BS 50174-2

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50174-2:2001
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Information |
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technology Ð |
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Cabling installation Ð |
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Part 2: Installation planning and |
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practices inside buildings |
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The European Standard EN 50174-2:2000 has the status of a |
British Standard |
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ICS 33.040.50; 35.020; 91.140.99 |
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NO COPYING WITHOUT BSI PERMISSION EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY COPYRIGHT LAW
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Copyright British Standards Institution
Provided by IHS under license with BSI
No reproduction or networking permitted without license from IHS Not for Resale
BS EN 50174-2:2001
National foreword
This British Standard is the official English language version of EN 50174-2:2000.
The UK participation in its preparation was entrusted by Technical Committee
TCT/7, Installation requirements, to Subcommittee TCT/7/-/1, Cable installation
expert panel, which has the responsibility to:
Ð aid enquirers to understand the text;

Ð present to the responsible European committee any enquiries on the
interpretation, or proposals for change, and keep the UK interests informed;
Ð monitor related international and European developments and promulgate
them in the UK.
This standard covers similar topics to those in the existing British Standard BS 6701.
BS 6701 is being reviewed to determine which of its provisions will need to be
amended or withdrawn so that it does not conflict with EN 50174. The review
process will have to include a review of the provisions of EN 50174-3 which has yet
to be completed by CENELEC. The UK is obliged to withdraw conflicting
recommendations by 1 August 2003.
A list of organizations represented on this subcommittee can be obtained on request
to its secretary.
Cross-references
The British Standards which implement international or European publications
referred to in this document may be found in the BSI Standards Catalogue under the
section entitled ªInternational Standards Correspondence Indexº, or by using the
ªFindº facility of the BSI Standards Electronic Catalogue.
A British Standard does not purport to include all the necessary provisions of a
contract. Users of British Standards are responsible for their correct application.
Compliance with a British Standard does not of itself confer immunity
from legal obligations.
Summary of pages
This document comprises a front cover, an inside front cover, the EN title page,
pages 2 to 46, an inside back cover and a back cover.
The BSI copyright notice displayed in this document indicates when the document
was last issued.
This British Standard, having Amendments issued since publication

been prepared under the
direction of the DISC Board, was Amd. No. Date Comments
published under the authority of
the Standards Committee and
comes into effect on
15 January 2001
 BSI 01-2001
ISBN 0 580 36793 2
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EUROPEAN STANDARD EN 50174-2
NORME EUROPÉENNE
EUROPÄISCHE NORM August 2000
ICS 35.110;91.140.50
English version
Information technology — Cabling installation

Part 2: Installation planning and practices inside buildings
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Technologies de l’information — Informationstechnik —

Installation de câblages Installation von Kommunikations-
Partie 2: Planification et pratiques verkabelung
d’installation a l’intérieur des bâtiments Teil 2: Installationsplanung und
Installationspraktiken in Gebäuden
This European Standard was approved by CENELEC on 2000-08-01. CENELEC members are bound to
comply with the CEN/CENELEC Internal Regulations which stipulate the conditions for giving this European
Standard the status of a national standard without any alteration.
Up-to-date lists and bibliographical references concerning such national standards may be obtained on
application to the Central Secretariat or to any CENELEC member.
This European Standard exists in three official versions (English, French, German). A version in any other
language made by translation under the responsibility of a CENELEC member into its own language and
notified to the Central Secretariat has the same status as the official versions.
CENELEC members are the national standards bodies of Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal,
Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
CENELEC
European Committee for Electrotechnical Standardization
Comité Européen de Normalisation Electrotechnique
Europäisches Komitee für Elektrotechnische Normung
Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart, 35 B-1050 Brussels
© 2000 CENELEC - All rights of exploitation in any form and by any means reserved worldwide for CENELEC members.
Ref. No. EN 50174-2:2000 E

Page 2
EN 50174-2:2000
Foreword
This European Standard has been prepared by Technical Committee CENELEC TC 215, Electrotechnical
aspects of telecommunication equipment, under the framework of the Mandates M/212 on
“Telecommunication cables and cabling systems” and M/239 on “Air traffic management equipment and
systems”.
The text of the draft was submitted to the formal vote and was approved by CENELEC as EN 50174-2 on
2000-08-01.
The following dates were fixed:
- latest date by which the EN has to be implemented
at the national level by publication of an identical
national standard or by endorsement (dop) 2001-08-01
- latest date by which the national standards conflicting
with the EN have to be withdrawn (dow) 2003-08-01
This standard comprises three parts. All three parts support the specification, implementation and operation
of information technology cabling using both balanced copper and optical fibre cabling components. These
components may be combined to provide cabling solutions either in accordance with the design
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requirements of EN 50173 or to meet the requirements of one or more application-specific standards (such
as EN 50098-1 or EN 50098-2).
This part, EN 50174-2, contains detailed requirements and guidance relating to the installation planning and
practices inside buildings and is intended to be used by the personnel directly involved in the planning and
installation of information technology cabling. It shall be used during the different implementation phases
when installing information technology cabling, i.e. during the planning phase, the design phase and
installation phase.
Annexes designated “informative” are given for information only.
In this standard, annex A is informative.
© BSI 01-2001

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EN 50174-2:2000
Contents
Introduction .................................................................................................................................................... 4
1 Scope ...................................................................................................................................................... 6
2 Normative references ............................................................................................................................ 6
3 Definitions and abbreviations............................................................................................................... 7
3.1 Definitions ........................................................................................................................................................7
3.2 Abbreviations ...................................................................................................................................................9
4 Safety requirements ............................................................................................................................ 10
4.1 Prerequisite ....................................................................................................................................................10
4.2 Protection against electric shock....................................................................................................................10
4.3 Fire and chemical hazard...............................................................................................................................10
4.4 Explosive gases .............................................................................................................................................11
4.5 Optical fibre hazard ........................................................................................................................................11
4.6 Separation requirements for metallic cabling .................................................................................................11
5 General installation practices for metallic and optical fibre cabling.............................................. 11
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5.1 General ..........................................................................................................................................................11
5.2 General precautions.......................................................................................................................................12
5.3 Pre-installation practices ................................................................................................................................12
5.4 Preparation of cable route..............................................................................................................................12
5.5 Cabling practices............................................................................................................................................13
5.6 Cable management systems..........................................................................................................................13
5.7 Temporary labelling........................................................................................................................................13
5.8 Installation of closures....................................................................................................................................14
5.9 Termination practices.....................................................................................................................................14
6 Additional installation practice for metallic cabling......................................................................... 14
6.1 EMC-Considerations ......................................................................................................................................14
6.2 Balanced transmission ...................................................................................................................................15
6.3 Screening .......................................................................................................................................................15
6.4 Mains power distribution systems ..................................................................................................................16
6.5 Segregation of circuits....................................................................................................................................18
6.6 Cable containment .........................................................................................................................................21
6.7 Earthing and bonding .....................................................................................................................................24
6.8 Filtering ..........................................................................................................................................................29
6.9 Protection against very low frequency fields ..................................................................................................31
6.10 Electrical isolation components......................................................................................................................32
6.11 Surge protective devices................................................................................................................................34
6.12 Protection against lightning ............................................................................................................................35
6.13 Protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD)...........................................................................................36
6.14 Corrosion........................................................................................................................................................36
7 Additional installation practices for optical fibre cabling ............................................................... 37
7.1 General ..........................................................................................................................................................37
7.2 General precautions.......................................................................................................................................37
7.3 Pre-installation practices ................................................................................................................................37
7.4 Optical fibre cable practices ...........................................................................................................................38
7.5 Final assembly of closures.............................................................................................................................38
7.6 Termination practices.....................................................................................................................................38
Annex A (informative) Coupling mechanisms and counter-measures ..................................................... 39
Bibliography ................................................................................................................................................... 46
© BSI 01-2001

