Purpose:

This document is to serve as a guideline for network / data cabling for renovations and construction projects. Technology Services Centre supports over 8000 network / data outlets on both the Orillia and Thunder Bay campus. This document is a living document that will be updated when required. The goals of this documents are to minimize the operational expense related to maintenance costs, to reduce costs of unnecessary tooling, to ensure quality and stability of the communications networks and wiring infrastructure and to set minimum standards so that performance expectations are met.

Network / Data Outlets:

Network cabling quality and testing is critical to the success of Lakehead University’s Data Network. Lakehead University has standardized on a copper Belden infrastructure for data / network outlets.

Category 5 and 5E is no longer used for new installations on campus.

Category 6 cabling is our requirement for all new 100 Megabit and Gigabit installations.

Belden IBDN/gigaflex-white Cat6 cable-2412 series-FT4

Belden IBDN/gigaflex-white Cat6 cable-2413 series-FT6

The above is Technology Services Centre’s minimum requirements for cable types for all new network installations. No substitutes are acceptable. The cable’s maximum length can not exceed 89.9 Meters (295 Feet), this includes any splicing or BIX Cross Connect risers. All cables will be terminated on Belden CAT6+ 2400 system outlets and at the wiring closet on rack mounted Belden Gigabix Cross Connect System to maintain system performance.

Category 6A cabling is our requirement for all new 10 Gigabit installations.

Belden IBDN / 10GX Cable, CMR, Nonbonded-pair, 10GX12 White

Belden IBDN / 10GX Cable, CMP, Nonbonded-pair, 10GX13 White

The above is Technology Services Centre’s recommended requirement for cable types for all new network installations. No substitutes are acceptable. The cable’s maximum length can not exceed 89.9 Meters (295 Feet), this includes any splicing or Cross Connect risers. All cables will be terminated on Belden 10GX system components both at the outlet and at the wiring closet to maintain system performance.

Category 6 and 6A in general.

Additional slack to be provided at both ends of cable to provide for re-termination and ease of management.

After installation warranty and test data should be provided for all cable and network drops. Additional testing may be completed by Technology Service Centre staff to confirm installation and warranty expectations are met. Cabling not meeting warranty and installation requirements will be adjusted to meet expectations at installers expense.

Design of cabling Systems

A certified Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD) by Building Industry Consulting Service International (BICSI) are required as part of the design and build team to consult with Technology Services Centre staff and outline the expected requirements . Designated Technology Services Center staff will work with the design team or project management team to determine appropriate locations for network drops / outlets based upon program applications and provide specific instructions on cable termination.

Installation of cabling Systems

Installation of new cabling systems are to be completed only by a Certified Systems Vendor (CSV). CSVs who sell and install Belden IBDN Certified Systems in accordance with all applicable guidelines are authorized to offer a Belden 25-year Product Warranty and Belden’s Lifetime Application Assurance Program to their end-user customers. Certified Systems Vendors can be located by going to the following link https://edeskv2.belden.com//associates/index.cfm?event=home&asc=CSV. Installers will provide a copy of their CSV certificate in bid submission, tender or RFP processes. A Belden Certified System Certificate is also required to be provided with-in 60 days completion from the installer.

Cable Trays / Pathways and Access

Technology Services Centre will work with the RCDD to recommend strategy in construction and renovation projects to determine best practice for all areas of communication infrastructure in a project. Communication infrastructure pathways (conduits, ducts, trays) will be designed for accessibility and for future growth requirements.

Data Distribution Closet Terminations

Termination of cabling will be on supplied Belden 2400 or 10GX series compatible product. In most application product will terminate in a existing or new 19 inch communications rack. Assigned Technology Services Centre staff will work with the project’s RCDD to determine termination requirements and specifications.

Labelling:

Labelling of all cables and data / network outlets is a requirement. All labelling will be completed using the EIA/TIA 606-A standard. Building and room designations to be provided based on Lakehead University’s standard room numbering practice.

Data Distribution Closet Space and Environmental Considerations:
Changes in technology have led to increased density of electronics in wiring closets. These increases in capacity have also led to additional environmental challenges with-in the space. Data Distribution and Data closets now require additional space, all season cooling, and often UPS and generator / emergency power requirements. Each project will be looked at by Technology Services Centre. Project density requirements will determine space, cooling, power and other environmental requirements. Technology Services Centre will work with project management teams to understand the building or renovation requirements and determine appropriate space and conditions for Data Distribution or Data Closets.

If new communication racks or cabinets are required or if the installer will be terminating cable in an existing communications rack as part of the project Technology Services Centre will provide part numbers and a physical description of installation including rack / cabinet layout, minimum requirements for hardware, access space, environmental and power requirements.