet above floor level. Lighting should be able to be turned on/off via a wall switch located immediately inside door. • Fluorescent tube lighting is specifically prohibited. Light fixtures should be in a bowl type fixture or a fixture that is securely mounted. Fixtures that are meant to be installed in a ceiling grid or are supported by wires are not acceptable. • The door should be at least three feet (3') wide and should swing open out of the room. The door should lock from outside access. • Floor loading must be at least 250 lb. per square feet, or as required by equipment contained in the room. • HVAC should be included in the design of the room in order to maintain a room temperature of approximately 70 degrees with the

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full complement of equipment in the room. Relative humidity should be maintained between 30% and 50%. • Riser and distribution cables leaving the room to building FCRs/IDFs and computer and communication room spaces should be via four inch (4") conduits or sleeved cores. The exact number of conduits required should be determined based upon the amount of fiber and copper cable that must be supported in each closet, and each computer or communications room. Additional conduits or sleeved cores must be included in the design to provide for future growth. • If the Building Demarcation Point (BDP) is not located within the room, sufficient conduit must be run between these two locations. Additional cores/conduits must be provided for future growth. • If the Building Demarcation Point (BDP) is located within the room, wall space with backboards must be provided for terminations and related equipment. • All conduits/coring should be kept six inches (6") or less from walls whenever construction permits. • All penetrations must be sealed with a smoke and flame stop which meet applicable code. • Rooms that are not equipped with raised floors should have 12" ladder rack installed in a configuration that supports the proposed equipment layout. • Pull cable must be installed in all conduits.

Floor Communications Room (FCR)

The FCR is set aside on each floor of a building for the exclusive purpose of housing the communications equipment and related wiring that serves that specific area of the building. Other common terms or abbreviations to describe this space are Satellite Equipment Room (SER), Intermediate Distribution Frame (IDF), or simply wiring closet.

There will be one or more FCRs depending on the size and layout of a floor. The FCRs should be located so that it is easy and straightforward to run cable to each location served by that FCR without having to penetrate or pass around architectural barriers. It is very common to have four FCRs on each floor, each FCR serving a quarter of the floor.

While the BCR serves as the communications hub for the entire building, the FCR serves as the center of the star for wiring and cable distribution for that floor (or portion of the floor). Wiring from the FCR is distributed to each work space served by that FCR; this wiring can be distributed via a number of methods depending upon building and electrical codes, fire safety codes, etc. The most common methods are conduit, cable raceway systems, cable suspension (above a dropped ceiling) and various under floor systems. The

7 Effective Date: 01/01/2000 Revision Date: 10/07/2015 cable distance between the FCR and any workspace must be less than 100 meters.

The equipment in the FCR includes wiring cross connects and patch panels, punch down blocks, fiber patching equipment, etc. The FCR also contains communications equipment such as hubs, bridges, routers, & switches where applicable.

The FCR should be large enough (with sufficient power and HVAC) to contain both the wiring systems and the communications equipment. If this is not possible, the communications equipment should be located in the BCR, or a space on the floor with the correct HVAC and support systems. It is imperative that the placement of equipment in the FCR meets all applicable building, fire and safety codes.

The EIA/TIA-569 standard specifies the size of the FCR by the number of users and the floor area that it serves. For example, if the floor area served is approximately 10,000 square feet, the FCR should be 10 x 11 feet. The room should be no smaller than 4 by 8 feet in order to provide space to support even a small number of users. If there are multiple closets on a floor, they should be interconnected by a minimum of two conduits for current or planned use.

The technical and architectural requirements for a FCR can be found in the EIA/TIA-569 standard and the BICSI Methods Manual. It is important to note that the FCR must be a secure room and that disaster backup plans must be in place for users served from this room. General room requirements are summarized below:

• Rooms should serve one floor only and rooms should be physically located on the floor. Rooms that serve an area of approximately 10,000 square feet should be 10' x 11' in dimension. Rooms that serve an area of 5,000 square feet should be 10' x 7' in dimension. • All interior walls in closets should be covered, floor to ceiling, with ¾" plywood that is raised away from the wall a minimum 1¾". • All interior walls in rooms should be painted with fire retardant paint that meets applicable fire codes. • There should be at least two (2) duplex convenience outlets on each wall of the room. Dedicated service should be provided as required for the communications equipment. All outlets should be backed up via UPS if available. • Rooms should not have a false or drop ceiling. • Flooring should be tile or other finished surface to keep dust at a minimum. • No building water or steam carrying pipes shall run through or above the room, except for sprinkler systems if required.