Page 4
EN 50174-2:2000
Introduction
Within premises, the importance of the information technology cabling infrastructure is similar to that of other
fundamental building utilities such as heating, lighting and mains power supplies. As with other utilities,
interruptions to service can have serious impact. Poor quality of service due to lack of planning, use of
inappropriate components, incorrect installation, poor administration or inadequate support can threaten an
organization’s effectiveness.
There are four phases in the successful installation of information technology cabling. These are:
a) Design: the selection of cabling components and their configuration.
b) Specification: the detailed requirement for the cabling, its accommodation and associated building services
addressing specific environment(s) identified within the premises together with the quality assurance
requirements to be applied.
c) Implementation: the physical installation in accordance with the requirements of the specification.
d) Operation: the management of connectivity and the maintenance of transmission performance during the life of
the cabling.
This European Standard is in three parts and addresses the specification, implementation and operational
aspects. The design issues are covered in EN 50173 and / or other application standards.
EN 50174-1 is intended to be used by personnel during the specification phase of the installation together with
those responsible for the quality planning and operation of the installation. It contains requirements and guidance
for the specification and quality assurance of the information technology cabling by defining:
- aspects to be addressed during the specification of the cabling;
- quality assurance documentation and procedures;
- requirements for the documentation and administration of cabling;
- recommendations for repair and maintenance.
This part, EN 50174-2, and EN 50174-3 are intended to be used by the personnel directly involved in the
implementation phase of the installation. EN 50174-2 is applicable inside buildings and EN 50174-3 is applicable
outside buildings.
This part, EN 50174-2, contains detailed requirements and guidance relating to the installation planning and
practices by defining:
1) planning strategy (road map) and guidance depending on the application, electromagnetic environment,
building infrastructure and facilities, etc.;
2) design and installation rules for metallic and optical fibre cabling depending on the application, electromagnetic
environment, building infrastructure and facilities, etc.;
3) requirements on satisfactory operation of the cabling depending on the application, electromagnetic
environment, building infrastructure and facilities, etc.;
4) the practices and procedures to be adopted to ensure that the cabling is installed in accordance with the
specification.
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EN 50174-2:2000
Figure 1 shows the relationships between the standards produced by TC 215 for information technology
cabling, namely cabling design standards (EN 50098 series, EN 50173), cabling installation standards
(EN 50174 series) and equipotential bonding requirements (EN 50310):
Building design Cabling design Planning phase Implementation Operation phase

phase phase phase
EN 50310 EN 50173 EN 50174-1 EN 50174-1 EN 50174-1
5.2: Common bonding or (and) 4: Specification 6: Documentation 5: Quality assurance

network (CBN) within a considerations
building 7: Cabling 7: Cabling
EN 50098-1 5: Quality assurance administration administration
6.3: AC distribution 8: Repair and
system and bonding of or (and) 7: Cabling maintenance
and
the protective conductor administration
(TN-S)
EN 50098-2 EN 50174-2
and
or (and) 4: Safety requirements
EN 50174-2
5: General installation
Other application 4: Safety requirements practices for metallic
standards and optical fibre cabling
5: General installation
practices for metallic 6: Additional installation
and optical fibre cabling practice for metallic
cabling
6: Additional installation
practice for metallic 7: Additional
cabling installation practice
for optical fibre
7: Additional installation cabling
practice for optical fibre
cabling
and
and EN 50174-3
EN 50174-3 and
(for equipotential
and bonding)
(for equipotential
bonding) EN 50310
EN 50310 5.2: Common bonding
network (CBN) within a
5.2: Common bonding building
network (CBN) within a
building 6.3: AC distribution
system and bonding of
6.3: AC distribution the protective conductor
system and bonding of (TN-S)
the protective conductor
(TN-S)
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Figure 1 — Relationship between series EN 50174 and other design standards
© BSI 01-2001

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EN 50174-2:2000
1 Scope
This European Standard specifies the basic requirements for the planning, implementation and operation of
information technology cabling using balanced copper cabling and optical fibre cabling. This standard is applicable
to:
a) cabling designed to support particular analogue and digital telecommunications services including voice
services;
b) generic cabling systems designed in accordance with EN 50173 and intended to support a wide range of
telecommunications services.
This standard is intended for those involved in the procurement, installation and operation of information
technology cabling. Furthermore this standard is addressed to:
– architects, building designers and builders;
– main contractors;
– designers, suppliers, installers, maintainers and owners of information technology cabling;
– public network providers and local service providers;
– end users.
This standard is applicable to certain hazardous environments but does not exclude additional requirements which
are applicable in particular circumstances, defined by e.g. electricity supply and electrified railways.
This part of the standard:
c) details the considerations for satisfactory installation and operation of information technology cabling within the
environment of a premise building operating a low-voltage electricity distribution system (less than
AC 1 000 V rms);
d) excludes specific requirements applicable to other cabling systems (e.g. power cabling, coaxial cabling);
however, it takes account of the effects other cabling systems may have on the installation of information
technology cabling (and vice versa) and gives general advice.
2 Normative references
This European Standard incorporates by dated or undated reference, provisions from other publications. These
normative references are cited at the appropriate places in the text and the publications are listed hereafter. For
dated references, subsequent amendments to or revisions of any of these publications apply to this European
Standard only when incorporated in it by amendment or revision. For undated references the latest edition of the
publication referred to applies.
EN 50085-1, Cable trunking systems and cable ducting systems for electrical installations — Part 1: General
requirements.
1)
EN 50085-2-4 , Cable trunking systems and cable ducting systems for electrical installations — Part 2-4: Service
poles.
EN 50086-1, Conduit systems for electrical installations — Part 1: General requirements. --``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
EN 50173, Information technology — Generic cabling systems.

EN 50174-1, Information technology — Cabling installation — Part 1: Specification and quality assurance.
2)
EN 50174-3 , Information technology — Cabling installation — Part 3: Installation planning and practices outside
buildings.
EN 50288 series, Multi-element metallic cables used in analogue and digital communication and control.
EN 50310, Application of equipotential bonding and earthing in buildings with information technology equipment.
EN 60439-2, Low-voltage switchgear and controlgear assemblies — Part 2: Particular requirements for busbar
trunking systems (busways) (IEC 60439-2:1987 + A1:1991)
EN 60825 series, Safety of laser products (IEC 60825 series).
EN 60950, Safety of information technology equipment (IEC 60950:1999, modified).
———————
1)
In preparation by TC 213
2)
At present committee draft
© BSI 01-2001

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EN 50174-2:2000
3)
EN 61537 , Cable tray and cable ladder systems for electrical installations (IEC 61537).
EN 61558-1, Safety of power transformers, power supply units and similar — Part 1: General requirements and
tests (IEC 61558-1: 1997, modified).
HD 384 series, Electrical installations of buildings (IEC 60364 series)
HD 384.3 S2, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 3: Assessment of general characteristics
(IEC 60364-3:1993, modified).
HD 384.4.41 S2, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 4: Protection for safety — Chapter 41: Protection
against electric shock (IEC 60364-4-41:1992, modified).
against thermal effects (IEC 60364-4-42:1980, modified, + A1:1992 + A2:1994).
against overcurrent (IEC 60364-4-43:1977, modified).
HD 384.4.47 S2, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 4: Protection for safety — Chapter 47: Application of
protective matters for safety — Section 470: General — Section 471: Measures of protection against electric
shock (IEC 60364-4-47:1981 + A1:1993, modified).
HD 384.4.482 S1, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 4: Protection for safety — Chapter 48: Choice of
protective matters as a function of external influences — Section 482: Protection against fire where particular risks
or danger exist.
HD 384.5 series, Electrical installation of buildings — Part 5: Selection and erection of electrical equipment
(IEC 60364-5 series).
HD 384.5.52 S1, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 5: Selection and erection of electrical equipment —
Chapter 52: Wiring systems (IEC 60364-5-52:1993, modified).
HD 384.5.54 S1, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 5: Selection and erection of electrical equipment —
Chapter 54: Earthing arrangements and protective conductors (IEC 60364-5-54:1980, modified).
IEC 61140, Protection against electric shock — Common aspects for installation and equipment.
IEC 61312-1, Protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse — Part 1: General principles.
3 Definitions and abbreviations
3.1 Definitions
For the purposes of this European Standard the following definitions apply.
NOTE The definitions with respect to earthing and bonding are taken from series IEC 60050 and HD 384.2 S1,
respectively, and ETS 300 253; reference to these standards is indicated in square brackets.
3.1.1
bonding network (BN) --``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
set of interconnected conductive structures that provides an “electromagnetic shield” for electronic systems and
personnel at frequencies from direct current (DC) to low radio frequency (RF). The term “electromagnetic shield”
denotes any structure used to divert, block or impede the passage of electromagnetic energy. In general, a BN
does not need to be connected to earth, but all BNs considered in this standard will have an earth connection
[3.2.2 of ETS 300 253:1995]
———————
3)
Approved for circulation as Final Draft
© BSI 01-2001

