FACILITIES MANAGEMENT – DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION EDITION: SEPTEMBER 17, 2018

4202 E. FOWLER AVENUE, OPM 100 | TAMPA, FLORIDA 33620-7550 PHONE: (813) 974-2845 | WEBSITE: USF.EDU/FM-DC

DESIGN & CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

DIVISION 27 COMMUNICATIONS

DIVISION 27 COMMUNICATIONS
SECTION 27 05 36 CABLE TRAYS FOR COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS ............................................ 2
SECTION 27 10 00 STRUCTURED CABLING SYSTEM – CATEGORY 6A CABLING .......................... 6
SECTION 27 11 00 COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT ROOM FITTINGS ............................................ 34
SECTION 27 11 10 COMMUNICATIONS ROOM BUILDING SPECIFICATIONS .................................. 37
SECTION 27 13 00 COMMUNICATIONS BACKBONE CABLING ......................................................... 39
SECTION 27 15 00 COMMUNICATIONS HORIZONTAL CABLING ...................................................... 46
SECTION 27 41 00 COMMON WORK RESULTS FOR AUDIO/VISUAL SYSTEMS ............................. 53
SECTION 27 41 10 SMALL CLASSROOM AUDIO/VISUAL SYSTEMS ................................................ 68
SECTION 27 41 15 LARGE CLASSROOM AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS .................................................. 70
SECTION 27 41 20 CONFERENCE ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS .................................................. 73
SECTION 27 41 25 CONFERENCE ROOM WITH VTC AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS ............................... 76
SECTION 27 41 34 BROADBAND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM ................................................................ 79
SECTION 27 41 35 LARGE VENUE AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS ............................................................. 89

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

SECTION 27 05 36 CABLE TRAYS FOR COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 USF GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENT
A. Electrical distribution shall be separated from horizontal cabling distribution by a minimum of
12 inches.
B. Do not mix systems, such as power, communications, and data processing, in a single cable
tray.
C. Do not mix cables with separate insulation levels, such as 600, 5,000, and 15,000 V in a single
cable tray.
D. Install barriers to separate cables of different systems, such as power, communications, and
data processing; or of different levels, such as 600, 5,000, and 15,000 V.

1.2 SUMMARY
A. Section Includes:
1. Ladder cable trays-use for intermediate distribution frame (IDF) and building distribution
frames (BDF).
2. Wire-basket cable trays-used for horizontal cable distribution.
3. Single-rail cable trays. (not permitted)
4. Trough cable trays. (not permitted)
5. Fiberglass cable trays. (not permitted)

1.3 ACTION SUBMITTALS

A. Product Data: For each type of cable tray.
1. Include data indicating dimensions and finishes for each type of cable tray indicated.
B. Shop Drawings: For each type of cable tray.
1. Show fabrication and installation details of cable trays, including plans, elevations, and
sections of components and attachments to other construction elements. Designate
components and accessories, including clamps, brackets, hanger rods, splice-plate
connectors, expansion-joint assemblies, straight lengths, and fittings.

1.4 INFORMATIONAL SUBMITTALS

A. Coordination Drawings: Floor plans and sections, drawn to scale, on which the following items
are shown and coordinated with each other, using input from installers of the items involved:
1. Include scaled cable tray layout and relationships between components and adjacent
structural, electrical, and mechanical elements.
a. Provided scaled, coordination drawings both printed and CAD.
2. Vertical and horizontal offsets and transitions.
3. Clearances for access above and to side of cable trays.
4. Vertical elevation of cable trays above the floor or below bottom of ceiling structure.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR CABLE TRAYS
A. Cable Trays and Accessories: Identified as defined in National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA) 70 and marked for intended location, application, and grounding.
1. Source Limitations: Obtain cable trays and components from single manufacturer.
B. Sizes and Configurations: Identify size and configurations using a Cable Tray Schedule on
Drawings. Indicate specific requirements for types, materials, sizes, maximum spans, and
maximum concentrated loads and configurations.
C. Structural Performance: for specific values for the following parameters:
1. Uniform Load Distribution: Capable of supporting a uniformly distributed load on the
indicated support span when supported as a simple span and tested according to National
Electrical Manufacturers Association (NEMA) VE 1.
2. Concentrated Load: A load applied at midpoint of span and centerline of tray.
3. Load and Safety Factors: Applicable to both side rails and rung capacities.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

2.2 LADDER CABLE TRAYS

A. Basis-of-Design Product: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product from
manufacturers listed below.
1. Cablofil/Legrande
2. Cooper B-Line, Inc.

2.3 WIRE-BASKET CABLE TRAYS

A. Basis-of-Design Product: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product from
manufacturers listed below
1. Cablofil/Legrande
2. Cooper B-Line, Inc.
B. Description:
1. Configuration: Wires are formed into a standard 2 inches X 4 inches wire mesh pattern
with intersecting wires welded together. Mesh sections must have at least one bottom
longitudinal wire along entire length of section.
2. Materials: High-strength-steel longitudinal wires with no bends.
3. Safety Provisions: Wire ends along wire-basket sides (flanges) rounded during
manufacturing to maintain integrity of cables and installer safety.
4. Sizes:
a. Straight sections shall be furnished in standard 118 inches lengths.
b. Wire-Basket Depth: 2 inches usable loading depth by 12 inches, 18 inches, or 24
inches wide.
5. Connector Assemblies: Bolt welded to plate shaped to fit around adjoining tray wires and
mating plate. Mechanically joins adjacent tray wires to splice sections together or to create
horizontal fittings.
6. Connector Assembly Capacity: Splices located within support span shall not diminish rated
loading capacity of cable tray.
7. Hardware and Fasteners: As recommended by wire basket cable tray manufacturer.

2.4 MATERIALS AND FINISHES

A. Steel:
1. Straight Section and Fitting Side Rails and Rungs: Steel complies with the minimum
mechanical properties of American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM A 1011/A
1011M, SS, Grade 33 or ASTM A 1008/A 1008M, Grade 33, Type 2.
2. Steel Tray Splice Plates: ASTM A 1011/A 1011M, HSLAS, Grade 50, Class 1.
3. Fasteners: Steel complies with the minimum mechanical properties of ASTM A 510/A,
510M, Grade 1008.
4. Finish: Powder-coat enamel paint.
a. Powder-Coat Enamel: Cable tray manufacturer's recommended primer and corrosion-
inhibiting treatment, with factory-applied powder-coat paint.
b. Hardware: Chromium-zinc plated, ASTM F 1136.
B. Aluminum: (not permitted)
C. Stainless Steel: (not permitted)

2.5 CABLE TRAY ACCESSORIES

A. Fittings: Tees, crosses, risers, elbows, and other fittings as indicated, of same materials and
finishes as cable tray.
B. Covers: Solid, Louvered, Ventilated-hat, 2-in-3 pitch type made of same materials and with
same finishes as cable tray.
C. Barrier Strips: Same materials and finishes as for cable tray.
D. Cable tray supports and connectors, including bonding jumpers, as recommended by cable
tray manufacturer.

2.6 SOURCE QUALITY CONTROL

A. Testing: Test and inspect cable trays according to NEMA VE 1.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 CABLE TRAY INSTALLATION
A. Install cable trays according to NEMA VE 2.
B. Install cable trays as a complete system, including fasteners, hold-down clips, support systems,
barrier strips, adjustable horizontal and vertical splice plates, elbows, reducers, tees, crosses,
cable dropouts, adapters, covers, and bonding.
C. Install cable trays so that the tray is accessible for cable installation and all splices are
accessible for inspection and adjustment.
D. Remove burrs and sharp edges from cable trays.
E. Fasten cable tray supports to building structure.
F. Design fasteners and supports to carry cable tray, the cables, and a concentrated load of 200
lbs. Place supports so that spans do not exceed maximum spans on schedules and provide
clearances shown on Drawings. Install intermediate supports when cable weight exceeds the
load-carrying capacity of the tray rungs.
G. Construct supports from channel members, threaded rods, and other appurtenances furnished
by cable tray manufacturer. Arrange supports in trapeze or wall-bracket form as required by
application.
H. Support bus assembly to prevent twisting from eccentric loading.
I. Install center-hung supports for single-rail trays designed for 60% versus 40% eccentric loading
condition, with a safety factor of three (3).
J. Locate and install supports according to NEMA VE 2. Do not install more than one cable tray
splice between supports.
K. Support center support hangers, trapeze hangers for wire-basket trays with 3/8 inch diameter
rods.
L. Install expansion connectors where cable trays cross building expansion joints and in cable
tray runs that exceed dimensions recommended in NEMA VE 2. Space connectors and set
gaps according to applicable standard.
M. Make changes in direction and elevation using manufacturer's recommended fittings.
N. Make cable tray connections using manufacturer's recommended fittings.
O. Seal penetrations through fire and smoke barriers.
P. Install capped metal sleeves with no more than a 40% fill ratio for future cables through firestop-
sealed cable tray penetrations of fire and smoke barriers.
Q. Install cable trays with enough workspace to permit access for installing cables.

3.2 CABLE TRAY GROUNDING

A. Ground cable trays according to NFPA 70 unless additional grounding is specified. Comply
with requirements in Section 26 05 26, Grounding and Bonding for Electrical Systems.
B. Cable trays with communications cable shall be bonded together with splice plates listed for
grounding purposes or with listed bonding jumpers.
C. Cable trays with control conductors shall be bonded together with splice plates listed for
grounding purposes or with listed bonding jumpers.
D. When using epoxy or powder-coat painted cable trays as a grounding conductor, completely
remove coating at all splice contact points or ground connector attachment. After completing
splice-to-grounding bolt attachment, repair the coated surfaces with coating materials
recommended by cable tray manufacturer.
E. Bond cable trays to power source for cables contained within with bonding conductors sized
according to NFPA 70, Article 250.122, and Size of Equipment Grounding Conductors.
F. Bond all transitions of metallic pathways.

3.3 CABLE INSTALLATION

A. Install cables only when each cable tray run has been completed and inspected.
B. Fasten cables on horizontal runs with cable clamps or cable ties according to NEMA VE 2.
Tighten clamps only enough to secure the cable, without indenting the cable jacket. Install
cable ties with a tool that includes an automatic pressure-limiting device.
C. Fasten cables on vertical runs to cable trays every 18 inches.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

D. Fasten and support cables that pass from one cable tray to another or drop from cable trays to
equipment enclosures. Fasten cables to the cable tray at the point of exit and support cables
independent of the enclosure. The cable length between cable trays or between cable tray
and enclosure shall be no more than 72 inches.
E. Tie MI cables down every 36 inches where required to provide a 2 hour fire rating and every
72 inches elsewhere.
F. In existing construction, remove inactive or dead cables from cable trays.

3.4 CONNECTIONS
A. Remove paint from all connection points before making connections. Repair paint after the
connections are completed.
B. Connect pathways to cable trays according to requirements in NEMA VE 2.

3.5 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL

A. Perform the following tests and inspections with the assistance of a factory-authorized service
representative:
1. After installing cable trays and after electrical circuitry has been energized, survey for
compliance with requirements.
2. Visually inspect cable insulation for damage. Correct sharp corners, protuberances in
cable trays, vibrations, and thermal expansion and contraction conditions, which may
cause or have caused damage.
3. Verify that the number, size, and voltage of cables in cable trays do not exceed that
permitted by NFPA 70. Verify that communications or data-processing circuits are
separated from power circuits by barriers or are installed in separate cable trays.
4. Verify that there are no intruding items such as pipes, hangers, or other equipment in the
cable tray.
5. Remove dust deposits, industrial process materials, trash of any description, and any
blockage of tray ventilation.
6. Visually inspect each cable tray joint and each ground connection for mechanical
continuity. Check bolted connections between sections for corrosion. Clean and retorque
in suspect areas.
7. Check for improperly sized or installed bonding jumpers.
8. Check for missing, incorrect, or damaged bolts, bolt heads, or nuts. When found, replace
with specified hardware.
9. Perform visual and mechanical checks for adequacy of cable tray grounding; verify that all
takeoff raceways are bonded to cable trays. Test entire cable tray system for continuity.
Maximum allowable resistance is 1 ohm.
B. Prepare test and inspection reports.

3.6 PROTECTION
A. Protect installed cable trays and cables.
1. Install temporary protection for cables in open trays to safeguard exposed cables against
falling objects or debris during construction. Temporary protection for cables and cable
tray can be constructed of wood or metal materials and shall remain in place until the risk
of damage is over.
2. Repair damage to galvanized finishes with zinc-rich paint recommended by cable tray
manufacturer.
3. Repair damage to paint finishes with matching touchup coating recommended by cable
tray manufacturer.

END OF SECTION 27 05 36

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

SECTION 27 10 00 STRUCTURED CABLING SYSTEMS -- CATEGORY 6A CABLING

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 SCOPE OF WORK
A. This document specifies University of South Florida (USF) requirements for product design,
performance, quality assurance, and Contractor responsibilities for execution of work to install
a complete Category 6A structured cabling system. Execution of work includes delivery and
storage of materials, preparation, installation, field-testing, and project completion tasks.
System certification and warranty submittal requirements for completed work and future Moves,
Adds and Changes (MAC’s) are also specified in this document. Compliance to applicable
codes, standards and regulations is required for all construction work performed.

1.2 SUMMARY
A. Section includes products and execution requirements pertaining to Division 27,
Communications systems. Copper and fiber backbone and horizontal cabling along with
support systems are covered under this document.
B. Product specifications, general design considerations, and installation guidelines are provided
in this document. Quantities for all cabling products shall be provided as required to complete
cabling to all work stations as shown on floor plans.
C. The Approved Contractor shall furnish the required materials and labor to complete the
Category 6A cabling infrastructure specified in the contract documents.
D. Construction work shall comply with contract drawings, specifications, project completion
schedules, and applicable codes and standards.
E. Work shall include all detailed execution requirements, such as preparation, installation,
system certification, and project closeout activities according to the contract.
F. The same manufacturer’s product shall be utilized throughout the entire project for all copper
and fiber optic cabling and connectivity.
G. Substitutions: No substituted products shall be installed except with written approval by Owner.

1.3 DATA AND VOICE COMMUNICATIONS CONTRACT WORK

A. General:
1. Furnish all labor, materials, tools, equipment and services for the installation in accordance
with general provisions of the specifications and the Contract Drawings.
2. Completely coordinate with work of all other trades.
3. Provide all supplementary or miscellaneous items, appurtenances and devices incidental
to or necessary for a sound, secure and complete installation, whether or not specifically
indicated in the Contract Documents.
4. Provide all floor penetrations, floor sleeves, conduit raceways, wall penetrations, etc. not
shown on the electrical plans but needed for the routing of cabling provided herein.
5. Provide firestopping.
6. Provide labor for patch cord installation at horizontal patch panel in the TR and TC.
7. Provide labor for testing horizontal and backbone cabling.
8. Provide labor for Wireless LAN Access Point, Antennas and Power Injector installation and
system testing.
9. Provide Telecommunications grounding and bonding.
B. Provide complete installation for Structured Telecommunications Cabling System including but
not limited to:
1. Category 6A UTP horizontal cables.
2. Multimode & Singlemode optical fiber backbone cables.
3. Work area telecommunication outlets.
4. Wall mounted outlets.
5. Equipment mounting racks and rack enclosures.
6. Category 6A modular patch panels.
7. Optical fiber patch panels.
8. Optical fiber connectors.
9. Data and Voice Category 6A patch cords

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

10. Optical fiber patch cords.

11. Wire management panels.
12. Field testing.
13. Conduit floor sleeves, conduit and supports required for installation of all cabling.
14. Firestopping.

1.4 SUBMITTALS
A. Submittals shall be complete and at one time. Partial submittals will not be considered.
B. Material lists, schedule of values, lists of subcontractors, and proof of Contractor qualifications
shall be provided to Engineer upon request and shall follow the guidelines as stated in the
Division 1, General Requirements.
C. Show drawings shall be submitted. All communication system shop drawings shall include:
1. Manufacturer’s data (specifications, cut sheet).
2. Wiring diagrams for all installed cabling.
3. Equipment rack/cabinet layouts.
4. Proposed labeling schemes and labeling method.
5. List of cabling distances (typical and maximum) for all structured cabling
6. Submit copies of certifications for all technicians and the project manager who will support
this project. The certifications shall include:
a. Structured Cabling and termination equipment installation certifications for copper and
optical fiber connectivity and cabling.
b. Approved manufacturer classes satisfactorily completed.
7. Contractor shall submit a test plan that defines the tests required to ensure that the system
meets technical, operational, and performance specifications twenty (20) work days prior
to proposed test date.
8. Contractor will submit prior to testing, all Certificates of Calibration(s) for test equipment
being used on the project
9. Work shall not proceed without the Owner’s approval of the submitted items.
D. Drawings & Inspection of Site:
1. Floor plan drawings are to scale and typically are not dimensioned. The Contractor shall
not use scale drawings for equipment placement and clearances. Dimensions given on
drawings shall always take precedence over scaled drawings.
2. Any existing wires, utilities, or equipment shown on the drawings are shown for general
information and to the best knowledge of the Engineer. The Contractor shall field verify all
existing wires, utilities, or equipment.
3. The Contractor shall field verify distances and equipment placements coordinating
locations with other trades, construction managers, and general Contractor prior to
installation.
4. The Contractor shall review all site conditions prior to submitting a bid on this project. Any
obvious discrepancies between the site conditions and bidding documents shall be brought
to the attention of the Engineer at the time of bidding so clarification can be made by
addendum.
5. Change order requests for additional costs related to the Contractors misunderstanding
related to the amount of work involved and lack of knowledge related to the site conditions
will not be allowed.
E. Test Reports:
A. Submit copies of complete reports of all testing performed to the General Contractor
(Contractor), with copies to the Contractor and Engineer upon completion of job.

1.5 APPROVED CONTRACTOR

A. The Contractor shall have experience in the installation and testing of similar systems as
specified herein and shall provide references upon request (including the project name,
address, date of implementation, client name, title, telephone number, and project description.
B. All members of the installation team must be certified by the manufacturer as having completed
the necessary training to complete their part of the installation. All personnel shall be
adequately trained in the use of such tools and equipment as required.

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C. The Contractor bidding on communication systems specified herein shall be certified by the
connectivity Manufacturer to install, service, and warranty the specified product prior to the time
of bid and throughout the duration of the installation. Manufacturer certifications shall not be
project specific and should be valid for any and all projects completed by Contractor.
D. The Contractor must be certified to install a Fire-Stop system.
E. The Contractor shall own and maintain tools, installation equipment, and test equipment
necessary for successful installation and testing of optical and Category 5e, 6 & 6A premise
distribution systems.
F. The Owner reserves the right to require the Contractor to remove from the project any such
employee the Owner deems to be incompetent, careless or insubordinate.
G. The contractor shall have his place of business, official office not a residential dwelling, located
no more than 140 miles from the job site.
H. The Contractor must maintain a state Contractor’s license as required by the state.
I. The Contractor shall provide copies of certificates for proof of manufacturer’s training,
manufacturer’s certified installer, authorized distributor in the shop drawing submittal and at the
request of the engineer to verify compliance with specification prior to recommendations for
awarding bid.
J. The Approved Contractor shall assume the following responsibilities:
1. Execute construction in accordance with contract drawings and specifications.
2. Adhere to project schedules and job site rules.
3. Adhere to the quality, regulatory, logistics, and documentation requirements.
4. Furnish the cabling system certification and warranty provisions outlined in Section 27, 10
00, Part 1.
5. Adhere to the product requirements outlined in Section 27, 10 00, Part 2.
6. Adhere to the Execution guidelines outlined in Section 27, 10 00, Part 3.
K. Contractor shall also be included in the approved contractors list through USF Purchasing /
USF Information Technology (USF-IT) current Invitation to Negotiate (ITN) contract.

1.6 APPROVED PRODUCT MANAUFACTURER

A. The manufacturer of the Connectivity products specified in this document, as required for
construction of the cabling Infrastructure per contract documents shall be:
1. Hubbell Premise Wiring Category 6A
B. The manufacturer of the Cabling products specified in this document, as required for
construction of the copper cable Infrastructure per contract documents shall be:
1. General Cable Corporation Category 6A
C. The manufacturer of the fiber optic cabling products specified in this document, as required for
construction of the Fiber Optic cable per contract documents shall be:
1. Optical Cable Corporation (OCC)
D. Product substitutions are permitted under the Section 27 00 00, Paragraph 1.7, Product
Substitution herein below.

1.7 PRODUCT SUBSTITUTION

A. Product substitutions from other manufacturers are prohibited and shall require the approval of
USF representative 20 days prior to bid opening.

1.8 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Installed Category 6A balanced UTP and fiber cabling systems, pathways and distribution
facilities shall adhere to manufacturer’s instructions, contract drawings and specifications, and
applicable codes, standards and regulations.
B. Installed Category 6A balanced UTP cabling systems and field test results shall strictly adhere
to requirements of American National Standards Institute/Telecommunications Industry
Association, (ANSI/TIA-568-C.0, ANSI/TIA-568-C.1 and American National Standards
Institute/Telecommunications Industry Association/Electronic Industry Association,
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.2.
C. Installed optical fiber cabling systems and field test results shall strictly adhere to requirements
of ANSI/TIA-568-C.0 and ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3.

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D. Where applicable, all equipment, components, accessories and hardware shall be UL listed for
the intended purpose of the installation.
E. Installed products shall be manufactured by an International Standards Organization, ISO 9001
certified facility.
F. Installed products shall be free from defects in material or workmanship from the manufacturer,
and shall be of the quality indicated.
G. All methods of construction that are not specified in the contract documents shall be subject to
control and approval by the Owner or Owner’s Representative.
H. Installed products shall be lot-traceable by date code.
I. All critical internal manufacturing operations for installed products shall have documented in-
process inspection and testing according to ISO 9001.

1.9 DRAWINGS
A. Approved or preliminary contract drawings furnished at the time of bid solicitation shall serve
as the basis for product selection, creation of bills of material, and determination of labor
content.
B. Changes, additions, or deletions to contract drawings prior to awarding of the contract, shall
require an amendment to the original bid.
C. Prior to submitting the bid, in reviewing the contract drawings, the Approved Contractor shall:
1. Request the attention of the Engineer, Owner, or Design Agency to clarify any materials,
apparatus or work believed to be incorrect, inadequate, omitted, or in violation of applicable
codes, standards or regulations.
2. Note any contingencies related to unknown aspects of any drawings or specifications.
D. Contract drawings, prior to execution of the project, shall be formally approved and released
by the Engineer or Design Agency, and shall be approved by the Owner or Owner’s
Representative.
E. Execution of work shall be according to approved drawings, in addition to applicable
specifications and contractual obligations.

1.10 APPLICABLE STANDARDS, CODES AND REGULATIONS

A. Installation Standards: Cable installation shall comply with the following:
1. American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
a. ANSI/TIA-568-C.0, Generic Telecommunications Cabling for Customer Premises,
published 2009
b. ANSI/TIA-568-C.1, Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard,
published 2009
c. ANSI/TIA-568-C.2, Balanced Twisted-Pair Telecommunication Cabling and
Components Standard, published 2009
d. ANSI/TIA-568-C.3, Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard, published 2008
e. ANSITIA/EIA-569-B, Commercial Building Standards for Telecommunications
Pathways and Spaces, 2003
f. ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A, Administration Standard for Commercial Telecommunications
Infrastructure, 2002
g. ANSI/TIA-607-B, Commercial Building Grounding and Bonding Requirements for
Telecommunications, 2011
h. ANSI/TIA/EIA-942, Telecommunications Infrastructure for Data Centers, 2004
i. ANSI/TIA-1179, Healthcare Facility Telecommunications Infrastructure Standard
j. ANSI/ICEA S-83-596, Fiber Optic Premises Distribution Cable, 2001
k. ANSI/TIA/EIA-598, Color Coding of Optical Fiber Cables, 2001
l. ANSI/ICEA S-87-640, Fiber Optic Outside Plant Distribution Cable, 1999
m. ANSI/TIA/EIA-492AAC, Detail Specification for 850nm Laser-Optimized 50um Core
Diameter/125 um Cladding Diameter Class 1A Graded Index Multimode Optical
Fibers, 2003
n. ANSI/TIA/EIA-492CAA, Detail Specification for Class Iva Dispersion-Unshifted
Singlemode Optical Fibers, 2002
o. ANSI/TIA/EIA-758, Customer-Owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Cabling

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Standard, 2004
p. ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-7, Optical Power Loss Measurements of Installed Singlemode
Fiber Plant: OFSTP-7, 2002
q. ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-14-A, Optical Power Loss Measurements of Installed Multimode
Fiber Plant: OFSTP-14A, 2003
r. ANSI/TIA/EIA-TSB-125, Guidelines for Maintaining Optical Fiber Polarity Through
Reverse-Pair Positioning, 2001
s. ANSI/TIA/EIA-TSB-140, Additional Guidelines for Field Testing Length, Loss, and
Polarity of Optical Fiber Cabling Systems, 2004
t. ANSI/EIA-310-D, Cabinets, Racks, Panels and Associated Equipment, 1992
u. ANSI/TIA/EIA-604 (Series), FOCIS Fiber Optic Connector Intermateability Standard,
2000-2003
2. National Fire Protection Association, Inc., NFPA 70
3. National Electric Code (NEC), 2005
a. NEC Article 250: Grounding
b. NEC Article 386: Surface Metal Raceways
c. NEC Article 388: Surface Non-Metallic Raceways
d. NEC Article 800: Communications Circuits
e. NEC Article 770: Optical Fiber Cables and Raceway
4. Underwriter’s Laboratory, Inc. (UL)
a. UL-5A: Standard for Non-Metallic Raceways and Fittings
b. UL-5: Standard for Surface Metal Raceways and Fittings
c. UL-5C: Standard for Surface Raceways and Fittings for Use with Data, Signal, and
Control Circuits
d. UL-50: Standard for Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
e. UL-94-V0: Tests for Flammability of Plastic Materials
f. UL-498: Attachment Plugs and Receptacles
g. UL-1479: Fire Tests of Through-penetration Firestops (in Accordance with ASTM
E814)
h. UL-1863: Standard for Safety of Communications Circuit Accessories
5. National Electrical Manufacturer’s Association (NEMA)
a. ANSI/NEMA WD-6-2002: Wiring Devices – Dimensional Requirements
b. NEMA 250-2003: Enclosures for Electrical Equipment
6. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Title 47, Code of Federal Regulations, Part
68: Connection of Terminal Equipment to the Telephone Network, 1998
7. U.S. Public Law 336. 101st Congress, ADA: Americans with Disabilities Act of 1992
8. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, IEEE 802.3af, Data Terminal Equipment
(DTE) Power Over Media Dependent Interface (MDI), 2003
9. IEEE 802.3at (current draft), Data Terminal Equipment (DTE) Enhanced Power over
Media Dependent Interface (MDI)
10. IEEE 802.3ae, Specification for 10 Gbit/s Ethernet Operation over Optical Fiber.
11. Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual, 12th Edition, Building Industry
Consulting Services International (BICSI)
12. Wireless Design Reference Manual, 3rd Edition, Building Industry Consulting Services
International (BICSI)
13. ANSI/BICSI 001-2009, Information Transport Systems Design Standard for K-12
Educational Institutions, Building Industry Consulting Services International (BICSI)
14. BICSI 002-2010, Data Center Design and Implementation Best Practices, Building
Industry Consulting Services International (BICSI)
15. ANSI/NECA/BICSI 568-2006, Standard for Installing Commercial Building
Telecommunications Cabling
16. Information Transport Systems Building Industry Consulting Services International
(BICSI), Installation Methods Manual, 5th Edition
17. Network Design Reference Manual, 7th Edition, Building Industry Consulting Services
International (BICSI)
B. This document is not a substitute for any code, standard or regulation. The Approved

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Contractor must be aware of local codes that may impact the bid submittal or execution of the
project. The current revision of any applicable code, standard, or regulation shall take
precedence at the point of project execution, unless otherwise recognized by local authorities.
Applicable standards or codes that affect construction, which are listed as normative references
within any governing document, are also the responsibility of the Approved Contractor for
compliance.

1.11 MATERIALS
A. All materials shall be UL or ETL listed and verified and shall be marked as such.
B. Products shall be regularly catalogued items of the manufacturer and shall be supplied as a
complete unit in accordance with the manufacturer's standard specifications with any optional
items required for proper installation unless otherwise noted.
C. All materials used on this project shall be new. Used and refurbished equipment is not
permitted unless approved by USF. Provide equipment to site in original packaging whenever
practical.
D. Material shall be delivered to the site in the original packing.

1.12 DELIVERY, STORAGE AND HANDLING LOGISTICS

A. Materials delivered to the construction site shall be stored in a dry, secure area, preferably
indoors. Storage temperature of materials shall adhere to manufacturer’s recommendations.
Movement of packaged materials shall be in a manner to avoid damage of contents. On-site
storage, either indoors or trailer, shall have permission by the owner, and shall not interfere
with other construction activity.
B. Installation of Category 6A cable shall be within the recommended temperature range specified
by the manufacturer. Cable installation temperature above 50 degrees F is recommended.
C. The Contractor is responsible for scheduling all deliveries and providing proper receipt,
handling, and storage of all materials. Protect all equipment from physical damages (dents,
scratches, dust, water, paint, chemicals, and temperature extremes) and vandalism, or theft.
The Contractor shall replace any damaged or stolen equipment. The Contractor is responsible
for all equipment until final project acceptance by Owner.
D. The Contractor is responsible for cleaning the worksite every business day and remove debris
from the facility.

