An overview of the
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-A Cabling Standard
Introduction:
- This second edition of the commercial building telecommunications cabling standard incorporates the technical content of TSB-36, TSB40-A, and draft TSB53. As published, the second edition of the 568 cabling standard takes precedence over these technical bulletins.
- Specifications for 62.5/125 µm optical fiber and single mode optical fiber cables, connectors and cabling practices have been added.
- Guidelines are provided for UTP and optical fiber link performance.
Purpose:
- To specify a generic voice and data telecommunications cabling system that will support a multi-product, multi-vendor environment.
- To provide direction for the design of telecommunications equipment and cabling products intended to serve commercial enterprises.
- To enable the planning and installation of a structured cabling system for commercial buildings that is capable of supporting the diverse telecommunications needs of building occupants.
- To establish performance and technical criteria for various types of cable and connecting hardware and for cabling system design and installation.
Scope:
Specifications are intended for telecommunications installations that are "office oriented". Requirements are for a structured cabling system with a usable life in excess of 10 years.
Specifications address:
- Recognized Media
- Topology
- Cabling Distances
- User Interfaces
- Cable and Connecting Hardware Performance
- Installation Practices
- Link Performance
Cabling Elements:
- Horizontal Cabling
- Horizontal Cross-connect (HC)
- Horizontal Cable
- Telecommunications Outlet/Connector
- Transition Point (optional)
- Backbone Cabling
- Main Cross-connect (MC)
- Intermediate Cross-connect (IC)
- Interbuilding Backbone Cable
- Intrabuilding Backbone Cable
- Work Area (WA)
- Telecommunications Closet (TC)
- Equipment Room (ER)
- Entrance Facility (EF)
- Administration*
* Although administration is addressed to a limited extent, the governing specification for telecommunications administration is ANSI/TIA/EIA-606.
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