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EN 50174-2:2000
3.1.2
common bonding network (CBN)
principal means for effective bonding and earthing inside a telecommunication building. It is the set of
metallic components that are intentionally or incidentally interconnected to form the principal BN in a
building. These components include: structural steel or reinforcing rods, metallic plumbing, alternating
current (AC) power conduit, protective conductors (PE), cables racks and bonding conductors. The CBN
always has a mesh topology and is connected to the earthing network
[3.2.2 of ETS 300 253:1995]
3.1.3
earth electrode
conductive part or group of conductive parts in intimate contact with and providing an electrical connection
with earth
[826-04-02 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]
3.1.4
earthing conductor
protective conductor connecting the main earthing terminal or bar to the earth electrode
[826-04-07 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]

3.1.5
earthing network
part of an earthing installation which is restricted to the earth electrodes and their interconnections
[604-04-07 of IEC 60050-604:1989]

3.1.6
electrostatic discharge (ESD)
transfer of electric charge between bodies of different electrostatic potential in proximity or through direct
contact
[161-11-22 of IEC 60050-161:1990]
3.1.7
equipotential bonding
electrical connection putting various exposed conductive parts and extraneous conductive parts at a
substantially equal potential
[826-04-09 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]
3.1.8
high-voltage
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voltage over 1 000 V rms
3.1.9
isolated bonding network (IBN)
bonding network that has a single point of connection (“SPC”) to either the common bonding network or
another isolated bonding network
NOTE All IBNs considered here will have a connection to earth through the SPC
3.1.10
meshed bonding network (MESH-BN)
bonding network in which all associated equipment frames, racks and cabinets and usually the DC power
return conductor, are bonded together as well as at multiple points to the CBN. Consequently, the
MESH-BN augments the CBN
[3.2.2 of ETS 300 253:1995]
3.1.11
parallel earthing conductor (PEC)
earthing conductor that is parallel to the cable
3.1.12
PEN conductor
earthed conductor combining the functions of both protective conductor and neutral conductor
[826-04-06 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]
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EN 50174-2:2000
3.1.13
primary protection
primary protection is applied at the location where it can prevent most of the stressful energy from
propagating beyond the defined interface
3.1.14
protection
protection is the application of methods and means to prevent the propagation of stressful electrical energy
beyond the designed interface. The protection level is normally indicated by a voltage or current rating
[195-06-01 of IEC 60050-195:1998]
3.1.15
protective conductor (PE)
conductor required by some measures for protection against electric shock for electrically connecting any of
the following parts:
- exposed conductive parts;
- extraneous conductive parts;
- main earthing terminal;
- earth electrode;
- earthed point of the source or artificial neutral
[826-04-05 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]
3.1.16
resistibility
ability of telecommunication equipment or any network to withstand the effects of certain physical phenomena up
to a certain, specified extent and according to a specific criterion
3.1.17
secondary protection
secondary protection is applied subsequent to the primary protection
3.1.18
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surge protective device (SPD)

assembly of one or more components intended to limit or divert surges
NOTE The device contains at least one non-linear component
3.2 Abbreviations
AC alternating current
BN bonding network
CATV cabled distribution television
CBN common bonding network
DC direct current
EMC electromagnetic compatibility
EMI electromagnetic interference
ESD electrostatic discharge
IBN isolated bonding network
ISDN integrated services digital network
ITE information technology equipment
HV high-voltage
LV low-voltage
MESH BN meshed bonding network
MESH IBN meshed isolated bonding network
PD potential difference
PE protective earthing conductor
PEC parallel earthing conductor
PEN conductor combining the functions of both a protective conductor and a neutral conductor
SPD surge protective device
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EN 50174-2:2000
4 Safety requirements
4.1 Prerequisite
Provisions shall be taken to ensure that all persons visiting the premises are aware of:
a) the locations and boundaries of hazardous areas;
b) the procedures to be adopted when working in or in proximity to these hazardous areas;
c) fire precautions;
d) escape routes.
It is assumed that installation of mains power cabling is undertaken in accordance with the requirements of
HD 384 and relevant national or local regulations, respectively.
4.2 Protection against electric shock
4.2.1 Active equipment

Only equipment that incorporates safe signal circuitry complying with the SELV circuit and the TNV requirements
as defined in EN 60950 shall be connected to information technology cabling.
Equipment connected shall comply with the protection requirements against electric shock of the relevant product
safety standards.
The connection of active equipment to information technology cabling shall not introduce safety hazards for other
users of the system.
4.2.2 Cabling components

Conductive pathway systems, barriers and fittings shall be included in the protection measures against indirect
contact (a means of protection against excessive contact voltage). The means of protection is constituted by, for
example, the provision of adequate insulation for the cables and terminals which are used (protective insulation).
The requirements of HD 384.4.41 S2, HD 384.4.47 S2 and HD 384.4.482 S1 and relevant national or local
regulations, respectively, shall apply.
Termination points for both information technology cables and mains power cables shall be located and oriented in
such a way as to prevent ingress of moisture or other contaminants and to reduce the risk of damage to the cables
connected to them. Connecting hardware selected for information technology cabling shall not be interchangeable
with the sockets or plugs used for mains power distribution.
Closures and combined terminal and distribution devices (fittings) providing facilities for the termination or (and)
distribution of both information technology cables and mains power cables shall be designed to provide separate
covers for the two cabling types. Alternatively, a single overall cover is allowed provided that the mains power
cabling remains protected to prevent electric shock after removal of the cover. This applies for example to a
closure containing separate termination points for telecommunications and mains power cabling, but not for
termination points where the network power supply is provided within the information technology cabling
termination points itself.
Where both information technology cabling and mains power cabling are contained within a closure then:
a) if the closure is metallic, it shall be earthed in accordance with the relevant wiring regulations for protective
earth;
b) the compartment in the closure shall have a barrier (either conducting or non-conducting) between the two
cable types. If compartment barriers are conductive, they shall be earthed in accordance with the relevant
wiring regulations for protective earth;
c) the front plates on the closure shall allow separate access to the information technology cabling and the mains
power cabling and shall be retained such that the use of a tool is necessary to gain access thereby preventing
inadvertent misconnection between the mains power and the information technology cabling;
d) the entry plate for the information technology cables and the mains power cables shall be separate.
4.3 Fire and chemical hazard

The selection of cables shall be based upon the requirements of the relevant European product standards.
NOTE Until these standards are available consultation of national regulations is recommended.
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EN 50174-2:2000
The installation practices shall neither impair the fire behaviour, nor result in the release of dangerous substances
from the cabling and associated components.
4.4 Explosive and asphyxiating gases

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Lead-acid batteries produce hydrogen and oxygen. If batteries that produce explosive gases are to be installed,
provision shall be made for the necessary ventilation and recommended environmental conditions
(see HD 384.5.54 S1). National or local regulations shall be complied with.
It is possible for explosive and/or asphyxiating gases to build up in ducts, drawpits, maintenance holes or other
closed chambers. Before any worker enters these areas the enclosure shall be well ventilated and the atmosphere
shall be tested to detect any potentially hazardous gases.
4.5 Optical fibre hazard

The following practices shall be adopted:
a) exposed optical fibre ends shall be kept away from the skin and eyes;
b) the quantity of optical fibre waste shall be minimized;
c) waste fragments shall be treated with care and collected (not by hand) and disposed of in suitable containers
via an approved agency.
The majority of transmission equipment operates using infra-red (non visible) wavelengths. It is difficult to detect
such optical signals with the eye or skin directly and it is impossible for the human eye to determine the nature or
level of the incident power. Connector end faces, prepared optical fibres or fractured optical fibres shall not be
viewed directly unless the power emitted from the optical fibre is known to be safe (as defined within series
EN 60825) and under local control.
Closures containing termination points for optical fibre cabling shall be labelled with appropriate warning signs or
text.
4.6 Separation requirements for metallic cabling
4.6.1 Metallic information technology cables and mains power cables