1.13 WARRANTY
A. USF requires a Link Warranty for the project.
B. USF requires a Channel Warranty on any PoE Links.
C. The length of the extended warranty shall be a minimum of 25 years.
D. Warranty covering all components, equipment and workmanship shall be submitted in writing
with system documentation.
E. The warranty period shall begin on the system's first use by the owner.
F. Should the cabling system fail to perform its expected operation within this warranty period due
to inferior or faulty material and/or workmanship, the Contractor shall promptly make all
required corrections without cost to the Owner
G. Upon Completion of the project the Telecommunication Contractor shall forward the signed
Warranty Registration Form and warranty certificate to the Owner.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 WORK AREA CONNECTORS
A. Category 6A Jacks
1. Jacks shall be standard 8-position, RJ-45 style, un-keyed, FCC compliant.
2. Jacks shall be designed for 4-pair, 100 ohm balanced unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable.
3. Each jack shall be single unit construction, with snap-fit to industry standard keystone
opening (.760 inch x .580 inch).
4. Jack housings shall be high impact UL 94 V-0 rated thermoplastic.
5. Jacks shall have a temperature rating of -10º C (14° F) to 70º C (158º F).
6. Jack housings shall fully encase and protect printed circuit boards and IDC fields.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

7. Modular jack contacts shall accept a minimum of 2000 mating cycles without degradation
of electrical or mechanical performance.
8. Jack contacts shall maintain a minimum deflection force of 100 grams while mated with an
FCC-standard RJ-45 plug.
9. Jack contacts shall be formed flat for increased surface contact with mated plugs.
10. Jack contacts shall be constructed of Beryllium copper for maximum spring force and
durability. Contact plating shall be a minimum of 50 micro-inches of hard gold in the contact
area over 50 micro-inch of nickel.
11. Jack termination method shall follow the industry standard 110 IDC punch-down. Jacks
shall be compatible with single conductor standard 110 impact termination tools.
12. Jacks shall have the Category 6A designation, visible from the front when installed.
13. Jacks shall terminate 26-22 AWG solid or stranded conductors.
14. Jacks shall not require special cords, specialty tools or special installation requirements.
15. Stuffer cap shall have four (4) retention snaps to assure conductor strain relief.
16. Jacks shall NOT accept FCC compliant 6 position plugs.
17. Jacks shall accept optional hinged dust covers.
18. Jacks shall be compatible with ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A color code labeling.
19. Jacks shall accept snap-on icons for specific identification.
20. Jacks shall be available in various colors to meet specific customer applications.
21. Jacks shall have attached wiring instruction labels to permit either T568A or T568B wiring
configurations.
22. Category 6A jacks shall be backward compatible with existing Category 3, 5, 5e, and
Category 6 cabling systems for fit, form, and function.
23. Jacks shall be manufactured in the USA.
24. All transmission performance parameters shall be independently verified by a UL or ETL
third party testing organization.
25. The manufacturer shall provide Category 6A component compliance certificates from third
party testing organization upon request.
26. Jacks shall be UL listed 1863.
27. Jacks shall be UL listed CSA certified.
28. Jacks shall exceed IEEE 802.3af DTE Power specification to four (4) times the rated
current limits with no degradation of performance or materials.
29. Jacks shall be tested to IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at and 802.3bt
30. Jacks shall be third party verified, error free 10 Gigabit Ethernet performance to IEEE
802.3an.
31. Category 6A jacks shall meet or exceed the 4-connector channel performance
requirements of Category 6A, per the ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.2 standard.
32. Category 6A modular jacks, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (HXJ6A**) **= COLOR
Green = data
Yellow = wireless access points
Purple = security cameras
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
B. Fiber Optic - LC Duplex Flush Mount Keystone Adapter
1. Keystone adapters are factory loaded with LC MM simplex adapters.
2. Keystone adapters are used when fiber connectors are needed at the work area.
3. Flush mounted.
4. Insertion Loss: <0.5 dB
5. High retention phosphor bronze alignment sleeve.
6. Meets TIA/EIA-568-C.3 specification.
7. Adapter snap-in force: 15 +/- 5 lbs
8. White adapter bezel.
9. Fiber optic adapter, SC simplex, Flush mount, as specified in the Contract Documents,
shall be:
a. Hubbell (SFFLCW)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

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C. Fiber Optic - SC Simplex Flush Mount Keystone Adapter

1. Keystone adapters are factory loaded with SC MM simplex adapters.
2. Keystone adapters are used when fiber connectors are needed at the work area.
3. Flush mounted.
4. Insertion Loss: <0.5 dB
5. High retention phosphor bronze alignment sleeve.
6. Meets TIA/EIA-568-C.3 specification.
7. Adapter snap-in force: 15 +/- 5 lbs
8. White adapter bezel.
9. Fiber optic adapter, SC simplex, Flush mount, as specified in the Contract Documents,
shall be:
a. Hubbell (SFFSCW)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.2 FACE PLATES

A. Rear Loading with Designation Window
1. Faceplates shall be constructed of high impact, UL94 V-0 rated thermoplastic.
2. Faceplates shall be compatible with standard NEMA openings and boxes.
3. Faceplates shall be 2.75 inches W x 4.5 inches H (69.8 mm x 114.3 mm) for single gang
and 4.5 inches x 4.5 inches (114.3 mm x 114.3 mm) for double gang.
4. Port size in each faceplate shall fit the Category 6A Modular Jack or Snap-Fit fiber optic,
audio, and video modules for multimedia applications.
5. Faceplates shall provide for ANSI/TIA/EIA-606-A compliant workstation outlet labeling.
6. #6-32 pan head Phillips/slotted mounting screws shall be included with each faceplate.
7. Faceplates shall be UL listed and CSA certified.
8. Work area faceplates, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (IFP Series)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.3 CABLE
A. Category 6A UTP
1. Cable construction shall be four twisted pairs of 23 AWG insulated solid conductors, with
a ripcord, surrounded by a tight outer jacket.
2. Ripcord shall be directly underneath the outer jacket.
3. Cable shall be marked with Manufacturer and pertinent information. UL, ETL, or CSA
agency certification or verification markings shall be marked on the cable jacket according
to the certifying agency’s requirements.
4. Color coding of the pairs shall be as follows:
a. Pair 1: White/Blue; Blue
b. Pair 2: White/Orange; Orange
c. Pair 3: White/Green; Green
d. Pair 4: White/Brown; Brown
5. Plenum OR RISER rated jackets.
6. Cable shall be supplied in 1000 feet spools.
7. Cable shall exceed Category 6A transmission requirements specified in ANSI/TIA/EIA-
568-C.2.
8. Cable shall be UL and C (UL) listed.
9. Category 6A UTP horizontal distribution cable, as specified in the Contract Documents,
shall be
a. General –Riser – (7133852) Yellow
Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
b. General –plenum – (7132852) yellow
Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
B. Backbone Distribution Cable – Fiber Optic
1. Multimode and singlemode fiber backbone distribution cable shall be available in multi-
strand constructions for intrabuilding applications. Multimode fiber backbone distribution

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

cable for 10/40/100 Gbit/s applications shall be constructed with 50/125 micron laser-
optimized optical fiber, om3 or om4.
2. Laser-optimized 50/125 micron fiber shall be Class 1A fiber in compliance with
ANSI/TIA/EIA-492AAC.
3. OFNR or OFNP will be determined at each site.
4. The Contractor will be responsible to assure that the proper type of jacketing is being used.
Failure to meet the local code will be cause for replacement of cable at no expense to USF.
5. Fiber shall be fusion spliced with factory terminated connections at each termination point.
6. Singlemode fiber shall be dispersion un-shifted fiber in compliance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-
492CAA.
7. Intrabuilding fiber distribution cable design shall be according to ANSI/ICEA S-83-596.
8. Multimode and singlemode backbone fiber distribution cable, when installed, shall exceed
the performance requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3.
9. Multimode and singlemode backbone fiber distribution cable, as specified in the Contract
Documents, shall be:
a. Hitachi
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
C. Backbone Distribution Cable – Optical fiber, Indoor/Outdoor
1. Multimode and singlemode fiber backbone cable shall be available in multi-strand
constructions. Cable design shall be suitable for the environmental and mechanical
conditions of the installation.
2. Riser (OFNR) and plenum (OFNP) fiber optic cables.
3. These cables can be installed in conduits or inner-ducts.
4. The tight buffer feature of these indoor/outdoor cables eliminates the need for breakout kits
and or other special termination equipment.
5. The outer jacket is comprised of a rugged UL listed sunlight resistant polymer that allows
for the cable to be exposed to direct sunlight without the concern of material degradation
and greatly reduces moisture migration.
6. Fiber shall be fusion spliced with factory terminated connections at each termination point.
7. 900 lm tight buffered fibers - All Dielectric.
8. Multimode Indoor/Outdoor distribution cable for 10 Gbit/s applications shall be constructed
with 50/125 micron laser-optimized optical fiber. Laser-optimized 50/125 micron fiber shall
be Class 1A fiber in compliance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-492AAC.
9. Multimode and singlemode backbone OSP fiber distribution cable, as specified in the
Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hitachi
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
D. Backbone Distribution Cable – Optical Fiber, Loose-Tube
1. Multimode and singlemode fiber backbone OSP cable shall be available in multi-strand
constructions for outside plant (OSP) applications. Cable design shall be suitable for the
environmental and mechanical conditions of the installation.
2. Loose Tube OSP cable will be used in areas that excessive moisture are present.
Applications requiring good ozone, moisture, weather resistance;
3. Building Interconnections and data trunk.
4. Ducts between buildings and aerial lashing.
5. Dielectric central strength member.
6. Dry or Waterblock Gel blocking for moisture protection.
7. Polyethylene jacket for weather and UV protection.
8. Installer must follow termination instructions from the manufacturer.
9. Breakout Kits will be required for termination.
10. Fiber shall be fusion spliced with factory terminated connections at each building
termination point.
11. Multimode and singlemode backbone OSP fiber distribution cable, as specified in the
Contract Documents, shall be:
a. OCC manufacturer
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

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2.4 CONNECTORS – FIBER OPTIC

A. Connector, SC
1. Pre-polished SC connectors shall require no field polishing AND REQUIRE NO
ADHESIVES FOR TERMINATION.
2. Pre-polished fiber connector basic design shall be a factory pre-polished SC-style optical
fiber connector pigtail
3. Pigtails shall be fusion spliced in the field at <0.5 dB loss.
4. Connector materials shall be designed to comply with:
5. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3.
6. Telcordia GR-326
7. IEC61754-20 a
8. TIA-604-10
9. Connector design and termination technique shall be independent of cable type or
manufacturer, and shall be compatible for either 900 micron buffer or 250 micron buffer
distribution cables.
10. Pre-polished SC fiber connectors, when properly installed onto qualified cable, shall meet
the 10 Gb/s Ethernet performance requirements of IEEE802.3.
11. SC fiber connectors, properly installed onto qualified cable, shall exceed the mechanical
and environmental performance requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3.
12. SC optical fiber Optic Connectors, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. OCC manufacturer.
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
B. Connector, LC
1. Pre-polished LC connectors shall require no field polishing AND REQUIRE NO
ADHESIVES FOR TERMINATION.
2. Pre-polished fiber connector basic design shall be a factory pre-polished LC-style optical
fiber connector pigtail
3. Pigtails shall be fusion spliced in the field at <0.5 dB loss.
4. Connector materials shall be designed to comply with:
a. ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3
b. Telcordia GR-326
c. IEC61754-20 a
d. TIA-604-10
5. Connector design and termination technique shall be independent of cable type or
manufacturer, and shall be compatible for either 900 micron buffer or 250 micron buffer
distribution cables.
6. Pre-polished LC fiber connectors, when properly installed onto qualified cable, shall meet
the 10 Gb/s Ethernet performance requirements of IEEE802.3.
7. LC fiber connectors, properly installed onto qualified cable, shall exceed the mechanical
and environmental performance requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3.
8. LC optical fiber Optic Connectors, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. OCC manufacturer
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.5 PATCH CORDS

A. Category 6A
1. Category 6A patch cords shall be stranded UTP cable construction using a smoke-colored
polycarbonate 8-position RJ-45 plug with a low-profile over-molded strain relief boot on
each end.
2. Plug shall have vertically staggered, trifurcated copper alloy contacts, each having 50
micro-inches of gold plating over nickel under-plate.
3. Patch cords shall be constructed with Category 6A patch cable, with 24 AWG 7/32 tinned
copper stranded conductors, each insulated with polyethylene, with a tight overall jacket.
4. Plug dimensions and function shall comply with FCC CFR-47, Part 68.5.
5. Plug shall be a 2-piece design, with an outer body, pre-loaded with 8 trifurcated contacts,

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and a dielectric wire pre-alignment element to aid in plug termination during manufacturing.
6. Dielectric wire pre-alignment element shall position individual conductors in a manner to
optimize near-end cross-talk (NEXT) performance. Pre-alignment element shall also
control variability of NEXT performance in the manufacturing process.
7. Patch cord strain relief boots shall have an integral snag-less feature to protect plug release
tab during cable routing. Strain relief boot shall be over-molded PVC. Strain relief boot
shall be a low profile, tight-fit design to maximize clearance with adjacent patch cord
connections. Strain relief boot design and material properties shall aid in suppression of
alien cross-talk (ANEXT) with adjacent patch cord connections.
8. Jacket material shall be flame-retardant PVC.
9. Patch cords shall be manufactured using a T568B wiring format, and shall function suitably
for either T568A or T568B wiring schemes.
10. Standard patch cord lengths shall range from 3 feet to 20 feet.
11. Custom make-to-order patch cords shall be available in lengths, ranging from 25 feet to 75
feet and with a delivery lead-time quotation.
12. Category 6A patch cords shall be backward compatible with existing Category 3, 5, 5e,
and 6 cabling systems for fit, form, and function.
13. All transmission parameters shall be independently verified by a UL or ETL third party
testing organization. Transmission testing shall be to 625 MHz. The TIA/EIA-568-C.2
specification limit is 500 MHz. The manufacturer shall provide compliance certificates from
third party testing organization upon request.
14. Patch cord plug and contacts shall withstand 2,000 mating cycles with standard Category
6A FCC-compliant jacks or panels.
15. Category 6A patch cords shall exceed transmission requirements specified in
ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.2.
16. Patch cords shall be UL listed 1863 and CSA certified.
17. Patch cords shall exceed IEEE 802.3 DTE Power specification to four (4) times the rated
current limits with no degradation of performance or materials.
18. Category 6A patch cords shall meet or exceed 4-connector channel performance
requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.2 standard.
19. Category 6A patch cords as specified in the Contract Documents shall be
a. Hubbell (NextSpeED Ascent HC6A**YY Series) **= COLOR YY= LENGTH
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
B. Fiber Optic
1. Optical fiber patch cords and cross-connect cords shall be standard SC, LC, and SC-to-LC
hybrid constructions. Patch cords for 10 Gbit/s applications shall be constructed with laser
optimized 50/125 micron optical fiber.
2. Installed multimode fiber patch cords, when installed, shall exceed the performance
requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-C.3.
3. Optical fiber patch cords shall be constructed with aramid-reinforced PVC loose-jacket
duplex or simplex cable, with optical fiber(s) having a 900-micron PVC buffer coating
diameter.
4. Connector terminations on each end of the fiber patch cord shall be heat-cured epoxy type
with a machine polish, inspected 100% for polish quality and mated-pair insertion loss.
5. The aramid (Kevlar) strength member shall be mechanically secured at each connector to
provide tensile strain relief of the optical fiber.
6. Factory mounted connectors on each end of the patch cords shall comply with the
applicable ANSI/TIA/EIA-604 Intermateability standard.
7. Duplex fiber patch cords shall have reverse-pair polarity according to ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-
C.3 and TIA/EIA-TSB-125.
8. Fiber A-B polarity shall be clearly marked on each end of duplex patch cords.
9. Multimode patch cords shall have a maximum mated-pair insertion loss of 0.60 dB per end,
with a minimum return loss of –20 dB.
10. Multimode and singlemode fiber patch cords shall exceed the Gigabit Ethernet
performance requirements of IEEE 802.3z standard.
11. Optical fiber patch cords, as specified in the Contract Documents shall be:

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a. OCC manufacturer
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.6 PATCH PANELS – CATEGORY 6A MODULAR PATCH PANEL

A. Keystone 48 port 1RU patch panel.
B. Panel frames shall be black powder coated 14-gage steel with rolled edges top and bottom for
proper stiffness.
C. Panels shall accommodate 48 ports for each rack mount unit (1 RMU = 1.75 in).
D. Panels shall be designed for 4-pair, 100 ohm balanced unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable.
E. Category 6A panels shall be backward compatible with existing Category 3, 5, 5e, and
Category 6A cabling systems for fit, form, and function.
F. Panels shall accept a clip-on rear cable management support bar to provide cable strain relief.
G. Panels shall be manufactured in the USA.
H. Panels shall be UL listed 1863 and CSA certified.
I. Category 6A patch panels, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (Udx48E1u)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.7 RACKS – FREE STANDING

A. Each basic rack delivered shall consist of: Equipment Rack, Isolation pads, vertical & Horizontal
Cable Organizers, Mounting Hardware, a Single Sided Solid Shelf- Rack Mounted, 18 inches
wide Black Ladder Rack & mounts to secure to Rack, a vertical Electrical 20 amp Outlet strip
(Minimum 6 receptacles) with Mounting Brackets.
B. Rack material shall be STRUCTURAL ALUMINUM with a durable black polyurethane powder
coat finish.
C. Installed racks shall have a static load capacity of 500 lbs.
D. racks shall be available in either 19 inches or 23 inches standard rack configurations.
E. Tapped holes in the vertical rails for mounting of panels shall be #12-24 thread size. Coating
shall not interfere with thread fit.
F. Standard rack heights of 7 feet (84 inches), and have a capacity of 45 RMU.
G. Rack base angles shall be pre-drilled for floor mounting, and for assembly to vertical rails.
H. Each Rack shall be provided with, Racks shall accommodate expansion of cable capacity and
added volume for Category 6A cabling.
I. Free standing racks and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (HPW84rr19d)
OCC/RackMax (CMR45)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.8 CABLE MANAGEMENT – VERTICAL

A. Finish shall be a black powder coat.
B. Vertical Management shall have a means to attach to the equipment rack.
C. Cable pass-through holes of 4-inch diameter shall be located at regular intervals for front-to-
rear cable routing. Pass-through holes shall accept clip-on spools for bend radius control of
fiber cabling.
D. Cable routing gates shall be fabricated from 14-gage CRS.
E. Gates shall have rolled edges to control cable bend radius.
F. Covers may be specified as an option to conceal cables in the vertical organizer.
G. Hinged Front Cover shall be fabricated from 20-gage CRS.
H. Covers shall clip onto installed gates without fasteners.
I. Vertical Cable Management and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall
be:
a. Hubbell (VM1220)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.9 CABLE MANAGEMENT – HORIZONTAL

A. Horizontal management will be constructed of 16-gage cold-rolled steel (CRS).

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B. Finish shall be a Durable, black powder coat.

C. The Duct Panel has 6-pass through rings, 7-rings and a hinged cover.
D. Size: 1 & 2RU
E. Front Ring Depth: 4 & 7 inches
F. All steel construction - rugged, non-flammable, no fasteners to wear or break, no fingers to fuss
with.
G. Modular components easily configured in field to adapt to demanding applications.
H. Generous space between rings alleviates congestion.
I. Pass-thru holes with rolled edges.
J. Horizontal Cable Management and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall
be:
a. Hubbell (HM14c – hm24c – hm17c – hm27c)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.10 CABINETS, ENCLOSURES AND ACCESSORIES

A. Consolidation Point Enclosures
1. Consolidation point (CP) enclosures shall be constructed of 16-gage cold- rolled steel, with
zinc galvanized finish.
2. CP enclosures shall have a removable front cover, constructed of 20-gage cold rolled steel,
with electrostatic powder coat finish in either black or electric ivory colors.
3. CP enclosures shall be supplied complete with detailed instructions, wall-mounting screws,
panel-mounting fasteners, fiber storage spools and fiber FSP adapter mounting bracket.
4. CP enclosures shall have optional accessories available, including a trim ring, louvered
door, and lock kit.
5. CP enclosures shall have features to permit mounting between studs on 16-inch centers
flush to wall, or direct wall surface mounting.
6. Stud-locating tabs shall be located on each side of the CP enclosure to facilitate positioning
onto wall studs.
7. Cable entry knockouts shall be located on the top, bottom, and sides of the CP enclosure.
A knockout shall also be furnished for mounting a lock.
8. CP enclosures shall have two vertical mounting rails, pre-tapped with #10-24 holes.
Tapped mounting holes along the rails shall be located on 9.1-inch centers and 10.2-inch
centers.
9. Mounting features shall be located within the enclosure to accept a removable fiber FSP
panel-mounting bracket, with capacity to accept two (2) FSP or Jack-Pack panels for multi-
media applications.
10. Capacity of the CP enclosure shall be five (5) rack-mount units (RMU), each accepting
either a 100-pair block or 89-D bracket for 12-port panels.
11. Vertical mounting rails shall accept 110-style/100-pair punch-down blocks and 89-D
brackets in any RMU location.
12. Zone ceiling boxes shall be UL listed, and plenum rated for use in ceiling space
applications.
13. Consolidation point enclosures used in horizontal cable runs, using wall-mount, in-floor, or
ceiling-mount installation shall be designed and UL listed specifically for the intended
purpose.
14. Consolidation point enclosures, as specified in the contract documents shall be:
a. Hubbell (CPEI)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
B. Cabinets – Full Size Network and Server
1. Network and server cabinets shall be free standing, full-size enclosed cabinets, with a
formed, welded and powder coated construction.
2. Network and server cabinets shall be suitable for equipment rooms, telecommunications
rooms, entrance facilities and data centers. Heavy-duty, welded four-post frame.
3. Choice of 19 inches or 23 inches EIA square hole or #12-24 tapped rails.
4. Ventilation options for doors, side panels, top, and base, including perforation, vents, and
fans.

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5. Available in a variety of sized for any application and equipment standard.

6. Network and server cabinets, and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents,
shall be:
a. Hubbell cabinets
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
C. Cabinets – Wall Mount
1. Basic design shall be a three piece modular swivel-type, 14-gage steel, reinforced welded
enclosure with a removable front door, and removable rear section.
2. Shall be constructed of 14-gage cold rolled steel (CRS).
3. Finish shall be black or office white durable powder coat on all surfaces.
4. Installed cabinets shall have a static load capacity of 400 lbs in the open or closed position.
Full load capacity shall not cause interference with opening or closure of center section.
5. Cabinets shall be equipped with panel-mounting rails compliant to ANSI/EIA-310-D. Rail
location shall be adjustable, with notches to facilitate positioning.
6. Standard cabinet heights of 24 inches, 36 inches, and 48 inches shall be available, each
in depths of 20 inches, 26 inches, and 36 inches.
7. Rear section shall be removable to facilitate wall installation, and have a 16 inches hole
pattern suitable for mounting to plywood backboards, steel or wood studded walls, cinder
block or concrete walls.
8. Rear section top surface shall have eccentric knockouts for conduit entry. Eccentric
knockouts shall accommodate conduit sizes including 3/4 inch, 1.0 inch, 2.5 inches, and
3.0 inches.
9. Cabinet shall have dedicated bonding points for proper grounding according to ANSI-J-
STD-607A.
10. Center section shall have slots for ventilation, and shall accept dust filters for cooling fan
applications. A gasket kit shall be available separately to enhance protection from dust
entry.
11. Cabinet shall have provisions for mounting to an accessory mobile base for use as a floor-
standing unit. Mobile base shall be available separately.
12. Cabinets shall be UL listed.
13. Wall-mounted cabinets shall be formed/welded and powder coated construction, sized
appropriately for the cable installation, and shall accept 19-inch patch panels.
14. Wall-mounted cabinets may serve as a small telecommunications room, horizontal or
intermediate cross connect facility, or consolidation point.
15. Wall-mount cabinets and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (QuadCab)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
D. Frames – Wall Mount - Hinged
1. Supports heavy or deep equipment in locations with limited floor space.
2. Quick release latches – rake frame hinges both left and right.
3. Cable tie slots along both sides and inside top and bottom for securing cables.
4. Frame will be constructed of 16-gage.
5. All surfaces will be finished with a durable black powder coat.
6. 70 lbs load capacity.
7. Mounting holes will be 16 inches on center for easy attachment to any standard wall studs.
8. EIA-310-D universal spacing tapped #12-24 front and back.
9. Wall-mount Hinged Frames and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall
be:
a. Hubbell (HPWWMR**)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
E. Brackets – Wall Mount – Hinged
1. Bottom or side hinges allows access to the rear of components mounted on the wall.
2. Wall Brackets will be constructed of 16-gage steel.
3. All surfaces will be finished with a durable Black Powder Coat.
4. Will be available in 1RU to 6RU.
5. Mounting holes will be 16 inches on center for easy attachment to any standard wall studs.

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6. EIA-310-D universal spacing tapped #12-24 front and back.

7. Height will be from 24 inches (12RU) to 48 inches (26RU).
8. Wall-mount Hinged Brackets, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (HPWWB*U*)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
F. Enclosures – Wall Mount
1. Remote equipment box basic design shall be a one-piece, 16-gage steel, reinforced
welded enclosure with a pre-configured left-hinged door
2. Basic unit delivered shall include: one (1) wall mount enclosure body with vented door
assembled, with two (2) sets of universal #12-24 tapped mounting rails for communications
equipment, two (2) sets of hub mounting brackets, two (2) NSQ locks, and one (1) set of
panel mounting brackets.
3. Body and door material shall be 16-gage Cold Rolled Steel (CRS).
4. Basic dimensions shall be standard heights of 24.5 inches, 32.5 inches or 42.5 inches by
24.2 inches width, in 7 inches or 10 inches depth versions.
5. Finish shall be light gray or black durable polyurethane powder coat on all surfaces.
6. Installed cabinets shall have a static load capacity of 100 lbs.
7. Installed mounting rails shall accept 19 inches rack-mount panels and equipment with
ANSI/EIA-310-D mounting pattern.
8. Cabinet shall accept a maximum hub depth of 14.5 inches for 32 inches height units, and
22 inches for 42 inches height units.
9. Installed cabinet shall have sufficient storage capacity for the maximum number of feeder
and distribution cables.
10. Body shall have a pattern of key-shaped holes on 16 inches on centers for stud-mounting.
Mounting is suitable for 3/4 inch plywood backboards, steel or wood studded walls, cinder
block, or concrete walls.
11. The weight of the cabinet shall not exceed 50 lbs (22.7 kg).
12. Body inner back wall shall have clip features to accept optional mounting brackets for
equipment, such as panels, 110 blocks, hubs, switches, routers, UPS units, power
supplies, audio/video, coax splitters, fiber brackets, and other suitable networking devices.
13. Body shall have eccentric knockouts in the top, bottom, and sides for conduit entry.
Eccentric knockouts shall accommodate conduit sizes including 3/4 inch, 1.0 inch, 2.5
inches, and 3.0 inches.
14. Cabinet shall have dedicated grounding and bonding locations according to ANSI J-STD-
607-A.
15. Door shall be lockable.
16. Ventilation: Door ventilation pattern shall meet the requirements of UL1950 for fire
containment and ingress of foreign particles.
17. Remote equipment cabinets shall be UL listed.
18. Installed cabinets shall perform to NEMA 2 rating.
19. Tamper resistance, ventilation, and heat dissipation performance shall meet design
requirements.
20. Wall-mounted enclosures may serve as a small telecommunications room, horizontal or
intermediate cross connect facility, or consolidation point.
21. Wall-mount enclosures and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubbell (REBOX enclosures)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
G. Enclosures – Fiber Rack Mount
1. Rack-mounted, powder coated formed cold rolled steel enclosure.
2. Swing-out or pull-out inner tray shall provide access to inner cables and connections, and
maintain proper cable bend radius throughout the range of motion.
3. Fiber rack-mount enclosures shall be a 19-inch formed/welded and powder coated modular
design, sized according to the cable installation.
4. Fiber rack-mount enclosures may serve as a main, horizontal, or intermediate cross
connect facility.
5. Panel mounting brackets shall be configurable to either 19 inches or 23 inches racks per

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ANSI/EIA-310-D.
6. Enclosure chassis shall have two mounting bracket locations for either flush mount or
center mount on the rack.
7. Inner tray mounting posts for modular FPR3SP panels shall also accept multi-media FSP
panels for integration of twisted pair (UTP) coaxial, or other cable media.
8. Inner tray shall have a threaded mounting boss to accept a mounting stud for splice trays.
Splice tray capacity shall be two (2) 10 inches splice trays, each with 24-splice capacities
(48 splices total). Splice tray mounting boss shall also accept a stud for mounting 1-RMU
blown fiber adapter brackets.
9. Inner tray mounting posts for modular panels shall also accept 12-fiber MTP-style
cassettes for plug & play installations.
10. Inner tray shall have rear cable tie-down features to accept various diameter backbone
cables entering the enclosure.
11. Enclosures shall be constructed of 16 gage cold rolled steel (CRS).
12. Fiber rack-mount enclosures and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents,
shall be:
a. Hubbell (FCR or FPR series)
OCC (RTC series)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
H. Enclosures – Fiber Wall Mount
1. Basic fiber enclosure design shall be a formed cold rolled steel enclosure with a single
hinged cover.
2. Enclosure material shall be 16-gage cold rolled steel (CRS).
3. Finish shall be durable black electrostatic powder coat on all surfaces.
4. Enclosures shall be available in 24 port and 48 port capacities.
5. Enclosures shall be supplied complete with manufacturer’s instructions and hardware.
Screws for wall mounting are not included.
6. Enclosure rear side shall have pre-punched, key-shaped holes to permit fastening to
suitable structures and wall surfaces.
7. Enclosure top and bottom shall have a knockout, each vertically aligned, to permit conduit
and cable entry, and vertical stacking of multiple units.
8. Cover shall be lockable with a keyed lock available separately.
9. Enclosures shall be supplied with cable routing clips.
10. Fiber wall-mount enclosures shall be a formed/welded and powder coated design, sized
according to the cable installation. Fiber wall-mount enclosures may serve as a horizontal
cross connect, consolidation point, or MUTOA enclosure.
11. Fiber wall-mount enclosures and accessories, as specified in the Contract Documents,
shall be:
a. Hubbell (FCW or FTU series)
OCC (WTC Series)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.
I. Adapter Panels – Optical Fiber
1. Optical fiber Adapter panels shall be a modular design powder coated stamped metal
construction.
2. Available in SC, ST, LC, and MT-RJ adapter configurations.
3. High or low-density versions.
4. Adapter panels shall have quick-release snap fasteners to fit directly into fiber enclosures.
5. Fiber patch panels, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
a. Hubell (FSP series panels)
OCC (600 series)
b. Acceptable Manufacturers: Basis of Design or equivalent as approved by USF-IT.

2.11 FIRE STOP MATERIAL

A. Cables passing through fire-rated floors or walls shall pass through fire-rated wiring devices
which contain an intumescent insert material that adjusts automatically to cable additions or
subtractions.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

B. The device (per code requirements) shall include both internal and external firestopping.
C. Cables penetrating through fire-rated floors or walls shall utilize fire-rated pathway devices
capable of providing an F rating equal to the rating of the barrier in which the device is installed.
D. The device shall be tested for smoke leakage (L rating) and shall not require the use of any
optional sealing materials to achieve the published rating.
E. The device shall utilize a fire and smoke sealing system that automatically adjusts to the
addition or removal of cables.
F. Wiring devices shall be capable of allowing a 0% to 100% visual fill of cables.
G. Wire devices shall be of a sufficient size to accommodate the quantity and size of electrical
wires and data cables required and shall be suitable for use with new or existing cable
installations.
H. The installed device (in normal use) shall require no maintenance and shall accommodate
future cable changes without mechanical adjustment and/or removal or replacement of
protective materials.
I. Wire devices to be provided with steel wall plates allowing for single or multiple devices to be
ganged together.
J. The device shall be modular and shall provide mechanical installation options for common wall
and floor constructions as well as common construction conditions including over-sized or
damaged openings or existing sleeves.
K. Acceptable Manufacturers:
1. Specified Technologies Inc. (EZ-PATH) or approved equal.