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• Lighting should be maintained at 50 foot-candles, measured at 3 feet above floor level. • Lighting should be able to be turned on/off via a wall switch located immediately inside the door. • Fluorescent tube lighting is specifically prohibited. Light fixtures should be in a bowl type fixture or a fixture that is securely mounted. Fixtures that are meant to be installed in a ceiling grid or are supported by wires are not acceptable. • The door should be minimally three feet (3') wide and should swing open out of the room. Doors should lock from outside access. • Floor loading must be at least 100 lb. per square foot. • HVAC should be included in the design of the room in order to maintain a room temperature of approximately 70 degrees with the full complement of equipment in the room. • Relative humidity should be maintained between 30% and 50%. • Riser cable access into FCR(s) shall be via four-inch (4") conduit or sleeved cores. Exact amounts of conduit required on a per closet basis must be determined based upon the amount of fiber and copper cable that must be supported in each FCR (see EIA-569 for guidelines). A minimum of two (2) excess cores/conduits must be provided in each room for future growth. • All conduits/coring should be kept six inches (6") or less from walls whenever construction permits. All cores should be in single row. All cores should be kept in same relative proximity in stacked IDFs. • All penetrations must be sealed with smoke and flame stop which meets applicable code. • Station cable access, when not via raised floor, should be via 4" sleeves located above door level, and cable should run directly onto the ladder rack within the room. • Pull cable must be installed in all conduits.

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Standards For Systems Wiring and Components

Standards HISD Infrastructure Cabling Requirements For Systems Wiring and • The following are basic standards and specifications for system Components wiring and components. These are minimal requirements only; a detailed system specification and design is required for each installation. These standards and specifications should be updated periodically to reflect the most current EIA/TIA and BICSI standards. All wiring systems that are being upgraded should meet these guidelines if at all possible. To achieve a successful long-term cabling solution, HISD established the following performance goals based on emerging technology:

• Support the delivery of the network services and applications that have been identified in the District's Technology Infrastructure Plan

• Provide a strong network foundation and physical connectivity for each campus to build upon to support the instructional and administrative data needs

• Provide a cable system with adequate bandwidth to deliver the network applications defined in the Technology Infrastructure Plan while providing an allowance for future growth

• Provide a cable system than supports the majority of professionals' workstations upon implementation, and that can be easily expanded in the areas to meet the individual campus instructional needs

• Provide a cable system that has high integrity, performance, and usability based on the current Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling standard, BICSI, and future EIA/TIA & IEEE standards technology.

• Provide a cable system based on HISD’s current standard practice of using Panduit, Belden, and Corning systems, using all parts and installation method recommended by those vendors.

Foundation Standard - The Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard of 1996

Networking and cabling standards have merged into a cohesive architecture. The American National Standards Institute (ANSI), the Electronics Industry Association (EIA) and Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) have developed specifications for the Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standards. The revised set of standards is referred to as ANSI/ EIA/ TIA 568-B.

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EIA/ TIA 568-B and related standards define the installation practices, certification and the physical and electrical characteristics for several media types, including all types of unshielded twisted pair (UTP), one type of shielded twisted pair (STP) and both multi-mode / single-mode fiber. It defines virtually all aspects of a generic cable plant that can support network technologies or applications requiring a channel of up to 250 MHz of spectral bandwidth. The standard also defines the horizontal and backbone cable plant, equipment rooms, and entrance facilities and work areas. In addition, it defines several types of media, along with the installation practices needed to reliably achieve the level of performance for which each medium is rated. Category 6 cable grade supports a greater frequency range and therefore provides greater potential bandwidth. New fast LAN technologies currently support UTP and fiber, but not coax cable. Coax is considered obsolete by this revised standard and is relegated to supporting HISD legacy LANs at 10 Mbps. Coaxial network/data cable installations are not permitted within Houston ISD.

Implementation of Standards

These specifications provide for the installation of all network cabling for the Houston Independent School District. All cabling must meet the EIA/TIA- 568-B standards for Category 6 or better wiring as stated above. Any deviations from standards from this document will require the prior approval of the Houston Independent School District Configuration Control Board. HISD key requirements include the following:

General Cabling

• All new network drops will be a dual drop of Belden 7882A Category 6 rated cable. This configuration will support current applications and present an additional growth capability.

• The network drops will be terminated in compliance with Category 6 specifications to two RJ45 jacks and labeled with IDF #, Panel # (where applicable) and jack ID numbers.

• All cable that runs back to cable tele-com closets will be terminated on a Category 6 rated patch panel, clearly labeled for each jack.

• The cabling contractor will provide cable certification reports and warranty statements to verify each Category 6 drop.

• Copper/UTP Category 6 cable runs exceeding 295 feet will be deemed unacceptable, as they would be out of specification with regard to the EIA/TIA-568-B specification. (This situation identifies a need for an additional IDF location, which would link back to the MDF via multi-mode fiber-optic cabling.)

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Horizontal Cabling

• The maximum permitted horizontal distance is 90 meters (295') with 10 meters (33') allowed as the total cumulative length for patch cables, jumpers cords, etc. (Total maximum length not to exceed 100 meters).

• Horizontal cables are Belden 7882A Category 6 rated 4-pair /100 Ohm UTP cables.

• Copper cabling must have all four pairs terminated and pairs must not be split between jacks.