Metallic information technology cabling and mains power cabling that share the same cable management system
shall be laid according to the requirements specified in 6.5.
Where the requirements of safety and electrical interference demand different limits for either spacing or physical
separation, the more stringent requirement shall take precedence.
4.6.2 Cable separation in fire barriers

Where mains power cables (other than single core cables operating at voltages exceeding AC 600 V) pass
through a fire barrier it is possible to reduce the physical spacing requirements of 4.6.1 provided that:
a) the total distance over which the reduction in the separation occurs is not greater than the thickness of the fire
segregation barrier plus 0,5 m on either side and
b) the information technology cables and mains power cables are enclosed in separate metal trunking or conduit
and
c) the requirements for fire barriers are observed and series HD 384.5 is taken into consideration.
5 General installation practices for metallic and optical fibre cabling

5.1 General
Metallic cable management systems and accessories shall be included in the protection measures against electric
shock according to 4.2. The method used for the installation of cables into the wall trunking system shall allow for
additional cables to be installed in the future without risk of damage.
General EMC requirements and guidance are given in clause 6 and annex A.
Additional installation practices for optical fibre cabling are given in clause 7.
The requirements within this clause do not cover:
a) any additional requirements for the information technology cables installed in hazardous or stressful
environments e. g. electricity supply and electric railway locations. Without any applicable European
requirements national requirements will apply;
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b) coaxial cabling and components used within cable distribution systems for television and audio signals, which
are covered by the EN 50083 series of standards;
c) the installation of information technology cabling within buildings operating a mains electricity distribution
system at voltages above AC 1 000 V rms.
5.2 General precautions

The delivery of metallic and optical fibre cables shall be monitored to ensure that no mechanical damage occurs
during off-loading from vehicles.
Documentation supplied with the cable shall be checked for compliance with the procurement specification and
retained.
The cable shall be stored in a suitable place until required. Consideration shall be given to security and
environmental conditions.
The cable shall not be unpacked until required.
When pulling-in optical fibre cables, mechanical fuses (or equivalent protection) shall be used to ensure that the
maximum tensile loads established by the cable manufacturer are not exceeded. The cable end shall always
remain sealed during its installation to prevent the ingress of water and other contaminants.
5.3 Pre-installation practices

The installer shall establish that the routes defined in the installation specification are accessible and available
according to the installation programme. The installer shall advise the client of all proposed variations (see 4.8.2 of
EN 50174-1:2000).
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
The installer shall verify that the environmental conditions within the routes and the installation methods to be used
are suitable for the design of cable to be installed.
The installer shall identify the proposed locations at which drums (or reels) are to be positioned during the
installation programme and should establish the accessibility and availability of those locations.
The installer shall identify proposed locations of cable service loops and should establish their accessibility and
availability according to the installation programme.
The installer shall ensure that all necessary installation accessories are available.
The installer shall identify proposed locations of closures and should establish their accessibility and availability
according to the installation programme.
The closures shall be located such that it is possible to undertake subsequent measurements, repair, expansion or
extension of the installed cabling with minimal disruption and in safety (see 4.6 of EN 50174-1:2000).
The earthing and bonding of all metallic pathway systems shall be undertaken according to the installation
specification.
5.4 Preparation of cable route

Where cable is to be installed in shared routes reasonable precautions shall be taken to prevent damage to
existing cables or fragile structures within those routes.
Existing catenary wires shall be checked for satisfactory function and, where necessary, catenary wires shall be
replaced.
Cable ducts, sub-ducts, tray and trunking shall be installed as required.
All underground ducts should be of a non-porous material and should have smooth internal walls. Sections shall
be jointed to prevent ingress of gases, water or foreign materials.
The design of ducts, conduit and trunking should allow installation and removal of the cable without risk of
damage.
Cleats or temporary structures (to assist cabling installation) shall be fitted where necessary.
Routes should have draw ropes installed prior to the installation of the cable as required. Under no circumstances
should draw ropes be installed concurrently with the cable.
Existing draw ropes should be checked for satisfactory function.
It may be necessary to remove ceiling tiles, floor covers or duct covers. If so, the minimum number shall be
removed.
Ducts, fire-ducts and gas seals shall be opened as required.
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Any enclosed environments within the routes shall be tested for asphyxiating and explosive gases (see 4.4). Such
environments include ducts, maintenance holes (temporary or permanent), cable chambers and any other
enclosed, unventilated structures.
Should a gas hazard be detected the installer shall inform the site contact nominated by the client and appropriate
action shall be agreed and undertaken.
The installer should ensure that all necessary guards, protective structures and warning signs are used to protect
both the cable and all personnel. Relevant national legislation for safe working practices shall be complied with.
5.5 Cabling practices

Proper installation practices shall be observed for cabling to ensure performance of the cabling system over its life
cycle. Installation of cable shall be undertaken according to the installation specification.
Performance specifications for cable and connecting hardware assume the use of proper installation practices and
cable management techniques according to manufacturers’ guidelines. If recommended cable handling practices
and installation methods are not observed, it is possible that specified transmission capabilities of cabling
components cannot be achieved.
During cable installation, appropriate techniques shall be followed:
a) the cabling components shall be acclimatized at the recommended environmental condition before installation;
b) cable management precautions that shall be observed include the elimination of cable stress as caused by
tension in suspended cable runs and tightly cinched cable bundles;
c) minimum bend radii shall never be less than those specified in the product standard;
d) indoor or outdoor cables shall be used as specified;
e) cables shall be exposed to neither humidity nor temperature exceeding their specified limits; this includes
localized effects such as those from hot air blowers or gas burners;
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
f) no forces shall be allowed that cause pressure marks (e.g. through improper fastening or crossovers) on the
cable sheath or the cable elements;
g) joints are only allowed in accordance with the installation specifications;
h) the maximum pulling tensions of cables taken from the cable specifications shall be observed;
i) the installation process shall not degrade the intended environmental performance e.g. water seals shall be
fitted and fire barriers and load bearing shall conform with the requirements of clause 4;
j) when installing cables into cable management systems they shall be secured as necessary;
k) when installing cabling runs in backbone risers, lowering cables rather than pulling them up is recommended
(see HD 384.5.52 S2);
l) in zones where the cables can neither be damaged nor have their transmission properties adversely affected,
cables may run in the open (rising zones, connecting ducts, PABX rooms, etc.).
5.6 Cable management systems

Cable management systems shall comply with European Standards:
- Conduit systems to EN 50086-1 and the relevant Part 2;
- Trunking and ducting systems to EN 50085-1 and the relevant Part 2;
- Busbar trunking systems to EN 60439-2;
- Tray and ladder systems to EN 61537;
- Services poles to EN 50085-2-4.
5.7 Temporary labelling

When pulling several runs along a route at the same time, the loose ends of each cabling run shall be labelled with
a unique identifier. For final labelling see EN 50174-1.
Where appropriate, warning signs and labels shall be fitted in accordance with the installation specification.
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5.8 Installation of closures

Closures shall be located as defined in 4.6 of EN 50174-1:2000.
Closures should be fixed or mounted in position using the recommended fittings. Patch panel closures should be
fixed to prevent the ingress of foreign material into unprotected adaptors. All adaptors should be fitted with suitable
protective caps.
Closures should be labelled and identified according to the installation specification.
Any electrical equipment provided within closures should be installed according to the relevant national standards.
Documentation should be collated which provides the information necessary to allow subsequent installation of the
cable into the closures.
The cable entrance shall:
a) maintain the environmental performance of the closure;
b) provide the necessary cable support and prevent kinking at the point of entry into the closure;
c) provide strain relief for the cable if not already done by separate fixtures within the closure;
d) provide suitable glands to allow the entry of optical fibre cables.
Any cabling not contained within a management system should be protected from physical damage by use of
appropriate sleeving.
According to the relevant standard, each cable element should be uniquely identifiable using one or more of the
following methods:
1) colour coding;
2) labelling;
3) physical position routing.
Following jointing or termination, the cable elements should be arranged within the closure in a manner that allows
access to individual connectors, joints and elements with minimal disruption to neighbouring components during
subsequent repair, expansion or extension of the installed cabling.
Where closures are configured as patch panels:
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
- adaptors should be inspected for contamination;