2.12 INNERDUCT
A. Fiber Optic Cable shall be installed with Innerduct for protection of fiber cables in a shared
pathway.
B. The inner duct will be rated for the environment that it is being installed in. Plenum and riser
rated.
C. Three inner Ducts will be run between closets. One for current installation, two spare for future
applications.
D. Size: 1 inch
E. Flexible & Lightweight for ease of handling.
F. pre-threaded with pull line.
G. Inner duct, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
1. Premier Conduit

2.13 PROTECTION UNITS – COPPER CABLE

A. UL listed protection for data communication circuits. The 4-pair block protects networks from
transients that can harm sensitive electronic equipment.
B. Ultra low capacitance solid state technology allows for CAT 6 performance while providing
quick reaction to hazardous electrical surges without network degradation.
C. Designed to protect data networks operating below 65 volts.
D. these protectors provide optimum transmission performance for protocols operating at
transmission speeds up to 250 MHz.
E. UL listed.
F. 65V model is ideal for Power Over Ethernet (POE) circuit protection.
G. 110 Termination.
H. Cover included.
I. Factory loaded with 65V solid state modules.
J. Inner duct, as specified in the Contract Documents, shall be:
1. Porta Systems (606)

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 PREPARATION
A. Cable pathways and Firestops
1. Cable pathways, including conduit, cable tray, ladder rack, raceway, slots, sleeves, etc.
shall be located and mounted according to contract drawings and manufacturer’s

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

instructions. Pathways shall not be installed in wet areas.

2. NOTE: USF is requiring the use of 1-1/4 inches Conduit to stub in the workstation.
3. Cable pathway fill ratio, bend radius, run length, number of bends, and proximity to EMI
sources shall be in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-B. Maximum cable count of the
initial installation shall not exceed 40% fill ratio in any pathway.
4. In accordance with NEC 2005, power wiring and communications cabling shall not share
the same pathway or outlet unless separated by a physical barrier.
5. Cable pathways shall be secured to a structural member of the building, or permanent wall
studs. Wall surfaces for raceway mounting should be finished complete.
6. Metallic pathways shall be electrically continuous, free of sharp edges, and properly
bonded to an approved ground. EMI sources such as ballasts, motors, and bus conductors
shall be avoided by using proper separation distances.
7. Pathways that penetrate fire-rated barriers shall be fire stopped according to local codes
and recognized practices. Fire stop materials or devices shall be qualified to UL-1479, in
accordance with ASTM E814. Fire stop method shall have P.E. approval.
8. Core drilling of holes for fire-rated poke-through outlet devices shall have approval by a
structural engineer or P.E. on the contract drawings prior to start of work.
9. Pathways for vertical cable runs, such as slots and sleeves, shall be installed in the proper
location in accordance with applicable codes and standards.
B. Telecommunications rooms and equipment rooms
1. Telecommunications room (TR) layout, location and design shall be in accordance with the
guidelines of ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-B. TR’s on each floor of the building should be centrally
located and vertically aligned to simplify backbone cable and pathway routing. TR’s shall
not be installed in wet areas, or near EMI sources or caustic chemicals. Alternate locations
shall be coordinated with USF representative
2. Layout of rack, cabinet or enclosure locations shall be according to contract drawings.
3. Racks and cabinets shall be secured to the floor using proper anchors and fasteners.
4. All walls should be covered with 3/4 inch, A-C grade plywood. This plywood shall be fire-
rated to meet applicable codes and securely fastened to the wall. The plywood will be
installed to give up to 8 feet of workspace on the wall and shall be 6 inches off the finished
floor. The wall should be light in color workspace to enhance room lighting, unless altered
by USF Representative.
5. Mount and assemble racks, cabinets, brackets and enclosures per manufacturer’s
instructions. Mount patch panels and cable management accessories in the specified
locations.
6. Adjoining pathways (ladder rack, cable tray, etc.) shall be properly secured and positioned
to allow adequate bend radius of cables entering the rack or cabinet.
C. Wall outlets and recessed wall boxes
1. Wall outlet and cable drop pathway location shall be according to contract drawings.
Guidelines from ANSI/TIA/EIA-569-B should be followed for location with electrical outlets
and outlet height above finished floor.
2. Outlet boxes shall be fastened securely to a wall stud or structural element, in a manner to
permit flush mounting of the faceplate with the finished wall.
3. Multi-connect boxes shall be installed in a manner to comply with separation rules for
power and communications wiring in close proximity.
4. Refer to specific manufacturer’s recommendations for wall outlet selection, cable
deployment, and termination of jacks into faceplates. NOTE: Due to the larger size of
future cables, USF is requiring the installation of a 2-gang box with a Single Gang mud ring
to allow for proper cable bend radius when the faceplate is installed.

3.2 INSTALLATION
A. Cable Support
1. This Contractor shall furnish and install all supports for cables specified in this section.
2. Cable supports shall be spaced randomly, but no further than 5 feet-0 inch apart.
3. In each telecommunications room the inner-ducts entering the space will be combined, in
a size appropriate metallic box that is mounted on the wall. The combined innerducts will

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then be routed to the rack and the fiber bay.

4. Provide all additional cable management products, sleeves or conduit raceways as
required to protect exposed cabling and complete the installation of cables in a neat
manner.
5. A horizontal conduit system consists of conduits radiating from the telecommunications
room to the workstation outlets in the floor, walls, ceilings, and columns of a building. When
using a conduit distribution system utilize the most direct route following the building lines.
6. The size and number of conduits or sleeves used for backbone pathways depends on the
usable floor space served by the backbone system. at least three 4 trade size sleeves are
recommended.
7. Conduit is only required if building codes or environmental conditions necessitate it. Rigid
or EMT metal conduits are deemed suitable for building installation. Adequate planning
should allow for a minimum of one 1-1/4 inch conduits to each workstation location if code
requires conduit for voice and data cables.
8. Conduit fill ratios shall not exceed 40%; contact your cable manufacturer to get
recommendation on fill rates.
9. No conduit run should be designed with more than two (2), 90-degree bends between pull
points or pull boxes. If a run requires more than two 90-degree bends, install a pull box.
a. Exceptions:
i. The total run is no longer than 33 feet.
ii. The conduit size is increased to the next trade size.
iii. One of the bends is located within 12 inches of the cable feed end. (This exception
only applies to placing operations where cable is pushed around the first bend.)
10. All conduits will be equipped with a contiguous length of plastic or nylon pull string with a
minimum rating of 200º (90 Kg).
11. A conduit run should not be designed with continuous closed sections longer than 100 feet
without pull points or pull boxes installed.
12. All conduits should terminate above or in the installed ladder racks and allow for proper
cable racking. Cable waterfalls should be considered in areas that have excessive
distance between the conduit and ladder rack.
13. Trays and conduits located within the ceiling shall protrude into the room a distance of 1 to
2 inches without a bend and above 8 feet high. Clear, unobstructed access to the ladder
rack and conduits shall be provided within telecommunications rooms.
14. Conduits entering through the floor shall terminate at least 2 inches above the finished
floor.
15. Locate slot/sleeve systems in places where pulling and termination will be easy.
16. If possible, locate sleeves, slots, and/or conduits on the left side of the room; this placement
enhances the use of wall space from left to right.
17. When possible, entrance conduit and distribution conduit/cable tray should enter and exit
on the same wall; if this is not possible, ladder rack inside the room should be provided for
distribution from wall to wall.
18. All floor penetrations shall be core drilled with a maximum 1/4 inch size greater than the
exterior dimension of the riser conduit.
19. Conduits entering through a wall shall be reamed and bushed, and terminated as close as
practicable to the terminating rack or wall.
20. Terminating above a suspended ceiling must terminate not less 3 inches above finished
ceiling and finished with bushing opening.
21. All conduit will be labeled for easy identification.
22. All floor penetrations shall be at columns, exterior walls or in equipment rooms.
23. Cables shall be supported at height of bottom flange of structural beams using a rigid
support method (i.e. threaded rod, beam clamps, etc.).
24. Do not support cables from ductwork, sprinkler piping, water piping, waste piping, conduit,
ceiling wire, or other system supports.
25. The conduits or sleeve will be installed per TIA/EIA-569-B and seal all penetration with
approved fire stop product.
26. Provide independent support system for each low voltage cabling system.

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B. Cable:
1. Category 6A cable will be run for data. Category 5 Gelled filled cable will be run in the
backbone for all communications applications. Certain environments may require the use
of different cables and/or cable jackets.
2. All Terminations will utilize T568B wiring in. Any Contractor not complying with this wiring
requirement will fix the problem at no cost to USF.
3. Maximum cable lengths to be 295 feet (90 m) including service loop. Provide all necessary
installation materials, tools and equipment to perform insulation displacement type
terminations at all communications outlets, patch panels.
4. All communications cabling that has become abandoned as part of new renovation
projects, previous renovation projects, or temporary communication cables used during the
construction process shall be completely removed.
5. Refer to detailed manufacturer’s guidelines for deployment of Category 6A cable. Certain
restrictions apply, and specific techniques are recommended.
6. All cabling shall be installed in accordance with manufacturers’ written bend radius and
pulling tensions. General industry guidelines recommend the following bend radius and
pulling tensions:
a) Tensile loading on a single 4-pair copper UTP cable shall not exceed 25 ft-lb.
b) Bend radius of a single 4-pair copper UTP cable shall not exceed 4 times the diameter
of the cable.
c) Bend radius of multi-pair copper UTP and optical fiber cable shall not exceed 10 times
the diameter of the cable.
7. All conduits and conduit sleeves shall have bushings or grommets shall be installed prior
to the installation of communications cables to avoid damage and abrasions to cable
sheathing and insulation. If bushings have are installed by the electrical Contractor, the
communications cabling contract shall furnish and install bushings prior to pulling
communications cabling.
8. Horizontal cable length for 4-pair copper UTP cables shall not exceed 295 feet. Prior to
bidding and installation, the contactor shall review the drawings and verify no cable run
exceeds 295 feet and notify the communications designer of cable runs that may exceed
295 feet.
9. Splices are not permitted in any voice or data cable unless other specified or shown on
drawings.
10. Avoid placing copper cables near sources of extreme heat (i.e. boilers, radiators, heat
coils).
11. Maintain cable twists for all UTP cables. For terminations cable sheathing shall be stripping
back no more than 1/2 inch back from termination point for all Category 6A cables.
12. All cables shall be supported by cable tray, cable runway, or J-hooks. When large
quantities of cables leave trays or runways, cables shall be supported by drop-outs or cable
support hardware manufactured specifically for the purpose of supporting cables. J-hooks
shall be installed a minimum of every 5 feet and cabling shall maintain minimal deflection
and strain (less than 12 inches deflection). Cables shall not be supported from ceiling grid
wires. Cables shall not run above iron joists.
13. All cables shall be separated into like groups.
14. Any cabling installing in equipment rooms shall be neatly placed in cabling trays, cabling
runways, or horizontal and vertical rack/cabinet cable managers.
15. Velcro cable ties may be used to secure permanently installed horizontal and backbone
cabling; any velcro installed in plenum ceiling spaces shall be rated for use in plenum
spaces. Velcro shall never be secured too tight whereby potentially changing the cable
geometry.
16. Velcro straps shall be utilized in the TR and inside TC enclosures for all cable bundling.
Tie wraps shall be prohibited in the telecommunication rooms.
17. Separation: Maintain the following distances between cables, other system cables and
other building systems:
a. One (1) foot from fluorescent lights.
b. One (1) foot from Power cable in Parallel

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c. One (1) foot from electrical conduits, other systems cables or other electrical
equipment.
d. Four (4) feet from motors and transformers
e. Three (3) feet from hot water piping or other mechanical equipment.
f. Ten (10) feet from Bus Conductors or High-Current branch circuits
g. All low voltage cables shall be run parallel or at right angles to building structural
framework. Do not run cables diagonally across ceiling space without written
authorization by the Architect’s Electrical Engineer or USF Representative.
h. Communications cabling that must cross power cables or conduit shall cross at a 90-
degree angle, and shall not make physical contact.
18. Fire seal around all cables running through rated floors and walls. Firestop all cables and
pathways that penetrate fire-rated barriers using approved methods and according to local
codes.
19. Leave spare pull string with every outlet installed.
20. Do not install cable in wet areas, or in proximity to hot water pipes or boilers.
21. Cable ends for termination shall be clean and free from crush marks, cuts, or kinks left from
pulling operations. Installed cable jackets shall have no abrasions with exposed conductor
insulation or bare copper “shiners”. The installer is responsible to replace damaged cables.
22. Backbone cables shall be installed and bundled separately from horizontal distribution
cables. Backbone and horizontal cable bundles shall be loose and random.
23. Backbone cables spanning more than three floors shall be supported at the top of the cable
run with a wire mesh grip and on alternating floors, unless otherwise specified by local
codes or manufacturer’s guidelines.
24. Vertical runs of backbone cables entering each TR shall be securely fastened along a
properly prepared wall in the TR on each floor. Use of cable ladder is recommended.
C. Communications Infrastructure
1. Maximum cable lengths to be 295 feet (90 m) including service loop. Provide all necessary
installation materials, tools and equipment.
2. Support and secure cables at patch panels using rear cable management bracket, spools
or management devise.
3. Install Category 3, multi-pair voice backbone cables utilizing an independent open cabling.
This may require Gelled filled cable for under slab installations.
4. For each voice cross-connect, provide the appropriate color icon at each patch panel port
at the TC’s and/or TR.
5. Complete all cross-connects for analog central office facilities and alarm lines to 110-
termination block.
6. Cross-connects shall be completed as per construction schedule.
D. Optical Fiber Cable:
1. Armored fiber of the proper rating will be run between each closet.
2. Cables for direct burial, aerial, or other outside applications shall be designed specifically
for the intended purpose.
3. All optical fiber installations shall be installed using open cabling methods. Limit cable-
bending radius to twenty (20) times the cable diameter during installation, and 10 times the
diameter after installation. Provide all required tools, materials, consumables, and
equipment necessary for field mounting of SC connectors.
4. Do not exceed the maximum pull tension specified by the cable manufacturer. Use
appropriate lubricants as required to reduce pulling friction. Avoid kinking and twisting of
cables during installation.
5. Label each end of each cable as to source and destination. Terminate optical fibers in
consistent, consecutive manner at each end. Place all material in inner-duct between Label
Optical Fiber raceway cable with yellow "Caution - Optical Fiber Cable" tags every 10 feet.
Leave 10 feet of slack at each fiber termination point. Neatly coil slack optical fiber cable
on top of rack above optical fiber patch panel enclosure at each rack location.
6. Optical fiber cable terminations shall utilize enclosures and components in quantities
consistent with the required fiber counts at each end of each segment.
7. During installation of optical fiber cable do not allow pulling tension to exceed cable

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manufacturer’s specification for the cable being installed. Only the strength member of the
cable shall be subjected to the pulling tension.
8. Clean all optical fiber connector tips prior to inserting them into matting receptacles or
bulkheads. Install all dust covers
9. Using approved methods, pull cable into conduit, or place into raceway or cable tray as
specified. A pull cord (nylon; 1/8 inch minimum) shall be co-installed with all cable installed
in any conduit.
10. Where cables are installed in air return plenum, riser rated cable shall be installed in
metallic conduit.
11. Backbone and horizontal cables shall be installed and bundled separately in any pathway.
12. Cables above ceilings or below access floors shall be installed in cable tray or open-top
cable hangers.
13. Cable slack and service coils shall be stored properly above the ceiling or under the access
floor. Pathway fill ratio in conduit, tray, raceway, etc. shall not exceed 40% of pathway
cross-sectional area.
14. A service coil of at least 1 meter is recommended within workstation outlets, and at least 2
meters is recommended for telecommunications enclosures. Main trunk and OSP cables
shall also have a large diameter service coil in the specified location.
15. Do not over-tighten tie-wraps or clamps around cable bundles.
16. Recommended maximum spacing of cable supports above the ceiling is 60 inches.
17. Backbone cables spanning more than three floors shall be securely attached at the top of
the cable run with a wire mesh grip and on alternating floors or as required by local codes.
18. Vertical runs of cable shall be supported to messenger strand, cable ladder, or other
approved structure to support the weight of the cable. Do not exceed maximum cable
vertical rise limits.
19. Cables that are damaged during installation shall be replaced by the Contractor.
E. Racks and Enclosures
1. Freestanding equipment racks and enclosures shall be protected free of all dust, debris
and other environmental elements during construction until substantial completion walk-
through.
2. Each rack, enclosure shall have a dedicated #6 AWG ground wire to a grounding busbar
or building ground as defined by NEC.
3. An isolation pad will be installed prior to fastening the rack to the floor.
4. Secure racks and enclosures to floor using rack installation kit.
F. Category 6A Jacks
1. Refer to specific manufacturer’s guidelines for termination of jacks and dressing Category
6A cables inside wall outlets and surface housings. Due to the larger size of Category 6A
cable, service coils in outlet boxes and surface housings are not recommended.
2. Terminate jacks according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. All jack will be wired utilizing T568B.
4. To assure 10GBase-T performance, maintain wiring pair twists as close as possible to the
point of termination. Also minimize the length of exposed pairs from the jacket to the IDC
termination point during installation.
5. The length of wiring pair un-twist in each termination shall be less than 0.5 inch (13 mm).
6. Jacks shall be properly mounted in plates, frames, or housings with dust caps fully installed
over IDC contacts.
7. Horizontal cables extending from mounted jacks shall maintain a minimum bend radius of
at least four (4) times the cable diameter, unless space is restricted. Note: Refer to specific
manufacturer’s recommendations for restricted cable bend radius.
8. Cable terminations shall minimize tensile or bending strain on IDC contacts after assembly
of faceplate or housing to the wall outlet.
G. Category 6A patch Panels
1. Properly mount patch panels into the designated rack, cabinet, or bracket locations with
the #12-24 screws provided.
2. Terminate cables behind the patch panel according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. To assure performance, maintain wiring pair twists as close as possible to the point of

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termination. Also minimize the length of exposed pairs to the termination point during
installation.
4. The length of wiring pair un-twist in each termination shall be less than 0.5 inches (13 mm),
and shall be kept to a minimum.
5. Each terminated and dressed cable shall be maintained perpendicular to the rear cover
using the recommended cable management hardware.
6. Horizontal or backbone cables extending from the rear panel terminations shall maintain a
minimum bend radius of at least four (4) times the cable diameter.
7. Panels shall be properly labeled on the front and cables should be individually labeled on
back
H. Optical Fiber Connectors, Horizontal and Backbone
1. Method of connector termination shall be pigtail splice.
2. Installed fiber connectors shall have proper cable support, routing and strain relief.
3. Installed connectors shall be inspected 100% for polish quality, and contamination.
4. Fibers terminated from OSP cable shall have break-out kits installed where applicable.
5. Fusion splices for pigtail connections shall be protected in a suitable enclosure.
I. Grounding and Bonding Systems -- Basic Guidelines
1. Telecommunications grounding and bonding system shall be installed in accordance with
NEC requirements, and per the guidelines of ANSI J-STD-607-A. Installation of the system
shall be by a licensed electrician.
2. The Telecommunications Main Grounding Busbar (TMGB) shall be bonded to the building
main electrical service ground (Grounding Electrode Conductor or GEC), using approved
lugs or exothermic weld methods. Bonding to the GEC or TMGB with sheet metal screws
is prohibited.
3. The Telecommunications Bonding Backbone shall be a minimum 6 AWG copper wire
conductor. A Telecommunications Grounding Busbar (TGB) shall be installed in the TR
on each floor, and shall be bonded to the TBB. All metal racks, cabinets, and enclosures
shall be bonded to the TGB.
4. Telecommunications equipment shall be grounded according to manufacturer’s
instructions and in accordance with applicable codes.
5. All metallic pathways, including conduit, raceway ladder or cable trays shall be electrically
continuous and shall be bonded to ground on each end.
6. OSP cable entering the building or backbone cables having metal sheaths shall have
isolation protection. Isolation protectors shall be bonded to the TMGB.
J. Protection
1. The electrical protection is governed by the applicable electrical codes.
2. Terminations for entrance facility copper cable shall be in accordance with the
manufacturers’ specifications and meet local AHJ requirements. All copper Inter-building
backbone cables and antennas require protection devices.
3. The entrance facilities include connections between cabling used in the outside
environment and cabling authorized for in-building distribution.
4. These connections may be accomplished via a splice or other means.
5. In the Entrance facility that connects with the Access Provider, you are required to always
contact Access Providers to determine the needs and policies of the installation.
K. Fire Stop
1. Before beginning installation, verify that substrate conditions previously installed under
other sections are acceptable for installation of firestopping in accordance with
manufacturer’s installation instructions and technical information.
2. Surfaces shall be free of dirt, grease, oil, scale, laitance, rust, release agents, water
repellants, and any other substances that may inhibit optimum adhesion.
3. Provide masking and temporary covering to protect adjacent surfaces.
4. Do not proceed until unsatisfactory conditions have been corrected.
5. Install through-penetration firestop systems in accordance with Performance Criteria and
in accordance with the conditions of testing and classification as specified in the published
design.
6. Comply with manufacturer’s instructions for installation of firestopping products.

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7. Keep areas of work accessible until inspection by authorities having jurisdiction. Where
deficiencies are found, repair firestopping products so they comply with requirements.
8. Remove equipment, materials, and debris, leaving area in undamaged, clean condition.
9. Clean all surfaces adjacent to sealed openings to be free of excess firestopping materials
and soiling as work progresses.

3.3 LABELING
A. General:
1. All labels shall be permanent, machine generated labels produced by a labeling machine.
Labels shall be a permanent polyester material clear in color with label lettering black in
color. No hand written labels will be accepted.
2. Labeling information will be reviewed at Pre-Install Meeting, and the Owner shall approve
the labeling scheme prior to the installation of any cabling.
3. Surfaces shall be cleaned before attaching labels. All labels shall be attached firmly and
vertically plumb on equipment, faceplates, patch panels termination blocks, etc.
4. All labeling of cables, equipment, and components shall be included in as-built
documentation, floor plan drawings, and schematic deigns.
B. Cabling
1. All structured cables (horizontal and backbone) shall be labeled at both ends within 6
inches of cable termination point. Where voice backbone cables extend behind termination
blocks, cable labels shall be placed at a location on the cable where the labels are visible
from the front of the termination blocks.
2. Labels shall have an adhesive backing and shall wrap completely around the
circumference of the cable jacket. Label and lettering sizes shall be of appropriate size in
regards to cable diameter.
C. Equipment Racks, Termination Hardware, and Faceplates
1. All communications equipment racks, cabinets, fiber enclosures, and termination hardware
shall be clearly labeled at the top, left-hand corner of the equipment.
2. Equipment Racks and Cabinets shall have 3/4 inch to 1 inch high lettering and shall be
labeled with the telecommunications room number followed by an alphanumeric character
in sequence for each rack/cabinet. (i.e. TR2-A represents the first rack/cabinet in
Telecommunications room #2)
3. Fiber Enclosures shall have 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch high lettering and shall be labeled with the
telecommunications room number followed by an alphanumeric character of the
rack/cabinet and the enclosure number (i.e. TR1-B-1 represents the first enclosures,
second rack/cabinet in Telecommunications Room #1). Additionally, each strand of fiber
shall be identified with the termination location of the opposite end and the fiber position
number on the outside (or inside) front cover and top, left-hand corner of the enclosure
under the enclosure label.
4. Modular Patch Panels shall have 3/8 inch to 1/2 inch high lettering and shall be labeled
with the telecommunications room number followed by an alphanumeric character of the
rack/cabinet and the patch panel number (i.e. TR3-C-2) represents the second patch panel,
third rack/cabinet in Telecommunications Room #3). Patch panels shall be labeled with
sequential numbering starting with “01” for topmost patch panel and moving downward
towards the bottom of the rack. Additionally, each jack position on the patch panel shall
be identified with the jack position number (i.e. a 48-port patch panel shall have number 1
through 48 silk screen printed on the patch panel or shall have labeling strips with numbers
1 through 48 machine printed above/below corresponding jack position).
5. Voice Termination Blocks shall be labeled similar to patch panels and fiber enclosures
when installed in equipment racks and cabinets. Voice backbone cable pairs shall be
labeled starting with V001 starting at the main communications room and continuing
sequentially through all communications rooms. Horizontal voice cables (station cables)
terminated shall be labeled similar to data patch panels.
6. Voice and Data Outlets shall have 3/16 inch high lettering with the labeling method as
indicated. Voice and data outlets shall be identified with the telecommunications room
where cables are terminated, the rack/cabinet number, the patch panel number, and the

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jack position number (i.e. TR3-C-2-28 represents the outlet is located on the second patch
panel in the third rack/cabinet in Telecommunications Room #3 and is jack position #28).
The Contractor shall terminate all cabling in a sequential method.

3.4 TESTING
A. Category 6A Cable Testing
1. Permanent Link Testing shall be completed on all horizontal (station) cables. The
Contractor will be responsible to supply a Link warranty.
2. Category 6A cabling systems shall be tested as an installed horizontal permanent link
configuration. Jacks and faceplates shall be assembled complete and properly mounted
into outlet boxes. Panels shall be terminated complete and fully dressed with proper cable
management
3. All wiring shall be certified to meet or exceed the specifications as set forth in TIA/EIA-
568B for Category 6A requirements for permanent link. All test will be performed to
250MHz.
4. Field Testing shall include the following parameters for each pair of each cable installed:
a. Name of the person performing the test.
b. Test equipment manufacturer and model number.
c. Cable I.D. The test sheets will be in numerical order by cable ID.
d. Date of test.
e. Wire map (pin to pin connectivity and polarity check).
f. Length (in feet).
g. Insertion Loss.
h. Near End Crosstalk (NEXT).
i. Power Sum Near End Crosstalk (PSNEXT).
j. Equal-Level Far End Crosstalk (ELFEXT).
k. Power Sum Equal-Level Far End Crosstalk (PSELFEXT).
l. Return Loss.
m. Delay Skew.
n. Attenuation to Crosstalk ratio (ACR).
5. A “PASS” indication shall be obtained for each link, using at minimum a level III tester that
complies with TIA/EIA-568-C.2 field test requirements.
6. Record test results for each cable and turn over to the General Contractor Upon completion
of the job. Correct malfunctions when detected, and re-test to demonstrate compliance.
Note: Test equipment shall be a Type III cable Tester.
B. Optical Fiber Testing:
1. Test procedures shall be as described by the TIA/EIA-568-c.0: Commercial Building
Telecommunications Cabling Standard, Parts 2 & 3, and TIA/EIA-526-14-A-1998 - Optical
Power Loss Measurements of Installed Multimode Fiber Cable Plant-OFSTP-14A.
2. Preinstallation Testing:
a. Test each conductor of every optical fiber cable on the reel with a light source and a
power meter.
b. Obtain the cable manufacturer power meter test results for each real used on the
project. Using the attached Optical Fiber Test Form record the readings and the
manufacturer’s reel number. Prior to completion of project, turn over the completed
optical fiber test form, optical fiber cable reel ID tags and optical fiber cable
manufacturer’s test results.
3. Acceptance Testing:
a. Each terminated fiber strand in the horizontal or backbone infrastructure shall be tested
individually as a permanent link. A fiber permanent link is defined as a length of
individual fiber strand with a connector terminated on each end.
b. Testing for multimode shall be at 850 and 1300 nanometers. Total link insertion loss
(dB) shall be within the specified link loss budget.
c. Tier 1 testing for each installed singlemode link shall be performed as an optical power
insertion loss measurement, as defined by ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-7. Testing for
singlemode shall be at 1310 and 1550 nanometers. Total link insertion loss (dB) shall

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be within the specified link loss budget.

d. Tier 2 testing, if required for each installed singlemode or multimode link, shall be
performed as an OTDR measurement, as defined in TIA-TSB-140. We require Tier 2
testing on all fibers installed in the facility for future troubleshooting.
e. Multimode optical fiber attenuation shall be tested on all individual fibers of each cable
segment using an LED light source and power meter to determine the actual loss.
These tests shall be performed at the 850 nm and 1300 nm windows in both directions.
Test set up and performance shall be in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-526-14A,
Method B.
f. A reference power measurement shall be obtained by connecting one end of test
jumper 1 to the light source and the other end to the power meter. After recording the
reference power measurement, test jumper 1 shall be disconnected from the power
meter without disturbing the light source and attached to the cable plant. The power
meter shall be moved to the far end of the cable plant and attached to the cable plant
with test jumper 2.
g. Readings must not be higher than the “Optimal Attenuation Loss.” The OAL will be
calculated using the manufacturer’s factory certified test results, (dB/km) converted to
the actual installed lengths plus the manufacturer’s best published attenuation losses
for the connector and/or splice installed on this project. (0.30+/-0.30 for Connectors
and 0.10 for splices). The construction manager shall use the OAL for comparison
with the end to end power loss test results prior to acceptance.
h. Test Results: Must be completed and turned over to the General Contractor prior to
active equipment installation. Specific due dates for optical fiber will be established at
pre-install meeting.

3.5 DOCUMENTATION
A. Test Results
1. All test results are to be saved electronically on CD. Test documentation submitted on disk
shall be clearly marked on the cover with the words “Project Test Documentation”, the
project name, and the date of completion (month and year). For multiple buildings, the
building name, including floor or wing I.D. should also be included on the test results disk.
2. File names of the test results recorded for each link shall match the official identification.
Test results shall include a complete record for each link, including type of test, cable type,
cable/port I.D., measurement direction, reference setup, date, and technician’s name(s).
3. The test equipment name, manufacturer, model number, serial number, software version
and last calibration date shall also be provided in the test results documentation.
4. When repairs and re-tests are performed, the problem cause and corrective action taken
shall be noted, and both the failed and passed test data shall be documented.
5. The owner, engineer, lead project manager, or owner’s representative reserve the right to
request verification of test results with a re-test of installed cables, on a sampling basis.
Re-testing shall be at the expense of the installer unless otherwise noted in the contract
documents.
B. Record Drawings
1. Deviations from the approved drawings, whether or not a change order is submitted, shall
be clearly denoted as built on the working hard copy drawing by the telecommunications
Contractor. Record drawings shall be returned promptly to the owner or design agent for
completion of drafting revisions to the original design. See Subparagraph 3.5.C, Change
Orders below. Manufacturer’s warranty registrations may also require record drawings.
2. Floor plan drawings shall at minimum include detailed cable and pathway layouts, exact
locations of workstation outlets, and cable distribution hardware locations. Workstation
outlets shall have alphanumeric identifiers on the drawings as specified by the end user or
owner.
C. Change Orders
1. Any deviation from the approved contract drawings or specifications shall be submitted as
a written change order.
2. Execution of work, to perform changes, shall not proceed without prior written approval.