Backbone Cabling

In this section, the pathways will be determined by the contractor who is awarded the bid for the current year and approved by the Houston Independent School District Configuration Control Board on a case-by-case basis.

Equipment Room

All Cable closets (IDF's) with fiber runs will have one six-strand, 50 micron, multi-mode fiber run back to the MDF (panel A in most cases).

Entrance Facilities

Exterior Cabling

All exterior cabling must adhere to AIAA Standards or Local Area Best Practices. In this section, the pathways will be determined by the contractor who is awarded the bid for the current year and approved by the Houston Independent School District Configuration Control Board on a case-by-case basis. The installation of cabling over a building’s exterior roof is expressly forbidden.

Fiber Cabling

• All fiber strands will be terminated with LC connectors.

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• No fiber will be daisy chained for use on the HISD network.

• All Cable closets (IDF's) with fiber runs will have one six-strand, 50 micron, multi-mode fiber run back to the MDF (panel A in most cases).

• Fiber runs will be protected in plenum rated interduct unless they are armored.

• Fiber runs at any HISD location will start from the Main Distribution Frame (MDF) centrally located in the building and going out to Individual Distribution Frames (IDF's) throughout the location.

• All fiber-optic cabling used at remote LAN sites will be Corning 12 Strand Hybrid Fiber 012X88-A8719-A3.

Aesthetics

• Cable and cable bundles will not be attached to any electrical wiring or light fixtures, nor will its vertical deflection allow it to come in contact with ceiling grids, HVAC mechanical controls, fluorescent light fixtures, or drainage line piping.

• All cables terminating at the distribution frame will be vertically straight with no cables crossing each other from twelve inches inside the ceiling area to the termination block.

• All MDF/IDF tie and station cable bundles will be combed and bundled to accommodate individual termination block rows. Each cable or cable bundle will be secured to both the distribution frame and the structure to which the frame is attached with anchor points placed a maximum of nine inches apart starting at the center of the top of the termination block. Anchor points will extend up each cable or cable bundle to a point a maximum of two inches below the false ceiling or from under the raised floor. Cable bundles should not exceed 24 cables per bundle.

• For any given MDF/IDF, a horizontal and vertical alignment for all mounting hardware will be maintained, providing a symmetrical and uniform appearance to the distribution frame.

• Contractor will firmly secure any surface mount devices, including station cable termination plates/jacks.

• MDF/IDF, station cables, and tie cables refers to distribution frames and cabling located inside the building as defined in any scope of work. All station cables in offices or work areas will be installed behind the wall or inside provided floor or duct channels.

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• Station cables will terminate on jacks as specified by HISD and to requirements as specified by HISD. All terminations will be made to Category 6 standards. It is the responsibility of the Contractor to understand and comply with these requirements.

• IDF/MDF termination racks and panels will be mounted vertically or horizontally (if required) with a uniform spacing between each row of panels and jacks. Cable management will be mounted on the top, sides, and front as required to provide a symmetrical, aesthetic, and professional appearance of the frame.

• Use of loop-and-hook (Velcro) type fasteners is the preferred method to bundle together cables that are visible or below a false ceiling. If plastic tie wraps are needed to attach cable bundles to anchors, then the tie wraps should be left loose fitting. Also, tie wraps should not be used on cable bundles exceeding 48 cables.

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Copper Cable HISD specifies that all Station Cables will meet the following Installation criteria: Requirements • Category 6 Plenum cables will be installed for all interior environments.

• All patch and station cables will be terminated on Panduit Category 6 rated RJ45 jacks (CJ688T3GR or KJ688T3GR), unless a previously standardized jack has been installed prior to January 2000.

• All patch and station cables will be kept to a minimum length in order to keep the channel distance within the 100 meter specification, as set by the EIA/TIA.

• All data cable installations will meet or exceed Category 6 Standards from the originating IDF to the furthest remote cable termination point.

Supplemental Equipment

Supplemental equipment refers to the different types of hardware, brackets and attachments required to install the cabling in the building/office complex distribution system per these specifications.

• Wall mounted patch-panels are unacceptable, all patch-panels will be mounted on/in a 19’ wall or floor mounted Chatsworth rack or secure enclosure. • Keystone style patch panels are unacceptable. • All IDF/MDF wall mount racks will include at minimum:  Fireproof plywood backboard  Vertical front and back cable management along each side of rack  Horizontal cable management at top of rack and every 48 – 72 jacks, or 72 port panel, thereafter.  Horizontal rack-mount surge protector or bus bar including 12ft. cord for standard household 110V/15A power, On/Off switch, circuit breaker, and minimum 6 standard AC outlets. (To be installed in racks housing electronic equipment.)

• All IDF/MDF floor mount racks will include at minimum:  Secure attachment to building floor at bottom  Secure attachment to wall via ladder attachment to rack  Vertical front and back cable management along each side of rack  Horizontal cable management at top of rack and every 48 – 72 jacks, or 72 port panel, thereafter.