- terminated cables shall be connected into the adaptors in accordance with the connectivity defined within the
installation specification.
Final acceptance testing (see EN 50346) should be undertaken following final assembly of the closure into the
desired location.
5.9 Termination practices

Manufacturers’ installation instructions for the connector and cable shall be strictly followed. If special tools are
required for termination, then only those recommended by the manufacturer shall be used.
The connecting hardware used for copper cabling shall be installed to provide minimal signal impairment by
preserving wire pair twists as closely as possible to the point of mechanical termination (by not changing the
original twist), see EN 50173. In addition only a minimum of the cable jacket shall be removed.
6 Additional installation practice for metallic cabling
6.1 EMC-Considerations
Electromagnetic Compatibility (EMC) of an installation implies that the emission from an installed system remains
below accepted limits as defined in the relevant standard and that the installed system exhibits the specified
immunity in a specific electromagnetic environment.
The guidelines in this clause shall be taken into account. Manufacturers’ instructions that may require more
stringent installation practices, shall also be followed.
Safety always takes precedence over EMC and protection.
Several international and European documents define different electromagnetic environments which influence the
installation practice. A direct way to take account of these different environments is to consider the relevant
disturbing sources found. Annex A contains an EMC checklist and guidance on actions to take.
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6.2 Balanced transmission

6.2.1 General
Balanced transmission lines minimize induced noise on the signal lines.
6.2.2 Design guidelines

The performance of a balanced transmission line depends on symmetry along the length of the line. This applies
to the components of the link, to the external environment of the transmission line and to the signal on the
transmission line. If symmetry cannot be achieved alternative counter-measures should be chosen.
To reduce emissions from and to improve immunity of a transmission line the balance of the transmission line
should be considered over the full frequency spectrum of the application. To increase the immunity the balance
should also be considered for frequencies out of the band of the intended signals.
Screening the cable or using metallic or composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC
purposes reduce the asymmetric interaction between the environment and the conductors of a pair.
The signal put on the transmission line should be as symmetric as possible otherwise it will radiate. This requires a
good common mode rejection ratio of the output port. Common mode noise could be induced on a balanced
transmission line. To minimize this noise disturbing the transmission system the receiver requires a high common
mode rejection ratio.
If all the above requirements cannot be achieved isolation transformers or filters should be inserted at the ports.
This may not be possible when an application requires to pass signals with a DC content through the ports.
If the input signal is not symmetric a balance to unbalance transformer (balun) should be inserted at the ports to
reduce emission. This may not be possible when an application requires to pass DC signals through the ports.
6.2.3 Installation guidelines

The transmission line should be installed such that the symmetry of the components of the link is not
compromised. For this reason sharp bending of cables should be avoided.
6.3 Screening
6.3.1 General
A cable screen creates a separation between the external electromagnetic environment and the transmission line
inside the screen. The performance of the screen depends on the screening effectiveness of the components and
on the way the components are connected to each other and to a local earth.
For further information see IEC/TR 61000-5-2.

If a screened cabling system is to be installed the following should be considered:
a) screen not bonded to equipment: not recommended;
b) screen bonded at both ends to equipment (i.e. connected with the chassis of the terminal equipment): reduces
electro-magnetic radiation by the principle of the Faraday cage;
c) screen earthed on one end: provides protection against electrical fields;
d) screen earthed on both ends: provides protection against electrical fields and, where problems with high
screen currents exist, partially compensates the interfering magnetic field;
e) screen in all cases a) to d): virtually no effect against very low frequency magnetic fields (e.g. 50 Hz), unless
special materials are used (µ-metal, Permalloy, etc.).
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
According to the above considerations:

1) the cable screen shall be continuous from the transmitter to the receiver. In any case a cable screen shall be
connected at both ends to terminals or sockets;
2) the cable screen shall have a low transfer impedance according to EN 50173;
3) special attention shall be paid to the assembly of connection elements. The screen contact should be applied
over 360 degrees according to the principle of a Faraday cage. The screening connection should be of a low
impedance design (see Figure 2);
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4) the cable screen should totally surround the cable along its entire length. A screening contact applied only
through the drain wire has little effect at high frequencies;
5) the screening should continue through an adequate screen connection; normal pin contacts shall not be used;
6) avoid (even small) discontinuities in the screening: e.g. holes in the screen, pigtails, loops. Discontinuity
dimensions of the order of 1 % to 5 % of the wavelength can decrease the overall effectiveness of screening.
Metallic surface
Low frequency
connection Low and high frequency
connection
NOTE When a screen or earth conductor exists outside the cable construction it is
regarded as a PEC, which should be earthed at both ends. Inner screens or earth
leads are also earthed at one or both ends. For TN-C or TN-C-S systems see A.6.2.2.
Figure 2 — Connection of the cable to the local earth
6.4 Electricity distribution systems
6.4.1 General
Public electricity supplies in various countries are often made available in different voltages and phase
arrangements to premises. Preferred arrangements and logical choices within premises often depend upon the
size of the installation load, its supporting equipment, upon existing internal distribution system and the public
mains supply delivered. When the electricity distribution system within an existing building is unsatisfactory or
obsolescent it is often better to install dedicated power cabling to be used only by telecommunication equipment at
the most favourable voltage to ensure minimum interaction with other building functions.
6.4.2 Design guidelines for earthing

In all cases, the electrical installation shall be provided with a main equipotential bonding (according to
HD 384.4.41 S2, HD 384.5.54 S1 and EN 50310) which connects:
a) the main earthing terminal;
b) any installed earth electrode or earth electrode network;
c) metallic water pipes and other extraneous conductive parts (e.g. metallic construction elements of the building);
d) the (main) protective earthing conductors.
All other bondings including the examples listed below should be electrically connected to the main equipotential
bonding network to form a mesh network:
– down conductors of lightning protection systems of the building;
– functional earthing conductors (see IEC 60364-5-548);
– interconnecting earthing conductors (e.g. from a nearby building);
– parallel earthing conductors (see series IEC/TR 61000-5).
6.4.3 Earthing of the AC distribution system

--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
The different electricity distribution systems (TN-S, TN-C-S, TN-C, TT and IT system) are described in
HD 384.3 S2. However, a PEN conductor through which unbalanced currents as well as the accumulation of
harmonic currents and other disturbances are transmitted shall not be considered as appropriate earthing. In
addition TT and IT distribution systems shall have more corrective measures, particularly against overvoltage.
Therefore:
a) there should be no PEN within the building, i.e. the respective option in 546.2.1 of HD 384.5.54 S1:1988 should
not be used;
b) wherever possible, the TN-S system should be used (see EN 50310). Exceptions exist due to existing
high-voltage electricity distribution systems, which are TT or IT, or where a high continuity of supply is required
by the application (hospitals) or by national regulations.
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NOTE A PEN conductor within the building can be considered on the path from the building entrance to the first
termination point where it will have to be split into a separate neutral conductor (N) and protective earthing
conductor (PE).
6.4.4.1 Non linear load consideration

Non linear loads (fluorescent lamps, switch mode power supply devices, etc.) generate harmonic currents on the
supply network and these may overload the neutral conductor. In such situations, it may be necessary to:
a) oversize the HV/LV or LV/LV transformers to provide a low impedance source;
b) segregate the applications using star power distribution for the different applications by means of different
feeders or transformers (lighting, motors, ITE, etc.), see Figure 3;
c) use adequate cross-section for the neutral conductor, at least identical to the phase conductor, to cope with
unbalanced loads and triple harmonics;
d) equalize the loads (sharing) between phases.
In case of a power supply arrangement according to Figure 3c) providing measures for interconnection of different
feeders, electromagnetic interference with respect to sensitive equipment should be considered. In a situation
where two feeders are interconnected, care should be taken that only one central earthing terminal or electrode is
used for both transformers.
Transformer
Disturbing Sensitive Disturbing Sensitive Disturbing Sensitive

equipment equipment equipment equipment equipment equipment
a) NOT RECOMMENDED b) BETTER c) EXCELLENT
Figure 3 — Segregation of the electricity distribution for different applications
6.4.4.2 Electricity distribution systems influence