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Any changes done without written approval will be at no cost to USF. If the work is shown
to be incorrect the Contractor will have to correct the problem at no cost to USF.
3. Significant changes may require a written quotation of additional labor and materials from
the telecommunications Contractor.
4. It is the responsibility of the owner or owner’s representative to bear the added cost of any
substantial cabling system design changes. The Contractor will not proceed with any
change orders without written approval by the owner’s representative. Any changes not
approved by the owner’s representative will be responsibility of the Contractor and at no
cost to USF.
5. Field changes that are completed without issuance of revised drawings shall be clearly
denoted on the working record drawing. Refer to Subparagraph 3.5.B, Record Drawings
above.
D. PUNCH LISTS AND CORRECTIVE ACTION
1. As required in the contract documents, the telecommunications contractor shall correct
punch-lists items determined to be in violation of drawings, specifications, codes, standards
or regulations.
2. The Contractor shall be responsible for timely re-work of faulty cabling or hardware
installations.
3. The owner reserves the right to withhold final payment until punch list items are resolved
satisfactorily.

3.6 MANUFACTURER’S WARRANTY

A. The manufacturer warrants Category 6A cabling, optical fiber cabling and connecting
components free of defects in material or workmanship.
B. Category 6A and optical fiber cabling and components are warranted to perform the intended
application upon completion of proper installation and testing.
C. Warranty coverage includes application assurance and compliance to applicable performance
specifications.
D. Installed Category 6A cabling systems may be granted a full Channel warranty under the
conditions stated below.
1. A certified installer registered who has completed a Manufacturer’s training program
performs the construction.
2. Contractors performing the certified installation are properly registered in the
Manufacturer’s warranty program.
3. The channel components are supplied entirely by one Manufacturer, including patch cords.
4. Cable used in the installation is qualified and recognized by Connectivity Manufacturer.
5. Installed link systems are properly documented and tested with a “PASS” result. The
county requires a link test and the use of manufacturer patch cords to receive a channel
warranty.
6. Field test equipment used for Category 6A cabling is minimum level III classification, and
complies with TIA/EIA-568-C.2 requirements.
7. Required test results, stored on a CD, and project documentation including record
drawings, and are submitted to the Manufacturer by the registered contractor.

3.7 MOVES, ADDS AND CHANGES

A. Moves, adds and changes initiated by the owner, end user, project manager, or design agent,
which are beyond the scope of work in the original contract, shall require a revised quotation
by the telecommunications contractor.
B. It is the responsibility of the owner or owner’s representative to bear the added cost of any
substantial cabling system design changes.
C. Moves, adds and changes shall either be issued in revised drawings, or otherwise shall be
clearly denoted on as-built drawings.
D. Moves, adds and changes that affect installations covered in a manufacturer’s warranty shall
be performed by a certified contractor that is properly registered in the manufacturer’s warranty
program.

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3.8 SYSTEM MAINTENANCE AND REPAIR

A. Maintenance of the cabling infrastructure is to be done by authorized personnel only, or void
of manufacturer’s warranty may result. It is the responsibility of the owner or end user to utilize
a certified installer to maintain warranty coverage on existing or new cabling infrastructure.
B. The telecommunications contractor shall furnish a quotation for time and material to perform
maintenance and repairs. The owner has the first right of refusal of selecting a suitable
contractor or qualified internal personnel to perform maintenance and repairs on structured
cabling.
C. Additions of new cabling, either horizontal or backbone, shall be completed, tested, and
documented into permanent building records. New cabling installations intended to be covered
by the manufacturer’s warranty shall adhere to the documentation submittal and system
certification provisions stated above.

3.9 CLEANUP
A. The communications Contractor shall clean up all debris related to this work on a regular basis
leaving the job site in a clean, safe condition.
B. Protect all equipment from damage during construction. Equipment not protected shall be
replaced at the Contractor’s expense.

END OF SECTION 27 10 00

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SECTION 27 11 00 COMMUNICATIONS EQUIPMENT ROOM FITTINGS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 USF GENERAL DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
A. Reserved for future use.

1.2 SUMMARY
A. Section Includes:
1. Telecommunications mounting elements.
2. Backboards.
3. Telecommunications equipment racks and cabinets.
4. Grounding.

1.3 DEFINITIONS
A. BICSI: Building Industry Consulting Service International.
B. EIA: Energy Information Standard.
C. LAN: Local area network.
D. NECA: National Exchange Carrier Association, Inc.
E. RCDD: Registered Communications Distribution Designer.
F. TIA/EIA: Telecommunications Industry Association/Energy Information Standard

1.4 ACTION SUBMITTALS

A. Product Data: For each type of product.
1. Include construction details, material descriptions, dimensions of individual components
and profiles, and finishes for equipment racks and cabinets.
2. Include rated capacities, operating characteristics, electrical characteristics, and furnished
specialties and accessories.
B. Shop Drawings: For communications equipment room fittings. Include plans, elevations,
sections, details, and attachments to other work.
1. Detail equipment assemblies and indicate dimensions, weights, loads, required
clearances, method of field assembly, components, and location and size of each field
connection.
2. Equipment Racks and Cabinets: Include workspace requirements and access for cable
connections.
3. Grounding: Indicate location of grounding bus bar and its mounting detail showing standoff
insulators and wall mounting brackets.

1.5 INFORMATIONAL SUBMITTALS

A. Qualification Data: Provide qualification data for Installer, qualified layout technician,
installation supervisor, and field inspector.

1.6 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Installer Qualifications: Cabling Installer must have personnel certified by BICSI on staff.
1. Layout Responsibility: Preparation of Shop Drawings shall be under the direct supervision
of a RCDD.
2. Installation Supervision: Installation shall be under the direct supervision of a dedicated
Project Manager.
3. Field Inspector: USF IT/Owner will provide Field inspection.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 BACKBOARDS: Provided by Contractor.
A. Backboards: A/C Grade Plywood, fire-retardant treated, 3/4 inch x 48 inches x 96 inches.

2.2 EQUIPMENT FRAMES

A. Basis-of-Design Product: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product from one
of the following:

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

1. Middle Atlantic Products, Inc.

2. Panduit Corp.
3. Rack Technologies.
4. APC.
5. Chatsworth.
B. General Frame Requirements:
1. Distribution Frames: Freestanding and wall-mounting, modular-steel units designed for
telecommunications terminal support and coordinated with dimensions of units to be fully
supported.
2. Module Dimension: Width compatible with EIA 310-D standard, 19-inch panel mounting.
3. Finish: Manufacturer's standard, baked-polyester powder coat.
C. Floor-Mounted Racks: Modular-type, steel or aluminum construction. Vertical and horizontal
cable management channels, grounding lug, and a power strip.
1. Baked-polyester powder coat finish.
D. Modular Freestanding Cabinets:
1. Removable and lockable side panels.
2. Hinged and lockable front and rear doors.
3. Adjustable feet for leveling.
4. Screened ventilation openings in the roof and rear door.
5. Cable access provisions in the roof and base.
6. Grounding bus bar.
7. Roof-mounted, 550-cfm fan with filter.
8. Power strip.
9. Baked-polyester powder coat finish.
10. All cabinets keyed alike.
E. Cable Management for Equipment Frames:
1. Integral wire retaining fingers.
2. Baked-polyester powder coat finish.
3. Vertical cable management panels shall have front and rear channels, with covers.
4. Provide horizontal crossover cable manager at the top of each relay rack.

2.3 POWER STRIPS

A. Power Strips: Comply with UL 1363.
1. Listed and labeled as defined in NFPA 70, by a qualified testing agency, and marked for
intended location and application.
2. Rack mounting.
3. LED indicator lights for power and protection status.
4. LED indicator lights for reverse polarity and open outlet ground.
5. Circuit Breaker and Thermal Fusing: When protection is lost, circuit opens and cannot be
reset.
6. Close-coupled, direct plug-in Cord connected with minimum 15-foot line cord.
7. Rocker-type on-off switch, illuminated when in on position.

2.4 GROUNDING
A. Comply with requirements in Section 26 05 26 , Grounding and Bonding for Electrical Systems
for grounding conductors and connectors.
B. Telecommunications Main Bus Bar: Contractor Provided.
1. Connectors: Mechanical type, solderless compression -two-bolt connection to ground bus
bar.
2. Ground Bus Bar: Copper, minimum 1/4 inch thick by 4 inches wide with 9/32 inch holes
spaced 1-1/8 inches apart.
3. Stand-Off Insulators: Comply with UL 891 for use in switchboards, 600 V. Lexan or PVC,
impulse tested at 5000 V.
C. Comply with ANSI Standard J-STD-607-A.

2.5 LABELING

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

A. Comply with TIA/EIA-606-A and UL 969 for a system of labeling materials, including label
stocks, laminating adhesives, and inks used by label printers. Provide flexible nylon tape.

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 INSTALLATION
A. Comply with NECA 1.
B. Comply with BICSI TDMM for layout and installation of communications equipment rooms.
C. Bundle, lace, and train conductors and cables to terminal points without exceeding
manufacturer's limitations on bending radii. Install lacing bars and distribution spools.
D. Coordinate layout and installation of communications equipment with USF IT. Coordinate
service entrance arrangement with USF IT.
1. Adjust arrangements and locations of distribution frames, cross-connects, and patch
panels in equipment rooms to accommodate and optimize arrangement and space
requirements of telephone switch and LAN equipment.
2. Adjust arrangements and locations of equipment with distribution frames, cross-connects,
and patch panels of cabling systems of other communications, electronic safety and
security, and related systems that share space in the equipment room.
E. Coordinate location of power raceways and receptacles with locations of communications
equipment requiring electrical power to operate.

3.2 SLEEVE AND SLEEVE SEAL INSTALLATION FOR ELECTRICAL PENETRATIONS

Contractor Provided
A. Install sleeves and sleeve seals at penetrations of exterior floor and wall assemblies. Comply
with requirements in Section 27 05 44, Sleeves and Sleeve Seals for Communications
Pathways and Cabling.

3.3 FIRESTOPPING
A. Provide penetration Firestopping required at all rated assemblies.

3.4 GROUNDING
A. Install grounding according to BICSI TDMM, Grounding, Bonding, and Electrical Protection
chapter.
B. Comply with ANSI Standard J-STD-607-A.
C. Bond metallic equipment to the grounding bus bar, using not smaller than No. 6 AWG
equipment grounding conductor.
1. Bond the shield of shielded cable to the grounding bus bar in communications rooms and
spaces.

3.5 IDENTIFICATION
A. Identify system components, wiring, and cabling complying with TIA/EIA-606-A.
B. Paint Fire-resistant plywood battle ship gray. For fire-resistant plywood, do not paint over
manufacturer's label.
C. Paint and label colors for equipment identification shall comply with TIA/EIA-606-A. Labels
shall be preprinted or computer-printed type.

END OF SECTION 27 11 00

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SECTION 27 11 10 COMMUNICATIONS ROOM BUILDING SPECIFICATIONS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 COMMUNICAITONS ROOMS
A. Telecommunication Rooms (TRs) and Entrance Facilities (EFs)
1. TRs and EFs are dedicated to providing voice and data services for both convenience and
life safety. As a result the USF requires that no equipment unrelated to these services be
housed in this space. A/V amplifiers, fire panels, and all building control systems that may
anticipate occupying any space within shall coordinate equipment footprint with IT before
doing so. Pipes, conduits, cables, etc. that MUST pass through this space shall be
coordinated with USF-IT relative to the path they follow.

1.2 INTERIOR
A. Each TR and EF shall be fitted with plywood to wrap the entire room. Plywood specifications
shall be a 3/4 inch AC grade plywood with a gray fire retardant finish.
B TR and EF floors shall be finished with sealed or painted concrete floors, color gray.
C. TRs and EFs shall not be fitted with acoustical ceiling and shall contain finished walls from floor
to deck above.
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1.3 ENVIRONMENT
A. Each TR and EF room shall MAINTAIN a maximum room temp of 74 degrees F after all
equipment has been installed. Anticipated BTU’s will be provided by USF IT to aid in
calculating adequate cooling.
B. TR and EF lighting shall satisfy a minimum illumination of 50 foot-candles measured 3 feet off
the floor.
C. TR and EF electrical outlets shall be included on emergency power if available.
D. TR and EF floors shall have a distributed load rating of 250 lbs/SF.
E. A fire extinguisher shall be located in each TR and EF near the door.
F. Water and sewer facilities shall not occupy any space within the TR and EF.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

G. Sprinkler pipes and cooling condensation installed in and through the TR and EF shall be
installed with a drip pan below to funnel any leaking water or condensate away from racks and
equipment.

1.4 ROOM SIZE

A. TR and EF room sizes shall be calculated as such:
1. Minimum size TR and EF serving a floor space up to 10,000 square feet shall be no less
than 10 feet wide and have a depth no less than 10 feet with an out swing door. (depth
shall increase by 2 feet in the event the door cannot swing out due to egress requirements.)
2. Minimum size TR and EF serving a floor space of 10,000 to 18,000 square feet shall be no
less than 10 feet wide and have a depth no less than 12 feet with an out swing door. (depth
shall increase by 2 feet in the event the door cannot swing out due to egress requirements.)
3. Minimum size TR and EF serving a floor space greater than 18,000 square feet shall be
no less than 10 feet wide and have a depth no less than 14 feet with an out swing door.
(depth shall increase by 2 feet in the event the door cannot swing out due to egress
requirements.)
4. Structural building supports shall not be located in the floor space of any TR or EF. If it
must, minimum size measurements shall be taken from that point to the opposing wall.

1.5 CONDUITS & SLEEVES

A. EFs shall have a minimum of two (2) 4 inches conduits from nearest communications manhole.
Conduits shall be fitted with plastic bushings and be clean and dry, clear of all debris, and
contain a min 250 lbs test pull line.
B. TRs and EFs shall contain a minimum of three (3) 4 inches sleeves between them. Conduits
shall be fitted with plastic bushings and contain a pull string.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS (Not Used)

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 DEISGN REVIEW
A. USF IT will provide to design team room layouts for each designated TR and EF space similar
to the one below.
4" sleeves from MDF
0 ft. 2 ft. 4.8 in. 4 ft. 8 ft.
Riser sleeves to 3rd IDF

¾ A/C grade plywood

Vertical wire
Cooling fan unit

IDF 2nd management

floor Voice
165 switch 330
Data
Voice / UPS Data dedicated
switch
cables cables

dedicated

Grounding busbar
(2) L5-30 dedicated
receptacles

END OF SECTION 27 11 00.10

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

SECTION 27 13 00 COMMUNICATIONS BACKBONE CABLING

PART 1 – GENERAL
1.1 USF General Design Requirements (reserved for future use)

1.2 SUMMARY
A. Section Includes:
1. Pathways.
2. UTP cable.
3. 50/125, 62.5/125-micrometer, optical fiber cabling.
4. Cable connecting hardware, patch panels, and cross-connects.
5. Cabling identification products.

1.3 DEFINITIONS
A. BICSI: Building Industry Consulting Service International.
B. BICSI ITSIM Standards: BCSI Information Transport System Installation Methods.
C. BICSI TDMM Standards: BCSI Telecommunications Distribution Methods Manual.
D. Cross-Connect: A facility enabling the termination of cable elements and their interconnection
or cross-connection.
E. EIA: U.S. Energy Information Administration.
F. EMI: Electromagnetic interference.
G. IDC: Insulation displacement connector.
H. LAN: Local area network.
I. NECA: National Electrical Installation Standards.
J. NRTL: Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories.
K. RCDD: Registered Communications Distribution Designer.
L. UTP: Unshielded twisted pair.

1.4 BACKBONE CABLING DESCRIPTION

A. Backbone cabling system shall provide interconnections between communications equipment
rooms, main terminal space, and entrance facilities in the telecommunications cabling system
structure. Cabling system consists of backbone cables, intermediate and main cross-connects,
mechanical terminations, and patch cords or jumpers used for backbone-to-backbone cross-
connection.
B. Backbone cabling cross-connects may be located in communications equipment rooms or at
entrance facilities. Bridged taps and splitters shall not be used as part of backbone cabling.

1.5 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

A. General Performance: Backbone cabling system shall comply with transmission standards in
TIA/EIA-568-B.1, when tested according to test procedures of this standard.

1.6 SUBMITTALS
A. Shop Drawings:
1. System Labeling Schedules: Electronic copy of labeling schedules, in software and format
selected by USF-IT/Owner.
2. Cabling administration drawings and printouts.
3. Wiring diagrams to show typical wiring schematics including the following:
a. Cross-connects.
4. Cable tray layout, showing cable tray route to scale, with relationship between the tray and
adjacent structural, electrical, and mechanical elements. Include the following:
a. Vertical and horizontal offsets and transitions.
b. Clearances for access above and to side of cable trays.
c. Vertical elevation of cable trays above the floor or bottom of ceiling structure.
d. Load calculations to show dead and live loads as not exceeding manufacturer's rating
for tray and its support elements.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

1.7 CLOSEOUT SUBMITTALS

A. Software and Firmware Operational Documentation:
1. Software operating and upgrade manuals.
2. Program Software Backup: On magnetic media or compact disk, complete with data files.
3. Device address list.
4. Printout of software application and graphic screens.

1.8 MAINTENANCE MATERIAL SUBMITTALS

A. Furnish extra materials that match products installed and that are packaged with protective
covering for storage and identified with labels describing contents.

1.9 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Installer Qualifications: Cabling Installer must have personnel certified by BICSI on staff.
Owner may qualify installer under separate contract.
1. Layout Responsibility: Preparation of Shop Drawings, Cabling Administration Drawings,
and field testing program development by an RCDD.
2. Installation Supervision: Installation shall be under the direct supervision of dedicated
project manager who shall be present at all times when Work of this Section is performed
at Project site.
B. Electrical Components, Devices, and Accessories: Listed and labeled as defined in NFPA 70,
by a qualified testing agency, and marked for intended location and application.
C. Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces: Comply with TIA/EIA-569-A.
D. Grounding: Comply with ANSI-J-STD-607-A.

1.10 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING

A. Advise USF-IT/Owner, minimum five working days’ notice, when cables are on project site.
Test cables, in the presence of USF-IT/Owner, upon receipt at Project site per BICSI ITSIM
Standards.

1.11 PROJECT CONDITIONS

A. Environmental Limitations: Do not deliver or install cables and connecting materials until wet
work in spaces is complete and dry, and temporary HVAC system is operating and maintaining
ambient temperature and humidity conditions at occupancy levels during the remainder of the
construction period.

1.12 COORDINATION
A. Coordinate layout and installation of telecommunications pathways and cabling with Owner's
telecommunications and LAN equipment and service suppliers.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS
2.1 PATHWAYS
A. General Requirements: Comply with TIA/EIA-569-A.
B. Cable Support: NRTL labeled for support of Category 6 cabling, designed to prevent
degradation of cable performance and pinch points that could damage cable.
C. Cable Trays: See Section 27 05 36, Cable Trays for Communications Systems.
D. Conduit and Boxes: Comply with requirements in Section 26 05 33, Raceway and Boxes for
Electrical Systems. Flexible metal conduit shall not be used.
1. Outlet boxes shall be no smaller than 2 inches wide, 3 inches high, and 2-1/2 inches deep.

2.2 BACKBOARDS
A. Backboards: A/C Grade Plywood, fire-retardant treated, 3/4 inch x 48 inches x 96 inches.

2.3 UTP CABLE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide products by one of the
following:
1. CommScope, Inc.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

2. Mohawk; a division of Belden CDT

3. Superior Essex Inc.
4. OCC
5. Hitachi
B. Description: 100-ohm, 100 -pair UTP, formed into 25-pair binder groups covered with a gray
thermoplastic jacket.
1. Comply with ICEA S-90-661 for mechanical properties.
2. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.1 for performance specifications.
3. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.2, Category 5e, Category 6.
4. Listed and labeled by an NRTL acceptable to authorities having jurisdiction as complying
with UL 444 and NFPA 70 for the following types:
a. Communications, General Purpose: Type CM or CMG, or CMP, CMR.
b. Communications, Plenum Rated: Type CMP complying with NFPA 262.
c. Communications, Riser Rated: Type CMR or CMP complying with UL 1666.

2.4 UTP CABLE HARDWARE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide products by one of the
following
1. Hubbell Premise Wiring.
2. Panduit Corp.
3. Optical Cable Corporation, OCC
B. General Requirements for Cable Connecting Hardware: Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.2, IDC
type, with modules designed for punch-down caps or tools. Cables shall be terminated with
connecting hardware of same category or higher.
C. Patch Panel: Modular panels housing multiple-numbered jack units with IDC-type connectors
at each jack for permanent termination of pair groups of installed cables.
D. Jacks and Jack Assemblies: Modular, color-coded, eight-position modular receptacle units
with integral IDC-type terminals.

2.5 OPTICAL FIBER CABLE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide products by one of the
following:
1. Corning Cable Systems
2. General Cable Technologies Corporation
3. Hitachi
4. Optical Cable Corporation, OCC
B. Description: Multimode, 50/125 62.5/125-micrometer, fiber, nonconductive, tight buffer, optical
fiber cable.
1. Comply with ICEA S-83-596 for mechanical properties.
2. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.3 for performance specifications.
3. Listed and labeled by an NRTL acceptable to authorities having jurisdiction as complying
with UL 444, UL 1651, and NFPA 70 for the following types:
a. General Purpose, Nonconductive: Type OFN or OFNG, or OFNR, OFNP.
b. Plenum Rated, Nonconductive: Type OFNP, complying with NFPA 262.
c. Riser Rated, Nonconductive: Type OFNR or OFNP, complying with UL 1666.
d. General Purpose, Conductive: Type OFC or OFCG; or OFNG, OFN, OFCR, OFNR,
OFCP, or OFNP.
e. Plenum Rated, Conductive: Type OFCP or OFNP, complying with NFPA 262.
f. Riser Rated, Conductive: Type OFCR; or OFNR, OFCP, or OFNP, complying with UL
1666.
4. Conductive cable shall be steel armored type.
5. Maximum Attenuation: 3.50 dB/km at 850 nm; 1.5 dB/km at 1300 nm per link.
6. Minimum Modal Bandwidth: 160 MHz-km at 850 nm; 500 MHz-km at 1300 nm.
C. Jacket:
1. Jacket Color: Aqua for 50/125-micrometer cable Orange for 62.5/125-micrometer cable.
2. Cable cordage jacket, fiber, unit, and group color shall be according to TIA/EIA-598-B.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

3. Imprinted with fiber count, fiber type, and aggregate length at regular intervals not to
exceed 40 inches.

2.6 OPTICAL FIBER CABLE HARDWARE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide products by one of the
following:
1. Corning Cable Systems
2. Hitachi
3. OCC
4. General Cable
B. Cross-Connects and Patch Panels: Modular panels housing multiple-numbered, duplex cable
connectors.
C. Patch Cords: Factory-made, dual-fiber cables in 36-inch lengths.
D. Cable Connecting Hardware:
1. Comply with Optical Fiber Connector Intermateability Standards (FOCIS) specifications of
TIA/EIA-604-2, TIA/EIA-604-3-A, and TIA/EIA-604-12. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.3.
2. Quick-connect, simplex and duplex, Type SC, Type ST, Type LC connectors. Insertion
loss not more than 0.75 dB.
3. Type SFF connectors may be used in termination racks, panels, and equipment packages.

2.7 COAXIAL CABLE

A. See Section 27 41 00, Common work results for Audio-Visual Systems

2.8 COAXIAL CABLE HARDWARE

A. See Section 27 41 00, Common work results for Audio-Visual Systems

2.9 GROUNDING
A. Comply with requirements in See Section 26 05 26, Grounding and Bonding for Electrical
Systems for grounding conductors and connectors.
B. Comply with ANSI-J-STD-607-A.

2.10 IDENTIFICATION PRODUCTS

A. Comply with TIA/EIA-606-A and UL 969 for a system of labeling materials, including label
stocks, laminating adhesives, and inks used by label printers.

2.11 SOURCE QUALITY CONTROL

A. Cable will be considered defective if it does not pass tests and inspections.
B. Prepare test and inspection reports.

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 ENTRANCE FACILITIES
A. Coordinate backbone cabling with the protectors and demarcation point provided by
communications service provider.

3.2 WIRING METHODS

A. Wiring Method: Install cables in raceways and cable trays except within consoles, cabinets,
desks, and counters and except in accessible ceiling spaces, in attics, and in gypsum board
partitions where unenclosed wiring method may be used. Conceal raceway and cables except
in unfinished spaces.
1. Install plenum cable in environmental air spaces, including plenum ceilings.
2. Comply with requirements for raceways and boxes specified in Section 26 05 33, Raceway
and Boxes for Electrical Systems.
B. Wiring Method: Conceal conductors and cables in accessible ceilings, walls, and floors where
possible.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

C. Wiring within Enclosures: Bundle, lace, and train cables within enclosures. Connect to terminal
points with no excess and without exceeding manufacturer's limitations on bending radii.
Provide and use lacing bars and distribution spools.

3.3 INSTALLATION OF PATHWAYS

A. Cable Trays: Comply with NEMA VE 2 and TIA/EIA-569-A.
B. Comply with TIA/EIA-569-A for pull-box sizing and length of conduit and number of bends
between pull points.
C. Comply with requirements in Section 26 05 33, Raceway and Boxes for Electrical Systems for
installation of conduits and wireways.
D. Install manufactured conduit sweeps and long-radius elbows whenever possible.
E. Pathway Installation within Communications Equipment Rooms may be supplied and installed
by Owner provided Vendor.
1. Position conduit ends adjacent to a corner on backboard where a single piece of plywood
is installed, or in the corner of room where multiple sheets of plywood are installed around
perimeter walls of room.
2. Install cable trays to route cables if conduits cannot be located in these positions.
3. Secure conduits to backboard when entering room from overhead.
4. Extend conduits 6 inches above finished floor.
5. Install metal conduits with grounding bushings and connect with grounding conductor to
grounding system.
F. Backboards: Install backboards with 96-inch dimension vertical. Butt adjacent sheets tightly,
and form smooth gap-free corners and joints.
1. Installed per Owner provided layout, 27-02.

3.4 INSTALLATION OF CABLES

A. Comply with NECA 1.
B. General Requirements for Cabling:
1. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.1.
2. Comply with BICSI ITSIM, Ch. 6, Cable Termination Practices.
3. Install 110-style IDC termination hardware unless otherwise indicated.
4. Terminate all conductors; no cable shall contain unterminated elements. Make
terminations only at indicated outlets, terminals, cross-connects, and patch panels.
5. Cables may not be spliced. Secure and support cables at intervals not exceeding 30 inches
and not more than 6 inches from cabinets, boxes, fittings, outlets, racks, frames, and
terminals.
6. Install lacing bars to restrain cables, to prevent straining connections, and to prevent
bending cables to smaller radii than minimums recommended by manufacturer.
7. Bundle, lace, and train conductors to terminal points without exceeding manufacturer's
limitations on bending radii, but not less than radii specified in BICSI ITSIM, Cabling
Termination Practices chapter. Use lacing bars and distribution spools.
8. Do not install bruised, kinked, scored, deformed, or abraded cable. Do not splice cable
between termination, tap, or junction points. Remove and discard cable if damaged during
installation and replace it with new cable.
9. Cold-Weather Installation: Bring cable to room temperature before dereeling. Heat lamps
shall not be used for heating.
10. In the communications equipment room, install a 10 feet long service loop on each end of
cable.
11. Pulling Cable: Comply with BICSI ITSIM, Ch. 4, Pulling Cable monitor cable pull tensions.
C. UTP Cable Installation:
1. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.2.
2. Do not untwist UTP cables more than 1/2 inch from the point of termination to maintain
cable geometry.
D. Optical Fiber Cable Installation:
1. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.3.
2. Cable may be terminated on connecting hardware that is rack or cabinet mounted.

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

E. Open-Cable Installation:
1. Install cabling with horizontal and vertical cable guides in telecommunications spaces with
terminating hardware and interconnection equipment.
2. Suspend UTP cable not in a wireway or pathway, a minimum of 8 inches above ceilings by
cable supports not more than 60 inches apart.
3. Cable shall not be run through structural members or in contact with pipes, ducts, or other
potentially damaging items.
F. Installation of Cable Routed Exposed under Raised Floors:
1. Install plenum-rated cable only.
2. Install cabling after the flooring system has been installed in raised floor areas.
3. Coil cable 6 feet long not less than 12 inches in diameter below each feed point.
G. Group connecting hardware for cables into separate logical fields.
H. Separation from EMI Sources:
1. Comply with BICSI TDMM and TIA/EIA-569-A recommendations for separating unshielded
copper voice and data communication cable from potential EMI sources, including
electrical power lines and equipment.
2. Separation between open communications cables or cables in nonmetallic raceways and
unshielded power conductors and electrical equipment shall be as follows:
a. Electrical Equipment Rating Less Than 2 kVA: A minimum of 5 inches.
b. Electrical Equipment Rating between 2 and 5 kVA: A minimum of 12 inches.
c. Electrical Equipment Rating More Than 5 kVA: A minimum of 24 inches.
3. Separation between communications cables in grounded metallic raceways and
unshielded power lines or electrical equipment shall be as follows:
a. Electrical Equipment Rating Less Than 2 kVA: A minimum of 2-1/2 inches.
b. Electrical Equipment Rating between 2 and 5 kVA: A minimum of 6 inches.
c. Electrical Equipment Rating More Than 5 kVA: A minimum of 12 inches.
4. Separation between communications cables in grounded metallic raceways and power
lines and electrical equipment located in grounded metallic conduits or enclosures shall be
as follows:
a. Electrical Equipment Rating Less Than 2 kVA: No requirement.
b. Electrical Equipment Rating between 2 and 5 kVA: A minimum of 3 inches.
c. Electrical Equipment Rating More Than 5 kVA: A minimum of 6 inches.
5. Separation between Communications Cables and Electrical Motors and Transformers, 5
kVA or HP and Larger: A minimum of 48 inches.
6. Separation between Communications Cables and Fluorescent Fixtures: A minimum of 6
inches.

3.5 FIRESTOPPING
A. Provide penetration Firestopping through all rated assemblies.
B. Comply with TIA/EIA-569-A, Annex A, Firestopping
C. Comply with BICSI TDMM, Firestopping Systems article.

3.6 GROUNDING
A. Install grounding according to BICSI TDMM, Grounding, Bonding, and Electrical Protection
chapter.
B. Comply with ANSI-J-STD-607-A.
C. Locate grounding bus bar to minimize the length of bonding conductors. Fasten to wall allowing
at least 2-inch clearance behind the grounding bus bar. Connect grounding bus bar with a
minimum No. 4 AWG grounding electrode conductor from grounding bus bar to suitable
electrical building ground.
D. Bond metallic equipment to the grounding bus bar, using not smaller than No. 6 AWG
equipment grounding conductor.