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 Horizontal rack-mount surge protector or bus bar including 12ft. cord for standard household 110V/15A power, On/Off switch, circuit breaker, and minimum 6 standard AC outlets. (To be installed in racks housing electronic equipment.)

• All IDF/MDF floor mount enclosed racks will include at minimum:  Vertical front and back cable management inside each rack  Adequate ventilation mechanism, including top-mount exhaust fans  Horizontal cable management inside of and at top of rack and every 48 – 72 jacks, or 72 port panel, thereafter.  Horizontal rack-mount surge protector or bus bar including 12ft. cord for standard household 110V/15A power, On/Off switch, circuit breaker, and minimum 6 standard AC outlets. (To be installed in racks housing electronic equipment.)

Miscellaneous

• Time-lines will be created for each job and the contractor will have to comply with the time line regardless of over-time constraints. • In all cases, where possible, existing cable will be reused if it meets Category 6 or better standards. • Depending on the option selected all unused telecommunications cable will be removed. • The Contractor will provide a complete and final location table and spreadsheet indicating all wall jack locations including the following information: jack numbers, room number, wall orientation per jack number (North, South, East, or West, or Power Pole if applicable), landmark orientation and distance. The Contractor will be responsible for updating HISD wiring documentation. Cable installations on existing frames will be documented. • Cable installations through the floor will be resealed to meet applicable codes. • The cabling system is not considered Category 6 compliant unless all cabling components satisfy the requirements for Category 6 UTP installation practices and certified as such. • All UTP shall be installed according to the TIA/EIA-606 standard regarding color codes, labeling and documentation unless otherwise specified by HISD. • The amount of untwisting when terminating Cat 6 jacks or panels is to be according to EIA/TIA parameters for Category 6 installations. • The bend radii should not be less than the specification set by the EIA/TIA for Category 6 installations

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• Conduit or duct may be required for some projects. Any wire molding required shall be of the non-adhesive-backed type using metal fasteners for attachment. Wall molding must be installed for all exposed cabling in marked areas. • Leave 10’ service loops at IDF and station end where applicable. If the cables at the station end are exposed, as with buildings without a false ceiling, then a 12” service loop is acceptable to improve the aesthetics.

Copper Acceptance / Testing / Documentation

• To verify proper installation of the Copper cabling plant, the selected Contractor will be required to properly test all individual cable pairs from the IDF/MDF to each individual cabled location.

• The Contractor will use properly certified and calibrated test equipment to perform continuity tests on all cable pairs to verify that there are no opens, shorts, reversals, transpositions, cross-talk and that each cable run is within the specifications set by the EIA/TIA for Category 6.

• Terminations to all data jacks will be tested to Category 5E standards with certified Category 6 test equipment. All four pair cabling will be tested to the cross-connect frame (IDF/MDF) and documentation results will be provided to HISD.

• Contractor will provide the required test equipment.

• The test documentation shall be provided to HISD Technology & Information Systems and becomes the property of HISD

• Cables failing any of the required tests will be repaired or replaced at no cost to HISD.

• The Contractor will label, according to HISD cabling standards, all cable runs at the MDF/IDF and Station Cable locations. Cable counts and assignments will be the responsibility of HISD or trustee.

• Upon completion, the Contractor will provide the following documentation:

1. A document indicating the MDF and IDF cable count assignments.

2. Test results of all cable plans and distances between MDF, IDF, and MDF/IDF to Station Termination locations.

3. An updated cabling location table indicating:

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 Cable drop label/identifier  Location of each drop by room number  Location of each drop by north, south, east, or west wall, or power pole where applicable  Location of each drop by orientation/permanent landmark in the room  A corresponding cross-reference for each drop identifying the source IDF/MDF identifier  A corresponding cross-reference for each drop identifying the source IDF/MDF building(s)  A corresponding cross-reference for each drop identifying the source IDF/MDF floor  A corresponding cross-reference for each drop identifying the source IDF/MDF room number  All information contained in the cabling location table will be delivered to HISD via both hard-copy/paper and electronic format.  One hard copy of each updated cabling location table will be posted in the location wiring closet ( IDF/MDF), attached to or inside the rack or enclosure.  All documentation becomes the property of HISD  All document costs must be itemized and included in the quoted price for each project.

4. An updated floor-plan providing visual identification of the drops or IDFs added for the installation(s) at the site:

 HISD will provide, where/when available, a floor-plan for the purposes of updating HISD drawings.  If a floor-plan does not exist for a site, contractor is instructed to use either a copy of the site’s fire escape floor- plan or create a reasonably accurate hand-drawn floor-plan of the building and floors to be affected by the installation, attaching accurate dimension and orientation markings

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Fiber Optic Minimum Specifications Cable Installation • Fiber optic cable shall be tight-buffer tube construction, all dielectric. Requirements Outer cable sheath construction will be of NEC Rated OFNP (PLENUM) Jacket – Flame retardant material.