Planners and designers of the electrical installation shall consider the following points to prevent the electricity
distribution system possibly influencing sensitive equipment:
a) potential sources of interference, e.g. power substations, power transformers, lifts, high electrical currents in
busbars shall be located away from sensitive equipment;
b) metal pipes (e.g. for water, gas, heating) and cables should enter the building at the same place;
c) metal sheets, screens, metal pipes and connections of these parts shall be bonded and connected to the main
equipotential bonding of the building with low impedance conductors;
d) the choice of a common route for power and signal cable with an adequate separation (by distance or
screening) to avoid large inductive loops formed by different power cabling systems;
e) it is recommended to use either one single multi-conductor cable for all power supply purposes or, in cases of
higher power levels, current carrying bar systems with low-level magnetic fields.
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6.4.4.3 TN-S system consideration

If the TN-S system has been chosen, the short duration and transient overvoltage described in respectively
HD 384.4.42 S1 and HD 384.4.43 S1, are reduced to a minimum. However, the following phenomena need
consideration in certain cases:
a) installation of surge protective devices close to the origin of the electrical installation according to the exposure
of the electricity distribution system and the resistibility of equipment (further details are given in
HD 384.4.43 S1);
b) influence of short circuit currents which create short duration overvoltages up to 1,45 times the nominal voltage
and voltage differences along the PE and other earthing conductors shall be taken into account during the
general design of the installation;
c) a long duration overvoltage up to 250 V.
6.4.4.4 TT or IT systems
If the electricity distribution system is of TT or IT type, or if the IT system is required by regulations or for continuity
of service, care shall be taken that:
a) sensitive equipment withstands short duration overvoltages (up to AC 1 200 V in TT system according to
HD 384.4.43 S1), or transformers are installed preferably at the origin to use the TN-S system;
b) surge protective devices are installed according to HD 384.4.43 S1 or better using a risk assessment method,
in particular when using overhead lines for the supply distribution;
c) in IT systems, equipment shall withstand the phase to phase voltage between each phase and accessible
conductive parts. In general, equipment insulated are appropriate, but electronic equipment shall comply to the
requirements of EN 60950 related to IT system or similar requirements, or be supplied through transformers.
If the TN-C section cannot be changed into a TN-S section for the distribution within the building, conductive paths
forming loops between the different TN-S sections shall be avoided.
6.4.4.5 Power cabling and screening

Adequate separation (distance or screening) between power and information technology cables shall be provided.
Power and information technology cables shall cross over at right angles.
Power cabling systems with single core conductors should be enclosed in bonded metallic enclosures or
equivalent (see 6.5.1).
6.4.4.6 Measures for signal connections in existing installations

In existing buildings which include a PEN conductor, or where there is EMI on information technology cables due
to inadequate provisions in the electrical installation (see 548.5 of IEC 60364-5-548:1996), one of the following
methods shall be considered to avoid or minimize the problem:
a) use of optical fibre links for signal connections;
b) use of electrical Class II equipment (EN 60950);
c) use of local transformers with separate windings (double-wound transformers) for the supply of the information
technology equipment, taking into account 312.2.3 of HD 384.3 S2:1995 and 413.1.5 of HD 384.4.41 S2:1996
for IT systems (local IT systems), or 413.5 of HD 384.4.41 S2:1996, for protection by electrical separation
(e.g. transformers according to EN 61558-1).
6.5 Segregation of circuits
6.5.1 General
Information technology cables and power supply cables which share the same cable management systems,
building voids or similar shall be laid according to the requirements of this subclause.
Testing of secure/safe/sufficient separation according to IEC 61140 (for frequencies of 50 Hz to 60 Hz) shall be
taken into consideration. Safety and EMI, in some cases, require different clearances. Safety always has highest
priority.
Electrically conductive cable management systems, fittings, and barriers shall be protected against indirect contact
(a means of protection against excessive contact voltage), see HD 384.4.41 S2.
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The minimum separation between power cables and information technology cables to avoid disturbances is
related to many factors such as:
a) the immunity level of equipment connected to the information technology cabling system to different
electromagnetic disturbances (transients, lightning pulses, bursts, ring wave, continuous waves, etc.);
b) the fitting of the equipment to the earthing system;
c) the local electromagnetic environment (simultaneous appearance of disturbances, e.g. harmonics plus bursts
plus continuous wave);
d) the electromagnetic spectrum;
e) the distances that the cables run in parallel (coupling zone);
f) the type of cable;
g) the coupling attenuation of the cables;
h) the quality of the attachment between the connectors and the cable;
i) the type and the fitting of the cable management system.
source coupling victim
defines the origin describes how the whole of

of disturbances disturbances equipment liable
propagate to be disturbed
Figure 4 — Schematic representation of an EMC problem

For the purpose of this standard it is assumed that the electromagnetic environment complies with series
EN 50081 and series EN 50082 for conducted and radiated disturbances (power lines). Moreover it is assumed
that the information technology cabling supports any existing application covered by EN 50173:1995 and
EN 50173:1995/A1:2000.
For horizontal cabling the following applies (see Figure 5):
- if the horizontal cabling length is less than 35 m no separation is required in case of screened cabling;
- for length greater than 35 m the separation distances apply to the full length excluding the final 15 m attached
to the outlet.
a)
Cabinet
Outlet
≤ 15 m:
> 20 m: separation required no separation
required
b)
Cabinet Outlet
≤ 35 m: no separation required
Figure 5 — Separation between power and data cables

When cabling is installed in an electromagnetic environment with emission and immunity requirements exceeding
the levels defined in series EN 50081 and series EN 50082, the separation distances given in Table 1 are
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EN 50174-2:2000
implemented on an end to end basis. Depending on the actual electromagnetic environment, the distances may
need to be increased.
For the backbone the separation distances given in Table 1 shall apply end to end.
Table 1 — Information technology cable separation from power cabling
Type of installation Distance A

Without divider or Aluminium Steel divider
non-metallic divider
divider 1)
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Unscreened power cable and 200 mm 100 mm 50 mm

unscreened IT cable
Unscreened power cable and 50 mm 20 mm 5 mm
screened IT Cable 2)
Screened power cable and 30 mm 10 mm 2 mm
unscreened IT cable
Screened power cable and 0 mm 0 mm 0 mm
screened IT cable 2)
1) It is assumed that in case of metallic divider, the design of the cable management system will achieve a
screening attenuation related to the material used for the divider.
2) The screened IT cables shall comply with EN 50288 series.
Figures 6 and 7 illustrate these requirements for both parallel cable runs without (Figure 6) and with (Figure 7)
dividers:
1) the minimum distance A in Figure 6a) is the worst situation between fixing points;
2) where neither fixing is provided nor other physical restraints such as a divider system are present, a
separation A of 0 mm shall be assumed [Figure 6b)];
3) for cables installed in adjacent compartments of a cable management system or another pathway that
incorporates a divider, the minimum separation between cables shall be assumed to be equal to the thickness
of the divider A, unless cable fixing is provided [Figure 7a)];
4) for cables installed in non-adjacent compartments of a cable management system or another pathway that
incorporates more than one divider, the minimum separation between cables shall be assumed to be equal to
the distance A between the dividers, unless cable fixing is provided [Figure 7b)].
a) A
b) A=0
Figure 6 — Examples of power cables and information technology cables

that run parallel without divider
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EN 50174-2:2000
a) Minimum assumed distance

A = divider thickness
b) A = distance between dividers
Figure 7 — Examples of power cables and information technology cables

that run parallel with a divider

The minimum distance between information technology cables and fluorescent, neon, and mercury vapour (or
other high-intensity discharge) lamps shall be 130 mm. Electrical wiring closets and data wiring closets should
ideally be in separate cabinets. Data wiring racks and electrical equipment should always be separated.
Cable crossing shall be at right angles. Cables for different purposes (e.g. mains power and information
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
technology cables) should not be in the same bundle. Different bundles should be separated electromagnetically
from each other, see Figure 8.
Recommended
Power cabling
Not recommended
Auxiliary circuits (e.g.
Power
fire alarm, door opener)
cabling
IT cabling
sensitive circuits (e.g.