3.7 IDENTIFICATION

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

A. Identify system components, wiring, and cabling complying with TIA/EIA-606-A. Comply with
requirements for identification specified in Section 26 05 53, Identification for Electrical
Systems.
1. Color-code cross-connect fields and apply colors to voice and data service backboards,
connections, covers, and labels.
B. Paint Fire-resistant plywood battle ship gray: For fire-resistant plywood, do not paint over
manufacturer's label.
C. Paint and label colors for equipment identification shall comply with TIA/EIA-606-A.
D. Cable Schedule: Install in a prominent location in each equipment room and wiring closet. List
incoming and outgoing cables and their designations, origins, and destinations. Protect with
rigid frame and clear plastic cover. Furnish an electronic copy of final comprehensive
schedules for Project.
E. Cable and Wire Identification:
1. Label each cable within 4 inches of each termination and tap, where it is accessible in a
cabinet or junction or outlet box, and elsewhere as indicated.
2. Exposed Cables and Cables in Cable Trays and Wire Troughs: Label each cable at
intervals not exceeding 15 feet.
3. Supplied by Owner provided Vendor - identification within Connector Fields in Equipment
Rooms and Wiring Closets: Label each connector and each discrete unit of cable-
terminating and connecting hardware. Where similar jacks and plugs are used for both
voice and data communication cabling, use a different color for jacks and plugs of each
service.
F. Labels shall be preprinted or computer-printed type with printing area and font color that
contrasts with cable jacket color but still complies with requirements in TIA/EIA 606-A, for the
following:
1. Cables use flexible vinyl or polyester that flexes as cables are bent.

3.8 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL

A. By Owner.

END OF SECTION 27 13 00

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

SECTION 27 15 00 COMMUNICATIONS HORIZONTAL CABLING

PART 1 – GENERAL
1.1 USF GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
(reserved for future use)

1.2 SUMMARY
A. Section Includes:
1. UTP cabling.
2. 50/125 62.5/125-micrometer, optical fiber cabling.
3. Multiuser telecommunications outlet assemblies.
4. Cable connecting hardware, patch panels, and cross-connects.
5. Telecommunications outlet/connectors.
6. Cabling system identification products.
7. Cable management system.

1.3 DEFINITIONS
A. BICSI: Building Industry Consulting Service International.
B. Consolidation Point: A location for interconnection between horizontal cables extending from
building pathways and horizontal cables extending into furniture pathways.
C. Cross-Connect: A facility enabling the termination of cable elements and their interconnection
or cross-connection.
D. EMI: Electromagnetic interference.
E. IDC: Insulation displacement connector.
F. LAN: Local area network.
G. MUTOA: Multiuser telecommunications outlet assembly, a grouping in one location of several
telecommunications outlet/connectors.
H. Outlet/Connectors: A connecting device in the work area on which horizontal cable or outlet
cable terminates.
I. RCDD: Registered Communications Distribution Designer.
J. UTP: Unshielded twisted pair.

1.4 ADMINISTRATIVE REQUIREMENTS

A. Coordinate layout and installation of telecommunications cabling with Owner's
telecommunications and LAN equipment and service suppliers.
B. Coordinate telecommunications outlet/connector locations with location of power receptacles
at each work area.

1.5 ACTION SUBMITTALS

A. Shop Drawings:
1. System Labeling Schedules: Electronic copy of labeling schedules, in software and format
selected by Owner.
2. Cabling administration drawings and printouts.
3. Wiring diagrams to show typical wiring schematics, including the following:
a. Cross-connects.

1.6 CLOSEOUT SUBMITTALS

A. Maintenance Data: For splices and connectors to include in maintenance manuals.
B. Software and Firmware Operational Documentation:
1. Software operating and upgrade manuals.
2. Program Software Backup: On magnetic media or compact disk, complete with data files.
3. Device address list.
4. Printout of software application and graphic screens.

1.7 MAINTENANCE MATERIAL SUBMITTALS

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

A. Furnish extra materials that match products installed and that are packaged with protective
covering for storage and identified with labels describing contents.

1.8 QUALITY ASSURANCE

A. Installer Qualifications: Cabling Installer must have personnel certified by BICSI on staff.
Owner may qualify installer under separate contract.
1. Layout Responsibility: Preparation of Shop Drawings, Cabling Administration Drawings,
and field testing program development by an RCDD.
2. Installation Supervision: Installation shall be under the direct supervision of a dedicated
project manager who shall be present at all times when Work of this Section is performed
at Project site.

1.9 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING

A. Advise USF-IT/Owner, minimum five working days’ notice, when cables are on project site.
Test cables, in the presence of USF-IT/Owner, upon receipt at Project site per BICSI ITSIM
Standards.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS
2.1 HORIZONTAL CABLING DESCRIPTION
A. Horizontal cable and its connecting hardware provide the means of transporting signals
between the telecommunications outlet/connector and the horizontal cross-connect located in
the communications equipment room. This cabling and its connecting hardware are called a
"permanent link," a term that is used in the testing protocols.
1. TIA/EIA-568-B.1 requires that a minimum of two telecommunications outlet/connectors be
installed for each work area.
2. Horizontal cabling shall contain no more than one transition point or consolidation point
between the horizontal cross-connect and the telecommunications outlet/connector.
3. Bridged taps and splices shall not be installed in the horizontal cabling.
4. Splitters shall not be installed as part of the optical fiber cabling.
B. A work area is approximately 100 sq ft, and includes the components that extend from the
telecommunications outlet/connectors to the station equipment.
C. The maximum allowable horizontal cable length is 295 feet. This maximum allowable length
does not include an allowance for the length of 16 feet to the workstation equipment or in the
horizontal cross-connect.

2.2 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS

A. General Performance: Horizontal cabling system shall comply with transmission standards in
TIA/EIA-568-B.1 when tested according to test procedures of this standard.
B. Surface-Burning Characteristics: Comply with ASTM E 84; testing by a qualified testing
agency. Identify products with appropriate markings of applicable testing agency.
1. Flame-Spread Index: 25 or less.
2. Smoke-Developed Index: 450 or less.
C. Electrical Components, Devices, and Accessories: Listed and labeled as defined in NFPA 70,
by a qualified testing agency, and marked for intended location and application.
D. Grounding: Comply with J-STD-607-A.

2.3 BACKBOARDS
A. Backboards: Plywood, fire-retardant treated, 3/4 inch x 48 inches x 96 inches.

2.4 UTP CABLE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product by one of the
following:
1. Hitachi
2. General
3. OCC

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

B. Description: 100-ohm, four-pair UTP, formed into 25-pair, binder groups covered with a blue
thermoplastic jacket.
1. Comply with ICEA S-90-661 for mechanical properties.
2. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.1 for performance specifications.
3. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.2, Category 6.
4. Listed and labeled by an NRTL acceptable to authorities having jurisdiction as complying
with UL 444 and NFPA 70 for the following types:

2.5 UTP CABLE HARDWARE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product by one of the
following:
1. Hitachi
2. General
3. OCC

2.6 OPTICAL FIBER CABLE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product by one of the
following:
1. Corning Cable Systems
2. General Cable Technologies Corporation
3. Hitachi
4. Optical Cable Corporation (OCC)
B. Description: Multimode, 50/125 62.5/125-micrometer, 24-fiber, nonconductive, tight buffer,
optical fiber cable.
1. Comply with ICEA S-83-596 for mechanical properties.
2. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.3 for performance specifications.
3. Listed and labeled by an NRTL acceptable to authorities having jurisdiction as complying
with UL 444, UL 1651, and NFPA 70 for the following types:
a. General Purpose, Nonconductive: Type OFN or OFNG, or OFNR, OFNP.
b. Plenum Rated, Nonconductive: Type OFNP, complying with NFPA 262.
c. Riser Rated, Nonconductive: Type OFNR or OFNP, complying with UL 1666.
d. General Purpose, Conductive: Type OFC or OFCG; or OFNG, OFN, OFCR, OFNR,
OFCP, or OFNP.
e. Plenum Rated, Conductive: Type OFCP or OFNP, complying with NFPA 2 Riser
Rated, Conductive: Type OFCR; or OFNR, OFCP, or OFNP, complying with UL 1666.
4. Conductive cable shall be steel armored type.
5. Maximum Attenuation: 3.50 dB/km at 850 nm; 1.5 dB/km at 1300 nm.
6. Minimum Modal Bandwidth: 160 MHz-km at 850 nm; 500 MHz-km at 1300 nm.
C. Jacket:
1. Jacket Color: Aqua for 50/125-micrometer cable Orange for 62.5/125-micrometer cable.
2. Cable cordage jacket, fiber, unit, and group color shall be according to TIA-598-C.
3. Imprinted with fiber count, fiber type, and aggregate length at regular intervals not to
exceed 40 inches.

2.7 OPTICAL FIBER CABLE HARDWARE

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product by one of the
following:
1. Corning Cable Systems
2. General Cable Technologies Corporation
3. Hitachi
4. Optical Cable Corporation (OCC)
B. Cable Connecting Hardware:
1. Comply with Optical Fiber Connector Intermateability Standards (FOCIS) specifications of
TIA-604-2-B, TIA-604-3-B, and TIA/EIA-604-12. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.3.
2. Quick-connect, simplex and duplex, Type SC for single mode Type ST for 62.5 multi-mode
Type LC for 50 multi-mode connectors. Insertion loss not more than 0.75 dB.

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3. Type SFF connectors may be used in termination racks, panels, and equipment packages.

2.8 COAXIAL CABLE

A. See Section 27 41 00, Common work results for Audio-Visual Systems

2.9 COAXIAL CABLE HARDWARE

A. See Section 27 41 00, Common work results for Audio-Visual Systems

2.10 CONSOLIDATION POINTS

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, provide product by one of the
following:
1. Chatsworth Products, Inc.
2. Panduit Corp.
3. OCC
B. Description: Consolidation points shall comply with requirements for cable connecting
hardware.
1. Mounting: Coordinate with USF IT.
2. NRTL listed as complying with UL 50 and UL 1863.
3. When installed in plenums used for environmental air, NRTL listed as complying with UL
2043.

2.11 MULTIUSER TELECOMMUNICATIONS OUTLET ASSEMBLY (MUTOA)

A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, product by one of the following:
1. Chatsworth Products, Inc.
2. Hubbell Premise Wiring
3. Panduit Corp.
4. OCC
B. Description: MUTOAs shall meet the requirements for cable connecting hardware.
1. Mounting: Coordinate with USF IT.
2. NRTL listed as complying with UL 50 and UL 1863.
3. Label shall include maximum length of work area cords, based on TIA/EIA-568-B.1.
4. When installed in plenums used for environmental air, NRTL listed as complying with UL
2043.

2.12 TELECOMMUNICATIONS OUTLET/CONNECTORS JACKS: 100-ohm, balanced, twisted-pair

connector; four-pair, eight-position modular. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.1.
A. Workstation Outlets: 3-port-connector assemblies mounted in single or multigang faceplate.
1. Plastic Faceplate: High-impact plastic. Coordinate color with Section 26 27 26, Wiring
Devices.
2. Metal Faceplate: Stainless steel, complying with requirements in Section 26 27 26, Wiring
Devices.
3. For use with snap-in jacks accommodating, any combination of UTP, optical fiber, and
coaxial work area cords.
a. Flush mounting jacks, positioning the cord at a 45-degree angle.
4. Legend: Machine printed, in the field, using adhesive-tape label.

2.13 GROUNDING
A. Comply with requirements in Section 26 05 26 Grounding and Bonding for Electrical Systems
for grounding conductors and connectors.
B. Comply with J-STD-607-A.

2.14 IDENTIFICATION PRODUCTS

A. Comply with TIA/EIA-606-A and UL 969 for labeling materials, including label stocks,
laminating adhesives, and inks used by label printers.

2.15 CABLE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM

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A. Manufacturers: Subject to compliance with requirements, product by one of the following:

1. Panduit
2. OCC
3. Chatworth
B. Description: Computer-based cable management system, with integrated database and
graphic capabilities.
C. Document physical characteristics by recording the network, TIA/EIA details, and connections
between equipment and cable.
D. System shall interface with the following testing and recording devices:
1. Direct upload tests from circuit testing instrument into the personal computer.
2. Direct download circuit labeling into labeling printer.

PART 3 – EXECUTION
3.1 ENTRANCE FACILITIES
A. Coordinate backbone cabling with the protectors and demarcation point provided by
communications service provider.

3.2 WIRING METHODS

A. Install cables in pathways and cable trays except within consoles, cabinets, desks, and
counters and except in accessible ceiling spaces and in gypsum board partitions where
unenclosed wiring method may be used. Conceal pathways and cables except in unfinished
spaces.
1. Install plenum cable in environmental air spaces, including plenum ceilings.
2. Comply with requirements in Section 27 05 36, Cable Trays for Communications Systems.
B. Conceal conductors and cables in accessible ceilings, walls, and floors where possible.
C. Wiring within Enclosures:
1. Bundle, lace, and train conductors to terminal points with no excess and without exceeding
manufacturer's limitations on bending radii.
2. Install lacing bars and distribution spools.
3. Install conductors parallel with or at right angles to sides and back of enclosure.

3.3 INSTALLATION OF CABLES

A. Comply with NECA 1.
B. General Requirements for Cabling:
1. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.1.
2. Comply with BICSI ITSIM, Ch. 6, Cable Termination Practices.
3. Install 110-style IDC termination hardware unless otherwise indicated.
4. MUTOA shall not be used as a cross-connect point.
5. Consolidation points may be used only for making a direct connection to
telecommunications outlet/connectors:
a. Do not use consolidation point as a cross-connect point, as a patch connection, or for
direct connection to workstation equipment.
b. Locate consolidation points for UTP at least 49 feet from communications equipment
room.
6. Terminate conductors; no cable shall contain unterminated elements. Make terminations
only at indicated outlets, terminals, cross-connects, and patch panels.
7. Cables may not be spliced. Secure and support cables at intervals not exceeding 30 inches
and not more than 6 inches from cabinets, boxes, fittings, outlets, racks, frames, and
terminals.
8. Install lacing bars to restrain cables, to prevent straining connections, and to prevent
bending cables to smaller radii than minimums recommended by manufacturer.
9. Bundle, lace, and train conductors to terminal points without exceeding manufacturer's
limitations on bending radii, but not less than radii specified in BICSI ITSIM, Cabling
Termination Practices chapter. Install lacing bars and distribution spools.

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10. Do not install bruised, kinked, scored, deformed, or abraded cable. Do not splice cable
between termination, tap, or junction points. Remove and discard cable if damaged during
installation and replace it with new cable.
11. Cold-Weather Installation: Bring cable to room temperature before dereeling. Heat lamps
shall not be used for heating.
12. In the communications equipment room, install a 10-feet long service loop on each end of
cable.
13. Pulling Cable: Comply with BICSI ITSIM, Ch. 4, Pulling Cable monitor cable pull tensions.
C. UTP Cable Installation:
1. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.2.
2. Do not untwist UTP cables more than 1/2 inch from the point of termination to maintain
cable geometry.
D. Optical Fiber Cable Installation:
1. Comply with TIA/EIA-568-B.3.
2. Cable may be terminated on connecting hardware that is rack or cabinet mounted.
E. Open-Cable Installation:
1. Install cabling with horizontal and vertical cable guides in telecommunications spaces with
terminating hardware and interconnection equipment.
2. Suspend UTP cable not in a wireway or pathway a minimum of 8 inches above ceilings by
cable supports not more than 60 inches apart.
3. Cable shall not be run through structural members or in contact with pipes, ducts, or other
potentially damaging items.
F. Installation of Cable Routed Exposed under Raised Floors:
1. Install plenum-rated cable only.
2. Install cabling after the flooring system has been installed in raised floor areas.
3. Coil cable 6 feet long not less than 12 inches in diameter below each feed point.
G. Outdoor Coaxial Cable Installation: (See Section 27 41 00, Common work results for Audio-
Visual Systems)
H. Group connecting hardware for cables into separate logical fields.
I. Separation from EMI Sources:
1. Comply with BICSI TDMM and TIA-569-B for separating unshielded copper voice and data
communication cable from potential EMI sources, including electrical power lines and
equipment.
2. Separation between open communications cables or cables in nonmetallic raceways and
unshielded power conductors and electrical equipment shall be as follows:
a. Electrical Equipment Rating Less Than 2 kVA: A minimum of 5 inches.
b. Electrical Equipment Rating between 2 and 5 kVA: A minimum of 12 inches.
c. Electrical Equipment Rating More Than 5 kVA: A minimum of 24 inches.
3. Separation between communications cables in grounded metallic raceways and
unshielded power lines or electrical equipment shall be as follows:
a. Electrical Equipment Rating Less Than 2 kVA: A minimum of 2-1/2 inches.
b. Electrical Equipment Rating between 2 and 5 kVA: A minimum of 6 inches.
c. Electrical Equipment Rating More Than 5 kVA: A minimum of 12 inches.
4. Separation between communications cables in grounded metallic raceways and power
lines and electrical equipment located in grounded metallic conduits or enclosures shall be
as follows:
a. Electrical Equipment Rating Less Than 2 kVA: No requirement.
b. Electrical Equipment Rating between 2 and 5 kVA: A minimum of 3 inches.
c. Electrical Equipment Rating More Than 5 kVA: A minimum of 6 inches.
5. Separation between Communications Cables and Electrical Motors and Transformers, 5
kVA or HP and Larger: A minimum of 48 inches.
6. Separation between Communications Cables and Fluorescent Fixtures: A minimum of 12
inches.

3.4 FIRESTOPPING
A. Provide penetration Firestopping through all rated assemblies.

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B. Comply with TIA-569-B, Annex A, Firestopping.

C. Comply with BICSI TDMM, Firestopping Systems article.

3.5 GROUNDING
A. Install grounding according to BICSI TDMM, Grounding, Bonding, and Electrical Protection
chapter.
B. Comply with J-STD-607-A.
C. Locate grounding bus bar to minimize the length of bonding conductors. Fasten to wall allowing
at least 2 inches clearance behind the grounding bus bar. Connect grounding bus bar with a
minimum No. 4 AWG grounding electrode conductor from grounding bus bar to suitable
electrical building ground.
D. Bond metallic equipment to the grounding bus bar, using not smaller than No. 6 AWG
equipment grounding conductor.

3.6 IDENTIFICATION
A. Identify system components, wiring, and cabling complying with TIA/EIA-606-A. Comply with
requirements for identification specified in Section 26 05 53, Identification for Electrical
Systems.
1. Color-code cross-connect fields and apply colors to voice and data service backboards,
connections, covers, and labels.
B. Paint Fire-resistant plywood battle ship gray: For fire-resistant plywood, do not paint over
manufacturer's label.
C. Cable Schedule: Post in prominent location in each equipment room and wiring closet. List
incoming and outgoing cables and their designations, origins, and destinations. Protect with
rigid frame and clear plastic cover. Furnish an electronic copy of final comprehensive
schedules for Project.
D. Cabling Administration Drawings: Show building floor plans with cabling administration-point
labeling. Identify labeling convention and show labels for telecommunications closets,
backbone pathways and cables, entrance pathways and cables, terminal hardware and
positions, horizontal cables, work areas and workstation terminal positions, grounding buses
and pathways, and equipment grounding conductors. Follow convention of TIA/EIA-606-A.
Furnish electronic record of all drawings, in software and format selected by Owner.
E. Cable and Wire Identification:
1. Label each cable within 4 inches of each termination and tap, where it is accessible in a
cabinet or junction or outlet box, and elsewhere as indicated.
2. Label each terminal strip and screw terminal in each cabinet, rack, or panel.
a. Individually number wiring conductors connected to terminal strips, and identify each
cable or wiring group being extended from a panel or cabinet to a building-mounted
device shall be identified with name and number of particular device as shown.
b. Label each unit and field within distribution racks and frames.
3. Identification within Connector Fields in Equipment Rooms and Wiring Closets: Label each
connector and each discrete unit of cable-terminating and connecting hardware. Where
similar jacks and plugs are used for both voice and data communication cabling, use a
different color for jacks and plugs of each service.
4. Uniquely identify and label work area cables extending from the MUTOA to the work area.
These cables may not exceed the length stated on the MUTOA label.
F. Labels shall be preprinted or computer-printed type with printing area and font color that
contrasts with cable jacket color but still complies with requirements in TIA/EIA-606-A.
1. Cables use flexible vinyl or polyester that flex as cables are bent.

3.7 FIELD QUALITY CONTROL

A. By Owner.

END OF SECTION 27 15 00

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SECTION 27 41 00 COMMON WORK RESULTS FOR AUDIO/VISUAL SYSTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: The General Requirements, Conditions of the Contract, these sections of the USF
Design & Construction Guidelines (DCG), Drawings, Addenda and Contract Modifications (the
Contract Documents), and definitions of legal entity (such as Contract, Installer, Engineer,
Owner, etc.) shall apply to the work described herein.
B. Supplemental: Refer to the sections identified below for additional requirements, which are
supplemented by this section.
Section Title
27 00 10 TECHNOLOGY GENERAL PROVISIONS
27 05 28 PATHWAYS FOR COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
27 10 00 STRUCTURED CABLING SYSTEM
27 05 26 GROUNDING & BONDING FOR COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

1.2 USF POINT OF CONTACT

A. General: All USF projects that include Audio Visual systems will have a Project Manager
assigned by Information Technology - Audio Visual Engineering and Systems (AVES), who will
provide detailed requirements and specifications for all phases of said systems. All information
provided in this document should be considered for preliminary bid preparation and general
guidelines only.

1.3 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. General: Refer to the requirements of the related documents identified in Subparagraph 1.1,
Related Documents above, for scope of work requirements, which are supplemented by this
section. This shall constitute the basis for the “Scope of Work” for this section.
B. The following are the list of standard systems considered audiovisual systems:
1. Classrooms for less than fifty (50) students.
2. Auditoriums for more than two hundred (200) students.
3. Conference rooms
4. Video Teleconference Systems (VTC)
5. Public Information Display Systems (Digital Signage).
C. Non-standard audiovisual systems include but are not limited to:
1. Classrooms with a capacity of 51-199 students.
2. Collaboration Rooms
Any designers or AVS installers involved with a USF project that includes non-standard
audiovisual systems are strongly encouraged to consult with AVES before staring work on
these systems.
D. For designers or consultants: The scope of work for designers or consultants shall include to
a minimum the following tasks:
1. Define system functionality, configuration and features per user’s requirements.
2. Establish preliminary project budgets based on the user requirements.
3. Establish a responsibility matrix indicating who is providing the different components of the
system.
4. Provide architectural considerations related to AV systems for the spaces to the project
architect. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
5. Provide design drawings and specifications based on the information previously collected
for the project.
6. Assist the owner or construction manager in the bid process by checking installer’s
qualifications and equipment list provided by the bidders.
7. Establishing the scope of work for the installer and composing the complete set of bid
documents (design drawings and specifications).
8. Review shop drawings and answer RFIs
9. Test the system with the installer after completion and verify close-out information.

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E. For installers: The scope of work for the AVS installer shall include, but not limited to the
following tasks:
1. Preparation of shop drawings, submittals, training and as-built information for the system.
2. Procurement, installation and warranty of all AVS hardware like flat panel displays, mounts
for displays, signal transceivers, players, switchers, servers, etc.
3. Procurement, installation and warranty of all AVS cabling and wiring, including support
system, and fire stopping for all low voltage cabling part of the AVS.
4. Programming labor of the AVS, including initial software set up, software registration, and
initial data input, unless otherwise noted in a specific specification section.
5. Attend project plan meetings with the Owner and the Consulting Engineer (A/E) to fine tune
data interchange details, network configuration and other user requirements:

1.4 ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. General. AVS designers shall provide architectural recommendations for this type of rooms in
the project. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
B. Program Display:
1. Screen sizing. Screen height shall be estimated as 1/6 of the distance to the least favored
viewer (LFV) or the worst seat in the room. The bottom of the screen reflecting surface
shall not be lower than 4 feet for non-tiered rooms. The top of the reflecting surface should
be at least 2 inches below the lowest device in the ceiling structure (light fixture, sprinkler
head, or diffuser). Every effort shall be made to have ceiling heights that allow the screen
sizes described above. Rooms where the ratio between the screen height to the LFV is
lower than 1/10 are dimmed non-usable for teaching purposes.
2. Usable seating area per screen. Usable seating area for a screen shall be defined as the
area between two 45º lines on the sides, one line parallel and close to the screen and one
circular sector far from the screen. The angle is measured from a perpendicular line to the
screen axis from the edge of the screen. The line parallel and close to the screen shall be
separated from the screen 0.5 times the screen’s reflecting surface width. The circular
sector has a center in the center of the screen and a radius equal to the distance to the
LFV limitation. Any room seats outside of the usable seating area shall be supported with
additional display devices. All seats in the audience shall have a line of sight of a program
display.
3. Projector location. AVS designers or installer shall estimate throw distance and locate the
optimal projector location that allows having the lens of the projector at midpoint in the
zoom adjustment washing out completely the selected screen. The AVS designer or
installer shall coordinate with other trades to avoid interference with other building systems
at this location. All projectors for shall be ceiling hung where possible. In drop ceilings, a
projector ceiling plate that replaces a 2 feet x 2 feet ceiling tile, installed per manufacturer’s
recommendation, is preferred. At all projector locations 4 electrical outlets should be
provided.
4 Screen quantity: In classrooms only one screen is required; in auditoriums two screens
are preferred.
5. In Conference Rooms, the preferred display is a single monitor no smaller than 55 inches.
A front projection system shall only be used in conference rooms if the LFV rule is not being
met with a large flat panel display available and project viable (budget).
C. Lighting:
1. General. Ideally there needs to be a contrast ratio in the screen of at least 10 for good
visual presentation. Contrast ratio shall be estimated as the difference between the
average light hitting the screen when the projector is displaying a white screen to the
average light hitting the screen when the lights in the room are in presentation mode, and
the projector is off. Average light hitting the screen when the projector is displaying a white
screen shall be estimated as the rated lumen output of the projector divided by the area of
the screen in square ft. Architects and lighting designers shall make every effort to comply
with the requirements for contrast.
2. Classroom lighting: Dimmable lights are not required in classrooms, but two level lighting
is recommended. To obtain the two levels 1/2 or 1/3 of the lamps in each fixture shall be

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controlled separately. At a minimum there needs to be two control circuits for all the light
fixtures in the room, the light fixtures closest to the screen shall be on a separate switch
from the rest of the fixtures in the room, so they can be turned off during presentation mode
but the remaining lights can be left on.
3. Auditorium lighting: A software model of the lights is highly recommended for auditoriums
to verify lighting levels in aisles and on projection screens. The use of a centralized
dimming system and/or integration with the AV media control system is highly
recommended. The light fixtures selected by designers shall address the following
scenarios:
a. Clean-up or service lights, with 2x4 fluorescents or other high lumen output fixtures,
non-dimmable.
b. Dimmable down lights for notes or setting different scenes.
c. Stage lights for presenters and performers.
d. Step lights, for safety purposes at all steps.
e. For performing theaters or large auditoriums the use of a DMX system for stage lighting
is recommended.
4. Conference Room lighting: No special considerations are required for lighting a conference
room with a monitor, with the exception of avoiding locating the display devices on a wall
that is subject to direct sun light. Where projectors are used, follow guidelines listed above
for classroom lighting.
5. Video Teleconference lighting: Room shall be layout with fixtures designed specifically for
TVC. These fixtures are recessed fluorescent fixtures with a reflector shaped to reproduce
an effect similar to studio lights. These fixtures throw light at a 45° angle, rather than
straight down. It is suggested to position them so that each is mounted far enough in front
of a seating position that the angled light falls on the occupant's face, and spaced so that
there is a fixture at about 45° to each side of user. These fixtures are not required to be
dimmable but are recommended to have 2 levels at least. No specific zoning is required
also, a single zone is sufficient. For larger rooms different types of lights shall be provided
depending on the room layout and size of the conference table. The designers shall
indicate what other type of lights are required for these rooms. Additional lights shall have
the same color temperature as the VTC lighting. For the area covering the conference
table the following additional lighting requirements shall be followed: There shall be no
more than a 10:1 contrast between the lightest and darkest areas in the room – and no
more than a 1.5 to 1 contrast between the overall illumination on one person's face and the
next. The light levels in the participant’s face shall be between 30 to 50 foot-candles.
Lamps on these fixtures shall have a color temperature between 3000 - 3500° K and a CRI
of 80 or above.
6. Ambient lighting. For all rooms with front projection systems, ambient light shall be able to
be controlled by using black out shades. Shades can have additional fabrics (25% or 50%)
to dim lights, but those fabrics are not required for the AVS. Full blackout shades is the
only required fabric for the AVS. Additional fabrics shall be confirmed with the program
manager. If the shades are electric they shall be interfaced with the AVS, and all shades
in one room shall be able to be controlled as a single unit.
D. Acoustical considerations:
1. Classrooms do not require any special acoustical considerations with the exception of the
regular considerations for privacy between adjacent classrooms. Ceiling-mounted
speakers for program audio only.
2. Auditoriums require special acoustical considerations. Sound modeling is highly
recommended as well as acoustic treatment for walls and ceilings. Program speakers
separated from voice reinforcement speakers preferred.
3. Conference Rooms will use only program speakers, typically built-in or as an accessory to
a flat panel display.
D. Floor boxes. Floor box location for teaching lecterns and conference tables shall be carefully
selected. Architects and designers shall dimension precisely the location of the boxes to avoid
misinterpretation by installers. Location of floor boxes for conference tables shall be as close
as possible to one of the table’s legs to conceal the cables coming up to the interface plate.

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E. Furniture:
1. Lecterns. Lecterns intended to have AV equipment installed inside shall allow for at least
14 RU of rack space. Lecterns shall be no less than 24 inches deep clear inside. Lecterns
shall have rear access panels no smaller than the full width and height of the rack rails
inside, front doors, side flip-up ADA shelf, casters, front and rear rack rails. Doors and
panels shall be lockable. Lecterns shall have ventilation panels to avoid equipment
overheating.
2. AV Racks. In any space that does not contain a lectern, it is preferred to mount AV
equipment in a regular freestanding rack (wall mounted rack or an AV designed credenza
with rack rails). USF IT department does not recommend mounting equipment inside
casework, but if absolutely required by the program of the project, casework shall be able
to hold no less than 14 RU of equipment, be 24 inches deep inside clear and designed to
avoid overheating of equipment by providing ventilation with fans, and feature a slide-out
rack for maintaining equipment.
3. Tables. For conference rooms, it is highly recommended to use table shapes suitable for
videoconference systems. Those table shapes include “V” shapes or “C” shapes. These
shapes improve visibility of all participants in the video conference system. Avoid as much
as possible tables with rectangular form. Tables should be able to support the installation
of media control panels and interface plates.
F. AV rooms/booths are preferred for Auditoriums only. Preferably located in the back of the room
and with a view of the stage or front of room. When the program requires the use of a green
room, communication between the AV room and the green room shall be installed as well as
an audio and video feed from the stage or front of the room.
G. Tiered Floor Seating. Tier seating is highly recommended in Auditoriums. Classrooms and
Conference Rooms do not required tiered seating.

1.5 DESIGNER QUALIFICATIONS

A. General. At a minimum the designer or consultants responsible for the audiovisual design shall
be company regularly engaged in the design of audiovisual system for at least the past five (5)
years. Designer or consultants working on USF projects shall have as a minimum a Certified
Technology Specialist (CTS) designation by AVIXA. It is highly recommended the designer or
consultants also have a CTS-D certification by AVIXA. Proof of current certification shall be
provided to USF IT department for confirmation.