• Each buffer tube within a cable must be color coded with none of the same colors appearing in one cable. Each fiber within a buffer tube must be color coded with none of the same colors appearing in the same buffer tube.

• Jumpers will be premium performance two-fiber dual sub-unit cable, OFNR or OFNP classified round type for routing inside cabinet spaces.

Terminations / Connections / Splicing

• Entire cable runs will be installed in one continuous length from bulkhead connector to bulkhead connector, including coiled loops, without splices or repairs.

• The optical fiber splice loss, mechanical or fusion, will be less than or equal to 0.30 dB.

• Insertion loss will be less than or equal to 0.75 dB.

• The performance parameters for multi-mode fiber will be less than 3.5 dB of attenuation per km at the 850 nm wavelength.

• The performance parameters for single-mode fiber will be less than 1.0 dB of attenuation per km at the 1310 nm wavelength.

• All fiber distribution panels will have plastic dust caps on each unused fiber termination.

• Multi-mode fiber patch cables will be terminated with ‘SC’ connectors and in accordance with industry standards.

• Bulkhead distribution cabinets must have phenolic labels showing cable numbers and far end location for each cable terminated in the cabinet.

• Aerial installation of fiber optic cable is prohibited unless written approval is received from HISD.

• Cable installation shall meet all manufacturer specifications for tensile loading, bend radius, and vertical rise. All pulls involving a

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winch must be monitored for tension and cannot exceed the maximum tensile rating.

• Lubricants may be used to facilitate pulling of cables but the lubricant must not be harmful to the cable, the raceway or humans.

• A swivel-pulling head must be used on all pulls to prevent twisting of the cable as it is pulled into place.

• Fiber-optic cable and interducts installed in a cable tray should be fastened to the tray with UV resistant tie wraps at loft intervals.

• Each time a cable enters a cabinet or junction box it must be securely tied down with cable ties.

• No individual exposed fibers will be permitted.

• Cable entrances into equipment or cabinets must be protected with insulated bushings or grommets.

• A minimum of ten feet of extra cable should be coiled as a service loop at the end of each run.

• Two, one meter lengths of cable, cut from each reel of cable supplied, will be provided to HISD as permanent retention samples. These samples are to be neatly tagged with the manufacturer’s cable numbers, serial number, and reel number.

Fiber Acceptance / Testing / Documentation

Each individual fiber of the fiber optic cable will be given two optical time domain reflecto-meter (OTDR) attenuation tests. The first test will be conducted on the reel and the second after installation. Multi-mode traces should be tested at 850 nano-meters and single-mode at 1300 nano-meters. A broken fiber will cause rejection of the entire cable. The rejected cable must be replaced. The OTDR printouts must be delivered to HISD as part of the complete documentation for the project/installation. The printouts must show the date and time of test, legend scale and OTDR settings, as well as the cable number tested, fiber number tested, total dB loss, wavelength used for testing, graphical scale with loss and distance per division. The final OTDR test must be done in both directions. The person conducting the tests must legibly sign the test results.

Warranty

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• The Contractor will be required to offer a warranty on all labor and material associated with the Copper Cable installation for a minimum of fifteen years after Houston Independent School District’s acceptance of the system.

• The Contractor will be required to offer a warranty on all labor and material associated with the Fiber Optic Cable installation for a minimum of fifteen years after Houston Independent School District’s acceptance of the system.

• The Contractor will include a warranty, providing a definition of the acceptance period.

Materials

All materials will be supplied by an approved Vendor, or Contractor, and become the property of HISD.

Labeling Information

Contractor will label wall outlet covers on top or front with the cable drop identifier according to HISD cabling standards. Contractor will also label both ends of the cable within four inches of the termination with the same label identifier. These labels will be machine-printed, Brady or equivalent. Contractor will label all fiber optic cables at both ends of the cable within four inches of the termination with the same label numbers. These labels will be machine printed Brady (or equivalent) labels. Bulkhead distribution cabinets must have phenolic labels showing cable numbers and far end location for each cable terminated in the cabinet. Duplicate labeling of bulkheads, panels, and distribution frames at a site are unacceptable and will be the responsibility of the contractor to correct at no charge to HISD.

Color Coding

• All Cat 5E data cables will be blue.

• All Cat 5E data jacks will be blue.

• All Cat 6 data cables will be green.

• All Cat 6 data jacks will be green.

• All voice cables will be white or gray.

• All voice jacks will be white or beige. Green may be used if a plastic icon is placed on the jack to identify it as being for voice.

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Workmanship

All services provided will be professional and conform to the highest standards for industry practices. Houston Independent School District reserves the right to halt any installation due to poor workmanship. All work shall be defect free and the installer will replace, at their expense, any work found to be defective.

Surveys and Quotes

Written quotation and specifications of all materials will be provided to HISD before project commencement. Any changes in materials, labor required, or labor rates will require prior approval from HISD.