Auxiliary
for measurement or
instrumentation) circuits
Correct
IT cabling
sensitive
circuits
Metallic cable trays
NOTE All metallic parts are electrically well bonded

Figure 8 — Separation of cables in cable management systems
6.6 Cable containment
6.6.1 General
Cable management systems are available in metallic and non-metallic forms. Some metallic materials offer
improved resistance to EMI. The cable management system, if conductive, shall provide a continuous, well
conducting metallic structure over its full length to ensure that it takes effect as a parallel earthing conductor
(PEC).
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The choice of material and the shape depend on the following considerations:
a) the strength of the electromagnetic fields along the pathway (proximity of electromagnetic conducted and
radiated disturbing sources);
b) the authorized level of conducted and radiated emissions;
c) the type of cabling (screened, twisted, optical fibre);
d) the immunity of the equipment connected to the information technology cabling system;
e) the other environment constraints (chemical, mechanical, climatic, fire, etc.);
f) any future information technology cabling system extension.
Non-metallic cable management systems are suitable in the following cases:
– electromagnetic environment with permanently low levels of disturbance;
– the cabling system has a low emission level;
– optical fibre cabling.
For metallic system components, the shape (plane, U-shape, tube, etc.), rather than the cross-section will
determine the characteristic impedance of the cable management system. Enclosed shapes are best (by reducing
the Common Mode coupling). Trays often have slots for easy attachment of cable. The least harmful of these is
with a small slot parallel to the axis of the tray. Slots perpendicular to the tray axis should not be used.
no EMC effects adequate preferred
Figure 9 — EMC ranking for different metallic trays
Usable space within the cable tray should allow for an agreed quantity of additional cables to be installed. The
bundle height into the cable tray shall be lower than the side walls as shown in Figure 10. The use of overlapping
lids improve the cable tray EMC performances.
For a U-shape, the magnetic field decreases near the two corners. For this reason, deep sections are preferred
(see Figure 10).
No Yes
Figure 10 — Cable arrangement in a metallic section
6.6.3.1 Metallic or composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC purposes
When a metallic or composite cable management system specially designed for EMC purposes is constructed with
several shorter elements, care should be taken to ensure the continuity by correct bonding between different
parts. Preferentially, the parts are welded over their full perimeter. Riveted, bolted or screwed joints are allowed,
provided that the surfaces in contact are good conductors (no paint or insulating coat), that they are safeguarded
against corrosion and that a good electrical contact between the two parts is ensured.
The shape of the metallic section should be maintained over its full length. All interconnections shall have a low
impedance. A short single lead connection between two parts of the cable management system will result in a high
local impedance and, therefore, degrades its EMC performance (see Figure 11).
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
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Unacceptable
Not recommended
Best practice
Figure 11 — Continuity of metallic system components

From frequencies of a few MHz upwards, a 10 cm mesh strap between the two parts of the cable management
system will degrade the shielding effect by more than the factor of 10.
Whenever adjustments or extensions are carried out, it is vital that close supervision is undertaken to ensure that
this is done according to the EMC recommendations (e.g. not replacing a metallic conduit by a plastic one).
Metallic construction elements of buildings can serve EMC objectives very well. Steel beams of L-, H-, U-, or
T-shape often form a continuous earthed structure, that offers large cross-sections and large surfaces with many
intermediate connections to earth. Cables are preferentially laid against such beams. Inside corners are preferred
to outside surfaces (see Figure 12).
Recommended
Acceptable
Not recommended
Figure 12 — Location of cables inside metallic construction elements

Metallic or composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC purposes should always be
connected to the local earth at both ends. For long distances (more than 50 m) additional connections to the
earthing system at irregular intervals are recommended. All the earthing connections should be as short as
possible.
Covers for metallic cable trays shall meet the same requirements as the cable trays. A cover with many contacts
over the full length is preferred. If that is not possible, the covers should be connected to the cable tray at least at
both ends by short connections less than 10 cm (e.g. braided or mesh straps).
When a metallic or composite cable management system specially designed for EMC purposes is to be interrupted
for crossing a wall (e.g. fire barriers), the two metallic sections shall be bonded with low impedance connections
(see Figure 13).
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
A B C
Poor Good Better
Figure 13 — Interruption of metallic sections
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6.6.3.2 Non-metallic cable management systems

Where the apparatus connected to the cabling system by unscreened cables are not affected by low frequency
disturbances, to improve EMC performance of non-metallic cable management systems, a single lead, as a
parallel earth conductor, connected to the local earthing system at both ends should be added inside the cable
management system. The connections should be made on a low impedance metallic part (e.g. a large metal wall
of the apparatus cabinet).
The parallel earth conductor should be designed to withstand large common mode and power fault currents.
6.7 Earthing and bonding
6.7.1 General
The basic purposes of earthing and bonding are applicable to both unscreened and screened cabling systems:
− safety: touch voltage limitation and earth fault return path;
− EMC: zero potential reference and voltage equalization, screening effect.
Stray currents inevitably propagate in an earthing network. It is impossible to remove all sources of disturbances at
a site. Ground loops are also inevitable. When an external magnetic field affects the site, a field produced by
lightning for example, potential differences are induced in the loops and currents flow in the earthing system. So
the earthing network inside a building depends largely on the counter-measures taken outside the building.
As long as the currents flow in the earthing system and not in the electronic circuits, they do not have any harmful
effects. However, when the earth networks are not equipotential, when they are connected to the earth terminal in
a star connection for example, high frequency stray currents will flow everywhere, i.e. also on signal cables.
Equipment can suffer disturbance and can even be destroyed.
The specifications of EN 50310 are intended to provide optimum earthing and bonding conditions for buildings,
where information technology installations are to be operated. EN 50310 shall be applied at least in the case of
newly constructed buildings and whenever possible in existing buildings (e.g. on the occasion of refurbishment).
The installation management in a campus shall collaborate with all parties (e.g. power, Telecom, ITE, railways,
tramways, CATV, etc.).

--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
For best results the earthing system should be bonded in three dimensions, in particular for multi-storey buildings
having a networked data system. It should be remembered that one of the greatest dangers is the induction of the
surge magnetic field in the ground loops. The surge field is essentially horizontal and induces the worst stray
voltages in vertical loops.
Two consecutive floors should be bonded by all the conducting links which go through the flooring. These
interconnections are made either by conductors which already exist (cable ducts, piping, etc.) or by large section
additional conductors. The preferred mesh size for a vertical bond is about 3 m to 4 m, particularly in areas with a
high concentration of electronic equipment.
In practice, any conductor can contribute to the equipotential characteristics of the earthing system: earthing
conductors, metal tubing, conduits, cable ducts, metal framework, deck plates, lintels, gratings, beams, metal
structures, door frames, etc. This type of bonding often improves the electromagnetic properties of systems
considerably and contributes to the safety of personnel.
The type of conductor has little effect on equipotential characteristics. A steel conductor of the same cross-section
and length as a copper conductor will have a different resistance but the same high frequency impedance.
Each item of equipment is connected to the earth terminal by its own protective earth conductor (PE), see
Figure 14.
Where the equipment is interconnected, and if the protective earth conductors are long, or the items of equipment
are some distance from each other, the results are a high common impedance between equipment, large ground
loops, and a poor equipotential state particularly at high frequencies, see Figure 15.
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Figure 14 — IBN (star network)
High High
potential potential
Disturbed difference difference
cable Equipment Equipment Equipment Equipment
N° 1 N° 2 N° 1 N° 2
Signal Signal
IMC cable cable
PE PE PE PE
Large
High impedance if EM field loop
Z
the cable is long
Figure 15 — Example of high common impedance and large loop

This configuration makes electronic equipment more vulnerable to electromagnetic disturbances.
Adding an additional bonding conductor between items of equipment improves this situation, see Figure 16.
Low Low
potential potential
Disturbed difference difference
cable Equipment Equipment Equipment Equipment
N° 1 N° 2 N° 1 N° 2
I MC
PE PE PE PE
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
A short interconnecting A short interconnecting

cable reduces the cable reduces the area
Z common impedance
EM field of the sensitive loop
between equipment
Figure 16 — Example of low common impedance and small loop
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The new arrangement for the star earthing network improvement is shown in Figure 17.
Connections required for safety

Connections to reduce electrical ground differences
Figure 17 — Improvement of star earthing network
6.7.3.1 Bonding networks

