Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 9.7
Category markings.
the category number enclosed. Categorized cable is normally marked on the jacket,
while the connectors may or may not have their own markings. Preassembled cable
should be made from properly certified components, and should bear an additional
marking indicating that the assembly meets workmanship standards or has been
tested to the appropriate category.
Length and Routing
According to the guidelines, you must limit the length of your user cords in both the
work area and in the wiring closet. The work area cords should be less than 5 m (16
ft), if possible. The cords in the wiring closet require a little simple math, as the
length guidelines for the user cords are not separately specified. The total length of
equipment cords, patch cords, and cross-connect jumpers in the telecommunications
room should be less than 5 m (16 ft). The length of the user/equipment cords will
have to be taken from that total allowance. The standards allow 10 m (33 ft) patch
cords and jumpers. The two end-area lengths do not quite add up to this total
because of rounding.
You might think that 5 m of user cable for the workstation might be a little
short in some locations, and you would be right. This number is a recommended,
not mandatory, requirement. The 10-m limit is mandatory, however, so if you need
longer cables in the work area, you will have to subtract from the allowance in the
telecommunications room.