Asbestos Clearance

Before beginning any cabling job, an asbestos clearance must be granted for the location and scope of work to be performed. The clearance is granted from Houston Independent School Districts, Facilities Maintenance and Operations Hazardous Materials Department. The Installer/Certifier will coordinate clearance of the job and site before commencing the cabling project. All Vendor’s or Contractor’s employees and sub-contractors are required to attend an Asbestos-Awareness certification class provided by Districts Hazardous Materials Department.

Material / Trash Disposal

The installer must completely remove all residual material and trash due to the cabling project. All disposal action will be in accordance with applicable laws and regulations. Material will not be disposed of on premise or in dumpsters or trash containers on any Houston Independent School District premises.

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Acceptable Conduct & Vendor / Contractor Conduct & On-Site Procedures Procedures

General:

• No smoking is allowed anywhere within the boundaries of any school or HISD facility, including sidewalks. • No eating or drinking except in designated areas. • No firearms allowed anywhere within the boundaries of any school or HISD facility, failure to comply will result in prosecution. • No pocket knives allowed outside of pockets. Orange handled cable knife only is allowed. • Do not spend extra time researching cable drops that are not in your scope of work. The employees at the schools may try to add locations. Always be courteous, but don’t get into lengthy conversations about extra drops.

Asbestos:

• This procedure will be adhered to without exception. It is not the responsibility of the technician to change or alter these rules.

• The schools in HISD have been previously surveyed for traces of asbestos. There is an environmental division within HISD that deal with these issues. There are schools that are known to have asbestos (HOT SPOTS) in them. The majority of these asbestos areas include blown in ceiling insulation, floor tiles, and the materials that cover pipes. There may also be walls and other construction materials containing asbestos.

• If there is a known hot spot the project manager or the installation manager must be notified to continue work. Each school should have documentation (similar to an MSDS sheet) in each school in the main office if the technician would like further information. This book may not contain the most current documentation and should only be used for additional reference.

• The safety of all humans is a priority. If you have questions about any asbestos or safety, please ask the project manager, installation manager, or quality assurance.

Hardware:

The same hardware is normally used throughout each project or site. The following is a brief list of what should be used: • Belden 7882A green Category 6 cable

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• Blue and green Panduit jack inserts • Panduit face-plates • Panduit surface boxes • Panduit 48 – 72 port patch panels • Chatsworth racks – wall & floor mount, as well as secure enclosure • Where applicable – rack mount shelf for electronic equipment Wire- minders – both vertical and horizontal rack mount • Caddy rings • Fire-seal putty • Corning 12 port fiber boxes • Corning inserts • Corning lan-guards • Corning SC connectors • One inch white plenum interduct • Multi-mode fiber patch cables (Corning or better duplex 15’ LC-SC and SC-SC) • Corning 6 strand plenum fiber • Category 6 rated copper patch cables (6’ & 12’) • Waterproof and metal junction boxes • Two gang waterproof boxes • Seal-tite (1/2” and 2”) • Panduit wire molding and duct

Site planning:

When entering a school, go immediately to the office, sign in, and announce your arrival. Contact the principal, assistant principal, computer personnel, Teacher/Technologist, and / or the plant operator. Obtain a copy of the floor-plan of the school from your supervisor before the project begins. If a copy of the floor-plan is not available you must hand sketch one or ask for a copy of the floor-plan from the school ( A fire-escape plan depicting the sites floor-plan will be readily available ). Identify where the BCR/MDF, FCR/IDF, BDP, & server room locations are on the floor-plan. Take the time to ask for assistance, it may be difficult to get cooperation with the school personnel, but this information is necessary. All cable locations installed must be neatly marked on a print and turned in with your paperwork upon completion of the project.

If this floor-plan is not legible or inaccurate you may be required to return to the site, on your own time. This is important documentation and it is part of the installation and must be returned with your paperwork.

As soon as you have walked the site, make sure that you have all the materials required to finish the job. If you need any materials for the day or the next you must call those materials in to your supervisor IMMEDIATELY. Please avoid calling late in the afternoon.

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Copper:

• Every cable drop location consists of 2 cables minimum.

• NOTE: The school buildings are old and have been renovated many times. Notice how previous cable runs have been installed. If there is a neater way do so. If there is no drop ceiling in the main corridors and hallways then use HISD standard Panduit duct or J- hooks to install. Use Panduit latch-duct when running vertically (up and down). Do not tie-wrap to existing conduits and fixtures. It is not okay to tie-wrap to existing objects (cables, pipes). Always keep in mind how visible the cabling installation is from the hall. Tie- wrap as needed to keep the cable from sagging. Students may damage cable if they can reach it. Run cables to the nearest IDF or Hub. Look for the Server room, BCR/MDF, or FCR/IDF to note where the data cabling originates. In almost all schools the Server room has a Compaq 42U standing cabinet. The IDF that runs from the cabinet is not always in the same room as the server.