1.6 INSTALLER QUALIFICATIONS

A. Installer Qualifications: The Installer or Installers directly responsible for the work associated
with any of the audiovisual systems (also references hereinafter as AVS) shall be a licensed
and registered contractor who is, and who has been, regularly engaged in providing the
installation of audiovisual systems of similar size and complexity for at least the immediate past
five (5) years.
B. Project manager requirements: The project manager for each company participating in the
installation of the AVS shall be a Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) by AVIXA. Proof of
current certification shall be provided with the submittal.
C. Programmer-Installer: The AVS installers shall have a factory-trained programmer/installer, for
the provided Project products, in full-time employment, as part of the Installer’s staff. AVS
installers shall provide certificates of completion of training for the staff that will be taking part
in the execution of this project.
D. Qualification Documentation: The Installer shall provide the following documentation with their
bid package, as evidence that the requirements for the Installer qualifications have been
satisfied:
1. A list of not less than five (5) references for jobs of similar size and complexity including:
a. Project Names
b. Locations
c. Contact Names
d. Contact Telephone Numbers

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2. Location (specific street address) of the office from which this installation and warranty
work will be performed. It is preferred that the Installer has established and maintains a
permanent office within 150 miles of the project site.
3. Copies of Manufacturer certification certificates. It is required that the Installer possess the
following certifications, at a minimum:
a. Crestron certified installer
b. Crestron DM-E
c. Extron certified installer
d. Symetrix certified programmer
e. Clearone certified installer.
f. Cisco certified installer
4. Copies of Licensure certificates.
5. Copies of Insurance and Bonding certificates.

1.7 SUBMITTALS
A. General: The AVS installers shall prepare submittals during different stages of the construction
process. This is the list of required documentation for each stage:
B. START OF PROJECT SUBMITTALS: A maximum of 60 days after the AVS installers receives
a notice to proceed on the project, but no sooner than a year before substantial completion,
the following information needs to be submitted:
1. Cut sheets with all specifications of all cables and connectors to be used in the project.
2. One-line diagrams with all devices included in the systems separating power, video, audio
and control. Each system in a different sheet.
3. User interface and faceplate color submittal. The AVS installers shall prepare a separate
submittal with the shape and color of all user interface plates to be approved by the
Architect of the project or the Owner.
4. Proposed construction details for any custom fabricated items or finishes, including
speaker rigging, large display mounting, etc. These details shall include dimensions,
materials, finishes and colors.
5. List of all IP addresses needed for the AVS.
6. Rack elevations of all AV equipment for all rooms in the project.
7. Conduit rough-in requirements of all wall and ceiling mounted devices for all equipment
part of the PS system.
8. Standard service agreement contractor provided by the AVS installer including yearly cost.
C. CONSTRUCTION SUBMITTALS: During the construction process the AVS installers shall
submit different information to get approval on continuing with the installation process. The
AVS installer shall submittal the following information:
1. Before starting the programming process the AVS installers need to provide the following
information:
a. A schematic presentation of the layout of all the user interfaces in the project and
screen shoots. The AVS installers need to get approval of this submittal before starting
any programming.
b. Meeting minutes from all project plans between the Owner and the AVS installers.
2. Any design changes whether originated by the Owner, Designer or by the AVS installers
as a VE suggestions need to follow the same submittal process described in the previous
paragraph for all equipment involved on the change.
3. Thirty (30) days before starting the training sessions the AVS installers need to provide the
following information:
a. A detailed training chronogram indicating all training sessions requested in this section.
b. An outline of the training sessions.
c. Samples of the training manuals for each session.
D. NO SUBMITTAL: Failure to comply with all the submittals listed above and getting the proper
approval from the Owner and the Design Engineer for each submittal will cause the AVS
installers to replace installed unapproved equipment at no additional cost to the Owner.

1.8 PROJECT SPECIFIC SOURCE CODE OWNERSHIP

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A. Definition of project specific source code: Project specific source code includes all source code
created to generate an executable file to be intended to run in any equipment used in the
installation of the AVS. Examples of project specific source code include source code used to
generate executable files for control processors, DSP processors and touch panels. Project
specific source code does not include source code used to create programming tools and
compilers or source code used to generate operating systems or application programs running
in PC based workstations.
B. Ownership: Any project specific source code used in this project shall remain the exclusive
property of the USF. By accepting the contract to perform the work included in this project, the
AVS installer or designer (and any other companies working creating project specific code
during this project) relinquish the right of ownership of this source code, and waive any licensing
fees or royalties for the use of source code by USF (or any company authorized by the owner
to perform changes in the source code after the project is substantially completed).

PART 2 – EQUIPMENT
2.1 EQUIPMENT SPECIFIED
A. Specific equipment: Where design drawings indicate a specific manufacturer and model
number for a piece of audiovisual equipment, the AVS installers shall provide the same device
as indicated. Substitutions for this type of equipment are not acceptable.
B. Non-specific equipment: When the design drawings do not indicate a specific manufacturer
and model number, the AVS installers are free select any equipment that meets the minimum
specifications indicated in this section. However, AVS installers must submit the manufacturer
and model selected as part of the submittal process, and USF retains the right to approve all
selections.
C. Note to designer or consultants: USF maintains a specific list of equipment that is required for
AV projects. Since this list changes frequently as technology advances, designers should
check with USF IT AVES for the current list of equipment.

2.2 SYSTEM FUNCTIONS

A. SYSTEM SIGNALS FOR ALL SYSTEMS
1. General: The completed systems shall be capable of receiving, processing, routing and
distributing the associated signals, as indicated in the functionality description for each
system.
2. Audio systems will have full range frequency response 100 Hz to 18 kHz at a level of at
least 60 dB above the ambient noise floor with a Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of less
than .5%.
3. Analog video signals through the system shall be maintained to the minimum quality
requirements as follows:
a. The system shall provide a signal response of 0.7 Vpp (nominal) @ 300 Mhz RGB,
throughout the system channel, for all visual content.
4. Digital video signals through the system shall be capable of delivering 1920 x 1080
resolutions at 24 fps from end to end.
5. Control signals through the system shall be maintained to the minimum level established
by the control equipment manufacturer for the control protocol utilized. This level shall be
correct at all connection points in the system.
B. REMOTE ASSET MANAGEMENT SOFTWARE
1. General: The Remote Asset Management Software selected by USF for all projects is
Crestron Fusion. When referenced in the contract documents within the room functionality,
Fusion shall be able to provide the functionality described in these paragraphs.
2. Programmers of Crestron system using Crestron SIMPL Windows shall follow the IDs
referenced herein for programming:
a. Touchpanel IP ID = 03
b. Xpanel control = 04
c. Fusion ID = 06
d. Cresnet Occupancy Sensor = 10

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3. At a minimum all AVS with control processors shall have the following monitoring features
through Fusion:
a. Laptop connection plate video source usage: start time, stop time and cumulative use.
b. Document camera usage: start time, stop time and cumulative use.
c. Projector lamp usage hours.
d. UPS monitoring, including automatic start, battery test and status, and internal
temperature.
4. At a minimum all AVS with control processors shall provide the following alarms:
a. Projector in video mute for more than 1 hour.
b. Projector turned off (not on stand-by).
c. Projector lamp approaching 85% of estimated life time.
d. Projector lamp bad (if reported by projector)
5. Additional software customization: The AVS installers shall customize the user interface
of Fusion according to the project specific requirements. The AVS installers shall meet
with the Owner and Design engineer during the construction process and agree on the
additional features that will be used by the owner on the project. Once this step is
completed, the AVS installers shall program the Fusion interface based on the conclusions
of that meeting.
6. Training: The AVS installers shall provide administration level training for specific Fusion
features programmed during a project.
7. Delivery: The AVS installers shall provide USF electronic copies of all programs in
executable and source code format. Each file shall be properly labeled with the room
description and the room number.
C. OWNER FURNISHED EQUIPMENT (OFE)
1. General: When indicated in the drawings the AVS installers shall interface with equipment
provided by the owner or by third parties. Refer to the design drawings for audio, video
and control lines required for OFE.
2. Scope of work: It is in the scope of work of the AVS installers to run, terminate and connect
the audio, video and control lines to OFE as shown in the design drawings. When control
lines are indicated in the design drawings, the AVS installers shall program all control
features described in each system functions per controllable room, including all features
related to owner provided equipment or third party equipment.

2.3 WIRE, CABLE, CONNECTORS, AND ACCESSORIES

A. General: The AVS installers shall provide the system components and materials necessary to
properly install, support, and terminate all audiovisual cabling. The AVS installers shall
coordinate with the installer of the raceway system final locations of all outlet boxes. The AVS
installers shall also provide and attach all required cable connectors. Label all cable with source
and destination.
B. Cable: The AVS installers shall provide all cabling associated with, and required to, provide a
complete, operable system in accordance with the Contract Documents. All cable provided by
the AVS installers shall be of a manufacture and quality consistent with the design intent, and
shall be reviewed by the Engineer prior to installation.
C. Cabling in air handling spaces. The AVS installers shall provide cables with plenum rated
jackets (CMP) for all cables run above ceiling spaces. For all cables run in vertical shafts or
conduits, the AVS shall provide riser rated cables (CL2).
D. Cabling below grade: When cable part of the AVS have to be run in conduits below slab and
grade level, the AVS installers shall use only cables with water-blocking jackets.
E. Cable signals: The following is a list of signal types and the cables to be used for those signals:
1. Line level audio signal cable: Provide one (1) twisted pair cable for mono signals and two
(2) twisted pair cables for stereo signals. Twisted pair cables to be 22 AWG stranded
(7x30) tinned copper conductors with overall foil shield (100% coverage), with 22 AWG
stranded tinned copper drain wire.
2. Microphone level audio signal cable: Provide one (1) twisted pair cable, 22 AWG stranded
(7x28) tinned copper conductors, overall foil shield (100% coverage) with a 22 AWG
stranded tinned copper drain wire.

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3. Serial Digital video cable: Provide one (1) RG-6 coaxial cable, 18 AWG solid.
Characteristic impedance 75Ω.
4. Control cable (i.e. Crestron CRESNET): Provide one (1) cable with one (1) twisted pair 22
AWG stranded copper conductors with overall aluminum foil (100% coverage) and a 24
AWG tinned copper drain wire, and one (1) unshielded twisted pair, 18 AWG stranded bare
copper conductors.
5. Control cable (i.e. RS-232, RS-485 Signal, IR or Contact Closure): Provide one (1) cable
with 1 or 2 twisted pair 22 AWG stranded bare copper conductors with overall
aluminum/polyester foil (100% coverage) and a 24 AWG tinned copper drain wire. Pair
count depends on manufacturer’s specifications.
6. Digital video, audio and control over twisted pair. Provide one or two cables UTP or STP
as required by transceiver equipment manufacturer to ensure the digital signal is
transported properly up to 328 feet, at maximum resolution indicated in Subparagraph 2.01,
System Functions above. If equipment manufacturer supports the use of UTP Category
(5e, 6 or 6A) for this application, the AVS installers shall provide cables in compliance with
Section 27 10 00, Structured Cabling System and all cables part of the AVS. Color jacket
for these cables shall be blue.
7. UTP Category cables. Provide UTP Category cables for all Ethernet connection part of
the AVS as indicated in Section 27 10 00, including horizontal cables, patch cords and
station cables. All cables part of the AVS shall be included in the same warranty as all
cables provided under Section 27 10 00. Color jacket for these cables shall be blue.
8. Speaker Cable: Provide two (2) 16 AWG stranded conductors, with overall jacket.
9. HDMI Cables. HDMI cables may be no longer than 10 meters (32.8 feet) and meet
attached equipment manufacturer’s specifications.
F. Connectors and plates: The AVS installers shall provide connectors and plates to terminate
all wiring part of the AVS, regardless if indicated on the design drawings. As a general
guideline, the AVS installers shall follow these recommendations:
1. Compression type connectors on BNC cables.
2. When custom panels or plates are required in the project, the AVS installers shall submit
detail drawings of all plates for approval by the Design Engineer.
3. All termination of UTP Category (5e, 6 or 6A) cables shall be done in accordance to Section
27 10 00.

2.4 DEDICATED COMPUTERS FOR AV SYSTEMS

A. General: All computers will be provided by USF, except where a computer is built-in to a device
(such as an annotation-capable monitor). In that instance, full computer specifications shall be
submitted to USF Information Technology for vetting. A demo computer may be required before
USF IT provides approval.

2.5 BLU-RAY PLAYERS

A. General: The Blu-ray player shall have the following specifications:
1. Capable of up-scaling DVDs to 1080P format
2. DVD formats accepted: DVD+R/+RW/-R/-RW
3. Blu-ray disk reading compatibility: BD-ROM, BD-R, BD-RE
4. Control: RS-232 preferred, IR acceptable.
5. Outputs: one (1) HDM1 1.3, analog audio (L/R)
6. HDCP Keys supported: No less than 16 keys for HDCP protected content.
B. HDCP Keys: Since the number of HDCP keys varies from model number to model and are
often not disclosed in equipment spec sheets, it is the AVS installer’s responsibility to check
that the number of keys supported by the unit submitted complies with this section. Approval
by the A/E of a specific non-compliant unit during the shop drawing review process does not
relief the AVS installers of the responsibility of providing a compliant unit at no additional cost
to the project.
C. Accepted manufacturers: Sony, Panasonic, Samsung, Philips or similar.

2.6 NETWORKING EQUIPMENT

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A. General: All networking equipment required for the AVS shall be provided by USF unless
otherwise noted in the design documents.
B. Interfacing: When connecting computers and AV components to the USF network, the following
order should be employed (jacks are numbered left to right then top to bottom):
1. Computer
2. Media Control Processor
3. User Interface (touchpanel)
4. Accessory 1 (i.e. wireless connection device).
5. Accessory 2
6 Accessory 3
C. Cabling: Use yellow CAT6 patch cables for computers, blue CAT6 patch cables for media
control devices.

2.7 CLASSROOM CAPTURE SYSTEMS

A. General: Currently USF used the software Panopto for classroom capture. The software is
currently set up with two channels, one for a camera inside the classroom, and one for content
from any source in the podium. Selection of different sources by the presenter shall follow the
channel being recorded by the capture PC.
B. NOTE TO DESIGNERS OR CONSULTANTS: During the program phase of the project the
designer or consultant shall clarify with the USF project manager the scope of work for
classroom capture. Clear direction shall be established for the following elements:
1. Which items of the system are OFE and which items will be provided by installer. This
clarification shall address at a minimum, the workstations, capture card, software licenses,
cameras, and control system for the cameras.
2. Quality of the recording (type of capture card to be used)
3. Location of capture workstation
4. Location and type of capture cameras.

2.8 VIDEOTELECONFERENCE
A. General: Currently USF has standardized in the use of Cisco video conference systems. All
network interfaces for VTC codecs shall be IP interface.
B. Cameras. High definition cameras are highly recommended for VTC. A two camera set up is
ideal, having one camera looking at the presenter and one camera looking at the audience.
C. Microphones. When audience participation is required during VTC, it is highly recommended
to have fixed installed microphones. The use of a wireless microphones for audience
participation is recommended. Acoustic Echo cancellation (AEC) shall be provided in the DSP
processor for all microphones being use for VTC.
D. Control system. Control to the VTC shall be via the media control user interface. The user
interface shall be programmed to allow all features of the VTC system to be available.

2.9 MEDIA CONTROL SYSTEMS

A. USF has standardized on Crestron media control systems exclusively for the Tampa and
Health campuses. Integration with Creston Fusion is required. Please consult with the AVES
project manager for systems on other USF campuses or affiliated sites.
B. User interfaces shall be a touchscreen no smaller than 8 inches. In classrooms and
auditoriums, the user interface should be on the lectern. For conference rooms, on top of the
table is preferred.
C. An occupancy sensor is required in all classrooms and auditoriums.

2.10 MICROPHONES
A. All wireless microphones must be in the frequency range of 516-558 MHz.
B. Classrooms require one wireless lavalier microphone for instructor use with classroom capture.
C. Auditoriums require one wireless lavalier microphone for instructor use with classroom capture
and voice reinforcement. One wireless handheld microphone is also required.
D. Conference rooms require at least one tabletop or ceiling-mounted microphone for web-based
video conferencing.

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E. VTC rooms: Boundary microphones in the tables or choir microphones for the audience could
be required. The intent is that in these types of rooms all participants (presenter and audience)
have means to collaborate during the video conference.
F. When several microphones are located in any room, the use of a separate DSP processor is
required.

2.11 POWER
A. A power conditioner is required in all classroom lecterns and/or racks.
B. An uninterruptible power supply (UPS) is required in all auditorium lecterns and/or racks. UPS
units should be able to interface with Crestron Fusion.
C. For each lectern and/or rack in any AVS, designers must provide load calculations to USF for
distribution to project electricians.

2.12 ASSISTED LISTENING DEVICES

A. Portable units are acceptable for Classrooms. Designers should include a method for
interfacing assisted listening transmitters on all drawings and leave space in lecterns and/or
racks for a portable unit when required.
B. Auditoriums require permanently installed assisted listening transmitters.
C. For all other types of spaces, please consult with the AVES project manager.

2.13 PROGRAM MONITORS

A. All monitors should be professional-grade only and include HDMI inputs.
B. Monitors for use in digital signage applications must be 24/7 rated.
C. Monitors for use in conference rooms must include speakers.
D. Monitors for use in with media control systems must include RS-232 connections.

2.14 COMPUTER MONITORS

A. Classrooms and auditoriums require a touch screen monitor with at least 20 inches diagonal
display area and work natively with the current standard USF operating system.

PART 3 – EXECUTION
3.1 EXECUTION OF THE WORK
A. General: Refer to the requirements of the related documents identified in Subparagraph 1.1
above, for execution of work requirements supplemented by this section.
B. WORKMANSHIP: The AVS installers shall adhere to, at a minimum, the following installation
practices:
1. Securely mount equipment plumb and square in place. Where equipment is installed in
cabinets, provide mounting bolts in all equipment rack fastening holes. Any equipment
packaged by the manufacturer without mounting accessories: The AVS installer shall
provide all required accessories necessary to mount the equipment within the designated
cabinets and/or rack locations. These accessories may include (but not limited to) rack
ears, brackets, shelves, and security mounts.
2. Provide appropriate ventilation panels, vents, and/or fans to assure sufficient ventilation for
adequate cooling of all equipment. The AVS installer shall provide solutions to avoid
overheating when equipment is to be installed in casework or closed lecterns.
3. Confirm the polarity and phasing of system components before installation. Connect to
maintain uniform polarity and phasing.
4. Insulate all non-insulated, stranded conductors before making termination when
connecting to equipment terminals.
5. All wiring is to be free from grounds loops, shorts, opens, and reversals.
6. Neatly tie all cabling within equipment cabinets, housings, and terminal cabinets with nylon
cable ties or hook-and-loop fastener straps (commonly referred to as “Velcro”) at not more
than 8 inch intervals. Install in accordance with the latest EIA installation standards. Cut
any plastic cable ties flush to the head so no sharp edges are present. Architect & Engineer
approved wiring trough may be used in lieu of tie-wraps. Cable routing shall not braid or
cross with other wires in parallel more than once.

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7. Secure all cables in equipment cabinets and terminal cabinets to provide strain relief at all
raceway exits in accordance with NFPA 70 including all supplements. All plugs and
receptacles are to be the grounding type.
8. Connect all equipment power to power conditioner or UPS
C. RACEWAYS. All raceways for audiovisual devices shall have the following specifications:
1. Refer to Section 27 05 28, Pathways for Communication System for all raceways
specification.
2. All cables for speaker level signals, regardless of their level shall be run separate from
other low voltage cables.
3. All cables for microphone level signals, regardless of their level shall be run separate from
other low voltage cables.
4. Separation of Raceways: USF does not allow the use of raceways or cable trays design
for structured cabling systems to be used for AVS cables with the exception of fiber optic
cables. Raceways for CATV system can be used for AVS distribution cables when
required. Cable tray supports can be used as supports for hangers for AVS distribution
cables.
5. Raceways for AV outlets: Outlets for AV cables shall be composed of electrical boxes
(sized for the amount of connectors) and a conduit(s) to the nearest accessible ceiling
space. All AV outlet boxes shall be at least 2.5 inches deep.
6. All indoor rated cables can be supported with j-hooks or cable hangers above accessible
ceiling spaces. J-hooks shall be spaced no longer than 6 feet.
D. LABELING. Any type of write-on labels, hand writing on cable jackets or directly on equipment,
labels made with masking tape or any other type of non-approved tape are not acceptable and
shall be corrected with approved labeling methods at no additional cost to the owner. The only
approved types of labels for cables and devices part of the broadband distribution system are:
1. Non-laminated thermal transfer labels, printed with a high quality thermal transfer printer.
2. Laminated thermal transfer labels printed with a high quality thermal transfer printer.
3. Thermal transfer polyolefin tape printed with a high quality thermal transfer printer.
4. Self laminated dot-matrix labels, printed with a high quality dot matrix printer.
5. Non-laminated dot-matrix labels, printed with a high quality dot matrix printer.
E. ENGRAVING: All push buttons in user interfaces part of the AVS shall be engraved with
descriptive wording of the use of the button. The AVS installers shall submit and receive
approval for the proposed wording in each button before doing the engraving. Failure to follow
this step might cause the AVS installers to replace the buttons in interfaces where the Owner
is not satisfied with the wording of the label at no additional cost to the Owner. The color of the
wording in the engraving shall have high contrast with the background color of the button.
F. PROJECTOR INSTALLATION: The Installer shall adhere to, at a minimum, the following
installation practices for projectors:
1. Projector shall be provided with corresponding mounting brackets depending on the
projector selected.
2. All anchors and supports whether pre-fabricated or customs, required to mount the
projector where indicated in the design drawings are in the scope of work of the AVS
installers
G. FLAT PANEL DISPLAY INSTALLATION: The AVS installers shall adhere to, at a minimum,
the following installation practices for flat panel displays:
1. All anchors and supports whether pre-fabricated or customs, required to mount the displays
where indicated in the design drawings are in the scope of work of the AVS installers.
2. All walls where flat panel displays will be installed shall be re-enforced with sheet metal
behind the drywall. The extent of the re-enforcing shall be the contour of the flat panel
display to be installed and no less than twice the distance between 2 drywall stud frames.
3. When flat panel displays are installed inside a wall niche, the AVS shall provide a wall
mount with adjustable depth that allows the flat panel display to be installed flush with the
exterior wall.
4. Power and AV outlets to be installed behind flat panel displays shall use an ARLINGTON
TVB613 or approved equal box.

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H. SPEAKER INSTALLATION: The Installer shall adhere to, at a minimum, the following
installation practices for speakers:
1. All ceiling mounted speakers shall have a support wire tie to the building structure, and
shall not be supported exclusively from the ceiling grid.
2. All ceiling mounted speakers shall be plenum rated.
3. All in-wall speakers shall be installed with pre-construction brackets.
I. EQUIPMENT RIGGING: When speaker assemblies or arrays weight more than 100 lbs, the
AVS installers shall follow all rigging instructions from the manufacturer and shall be done by
an experienced rigger. The AVS installers shall also adhere to the following practices:
1. Only the rigging equipment and method listed by the manufacturer of the equipment are
approved for the installation No substitutions are accepted.
2. Only the rigging points available in the speaker assembly are accepted as means of
support.
3. All anchors and supports whether pre-fabricated or customs, required to mount the displays
where indicated in the design drawings are in the scope of work of the AVS installers.
4. Shop drawings for rigging methods shall be signed and sealed by a licensed structural
engineer.
J. MILLWORK OPENINGS: When AV equipment like flip tops and plates will be mounted in
millwork provided by the owner or third parties, the AVS installers shall provide cut out
dimensions for all the AVS equipment listing location in the millwork where the cuttings need
to be done. It is the AVS installer’s responsibility to install those devices in the millwork, once
the openings have been done. All millwork opening shall be done by the furniture manufacturer.
K. FLOOR BOXES. Floor boxes used for connection to teaching lecterns shall have at least the
following minimum requirements:
1. Floor boxes shall be large enough to have at least 3 different compartments, one for power
one for voice/data cables and one for AV cabling.
2. Each low voltage compartment shall have a separate raceway back to the accessible
ceiling space. If speaker wires are run from the lectern, the AV compartment shall have at
least one 1 inch conduit from the AV compartment to the accessible ceiling. Additional
conduits might be required depending on the application.
3. Floor boxes shall have a recessed compartment to hold connectors. Floor boxes that leave
AV connectors flushed with the floor are not desirable since they become tripping hazards
and could be easy broken with the lectern when moved.
4. AV compartments shall have termination plates and connectors for all cables coming from
the accessible ceiling space. All connectors shall be properly secured to the plates in the
floor box. All unused compartments shall have blank plates.
L. STRUCTURED CABLING INFRASTRUCTURE: The AVS installers shall adhere to Section
27 10 00 for all requirements of structured cabling components to be used as part of the AV
system. The structured cabling components include but are not limited to:
1. All unshielded twisted pair Category cables and fiber optic cables
2. Termination devices like termination jacks, patch panels and faceplates.
3. All UTP and fiber optics patch cords.
4. All testing procedures for Category and fiber optic cables.
M. IP/MAC ADRESSES. All IP addresses will be provided by USF unless IT AVES specifically
pre-approves the use of a separate network for the AVS. Reprogramming of AVS due to un-
approved IP address use by the AVS installer shall be at the installer’s expense. The AVS
installer shall provide a list of all equipment requiring IP addresses to USF Information
Technology AVES in advance of installation. This list shall include:
1. Device manufacturer and model number.
2. Device MAC address
3. Device serial number
3. Installation location of Device.
N. DSP PROCESSORS. AVS installer shall program all audio and/or video DSP processors
unless specifically noted by owner during the program phase of the project.

3.2 SOFTWARE PROGRAMMING AND TESTING

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A. The software programming and testing of the AVS system will be a multi-step process. The
AVS installers shall provision in the proposal for the time indicated in each of the steps:
B. BRIEFING STEP: After receiving the notice to proceed, the AVS installer shall request one or
more briefing sessions with the Owner and/or design engineer to go over the expectation of
each system and clarify any points that might not be clear in the design documents. Some
important notes about this step are:
1. The AVS installers shall have software programming submittals approved as described in
Section 27 41 00, Part 1 above.
2. The AVS installers shall prepare meeting minutes of the key decisions made during these
meetings. The approval of these meeting minutes by the Owner and Design Engineer will
be accepted as approval notice of this step.
C. SHOP PROGRAMMING STEP: Once the briefing step has been completed and approved,
the AVS installers shall allocate off-site programming time to accomplish all the requirements
listed in this section and the clarifications done in the previous step. It is the sole responsibility
of the AVS installers to estimate how many man hours are required for this step. This step
does not require approval by the Owner and/or design Engineer.
D. FIELD VERIFICATION STEP: After all AVS equipment has been installed on site and the
system has been programmed, the AVS installers shall request one or more working sessions
with the Owner and/or design engineer to verify in the field the functionality of the AVS system.
Some important notes about this step are:
3. The AVS installers shall have different AV media and sources to test all features in the
AVS system.
5. Physical installation of all devices will be checked by the Owner and/or the Design
Engineer. Any deviations in the installation of the equipment part of the AVS from this
section and previous meetings, will be noted by the Design Engineer in a “punch list”. This
punch list will be sent to the AVS installers within the next 5 days of the working session
for immediate corrective action. One punch list will be prepared for each room with AVS.
6. The AVS installers shall prepare meeting minutes of the key decisions made during these
meetings that affect the programming sequence. The approval of these meeting minutes
by the Owner and Design Engineer will be accepted as approval notice of this step.
E. FINAL ADJUSTMENT STEP: Once the previous step has been approved, the AVS installers
shall allocate time to make any corrections to the AVS system on site based on the conclusions
of the punch list. It is the sole responsibility of the AVS installers to estimate how many man
hours are required for this step. This step does not require approval by the Owner and/or
design Engineer.
F. FINAL ACCEPTANCE STEP: Once the AVS installers has completed the previous step the
AVS installers shall allocate time to review the complete AVS system with the Owner and/or
design engineer, for compliance with this section, previous punch list and conclusions in
previous meetings and working sessions. Some important notes about this step are:
1. It is the sole responsibility of the AVS system installer to estimate the time allocated for this
step. It is assume that at this point in time all the features of the AVS system are clear to
the Owner and the AVS installers so this step is just to make sure that all the features are
working properly as agreed.
2. The AVS installers shall have different AV media and sources to test all features in the
AVS system.
4. Physical installation of all devices will be checked again by the Owner and/or the Design
Engineer. All previously noted punch list items shall have been corrected by the AVS
installers.
5. Failure to complete one or more of the previously issued punch list items or failure to correct
any programming changes previously noted will revoke acceptance of the room or system
being tested.
6. Final acceptance will be granted on a room by room basis.
G. DATA WIRING AND FIBER OPTIC TESTING: Testing of UTP data wiring, copper patch cords,
fiber optic cables and fiber optic patch cords shall be done as indicated in Section 27 10 00.
Testing results shall be submitted as indicated in the same section.

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H. TEST EQUIPMENT: The AVS installers shall supply all testing instruments required for the
equipment programming and system tests. The AVS installers shall use test equipment
meeting the minimum specifications, identified herein, to perform system calibrations and
adjustments. The AVS installers shall make available the same test equipment available, for
inspection by the Engineer, during Final Acceptance step.
1. Audio Impedance Meter.
2. Digital Multimeter.
3. Sound Level Meter – ANSI & IEC Type 2.
4. Digital Video Signal Test pattern generator.
5. CAT6 cable tester
I. SIGNAL ADJUSTMENT: The AVS installers shall ensure that the following adjustments, tests
and measurements, at a minimum, have been completed:
1. The system shall be measured and adjusted for optimum signal quality and minimum signal
loss, to all audio and video signals, through the system channel, using appropriate test
equipment and standardized testing procedures.
2. The system shall be measured and adjusted for optimum signal-to-noise ratio and
maximum headroom in the system electronics.
3. The system shall be measured and adjusted to eliminate distortions or degradation of
signal resulting from, but not limited to, clipping, hum, noise, and RFI interference.
4. The Installer shall check the quality of each signal, at its source, and compare it against
the quality of the signal at various points of its transmission through the system

3.3 TRAINING
A. The AVS installers shall provide the owner with different types of training as described herein.
B. SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION TRAINING. The AVS installers shall provide system
administration training at the job site as described below:
1. Duration of system administration training will be indicated for each AVS in the
corresponding section.
2. Travel time will not be counted as part of the training sessions.
3. Training will be broken down to several sessions in different days. Each session shall be
no longer than 6 hours. The number of sessions will be indicated for each AVS in the
corresponding section.
4. The objective of the system administration training will be to properly operate, trouble
shoot, calibration and perform specific field repairs to AVS equipment.
5. Field repair and calibration training will be limited to those repairs notes by the
manufacturer of the equipment as field repairs done by non-factory trained personnel.
6. Training shall be done at the job site with all the equipment operational after final
acceptance.
7. Training will be limited to a maximum of 5 attendees per session.
8. Operation and Maintenance manuals shall be delivered at the beginning of these sessions.
C. USER TRAINING. The AVS installers shall provide user training at the Job site as described
below:
1. Duration of user training will be indicated for each AVS in the corresponding section.
2. Travel time will not be counted as part of the training sessions.
3. Training will be broken down to several sessions in different days. Each session shall be
no longer than 6 hours. The number of sessions will be indicated for each AVS in the
corresponding section.
4. The objective of the user training will be to properly operate the AVS.
5. Training will be limited to a maximum of twenty (20) attendees per session.
6. User short form guides shall be provided to all attendees of the sessions.
7. Short form guides shall provide the users with quick finding ways to operate the system. If
AVS operation is different from one room to the other, one separate short form guide shall
be provided for each room.
D. OTHER TRAINING REQUIREMENTS: The AVS installers shall also comply with the following
training requirements:

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1. At least one of each type of training sessions may be recorded by USF Information
Technology AVES for review at a later date.

