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Before You Begin
- Obtain approval from Information Technology Communication Services (ITCS).
- Confirm you have required access and permissions for the building or project.
- Review the latest wiring standards document at UofL Policy Library.
- Prepare necessary accounts or credentials for project documentation.
- Gather tools for cable installation, labeling, and testing (e.g., cable testers, punch-down tools).
Objective or Task
You will follow the official UofL wiring standards to design, install, or modify communications wiring and related facilities in university-owned buildings.
Instructions
1. Review the Latest Standards
- Go to the UofL Wiring Standards Policy page.
- Example: Check Section 10 for approved cable types like Category 6A UTP for data and OM4 fiber for backbone connections.
2. Obtain ITCS Approval
- Contact ITCS before starting any wiring project.
- Example: Submit a floor plan showing proposed outlet locations and cable pathways.
3. Plan Service Entrance and Termination
- Coordinate with ITCS for outside plant cabling, conduits, and manholes.
- Example: Use 4-inch conduits for fiber entrance and ensure pull strings are installed for future upgrades.
4. Design Telecommunications Rooms
- Follow requirements for cable, racks, panels, and wire dress.
- Example: Install two-post racks for patch panels and switches, maintain minimum 36-inch clearance around racks, and provide dedicated HVAC for cooling.
5. Install Communication Outlets
- Place outlets according to standards for location and installation.
- Example: Position outlets 18 inches above finished floor and 6 feet apart in classrooms; use dual-port faceplates for voice and data.
6. Route Wiring Pathways
- Use approved conduit, cable trays, and support systems.
- Example: For horizontal runs, use cable trays in hallways and open-top J-hooks spaced every 4 feet in ceilings.
7. Ensure Protection, Grounding, and Bonding
- Implement lightning protection, grounding, and bonding as specified.
- Example: Bond all racks to the telecom ground busbar using #6 AWG copper; follow NEC Article 250 for grounding practices.
8. Inspect and Test Work
- Schedule inspections and perform required testing.
- Example: Test copper cabling to TIA/EIA-568-C standards for continuity and performance; certify fiber with OTDR testing.
9. Document the Installation
- Complete documentation according to UofL standards.
- Example: Include as-built drawings, cable test results, and labeling schemes in the final report.
10. Do Not Make Unauthorized Changes
- Only authorized ITS staff may install, manage, or change network infrastructure.
- Example: Adding a personal Wi-Fi router violates policy and may result in disconnection.
Outcome
After completing these steps, your wiring installation will meet UofL standards for safety, reliability, and compliance. You will avoid violations that could result in network disconnection or safety hazards.
Quick Reference Checklist for Installers
✔ Approval: ITCS approval obtained before work begins
✔ Cable Type: Use Category 6A for data, OM4 fiber for backbone
✔ Conduit Size: Minimum 4-inch for fiber entrance
✔ Telecom Room: Two-post racks, 36-inch clearance, HVAC installed
✔ Outlet Placement: 18 inches above floor, dual-port faceplates
✔ Pathways: Cable trays or J-hooks every 4 feet
✔ Grounding: Bond racks with #6 AWG copper to telecom ground busbar
✔ Testing: Copper tested to TIA/EIA-568-C, fiber certified with OTDR
✔ Documentation: As-built drawings and test results submitted
✔ Compliance: No unauthorized changes or personal devices
Further Readings
Need Additional Help
Contact the ITS HelpDesk: Call 502-852-7997 during business hours:
- Monday through Thursday: 6:00am – 10:00pm
- Friday: 6:00am – 5:00pm
- Saturday: 7:00am – 5:00pm
- Sunday: 10:00am – 10:00pm
- University Holidays: 7:00am – 5:00pm
- Closed on Thanksgiving, the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas.
If you have an emergency during off hours, call the HelpDesk to be transferred to an on-call technician, or leave your request on voicemail. Your call will be returned the next day starting at 7am unless you specify a time.
Live Chat: Chat with the ITS HelpDesk during business hours.
Submit a Ticket: Use the self-service portal at http://service.louisville.edu to log requests or check the status of existing tickets.
In-Person Support: Visit the iTechConnect 1:1 help located on the lower level of the Miller Information Technology Center, Belknap Campus, during business hours.