• If the cables exceed 295’ from the IDF to the station to be installed, a fiber optic cable must be installed and a new IDF must be built. Make sure you have located all of the pre-existing IDF’s at the site prior to building a new IDF/FCR and/or labeling any jacks, panels, or racks at the new IDF/FCR.

• NOTE: PLEASE PAY ATTENTION TO THE FOLLOWING INFO.: The face-plates must be marked with a ultra fine tip black permanent sharpie with a Brothers label over the handwritten sharpie identification (this procedure must be done so that identification remains if the Brother label falls off. Mark the new location with the IDF letter and the port number example (A-36). “A“ is for the IDF and “ 36 “ is for the port number. DO NOT LABEL EACH PANEL WITH A SEPARATE LETTER. ALL PANELS AT EACH IDF MUST BE THE SAME. Although the panels are already labeled, after the first panel has been filled (1-48) the other panel must be labeled in continuous sequencing (49-96). Other cable contractors have installed cables at these sites/schools. If there is not an IDF letter labeled on the panel; locate all of the other FCR/IDF and BCR/MDF locations at this site to determine the correct labeling sequence to be used for the new IDF/FCR. Locate the other FCR/IDF and BCD/MDF

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panels in the building, while doing so please mark the print of all IDF panels. If you can’t tell how many IDF/MDF panels are in the building try to assign a unique IDF/FCR identifier to the IDF/FCR based on research of the current labeling sample of jacks throughout the site/school. A plant operator from the site/school should be able to help locate Any additional IDF/FCR(s) at this site, if the IDF/FCR locations have not been identified on the current floor-plan. Example: There should not be more than 10 IDF’s in any school so pick a letter from “ K “ to “ Z “ (Do this ONLY if you cannot determine an accurate panel number and there is not anyone to assist you).

• As more cables are added to these buildings the necessity for an accurate labeling scheme is a priority. The Technology personnel from HISD must be able to locate these cables and IDF’s.

• When building an IDF, place wire-minder towards the top first then place patch-panel(s), then the next wire-minder. Place shelf (only if it is required ) for electronic equipment on bottom of one rack. If more than one rack is used, put one shelf for each rack (only if it is required ).

• All cables must be tested with a Level 3 Fluke Networks Cable Tester and the tester results must be downloaded at the vendor’s/contractor’s headquarters with the documentation department. This must be done to certify the cables with the Belden/Panduit/Corning warranty agreement.

• Leave 10’ service loops at IDF and station end where applicable. If the cables at the station end are exposed, as with buildings without a false ceiling, then a 12” service loop is acceptable to improve the aesthetics.

• Panduit latch-duct is used on all drops when the cable is not dropped inside the wall. When Panduit latch-duct is required; use at least 3 fasteners or more to anchor properly. It is not necessary to use angle fittings as long as it looks neat. If you are in a very clean area you may want to use the appropriate Panduit latch-duct fittings… use good judgment. Use coupler fittings at all joints of the installed Panduit latch-duct.

Fiber: Inside Cabling

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• The installation of fiber-optic cabling is basically the same for all sites/schools. The need for fiber-optic cabling is when copper cables exceed a distance of 300’ per EIA/TIA specifications. All fiber cables must be run inside of a 1” plenum rated interduct inside of the buildings unless the fiber is armored. DO NOT leave a pull string inside of the interduct when finished. Other contractors using this interduct for their cable may cause damage to the fiber.

• Splices of copper cabling are expressly forbidden.

• Splices of fiber-optic cabling are expressly forbidden except for terminations.

• AT least six strands of the fiber cable will be terminated with SC connectors. Make sure and leave at least 10’ of fiber strands coiled inside of fiber box for future connections.

• Make sure to label the fiber boxes on the outside top left corner of the box. Label the box with the IDF letter feeding from and to IDF and the type of fiber. If more than one type of fiber is in terminated, then mark multi-mode or single-mode on the bulkhead where the fiber is terminated. Do not just use the room number. Room number can be used in addition to the IDF letter only. Do not mark labels with the color of the strand. Use a black sharpie to write inside of the box and a brother label on the outside of the box. Clean your hands before labeling. Rub the labels with a blunt object (the end of your snips) over the entire surface of the labels to ensure that they stick.

• Use a dB light meter to test fiber after installation.

Fiber: Outside Cabling

• The specifications for outside cabling per HISD standards, is to use a conduit material referred to as seal-tite to house cables. This is a flexible metal tubing coated with an ultraviolet resistant material that will not breakdown in sunlight. The tubing most commonly used is in 1/2” and 2” diameters. Seal-tite is used in all outside cable runs for plenum rated copper and plenum rated fiber except when conduit is specifically bid into the job. The fiber cable is run in 1/2” seal- tite. A 2” should house as many as 21 cables or should feed no more than 2 classrooms. Leave a pull string in all seal-tite runs except fiber. Run a separate 1/2" seal-tite for each individual fiber run. • Do not run the seal-tite inside of the buildings. Do not allow the coating of the seal-tite to be run inside the building. Use fittings that screw into the tubing and can then be bolted to a back-box with a nut. Waterproof back- boxes are used for the entries into the buildings. A 2 gang

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back-box can be used for minimum copper runs. Back- boxes must be used for fiber cable runs on the both sides of a penetrated wall.