3.4 COMISSIONING
A. NOTE TO DESIGNERS OR CONSULTANTS: USF might choose to have third party
commissioning of audiovisual system. Designers shall confirm with the USF AV Project
Manager if this is a project requirement. If so, designers shall include a description in this
section of the commissioning process so the AVS installer can factor the required
commissioning time in their bid.

3.5 EQUIPMENT WARRANTY

A. All manufacturer’s warranties for equipment included in the project shall be transferred to USF
upon completion. The AVS installer shall provide a list with all equipment in the project and
duration of the warranty as issued by the manufacturer. AVES installer shall provide assistance
in the event manufacturer’s warranty requires AVES installer to facilitate repair and/or service
instead of USF.

3.6 INSTALLATION AND PROGRAMMING WARRANTY

A. The overall AVS installation and software shall be warrant for at least one (1) year. The
warranty shall start from the day the AVS installers receives the approval of the Final
Acceptance Step.
B. During the warranty period the AVS installers shall visit the site as many times as required to
fix any issues in the system.

3.7 SERVICE LEVEL AGREEMENTS

A. USF may require service level agreements (SLA) on a project-by-project basis to be negotiated
with AVS installer during the bid process.

3.8 CLOSE-OUT DOCUMENTATION

A. General: Refer to the requirements of the related documents identified in Section 27 41 00,
1.01, Related Documents above, for close-out documentation requirements supplemented by
this section. The following is a list of required close-out documentation:
1. Drawings indicating final floor plan locations of all AV devices in full-size paper and digital
formats.
2. One line diagrams with all devices connected in the system in full-size paper and digital
formats.
3. All programming source code done by the AVS for this project for all pieces of equipment
in digital format (no printed copies accepted).
4. Compiled executable files as requested for Computer based user interface.
5. All Operations and Maintenance Manuals (digital format preferred).
6. All printed test results.
7. Inventory of all equipment used in the project (digital copy only, in spreadsheet or csv
format) containing the following information:
a. Manufacturer
b. Model
c. Description
d. Serial Number
e. MAC address (where appropriate)
f. Installation Location (building and room).
g. Duration of warranty.

END OF SECTION 27 41 00

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SECTION 27 41 10 SMALL CLASSROOM AUDIO/VISUAL SYSTEMS

PART 1 – GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: The General Requirements, Conditions of the Contract, these sections of the USF
Design & Construction Guidelines (DCG), Drawings, Addenda and Contract Modifications (the
Contract Documents), and definitions of legal entity (such as Contract, Installer, Engineer,
Owner, etc. shall apply to the work of this specification section.
B. Supplemental: Refer to Section 27 41 00, Common Work Results for Audio/Visual Systems,
Part 1 for additional requirements, which are supplemented by this section.

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. General: A small classroom is considered an open use environment classroom used for less
than sixty (60) students.
B. General: The scope of work for the installer of these rooms is to provide and install all
equipment and wiring for the small classrooms. Programming for these rooms is provided by
USF IT department unless the program requirements for the classrooms indicate particular
features not available in standard USF small classrooms.
C. The following is a list of small classrooms where Audio Visual system shall be provided in this
project:
1. List all rooms.
D. Consumables: The Audio Visual System (AVS) Installer shall provide as part of the scope the
following consumable devices:
1. 10% of lamps for each type of projector used the projects.

1.3 ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. General: A VS designers shall provide architectural recommendations for this type of rooms
in the project. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
C. Tier seating: unless the particular program requires it, this type of room does not require tier
seating.
D. Screen quantity. This type of rooms only requires one screen unless the specific program
request more than one.
E. Dimming lights are not required in this type of classroom, but two level lighting is recommended.
To obtain the two levels 1/2 or 1/3 of the lamps in each fixture shall be controlled separately.
At a minimum there needs to be two control circuits for all the light fixtures in the room, the light
fixtures closest to the screen shall be on a separate switch from the rest of the fixtures in the
room, so they can be turned off during presentation mode but the remaining lights can be left
on.
E. Acoustical considerations. This type of room does not require any special acoustical
considerations with the exception of the regular considerations for privacy between adjacent
classrooms.

1.4 ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL FUNCTIONALITY

A. General: Room Audio/visual functionality shall be as described in the current standard program
for the control processor installed in most classrooms of this type. It is the intent of the USF IT
department to keep this functionality as uniform as possible to reduce training time for teachers
and support staff.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 APPROVED PRODUCTS
A. General: The following is the list of equipment currently approved by USF for this type of
classroom:
Component Manufacturer Model
Display
Projector PANASONIC PT-FW300NTU
Projector Ceiling Plate CHIEF CMS0445

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Projector Security Mount BMS LCD LOC II DD

Projection Screen DA LITE HDTV HEAVY DUTY MODEL C 79882
Wall Mount Brackets DA LITE 40932 #6 White
Presentation Resources
Document Camera ELMO P100
DVD/VHS Combo Player SONY RDRVX560
Desktop PC DELL Optiplex 760 SFF
Interactive Pen Display/Annotation Smart Technologies SYMPODIUM ID370
Laptop and USB Connections
Audio
Pair Audio Speakers EXTRON SI 26CT
Media Control
Media Control Link CRESTRON MPS 100
Media Control user interface CRESTRON C2N-FT-TPS4-B
QuickMedia Receiver CRESTRON QM-RX
IR Emitter Probe CRESTRON IRP2
Media Control Cable CRESTRON CrestCat-QM-P
Accessories
Lock Kensington K64189USL
Wiring, Accessories
Surge Protector Tripp-Lite Super7Tel15
Rack Shelving RAXXESS UTS-2
Hardware security mount PEERLESS LDM 233K
B. Variations from this list of equipment shall be pre-approved by USF IT department.

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 EXECUTION OF THE WORK
A. General: See Section 27 41 00, Part 3, for execution of work requirements supplemented by
this specification section.
B. Programming. Programming for the control system for this type of room will be provided by the
owner unless specifically requested by the program of the project.
C. All equipment in this type of classroom shall be located in the teaching lectern.
E. Projectors shall be installed using a projector ceiling plate that replaces a 2 feet x 2 feet ceiling
tile. Ceiling plates shall be installed per manufacturer’s recommendation.
F. Sound-reinforcement for this type of room is not required, neither the use of a microphone for
the teacher.
G. In this type of room assisted listening devices does not need to be permanently installed in the
classroom. Portable units are acceptable.
G. Computers for teaching lecterns will be provided by the owner in this type of classrooms.
H. UPS is not required for this type of classrooms.
I. Integration between the lighting system and the audio visual system is not required, but wall
switches shall be located close to the lectern location.

3.2 TESTING
A. General: Because in this type of rooms the programming of the system is done by the owner,
the AVS installer does not need to test all the systems, but the installer of these rooms shall be
available during the testing done by the owner to solve any problems associated with the
installation of the equipment encountered by the owner during the testing process.

3.3 TRAINING
A. SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification
section shall provide four (4) hours of system administration training.
B. USER TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification does not need to
provide user training

END OF SECTION 27 41 10

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SECTION 27 41 15 LARGE CLASSROOM AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: The General Requirements, Conditions of the Contract, these sections of the USF
Design & Construction Guidelines (DCG), Drawings, Addenda and Contract Modifications (the
Contract Documents), and definitions of legal entity (such as Contract, Installer, Engineer,
Owner, etc.) shall apply to the work of this specification section.
B. Supplemental: Refer to Section 27 41 00, Common Work Results for Audio/Visual Systems,
Part 1 for additional requirements, which are supplemented by this section.

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. General: A large classroom is considered an open use environment classroom used for more
than sixty (60) students.
B. General: The scope of work for the installer of these rooms is to provide and install all
equipment and wiring for the large classrooms. Programming for these rooms is provided by
the installer.
C. The following is a list of large classrooms where Audio Visual system shall be provided in this
project:
1. List all rooms.
D. Consumables: The Audio Visual System (AVS) Installer shall provide as part of the scope the
following consumable devices:
1. 10% of lamps for each type of projector used the projects.

1.3 ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. General: AVS designers shall provide architectural recommendations for this type of rooms in
the project. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
B. Tier seating. Tier seating is not required but highly recommended specially in room with over
100 seats.
C. Projection system. The preferred projection system for this type of rooms is front projection
D. Screen quantity. This type of rooms only requires one screen but double screens are highly
recommended.
E. Three point lighting is recommended for this type of rooms. The intent of the 3 point to achieve
a good audio/visual experience during presentation mode. The types of lights are:
1. Regular fluorescent lights with wide dispersion (direct recessed or indirect pendants).
These fixtures are intended to be used during test, classes that don’t require the use of the
projector or for clean-up/repairs mode for staff. These lights do not require two levels
unless for some reason the down lights are not possible in the classroom. There is no
need to zone these lights because during presentation mode all these fixtures will be turned
off.
2. Dimmable down lights. These fixtures are intended to be used during presentation mode.
The purpose of these fixtures is to provide a minimum level of lighting for the students to
take notes and to provide a safe way to egress the room. The dimmable feature will allow
for adjustment of the light levels to an acceptable level. The dimmers on this system shall
be controllable dimmers so they can be integrated to the AV system.
3. Presenter lighting. When this type of room has classroom capture cameras (CC) or video
teleconference cameras (VTC), it is recommended to provide a directional light at the
presenter to improve the quality of the recording. This type of light should be aimed at 45º
angle to the presenter to avoid blinding the presenter and also to avoid hitting the projection
screen with direct light from this source. These fixtures do not need to be dimmable, but
should be controllable from a control system integrated also to the AVS. All different types
of lamps should have the same or very similar color temperature to have a uniform look
and feel. This type of light should be aimed not only at the podium location but also along
the front of the classroom, to keep the effectiveness when the presenter decides to move
away from the podium.
F. Acoustical considerations. This type of rooms will use program speakers separated from sound

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reinforcement speakers, but because of the volume level of main program speakers it is
recommended to use some form of acoustical treatment on the walls to avoid undesirable
sound reflections. Sound modeling for this type of rooms is a nice to have but not a
requirement.

1.4 ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL FUNCTIONALITY

A. General: Room Audio/visual functionality shall be as described in the current standard program
for the control processor installed in most classrooms of this type. It is the intent of the USF IT
department to keep this functionality as uniform as possible to reduce training time for teachers
and support staff.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 APPROVED PRODUCTS
A. General: The following is the list of equipment currently approved by USF for this type of
classroom:
Component Manufacturer Model
Display
Projector PANASONIC PT-D4000U
Lens PANASONIC ET-DLE350
Projector Ceiling Plate CHIEF CMS0445
Projector Security Mount BMS LCD LOC II DD
Projection Screen DA LITE HDTV HEAVY DUTY MODEL C
(Size depending on room size)
Wall Mount Brackets DA LITE 40932 #6 White
Presentation Resources
Document Camera ELMO P100
DVD/VHS Combo Player SONY RDRVX560
Desktop PC DELL Optiplex 760 SFF
Interactive Pen Display/Annotation Smart Technologies SYMPODIUM ID370
Laptop and USB Connections
Audio
Pair Audio Speakers EXTRON SI 26CT
Pair Audio Speakers EXTRON 42-072-03
Wireless Mic System Sennheiser levalier type
Audio Amplifier Crown or TOA 3 channel amp.
Media Control
Media Control Link CRESTRON MPS 200
Media Control user interface CRESTRON C2N-FT-TPS4-B
QuickMedia Reciever CRESTRON QM-RX
IR Emitter Probe CRESTRON IRP2
Media Control Cable CRESTRON CrestCat-QM-P
Accessories
Lock Kensington K64189USL
Wiring, accessories
Surge Protector Tripp-Lite Super7Tel15
Rack Shelving RAXXESS UTS-2
Hardware security mount PEERLESS LDM 233K
B. Variations from this list of equipment shall be pre-approved by USF IT department.

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 EXECUTION OF THE WORK
A. General: See specification Section 27 41 00, Part 3, for execution of work requirements
supplemented by this specification section.
B. Programming. Programming for the control system for this type of room will be done by the
installer but USF IT will provide a base code to be used as a starting point to program these
rooms. Additional features requested by the specific room program will have to be programmed
by the installer.
C. All equipment in this type of classroom should be located in the teaching lectern, but additional

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racks with equipment could be required for some rooms. If additional racks are required, it is
recommended these racks be located outside of the classrooms to be able to service them
without disrupting the class.
D. Projectors shall be installed using a projector ceiling plate that replaces a 2 feet x 2 feet ceiling
tile. Ceiling plates shall be installed per manufacturer’s recommendation.
E. Sound-reinforcement speakers and program speakers are required for this type of room.
These speakers shall be wired through an external amplifier. Program speakers shall only play
program audio, sound reinforcement speaker shall play a mix of program audio and
microphone outputs.
F. Microphones. At a minimum one wireless microphone is required for the presenter, but
depending on the program additional microphones could be required like choir microphones or
array microphones (acoustic magic) for audience participation during VTC. If more than one
microphone is required in these rooms, it is highly recommended to have a DSP processor to
provide mixing and filters to enhance the quality of the audio.
G. In this type of room assisted listening devices shall be permanently installed in the classroom.
H. Computers for teaching lecterns will be provided by the owner in this type of classrooms.
I. UPS is required for this type of classrooms with monitoring capabilities through the RAMS.

3.2 TESTING
A. General: Testing for this type of room shall be done by the installer and reviewed by the owner
and design engineer. For this type of rooms all testing requirements described in Section 27
41 00 shall be followed.

3.3 TRAINING
A. SYSTEM DMINISTRATION TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this section shall
provide four (4) hours of system administration training.
B. USER TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this section shall provide at least six (6)
hours of user training in two (2) different sessions.

END OF SECTION 27 41 15

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SECTION 27 41 20 CONFERENCE ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 ELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: The General Requirements, Conditions of the Contract, these sections of the USF
Design & Construction Guidelines (DCG), Drawings, Addenda and Contract Modifications (the
Contract Documents), and definitions of legal entity (such as Contract, Installer, Engineer,
Owner, etc.) shall apply to the work of this specification section.
B. Supplemental: Refer to specification Section 27 41 00, Common Work results for Audio/Visual
Systems, Part 1 for additional requirements, which are supplemented by this section.

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. General: This specification applies to conference rooms or collaboration rooms smaller than
400 square feet.
B. General: The scope of work for the installer of these rooms is to provide and install all
equipment and wiring for the conference rooms. Programming for these rooms is provided by
the installer.
C. The following is a list of conference rooms where Audio Visual system shall be provided in this
project:
1. List all rooms.
D. Consumables: The Audio Visual System (AVS) Installer shall provide as part of the scope the
following consumable devices:
1. 10% of lamps for each type of projector used the projects.

1.3 ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. General: AVS designers shall provide architectural recommendations for this type of rooms in
the project. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
B. Tier seating. Tier seating is not recommended.
C. Projection system: The preferred projection system for this type of room is a flat panel displays
with speakers and tuner, not smaller than 55 inches. A front projection system shall only be
used in this type of rooms if the LFV rule is not being met with a large flat panel display
commercially available and project viable (budget).
D. Flat panel display quantity. This type of rooms only requires one flat panel displays. Dual
displays are not required unless the specific program request this functionality.
E. Lighting. If flat panel display will be used in this type of rooms, no special considerations are
required for lighting with the exception of avoiding locating the display devices on a wall that is
subject to direct sun light. If the room will have a front projection system a two point lighting
system is recommended for this type of rooms. The intent of the 2 point to achieve a good
audio/visual experience during presentation mode. The types of lights are:
1. Regular fluorescent lights with wide dispersion (direct recessed or indirect pendants).
These fixtures are intended to be used during test, classes that don’t require the use of the
projector or for clean-up/repairs mode for staff. These lights do not require two levels
unless for some reason the down lights are not possible in the classroom. There is no
need to zone these lights because during presentation mode all these fixtures will be turned
off.
2. Dimmable down lights. These fixtures are intended to be used during presentation mode.
The purpose of these fixtures is to provide a minimum level of lighting for the students to
take notes and to provide a safe way to egress the room. The dimmable feature will allow
for adjustment of the light levels to an acceptable level. The dimmers on this system shall
be controllable dimmers so they can be integrated to the AV system.
F. Acoustical considerations. This type of rooms will use only program speakers. Program
speakers are recommended to be built-in or an accessory to the flat panel displays. Sound
modeling for this type of rooms is not required.
G. Equipment racks. It is very likely the AVS in this type of rooms requires the use of rack mounted
AV equipment. The preferred location for this equipment is inside the room in a small rack.
See specification Section 27 41 00 for additional information on racks inside rooms, casework

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or credenzas.
H. Flip top devices: As a preference user interface plates shall be located in the table and not in
the wall. Interface plates in the table are preferred to be installed in a flip top device. The
interface plate shall have as a minimum the following connections:
1. One (1) HDMI
2. One (1) Composite video connector and stereo audio in RCA connectors
3. One (1) VGA connector and stereo audio. VGA connector in a HD15 connector and audio
in a 3.5 mm stereo connector.

1.4 ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL FUNCTIONALITY

A. General: Room Audio/visual functionality for this type of rooms varies depending on the final
use of the room. This functionality needs to be defined with the users and needs to be indicated
in the specifications. As a minimum the following features shall be available in the control
system:
1. System On-Off with status indication.
2. Individual display device on/off control with status indication.
3. Select and route any audio and video source to any of the available audio and video output
devices. Each output device shall provide indication in the user interface of the current
source selected for that output.
4. Playback control of any recorded media capable of operating in the available input sources.
Status indication for playback control include end of tape indication, selected function and
invalid action. The playback control shall at least provide the following functions:
a. Play
b. Stop
c. Rewind
d. Forward
e. Fast Rewind
f. Fast Forward
g. Pause
h. Frame by frame controlled playback
i. Digital media Menu navigation controls.
5. TV channels selection. TV channel selection shall be provided by the following methods:
a. Manual entering channel number
b. Pick from a list of ten (10) favorite channels. Favorite channels shall be labeled by the
name of the network and the channel number. The owner will provide list of favorite
channels for this room.
c. Channel up and down, by moving up or down in the list of available channels.
6. Selected audio output device(s) volume control. Volume level should always be set to an
acceptable user level during power up. Status indication of volume level shall be provided
for each controllable output device.
7. Selected audio output device(s) volume mute. Mute status indication shall be provided at
user interfaces.
8. Audio settings control including equalization control
9. Individual control and status indication of all features for all controllable devices
10. Video mute for display output devices.
11. Display automation. Motorized Screen shall follow the operation status of the projector,
regardless if the manual switch to the screen has been used to operate the screen. When
the projector is on the screen shall be down and when the projector is off the screen shall
be pulled up.
B. Additional functionality shall be identified with the users and the USF project manager.

PART 2 – PRODUCTS
2.1 APPROVED PRODUCTS
A. General: There is no specific list of equipment to be used in this room. Designer shall
recommend equipment for this type of room.

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PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 EXECUTION OF THE WORK
A. General: See specification Section 27 41 00, Part 3, for execution of work requirements
supplemented by this specification section.
B. Programming. Programming for the control system for this type of room will be done by the
installer.
C. Projectors shall be installed using a projector ceiling plate that replaces a 2 feet x 2 feet ceiling
tile. Ceiling plates shall be installed per manufacturer’s recommendation.
D. Program speakers are required for this type of room. These speakers shall be powered form
the flat panel display.
E. In this type of room assisted listening devices are not required permanently installed in the
room.
F. UPS is not required for this type of room but power strips are required with surge suppression.

3.2 TESTING
A. General: Testing for this type of room shall be done by the installer and reviewed by the owner
and design engineer. For this type of rooms all testing requirements described in Section 27
41 00 shall be followed.

3.3 TRAINING
A. SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification
section shall provide four (4) hours of system administration training.
B. USER TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification shall provide at least
six (6) hours of user training in two (2) different sessions.

END OF SECTION 27 41 20

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UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION GUIDELINES

SECTION 27 41 25 CONFERENCE ROOM WITH VTC AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: The General Requirements, Conditions of the Contract, these sections of the USF
Design & Construction Guidelines (DCG), Drawings, Addenda and Contract Modifications (the
Contract Documents), and definitions of legal entity (such as Contract, Installer, Engineer,
Owner, etc.) shall apply to the work of this specification section.
B. Supplemental: Refer to specification Section 27 41 00, Common Work Results for Audio/Visual
Systems, Part 1 for additional requirements, which are supplemented by this section.

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. General: A conference room with VTC is a regular conference room where video conference
equipment will be installed on a permanent basis. There is no specific size for this type of
room, the only criteria are that it is a meeting room (or small classroom) and it has
videoconference permanently installed.
B. General: The scope of work for the installer of these rooms is to provide and install all
equipment and wiring for the conference room with VTC. Programming for these rooms is
provided by the installer.
C. The following is a list of conference rooms with VTC where Audio Visual system shall be
provided in this project:
1. List all rooms.
D. Consumables: The Audio Visual System (AVS) Installer shall provide as part of the scope the
following consumable devices:
1. 10% of lamps for each type of projector used the projects.

1.3 ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. General: AVS designers shall provide architectural recommendations for this type of rooms in
the project. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
B. Table. For conference room, it is highly recommended to use table shapes suitable for
videoconference systems. Those table shapes include “V” shapes or “C” shapes. These
shapes improve visibility of all participants in the video conference system. Avoid as much as
possible tables with rectangular form.
C. Projection system. The preferred projection system for conference rooms is dual flat panel
displays no smaller than 65 inches diagonal, installed side by side. These displays shall not
be mounted higher than 6 inches from the top of the table, to the bottom of the displays. For
classrooms, dual front projection system and a rear flat panel display for the presenter to see
the far side.
D. VTC Camera installation: For meeting rooms, the recommended location for the VTC camera
as in between the flat panel displays, above the unit. For classrooms, two cameras are
recommended, one for the audience and one for the presenter, installed one in the front and
one in the back of the room.
E. Depending on the room size, different types of lights are recommended. For small conference
rooms (less than 250 square feet) one type of lighting is recommended. For larger rooms or
classrooms (greater than 250 square feet) additional lighting types might be required. As a
minimum all conference rooms shall have:
1. VTC lighting. Room shall be layout with fixtures designed specifically for Video Tele
Conference. These fixtures are recessed fluorescent fixtures with a reflector shaped to
reproduce an effect similar to studio lights. These fixtures throw light at a 45° angle, rather
than straight down. It is suggested to position them so that each is mounted far enough in
front of a seating position that the angled light falls on the occupant's face, and spaced so
that there is a fixture at about 45° to each side of user. These fixtures are not required to
be dimmable but are recommended to have 2 levels at least. No specific zoning is required
also, a single zone is sufficient.
F. For larger rooms different types of lights shall be provided depending on the room layout and
size of the conference table. The designers shall indicate what other type of lights are required

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for these rooms. Additional lights shall have the same color temperature as the VTC lighting.
G. For the area covering the conference table the following additional lighting requirements shall
be followed:
1. There shall be no more than a 10:1 contrast between the lightest and darkest areas in the
room – and no more than a 1.5 to 1 contrast between the overall illumination on one
person's face and the next. The light levels in the participant’s face shall be between 30
to 50 foot-candles.
2. Lamps on these fixtures shall have a color temperature between 3000 - 3500° K and a CRI
of 80 or above.
H. Window shades. This type of rooms shall have black out window shades to control ambient
lighting in the room. When the specific program requires electric shades, those shades shall
be interface and controlled through the AVS.
I. Acoustical considerations. This type of rooms will use program speakers separated from sound
reinforcement speakers, but because of the volume level of main program speakers it is
recommended to use some form of acoustical treatment on the walls to avoid undesirable
sound reflections. Sound modeling for this type of rooms is a nice to have but not a
requirement.

1.4 ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL FUNCTIONALITY

A. General: The features for this type of rooms shall be identified and approved with the project
manager for USF. There is no specific list of equipment required for these rooms, but there
are certain guidelines that shall be followed.
B. Microphones: For small rooms voice tracker array microphones (by Acoustic Magic) are
recommended. For larger rooms boundary microphones in the tables or choir microphones for
the audience could be required. The intent is that in these types of rooms all participants
(presenter and audience) have means to collaborate during the video conference.
C. When several microphones are located in the room, the use of a separate DSP processor is
required. DSP filters shall be set for optimum use during VTC, including acoustic echo
cancellation.
D. User interfaces shall be a touchscreen no smaller than 8 inches. For meeting rooms, a wireless
or wired touchscreen on top of the table is preferred. For classrooms a wired touchscreen in
the podium is preferred.
E. When front projection is used for this type of rooms, designer or consultant shall try to use as
much as possible the same type of equipment used in the small classrooms or large
classrooms, to minimize the spare part inventory for the owner. In particular, the projectors
shall be the same unless there are specific reasons why this can be achieved.
F. It is common to see in this type of rooms annotation devices. For small rooms or meeting
rooms a smart board or an overlay on one of the flat panel displays is acceptable. For larger
rooms or classrooms a presenter based system is acceptable, like a touchscreen device or an
interactive pen displays (i.e. Sympodium ®). Interactive pen displays shall be specified capable
of handling HD signals.
G. Signal types. Because of the high proliferation of high definition system, it is highly
recommended that the systems specified for this type of room be capable of managing high
definition digital signals, including DVI, HDMI and Display Port.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 APPROVED PRODUCTS
A. General: See specification Section 27 41 00, Part 2.
B. A detailed list of equipment shall be presented to the owner for approval.

PART 3 – EXECUTION
3.1 EXECUTION OF THE WORK
A. General: See specification Section 27 41 00, Part 3, for execution of work requirements
supplemented by this specification section.
B. Programming. Programming for the control system for this type of room will be done by the
installer.

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C. When this type of room is a classroom all equipment in this type of classroom should be located
in the teaching lectern, but additional racks with equipment could be required for some rooms.
If additional racks are required, it is recommended these racks be located outside of the
classrooms to be able to service them without disrupting the class. For meeting rooms,
D. Projectors shall be installed using a projector ceiling plate that replaces a 2 feet x 2 feet ceiling
tile. Ceiling plates shall be installed per manufacturer’s recommendation.
E. Sound-reinforcement speakers and program speakers are required for this type of room.
These speakers shall be wired through an external amplifier, or for smaller rooms they could
be part of the flat panel displays. Program speakers shall only play program audio, sound
reinforcement speaker shall play a mix of program audio and microphone outputs.
F. For conference room set up mix-minus systems are highly recommended.
G. For classrooms with capacity larger than fifty (50) students assisted listening devices shall be
permanently installed in the classroom.
H. Computers for teaching lecterns will be provided by the owner in this type of classrooms.
I. UPS is required for this type of classrooms with monitoring capabilities through the RAMS.

3.2 TESTING
A. General: Testing for this type of room shall be done by the installer and reviewed by the owner
and design engineer. For this type of rooms all testing requirements described in Section 27
41 00 shall be followed.

3.3 TRAINING
A. SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification
section shall provide twelve (12) hours of system administration training.
B. USER TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification shall provide at least
six (6) hours of user training in two (2) different sessions.

END OF SECTION 27 41 25

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SECTION 27 41 34 BROADBAND DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: Drawings and general provisions of the Contract, including General and
Supplementary Conditions and Division 1, General Requirements, apply to work of this section.
B. Supplemental: Refer to the specification sections identified below for additional requirements,
which are supplemented by this section.
Section Title
27 00 10 TECHNOLOGY GENERAL PROVISIONS
27 05 28 PATHWAYS FOR COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS
27 05 26 GROUNDING & BONDING FOR COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. For designers or consultants: The scope of work for designers or consultants shall include
to a minimum the following tasks:
1. Define system topology, including routing of backbone cables, cable types and location of
all active and passive components of the system.
2. Defining the interface to the existing head end system.
3. Prepare initial calculations for the complete system to accomplish the required output at all
outlets. These calculations shall produce as a conclusion tap values, equalizer values and
location of amplifiers in the system.
4. Establishing the scope of work for the installer and composing the complete set of bid
documents (design drawings and specifications).
5. Review shop drawings and answer RFIs
6. Test the system with the installer after completion and verify close-out information.
B. For installers: The scope of work for the CATV installers shall include to a minimum the
following tasks:
1. Produce shop drawings
2. Provide and install all cabling passive and equipment (active and passive) per designer’s
specifications.
3. Adjust and test the system.
4. Provide training and close out information as indicated in the specifications.

1.3 DEFINITIONS
A. Agile Receiver: A broadband receiver that can be tuned to any desired channel.
B. Broadband: For the purposes of this Section, wide bandwidth equipment or systems that can
carry signals occupying in the frequency range of 54 to 1002 MHz. A broadband
communication system can simultaneously accommodate television, voice, data, and many
other services.
C. Carrier: A pure-frequency signal that is modulated to carry information. In the process of
modulation, it is spread out over a wider band. The carrier frequency is the center frequency
on any television channel.
D. CATV: Community antenna television; a communication system that simultaneously
distributes several different channels of broadcast programs and other information to
customers via a coaxial cable.
E. CEA: Consumer Electronics Association.
F. dBmV: Decibels relative to 1 mV across 75 ohms. Zero dBmV is defined as 1 mV across 75
ohms. dBmV = 20 log 10(V1/V2) where V1 is the measurement of voltage at a point having
identical impedance to V2 (0.001 V across 75 ohms).
G. Headend: The control center of the master antenna television system, where incoming signals
are amplified, converted, processed, and combined into a common cable along with any locally
originated television signals, for transmission to user-interface points. It is also called the
"Central Retransmission Facility."
H. RF: Radio frequency.