• The seal-tite cannot be run on roofs! Fiber-optic nor copper cabling should be run on top of or across roofs. Seal-tite, fiber-optic, and copper cabling can be run along walls, and underground. Try to plan outside runs in 100m sections. Splices of fiber-optic or copper cabling are expressly forbidden. Seal-tite must be tie-wrapped or strapped every 2 feet. Tie-wraps must be black UV (ultraviolet rated). Seal-tite runs on awnings must be secured on the edge of the awning with waterproof screws. All seal-tite penetrations must be waterproofed with silicon caulking material.

IDF: Notes

• When establishing a new IDF panel in a location, the following is required: Mount a painted/fireproof 4x4, or larger if required, board if an existing one can’t be used. Mount rack to one side. Do not overcrowd an existing board. Mount a Corning fiber box with one 6 port panel. Mount a 48 port patch panel on a wall mount rack or floor mount rack may be used.

Fire-seal:

• All penetrations will be made with 1” (for single runs) and 2” or larger (for multiple runs) holes with a EMT metallic conduit that projects out each side of the wall at least 2”. Fire-seal will be put into the ends and around the conduit.

Grounding:

Three grounding designs will be used. • Ground rack to metal building structure with paint removed. (NOT WATERPIPES) • Run ground to 10’ copper rod driven into ground outdoors. • Run ground to equipment room with proper ground rod.

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Paperwork:

• Pay attention to the scope of work on the work order or attached sheets.

• The information on the Installation sheet must have the following information for the job to be considered complete. Failure to do so will delay payment of invoices. 1. Start date. 2. Job number. 3. Location of job. 4. Scope of work 5. Part numbers on one line, description on the next line. 6. Description of work. 7. Completion date. 8. Technician’s names and hours worked. 9. Floor-plan and cabling location table with cable id (identifications), job number, and school name on floor-plan (see HISD parameter for “Cabling Location Table”.

• Note: Only write on the Installation sheet what was used. Do not follow the quantities item by item from the quoted parts lists to the Installation sheet. Include all shortages (125’ or less) in the amount of cable used.

• Switches, switch modules, hubs, fiber hubs, and transceivers serial numbers must be recorded on paperwork with the IDF locations.

• A signed delivery receipt is needed on all deliveries of patch cords.

• Turn in paperwork as soon as the job is completed.

Invoices:

• Invoices must have the following information or a delay in payment of invoices will result. 1. Invoice number 2. Job number 3. Quote number 4. Location of job 5. Completion date

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Common Cabling HISD Common Cabling Parts List Parts (HISD reserves the right to amend this list without prior notification)

Item Part Number Description Belden 1585A Category 5E Cable Blue Belden 7882A Category 6 Cable Green Panduit CBX4EI-A Surface Mount Box-4 Panduit CMBEI-X Blank Panduit XPPE4E1 Faceplate Panduit CJ588BU UTPCAT 5 RJ45 Jack-Mini Jack-Blue Panduit KJ588BU Mod Jack--Keystone Version Blue Panduit CJ688T3GR UTPCAT 6 RJ45 Jack-Mini Jack-Green Panduit KJ688T3GR Mod Jack--Keystone Version Green Panduit CPP48WBL 48 Port Patch Panel Panduit LD5E18-A 1" Latching Duct 8' Length Panduit LD10E18-A 1.5" Latching Duct 8' Length Chatsworth CPI 11961-518 38" Wall Mount Rack Chatsworth CPI 55053-503 Free Standing Floor Rack Chatsworth 10610-019 Ground Bar for 19" Rack Hubble RE4X 42” Wallmount Cabinet Corning 012X88-A8719-A3 Corning 6/50UM, 6/SM Fiber Corning WIC-012 Interconnect Center 12 Fiber Capacity Corning WIC- LAN Guard Protection Panel for WIC-012 Corning WIC-CPI-25 Connector Panel Pre-loaded w 6 MM Adapters Pyramid PLM100T 1" Interduct-Plenum with Tape F2LCSC50/12510G SC TO LC 5 MT PATCH CORD 50UM F2SCSC50/12510G SC TO SC 5 MT PATCH CORD 50UM F2CLCSTMM-55 ST TO LC 5 MT PATCH CORD 62.5/125 Panduit UTPSP3GR 3' Cat 6 Patch Cord Green Panduit UTPSP6GR 6' Cat 6 Patch Cord Green Panduit UTPSP12GR 12' Cat 6 Patch Cord Green Panduit UTPSP3YLF/N 3' Cross Over Cable TRIPP LITE IBAR 12/20ULTRA Tripp-Lite Surge Protector Rack-Mountable