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1.4 DESCRIPTION
A. Broadband Distribution Systems shall provide distribution of video, television signals to all
selected spaces in the buildings. The system design anticipates increasing demands for
expanded channel capacity. The system shall include, but not be limited to passive and active
infrastructure like distribution amplifiers, directional couplers, taps and splitters as required to
achieve a fully functional system.
B. Topology at USF. Currently USF has a CATV headend system located in in the ITS building
on the main campus. This headend system is operated by Apogee Telecom Inc. It is the intent
of USF of distribute CATV signals from this location to new and renovated buildings on main
campus. A signal feed will be provided from the ITS building to the new project. It is the
responsibility to each project to select, specify and install the required fiber optic equipment to
get the signal to the new project. Requirements for connection to external service providers
shall be discussed in every project.
C. Standards: Distribution system components and overall system performance shall meet or
exceed requirements set forth in Federal Communications Commission Technical
Specifications Title 47, Part 76 as applied to cable television systems.
D. RFI: Special emphasis shall be placed on radio frequency interference (RFI) integrity as
licensed radio services outside the cable system share the same frequencies designated for
use within.
E. Distribution of direct broadcast satellite service signals. Whenever a project requires the use
of satellite distribution signals, the designer of the system shall coordinate with the owner the
location of satellite dishes and the architecture for this system.

1.5 SERVICES SUPPORTED

A. The system configuration will allow the forward distribution of digital channels available in the
existing headend.
B. The system bandpass shall allow for the following channel loading and forward distribution:
1. One hundred and twenty nine (129) channels from 47 MHz to 860 MHz.
C. Locally originated programs must be sent to the headend via the fiber backbone.

1.6 INSTALLER QUALIFICATIONS

A. Qualifications: The CATV installer installing this system shall be experienced in the design,
installation, proof-of-performance testing and maintenance of broadband cable television
systems comparable or larger in size and complexity to the system required on this project.
Such experience shall be indicated in a list of successfully completed systems with the
submittal for this system. Contact names and addresses for all references shall be provided.
B. Equipment: The CATV installer executing this work shall own and maintain at least the
following equipment for execution and maintenance of this system:
1. A CATV signal level meter capable of measuring levels between 5 and 1000 megahertz.
For example Blonder Tongue BTPDA-2
2. A flat noise generator or sweep/marker generator capable of providing a calibrated output
between 5 and 1000 megahertz.
3. An oscilloscope with a suitable RF detector for use in sweep testing system response.
4. A return loss bridge and variable termination for on-site cable sweep testing prior to
installation.
5. A time domain reflectometer designed for operation into 75-ohm polyethylene dielectric
cable for verification of installed cable.
6. Composite test sets, simul-sweep equipment and other test systems capable of providing
the required functions shall be considered equivalent to the equipment specified.
7. A stripping/coring tool appropriate for 0.500 inch hardline cable or larger cables.
C. Resume: A resume of personal cable television experience shall be submitted for the cable
foreman, each splicer, each technician, and the system design engineer.

1.7 SUBMITTALS
A. The CATV installer shall submit the following information as part of the shop drawing submittal
process:

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1. Cut sheet of all devices to be provided as part of this systems. When multiple devices are
in the same cut sheet, the installer shall highlight the specific part number to be used.
2. Resumes of installer that will perform the job, with their experience in this type of systems.
3. Cut sheet of labels to be used in the system and a labeling scheme.
4. A list of all testing equipment owned by the installer as requested in this specification. The
list shall include all make and model number of all devices and the last time they were
calibrated.
5. Drawings indicating all outlets in the project, with cable distances included types of cables
and how they are connected to the backbone system. The drawings shall include all pad
and equalization calculations to the input of all amplifiers in the system.
B. For quantities of submittal see Division 1, General Requirements. In all cases no less than four
(4) copies shall be submitted for approval.

1.8 GENERAL SYSTEM PARAMETERS

A. Devices and products described below may or may not be required for the overall design. If
such devices are required in the course of this project to achieve the design distribution
parameter, the installer shall provide such devices as a part of their design solution and said
devices shall be included as part of the installers package in the bid. These items would include
those listed below as well as splitters, taps, couplers and pads.
B. The CATV installer shall be familiar with the ANSI/SCTE standards and shall follow those
standards during the installation process.
C. Amplifiers: In most cases, the output from the amplifier shall be adequate for building
distribution. However in larger building distribution systems, additional amplifiers will possibly
be required. If such is the case, Input pad and equalizers shall be provided to compensate for
short spacing and cable slope, respectively. Outputs shall be adjusted to the rated sloped
output of the amplifier selection (typically 36 dBmv to 44 dBmv or rated output by equipment
manufacturer) at the selected frequency range indicated in this specification section.
D. Output: All outlets shall provide a minimum output of between +3 dBmv and +10dBmv for the
complete frequency range specified in this section.
E. Minimum acceptable distribution system performance at all outlets shall be as follows:
1. RF Video Carrier Level: Between 3 and 12 dBmV.
2. Relative Video Carrier Level: Within 3 dB to adjacent channel.
3. Carrier Level Stability, Short Term: Level shall not change more than 0.5 dB during a 60-
minute period.
4. Carrier Level Stability, Long Term: Level shall not change more than 2 dB during a 24-
hour period.
5. Channel Frequency Response: Across any 6-MHz channel in 54 to 220-MHz frequency
range, referenced to video, signal amplitude shall be plus or minus 1 dB, maximum.
6. Carrier-to-Noise Ratio: 45 dB or more.
7. RF Visual Signal-to-Noise Ratio: 43 dB or more.
8. Cross Modulation: Less than minus 50 dB.
9. Carrier-to-Echo Ratio: More than 40 dB.
10. Composite Triple Beat: Less than minus 53 dB.
11. Second Order Beat: Less than minus 60 dB.
12. Terminal Isolation from Television to Television: 25 dB, minimum.
13. Terminal Isolation between Television and FM: 35 dB, minimum.
14. Hum Modulation: 2 percent, maximum.
15. RF FM Carrier Level: 13 to 17 dB below video carrier level.
16. FM Frequency Response: More than the 88 to 108-MHz frequency range, signal amplitude
is plus or minus 0.75 dB, maximum.
17. FM Carrier-to-Noise Ratio: More than 24 dB.
F. RF Leakage: Radio frequency leakage into the system shall be in compliance of all FCC rulings
and regulations.
G. Delay: Combined reverse and forward path chroma delay, as measured at the most distant
bridged port, to the headend and or main distribution point in the building and back, shall not
exceed 28 nanoseconds.

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PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 DISTRIBUTION AMPLIFIERS (NOT AT HEAD END)
A. This amplifier shall be used only in the distribution system and shall have the following
specifications:
1. Frequency Range: As stated in Section 27 41 34, Broadband Distribution System,
Subparagraph 1.5. B.
2. Forward gain: 43 dB
3. Gain Control Range: Greater or equal to 10 dB
4. Slope Control Range: Greater or equal to 8 dB
5. Input Return Loss: Greater or equal to 16 dB
6. Noise Figure: Greater or equal to 7 dB
7. Required output Level: 36/44 dBmV
8. Hybrid technology: Power doubling
9. Input/Output Test Point Level: -30 dB
B. Design Selection: Blonder Tongue BIDA 5900 series, or approved equal with required pads
and equalizers.

2.2 PASSIVE DEVICES

A. All passive devices shall have a minimum bandwidth of 5 to 1000 MHz.
B. Splitters for drops or backbones designed with RG-6 or RG-11 lines: Splitters shall be Blonder
Tongue SXRS-2, 3, 4 & 8 as required by the system configuration.
C. Directional Couplers for drops or backbones designed with RG-6 or RG-11 lines: shall be
Blonder Tongue SRT series, with dB TAP setting as required by the system configuration.
D. Splitters for backbones designed with PIII-500 or bigger diameter cable: shall be Toner TGSP
series as required by the system configuration.
E. Directional couplers for backbones designed with PIII-500 or bigger diameter cable: Shall be
Toner TGDC series as required for the system configuration
F. Multi-taps shall be Toner Total tap with 3 or 6 tap housings as indicated by the system
configuration. Tap values and quantity of tap ports as indicated in system configuration
G. Equalizer. Equalizer shall be mounted in the tap housings and shall be a Toner TXMT plate.
Equalizers could be mounted also inside distribution amplifiers. The value to equalize shall be
as indicated in system configuration

2.3 OUTLETS
A. The television outlet shall provide one (1) "F" type barrel connector mounted alone or with other
audio/visual system connectors on a common face plate. Outlets shall be mounted as indicated
on the documents, or as otherwise indicated and directly in line with the proposed television
location. Coordinate final location based upon provided drawings and coordination with the
Owner. A three wire grounded, 120 VAC power outlet shall be located adjacent to the television
outlet and be provided by owner selected Division 26, Electrical Installer. Coaxial cable shall
be provided by the CATV installer to each outlet location indicated on the drawings. Conduit
and boxes shall also be provided according to specifications Section 27 05 28, Pathways for
Communication Systems. Coordinate location with electrical installer if not already provided at
time of installation of this work.
B. Design selection: F- connector with a single barrel connector to match (faceplate style and
color) de design selection of the structured wiring system as described in specification Section
27 10 00, Structured Cabling System.

2.4 VIDEO DISTRIBUTION CABLE

A. Structural Return Loss Testing: All cable shall be 100% swept tested. Return loss shall not be
less than 23 dB at any given frequency between 5MhZ and 1000MhZ.
B. Construction: Cable shall be constructed of a copper clad steel or solid copper center
conductor, gas expanded cellular polyethylene dielectric, multiple aluminum braided shields,
and an overall jacket. All cables shall have characteristic impedance of 75 ohms.
C. Attenuation: Attenuation characteristics in decibels per 100 feet at 20 ºC shall not deviate more

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than 10% from the following values:

FREQUENCY (MHz) RG-6 RG-11 PIII-500
5 0.57 0.36 0.16
55 1.5 0.95 0.54
211 2.87 1.81 1.09
300 3.43 2.17 1.31
400 4.0 2.53 1.53
450 4.28 2.69 1.63
550 4.76 3.01 1.82
750 5.62 3.58 2.16
870 6.09 3.9 2.35
1000 6.54 4.23 2.53
D. RG-6 Cable: No 18 AWG solid bare copper conductor. Four layers of shield, two aluminum
foil-polyester tape aluminum foil, one 60% aluminum braid and one 40% aluminum braid. NEC
article 820. Jacket shall be suitable for the environment being installed.
E. RG-11 Cable: No 14 AWG solid bare copper center conductor. Two layers of shield, one
aluminum foil-polyester tape aluminum foil and one 60% aluminum braid. NEC article 820.
Jacket shall be suitable for the environment being installed.
F. PIII-500: 0.109 inch diameter copper clad center conductor. Solid aluminum tube swaged onto
a high compression micro-cellular foam dielectric core. NEC article 820. Jacket shall be
suitable for the environment being installed.
G. Indoor Cables: The following table indicates the design selection for all CATV cables. Cables
shall be selected according to the environment in which they will be installed
CABLE TYPE GENERAL (CM) RISER RATED PLENUM RATED
RG-6 Belden 5339Q5 Use plenum rated cable Belden 6339Q8
RG-11 Belden 1617A Use plenum rated cable Belden 1153A
PIII-500 Use riser rated cable Commscope P3 500 JCAR
H. Outdoor Cables: When coaxial cables are to be installed outdoors or underground in conduit,
they need to have a jacket with a water blocking compound.
I. RG-59 cable shall never be used for the distribution system.
J. For all fiber optic cables and connector for broadband distribution see specification Section 27
10 00, Structured Cabling System. All connector for fiber optic cables shall be APC (Angled
polished connectors) type connectors

2.5 CONNECTORS AND ADAPTER

A. Site Cable Connectors: All connector shall be as recommended by the Cable manufacturer for
the cable size and jacket of the cable.
B. Connectors for RG-6 cables. All connectors for RG-6 cable shall be one piece compression
connectors with color coded sleeve. Design selection: Thomas & Betts, part number
SNS1P6QS or equivalent.
C. Connectors for RG-11 cables. All connectors for RG-11 cable shall be one piece compression
connectors with color coded sleeve. Design selection: Stirling, part number SPL-11 or
equivalent.
D. Connectors for PIII-500 cables. All connectors for PIII-500 cable shall use a 5/8 inch 3 pin type
connector. Design selection: Amphenol ACC-500-CHT10 or equivalent.
E. Adapters. The installer shall provide all adapters to connect all different cables listed above to
an F type connector or a to a 5/8 inch 3 pin connector, as required in the design to make
complete connections. Design selection: Amphenol ACC series or equivalent.
F. Crimping: All connectors shall be installed using the connector manufacturer's recommended
cutting, coring and pin crimping tools.

2.6 SURGE SUPPRESSION

A. All coaxial cables entering or exiting a building (above or below ground) shall be surge
protected as required by NEC article 820.
B. All surge suppression devices shall be grounded with an AWG-12 isolated wire to the closest
electrical ground.
C. All surge suppression devices shall be UL 497 listed, gas tube suppression, power passing and

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specifically designed for broadband network applications.

D. Design selection: TII in-line coaxial lighting surge protector 212FF757225-31

2.7 FIBER OPTIC BROADBAND TRANSMITTER

A. The fiber optic broadband transmitter (FOBT) shall be able to transmit broadband signals over
a single mode fiber optic link and shall be able to accommodate a variety of different modulation
formats such as AM/VSB, 8VSB, QAM, QPSK, etc. The FOBT shall use a high- power, low
noise 1310 nm distributed feedback (DFB) laser diodes to transmit the signals.
B. The specifications of the FOBT shall be:
1. Channel loading: Same bandwidth as requested in Section 27 41 34, Subparagraph 1.5.B
of this specification section.
2. Operating Wavelength: 1310 nm
3. Required Fiber Bandwidth: 1,000 min. MHz
4. Input Return Loss: =/>16 dB @ 75 Ohm
5. Back Reflection: -50 min. dB
6. Optical Output Power: as indicated in design documents.
7. RF Input Level (110 Ch. Load): + 18 dBmV/Ch
8. CNR (-1 dBm Input, 77 Ch. Load) + QAM 550-860 MHz @ -6dB Ref. Analog): ≥ 52 dB
9. CTB: ≥ 69 dB
10. CSO: ≥ -63 dB
11. Side Mode Suppression Ratio (SMSR): 30 dB
12. Fiber optic connector type: FC (APC)
13. Mounting: rack mounted with built in power supply.
C. Design selection: Blonder Tongue FIBT series or equivalent.

2.8 FIBER OPTIC BROADBAND RECEIVER AND AMPLIFIER

A The fiber optic broadband receiver (FOBR) shall be able to receive broadband signals over a
single mode fiber optic link and shall be able to accommodate a variety of different modulation
formats such as AM/VSB, 8VSB, QAM, QPSK, etc. The FOBR shall have an included
distribution amplifier built in.
B. The optical specifications of the FOBR shall be:
1. Channel loading: Same bandwidth as the FOBT.
2. Bandpass Flatness: 1.0 dB P/V
3. Operating Wavelength: 1310/1550 nm
4. Optical Input Range: -6.0 to +3.0 dBm
5. Output Impedance: 75 Ω
6. CNR -1 dBm Input, 40 Ch. Load: 56 dB
7. CNR -1 dBm Input, 79 Ch.+ Data: 55 dB
8. CNR -1 dBm Input, 110 Ch. Load: 54 dB
9. Input Connector: FC/APC
C. The specifications of the distribution amplifier part of the FOBR shall be:
1. Channel loading: Same bandwidth as the FOBT.
2. Impedance - All Ports: 75 Ohm
3. Return Loss Output: 16 dB
4. RF Gain: 43 dB
5. Test Port: -30, ± 2 dB
6. Gain Control Range: 10 dB
7. Slope Control Range: 8 dB
8. Number Of Hybrids: 2
9. Hybrid Technology: Power Doubling
10. Channel Loading: same as described in Section 27 41 25, Subparagraph 1.4.B.
11. Flatness: ± 0.75 dB
12. Output Level (Low/High): 34/42 dBmV
13. Composite Triple Beat (CTB): -60 dB
14. Composite Second Order (CSO): -58 dB
15. Hum Modulation: -70

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D. Design selection: Blonder Tongue FRDA series.

2.9 FIBER OPTIC BROADBAND COUPLER

A. The fiber optic broadband coupler (FOBC) shall be a passive device capable of splitting a
broadband signal modulates in a fiber optic signal to multiple outputs.
B. The specifications of the FOBC are:
1. Number of Inputs: 1
2. Wavelength: 1310 & 1550 nm
3. Number of Outputs: As indicated in design drawings
4. Connectors: FC/APC
Number of Outputs 2 3 4 6 8
Insertion Loss (Individual Port): ≤3.6 dB 6.0 dB 7.3 dB 9.7 dB 10.8 dB
Uniformity: ≤0.6 dB 1.0 dB 1.0 dB 1.0 dB 1.9 dB
Directivity: ≥ 50 dB ≥ 50 dB ≥ 50 dB ≥ 50 dB ≥ 50 dB
B. Design selection: Blonder Tongue FOC-22 series

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 INSTALLATION PRACTICES
A. In Raceway: All cables shall be installed in raceways without kinks, dents, or abrasions.
Specified pulling strength of cable shall not be exceeded.
B. Separation of Raceways: USF does not allow the use of raceways or cable trays design for
structured cabling systems to be used for CATV distribution cables with the exception of fiber
optic cables. Raceways for audio/visual system can be used for CATV distribution cables when
required. Cable tray supports can be used as supports for hangers for CATV distribution
cables.
C. Raceways for CATV outlets: Outlets for CATV cables shall be composed of a 4-inch square
box with a single gang device adapter and a 1 inch conduit to the nearest accessible ceiling
space.
D. All indoor rated cables can be supported with j-hooks or cable hangers above accessible ceiling
spaces. J-hooks shall be spaced no longer than 4 feet.
E. All indoor cables shall have no splices at any points.
F. Terminal Locations: Cables at terminal locations shall be neatly formed using a bending form
to prevent kinks or other discontinuities. Cables showing evidence of abuse or physical
damage shall be replaced at the installer's expense.
G. It is envisioned that television service will migrate into the overall telecommunications scheme
for a given facility, therefore television distribution shall be accomplished via the following
methods. In general, television distribution points shall be located throughout the facility such
and all wiring shall be run back to the Telecommunication room where the connection to the
Broadband distribution backbone will take place.
H. Location of CATV distribution equipment inside telecommunication rooms shall be closely
coordinated with structured cabling system components.
I. All unused outputs of splitters, directional couples or distribution taps shall have a 75 ohm
termination installed.
J. All unused cavities of the Toner Total Tap housing shall be filled with blank plates
K. All equipment with a grounding lug shall be grounded as recommended by the equipment
manufacturer to an acceptable grounding point as described by the NEC.
L. All amplifiers shall be used at the rated output. The installer shall provide the required
equalization and attenuation pads for all amplifiers to operate at the rated output at only 80%
of the maximum gain control of the unit.
M. Cable and equipment identifiers shall be provided and shall follow a standard labeling system
like TIA/EIA-606. The identification system chosen by the CATV installer shall be submitted
for approval.
N. The only approved types of labels for cables and devices part of the broadband distribution
system are:
1. Non-laminated thermal transfer labels, printed with a high quality thermal transfer printer.
2. Laminated thermal transfer labels printed with a high quality thermal transfer printer.

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3. Thermal transfer polyolefin tape printed with a high quality thermal transfer printer.
4. Self laminated dot-matrix labels, printed with a high quality dot matrix printer.
5. Non-laminated dot-matrix labels, printed with a high quality dot matrix printer.
6. Pre printed labels from marker books.
O. Any type of write-on labels, hand writing on cable jackets or directly on equipment, labels made
with masking tape or any other type of tape not listed in previous paragraph are not acceptable
and shall be corrected with approved labeling methods at no additional cost to the owner.
P. The installer shall use attenuator or adjustment for fiber optic equipment to ensure proper
budget levels are getting to each receiver.

3.2 INSTALLATION OF CONNECTORS

A. Provisions: All connectors shall be installed in strict accordance with the manufacturers’
instructions.
B. Residue Removal: All dielectric residues shall be removed from surfaces of center conductors
to insure proper electrical contact.
C. Preparation: Semi-rigid cables shall have jacket removed to a length of 2 inches from the cable
end to allow proper seating of connectors without scoring of the aluminum sheath. A tubing
cutter shall not be used for this purpose. All flooding compound shall be removed from the
connector location with a suitable solvent.
D. Connections: All connections including terminations and connections on flexible cables shall
be wrench tightened to insure RFI integrity.
E. Tooling: Cables shall be prepared to accept connectors using the manufacturer's
recommended tooling.
F. Heat Shrink Boot: All cables containing flooding compound shall be provided with a heat shrink
boot at all termination points which covers the housing connector boss, body of the connector
and extends not less than 12 inches along the cable jacket. Heat shrink boot shall be of the
filled type.
G. Splices: Cable splices below grade or in other locations shall be made according to
manufacturers’ recommendations, tested, and covered with a filled heat shrink boot
approximately 30 inches in length. Boot shall contain a resilient compound which melts as heat
is applied and fills all voids between the shrink tube and cable jacket. Resin casts shall not be
acceptable.

3.3 EQUIPMENT MOUNTING

A. Mounting: All remote terminal equipment (amplifiers, taps, couplers etc.) shall be neatly
arranged and securely mounted. When installed above the ceiling all devices need to be in
accessible places.
B. Integrity: All equipment housing hardware including amplifiers shall be wrench tightened to
insure full RFI integrity.

3.4 SYSTEM ADJUSTMENTS

A. Installation: System design drawings are based on estimated distances between devices. The
installer shall measure the exact cable footages between equipment locations and submit a
revised drawing to the engineer for review containing the following:
1. Exact footage of each cable
2. Revised coupler and tap values
3. Revised equalizer and pad values

3.5 SYSTEM PERFORMANCE

A. General: Upon completion the system shall be adjusted, tested, and left in perfect operating
condition.
B. Provisions: The system shall not exhibit any audible or visible components of hum, noise, or
distortion.
C. Before the system acceptance test, the installer shall test all outlets in the system and
document the result in a spreadsheet, called TEST RESULT REPORT (TRR). The TTR
spreadsheets shall include the following information:

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1. Project name and location

2. Day test was done (if done in different days, the report shall be broken in sections by days
the tests were done).
3. Name of the installer that performed the test
4. Serial number of the tester used.
5. For each outlet in the project the report shall include:
a. Room number:
b. Room name:
c. Outlet number (with permanent label matching as-built drawings)
d. Lowest channel - signal level (in dBmV)
e. Mid bandwidth channel – signal level (in dBmV)
f. Highest channel (as identified in part 1 of this specification) – signal level (in dBmV)
6. For each amplifier in the system the report shall include:
a. Room number:
b. Room name:
c. Lowest channel - signal level (in dBmV, measured @ test port)
d. Mid bandwidth channel – signal level (in dBmV, measured @ test port)
e. Highest channel (as identified in Section 27 41 34, Part 1 of this specification) – signal
level (in dBmV, measured @ test port)

3.6 SYSTEM ACCEPTANCE TEST

A. General: The Installer shall demonstrate the operation of the system to the Architect &
Engineer (A/E) during the final inspection in the following manner:
1. Measure signal levels with a calibrated field strength meter at outlets and or amplifiers
selected by the A/E. At a minimum 5% of all outlets will be tested. The readings of the
meter shall be between 1.5 dBmV of the value documented in the TRR
2. Observe picture quality at outlets selected by the Engineer using a television receiver.
B. If at least one measurement fails, the A/E can request to the installer to test more outlets
(beyond the 5% indicated previously) until the A/E is satisfied with the results. Any failures
shall be corrected by the installer at no additional cost to the owner.

3.7 TEST EQUIPMENT REQUIRED

A. At a minimum during the acceptance test to the A/E the installer shall have the following
equipment:
1. TV Receiver: 17 inches minimum diagonal screen size color receiver in good working
order.
2. Signal Meter: Signal level meter capable of measuring peak carrier levels within the 5 MHZ
to 1000 MHZ spectrum. The signal meter shall be capable of downloading test results to
a computer system or directly to a printer. Example: Sadelco DisplayMax 500 or similar.
This signal meter needs to be the same tester used during the TRR
B. Age and Calibration: Test equipment used in demonstrating system performance shall be less
than 6 months old or bear the calibration seal of a recognized lab which is dated within 6 months
of the date of acceptance test.

3.8 TRAINING
A. The CATV installer shall provide training to the owner of the project.
B. Training shall only be done after the final acceptance test has been completed and passed as
indicated in this specification. Any test done prior to final acceptance will not be accounted for
the formal training requested and the installer shall re-do all training after the final acceptance
test is passed, at no additional cost to the Owner.
C. The training shall include the following topics:
1. How to make connectors part of this system with the provided tools.
2. A walk-through of the facility pointing out the location of all active and passive equipment
part of this system and showing to the owner the as-built drawings with matching labels for
those pieces of equipment.
3. A complete training on the use of the test tool provided.

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3.9 SPARE PARTS AND TOOLS

A. As part of this contract the installer of this system shall provide the following materials and
tools:
1. Twenty (20) RG-6 connectors, same make and model as the units used in this project.
2. Five (5) 75 Ohm terminators (f connector)
3. One (1) 5/8 inch 75 ohms terminator.
4. Two (2) surge protectors.

3.10 AS BUILT DRAWINGS AND CLOSE-OUT DOCUMENTATION

A. General: Complete system of as-built drawings shall be provided in AutoCAD (version as
indicated in Division 1, General Requirements and include the following information:
1. A block diagram of the entire system indicating all cable routing and lengths
2. Revised coupler and tap values for each cable drop
3. All cable types, active components, and passive components.
4. All equalizing and attenuating pads used for each amplifier.
5. All system settings.
6. All brands and part number of all devices shall be indicated in the drawings.
7. Location of each outlet and the unique label identifier of each outlet.
8. High/low signal level measured at each amplifier test port.
B. The CATV installer shall also provide as part of the close out information the following
information:
1. A copy of the TRR signed approved by the A/E.
2. A copy of receipt of all spare parts and tools signed by the owner of the project.
3. A copy of the training attendance list indicating the names of all attendees.
4. A copy of all manufacturers’ warranties.

END OF SECTION 27 41 34

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SECTION 27 41 35 LARGE VENUE AUDIO/VISUAL SYTEMS

PART 1 - GENERAL
1.1 RELATED DOCUMENTS
A. General: The General Requirements, Conditions of the Contract, these sections of the USF
Design & Construction Guidelines (DCG), Drawings, Addenda and Contract Modifications (the
Contract Documents), and definitions of legal entity (such as Contract, Installer, Engineer,
Owner, etc.) shall apply to the work of this specification section.
B. Supplemental: Refer to specification Section 27 41 00, Common Work Results for Audio/Visual
Systems, Part 1 for additional requirements, which are supplemented by this section.

1.2 SCOPE OF WORK (SOW)

A. General: A large venue audio/visual system shall consist of any space with an occupancy
above two-hundred (200) people. Among this type of rooms are Auditoriums, Theaters, large
classrooms, multipurpose rooms, ballrooms, etc. This specification applies to all those rooms
when audio/visual systems are required in those rooms.
B. Program: It is required for the designer or consultant for the project to establish a specific
audio/visual program for all large venue spaces, in conjunction with the owner and the users.
The intent of the program is to indicate exactly all uses of the room and all types of activities
that can be done by the users with the room.
C. General: The scope of work for the installer of these rooms is to provide and install all
equipment and wiring for the large venue rooms. Programming for these rooms is provided by
the installer.
D. The following is a list of large venue rooms where Audio Visual system shall be provided in this
project:
1. List all rooms.
E. Consumables: The Audio Visual System (AVS) Installer shall provide as part of the scope the
following consumable devices:
1. 10% of lamps for each type of projector used the projects.

1.3 ARCHITECTURAL CONSIDERATIONS

A. General: AVS designers shall provide architectural recommendations for this type of rooms in
the project. These recommendations shall include room layout, lighting and acoustics.
B. Line of sight. All rooms in the audience shall have a line of sight of the projection screens. See
screen sizing considerations in specification Section 27 41 00.
C. Tier seating is highly recommended in this type of rooms.
D. Projection system. The preferred projection system for this type of room has to be determined
with the owner and the users during the program phase. Single screen front projection systems
are recommended for Auditoriums and Theaters.
E. Lighting for this type of spaces shall be planned carefully. A software model of the lights is
highly recommended for this type of room, to verify lighting levels in aisles, and projections
screens. The use of a centralized dimming system for these rooms is highly recommended.
The light fixtures selected by designers shall address the following scenarios:
1. Clean-up or service lights, with 2x4 fluorescents or other high lumen output fixtures, non
dimmable.
2. Dimmable down lights for notes or setting different scenes.
3. Stage lights for presenters and performers.
4. Step lights, for safety purposes at all steps.
5. Decorative sconces or wall washers.
6. For performing theaters or large auditoriums the use of a DMX system for stage lighting is
recommended.
F. Window shades. This type of rooms shall have black out window shades to control ambient
lighting in the room. When the specific program requires electric shades, those shades shall
be interface and controlled through the AVS.
G. Acoustical considerations. Sound modeling for this type of room is highly recommended.
Speaker shall be selected by designers with extreme care and balancing aesthetics and

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performance. Walls and ceilings are recommended to have acoustic treatment.

H. An AV room shall be considered for this type of spaces. Preferable located in the back of the
rooms and with a view of the stage or the front of the room. When the program requires the
use of a green room, communication between the AV room and the green room shall be
installed as well as an audio and video feed from the stage or front of the room.

1.4 ROOM AUDIO/VISUAL FUNCTIONALITY

A. General: The features for this type of rooms shall be identified and approved with the project
manager for USF. There is no specific list of equipment required for these rooms, but there
are certain guidelines that shall be followed.
B. Microphones: Microphone connections from the stage shall be available in the AV room but
also in the back of the room for a possible in audience console. Wiring for microphones shall
be planned to be as flexible as possible, allowing for different microphone lay outs, and console
locations.
C. User interfaces shall be a touchscreen no smaller than 8 inches. Wireless touchscreen are
highly recommended for this type of rooms.
D. Signal types. Because of the high proliferation of high definition system, it is highly
recommended that the systems specified for this type of room be capable of managing high
definition digital signals, including DVI, HDMI and Display Port.

PART 2 - PRODUCTS
2.1 APPROVED PRODUCTS
A. General: See specification Section 27 41 00, Part 2.
B. A detailed list of equipment shall be presented to the owner for approval

PART 3 - EXECUTION
3.1 EXECUTION OF THE WORK
A. General: See specification Section 27 41 00, Part 3, for execution of work requirements
supplemented by this specification section.
B. Programming. Programming for the control system for this type of room will be done by the
installer.
C. UPS is required for this type of rooms for all control processors with monitoring capabilities
through the RAMS.

3.2 TESTING
A. General: Testing for this type of room shall be done by the installer and reviewed by the owner
and design engineer. For this type of rooms all testing requirements described in Section 27
41 00 shall be followed.
B. Additional testing for these type of rooms is recommended like acoustic test.

3.3 TRAINING
A. SYSTEM ADMINISTRATION TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification
section shall provide 12 hours of system administration training.
B. USER TRAINING. The installer of the systems part of this specification shall provide at least
6 hours of user training in two (2) different sessions.

END OF SECTION 27 41 35

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