Although the ideal bonding network is a plate or a fine mesh grid, experience shows that for most electrical
disturbances a mesh of about 3 m per square is sufficient. This forms a mesh bonding network. Examples of
different bonding networks are shown in Figure 18. The minimum structure comprises a conductor (e.g. copper
strip or cable) surrounding the room as shown in the figure regarding the CBN example.
PE Mesh BN
PE IBN
Mesh IBN
Mesh BN
Local Mesh
(SRPP)
Local
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Trunk Mesh IBN

Tree (SRPP)
IBN
Star (IBN) CBN
Figure 18 — Examples of bonding networks

The length of the connection between a structural item and the bonding network should not be more than 50 cm,
and an additional connection should be added in parallel at another point some distance away. Connecting the
earthing bus of the electrical switchboard of an equipment block to the bonding network (see below) should be
made with an inductance of less than about 1 µH (0,5 µH, if possible). For example it is possible to use a single
0,5 m conductor, or two parallel 1 m conductors (not too close to each other, at least 0,5 m, to minimize the mutual
inductance between the two conductors).
An attempt should be made to connect to the bonding network at a junction point (see Figure 19) in order to divide
the high frequency currents without making the connection physically longer. The section of the bonding straps is
not important although flat section is preferred; the strap should be as short as possible.
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Electrical switchboard
x L1
x L2
x L3
N
PE
Earthing Electronic
terminal Equipment
G
Frame ground grid
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
metal beam
Figure 19 — Mesh BN example

It is easier and safer to bond all equipment frame grounds as a matter of routine (see Figure 19) without worrying
too much about which cables are carrying signals, rather than attempting only to connect equipment frame
grounds which happen to be exchanging signals the day when the cabling work is performed.
6.7.3.2 Parallel earthing conductor (PEC)

The purpose of a parallel earthing conductor is to reduce the common mode current through leads that carry
differential mode signals by reducing common impedance and loop areas.
The parallel earthing conductor shall be designed to withstand large currents when it is used as lightning
protection, or as power fault current return. When a cable screen acts as a parallel earthing conductor, it is not
designed to cope with these large currents. The first approach is to route the cable through metallic construction
elements, or conduits, which then act as another parallel earthing conductor for the total cable. An additional
possibility is to route the screened cable closely with a large cross-section parallel earthing conductor, the cable
screen and parallel earthing conductor being connected at both ends to the local earth of the equipment or
apparatus.
For very long distances, additional connections of the parallel earthing conductor to the earthing system should be
implemented at irregular intervals between the apparatus. These extra connections provide an early return path for
the disturbance current through the parallel earthing conductor. For U-shaped conduits, shields and tubes, the
additional earth connections should be made at the outside, preserving the separation from the inside (“shielding”
effect).
6.7.3.3 Bonding straps

For bonding straps, suitable conductors include metal strips, metal mesh straps or round cables. For high
frequency systems, metal strips or braided straps are better (skin effect). A round conductor has, at high
frequencies, a higher impedance than a flat conductor with the same material cross-section. The length/width ratio
≤ 5:1 should be kept as far as possible (see Figure 20).
Wide and short bonding straps are also suitable. As long as the length of the additional links remains below about
0,5 m, it is useful to include them up to high frequencies of about 30 MHz. It is also relevant to connect the frame
grounds of adjacent cabinets that are not exchanging signals, although this is less important.
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EN 50174-2:2000
copper
brass
galvanized iron
copper
aluminium
galvanized iron
copper (tin plate)
W copper (tin plate)
W
copper (tin plate)
NOT RECOMMENDED
L
Figure 20 — Example of bonding straps
6.7.3.4 Connecting techniques

Welding or soldering are the best solutions to ensure a very low impedance connection between two parts of a
conduit, with a good stability with time. Welding or soldering material should be close to the basic metal.
Spot welding, riveting, screwing or bolting are suitable to provide the necessary contact pressure to obtain reliable
and durable connections. Nevertheless, these methods require the contact of clean metal surfaces (paint and
other non-conducting protective coatings should be removed from the contact areas) and due precautions to avoid
corrosion. This arrangement requires periodic maintenance in industrial installations environment.
6.7.3.5 Raised floors

The shielding effect of a raised floor is directly tied to its equipotential. If there is no contact between the flooring
slabs (slabs with anti-static rubber seals), or if the contact through support brackets is not guaranteed (pollution,
corrosion, moisture, etc., or no bracket at all), it is necessary to add a frame ground grid. In this case, all that is
required is to provide good electrical connections between the metal uprights. Small spring-operated clamps can
be used for hooking up the uprights to the frame ground. The ideal solution is to bond each of the uprights, but it is
often sufficient to only bond one in two or even three in each direction (see Figure 21). A grid size of 1,5 m to 2 m
2
per bond is suitable in most cases. The copper section should be 10 mm or greater.
Raised floor
spring clamp
metal upright
≥ 10 mm²
Figure 21 — Raised floor
6.7.3.6 Transient suppression plate

The transient suppression plate is used as a potential reference on which all EMI components are bonded (filters,
voltage suppressors, screens of screened cables, etc.) as shown in Figure 22. It reduces noise currents which
could otherwise be coupled into underfloor information technology cables from subfloor reinforcing steel. For
example, a metal plate of 1 m x 1 m or more, provides bypass to the reinforcing steel in the concrete of the
subfloor under the raised floor.
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
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EN 50174-2:2000
Filter, surge protector, etc.

Raised floor
Screened
bonded
cable
AC or DC
main line
TSP
PE
Data line
Figure 22 — Example of transient suppressing plate installation details
6.8 Filtering
6.8.1 General
Filters are used in power systems and in information technology systems where, despite normal application of the
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
general guidelines of installation and mitigating methods, disturbance levels exceed the immunity level of the
installed equipment. Filters are usually inserted into a circuit so that all intended circuit energy passes through
them. They should therefore perform their function without impairing normal circuit operation.
Filters can have a two-fold effect by protecting the environment from disturbances generated within equipment and
also protect the equipment against disturbances generated externally to the equipment concerned.
Each installation will be different and an individual study is necessary.

As a general rule, filters should be located as near as possible to the apparatus which is the source or victim, to
minimize the impedance of the connection. Filters are either enclosed in the apparatus enclosure, or mounted in a
dedicated unit installed in its proximity for example use of a transient suppression plate.
When surge protective devices are used, they often need to be located before filters.
6.8.3.1 General
Physical separation of input and output lines is facilitated by the feed-through mounting technique of the filters.
Other mounting techniques can require proper screening of cables to assure their electromagnetic separation.
Inputs and outputs of filters should be arranged as far apart as possible; leads from the input and output side
should never be in the same bundle. Filtered leads should never encounter the unfiltered ones to minimize
coupling effects.
If screened conductors are to be connected to the filter case, EMI gland type connections should be used. The
mounting of a filter is often more important than type of filter. Poor mounting of an otherwise good filter will
produce poor filtering. The filter earth connection impedance should be as low as possible to avoid the generation
of disturbances that would otherwise be applied in common mode to the apparatus to be protected. See Figure 23
for an example.
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Wrong Correct
FILTER FILTER
Wrong Correct
FILTER FILTER
Earth connection Bond
Figure 23 — Earthing and bonding of filters

When a filter is installed in a metallic cable management system, all the cables shall be filtered, otherwise the
coupling between the cables could impar the efficiency of the filters (see Figure 24). In this case it would be better
to filter all the cables or use a transient plate.
Wrong
FILTER Cables
Coupling
Raceway
Figure 24 — Mounting of filters
6.8.3.2 Power cabling

The use of filters shall not interrupt the PE connecting the equipment.
When the filter is located outside the equipment it is preferable that the wires from the filter should be twisted and
positioned close to the equipotential structure.
When the installation is protected by a residual current device ensure that the leakage current of the filter is lower
than the rated residual current of the residual current device (see Figure 25).
Circuit
FILTER
Breaker Apparatus
PE
Figure 25 — Installation of power filter
6.8.3.3 Information technology cabling

The following parameters are important and shall be maintained to obtain a good filtering to protect the cabling:
− screening integrity;
− low mismatch impedance;
− balance.
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6.9 Protection against very low frequency fields
6.9.1 General
Electricity supply installations such as:

− high and medium voltage lines and transformers;
− high-voltage distribution bus bar systems;
− electric traction installations
create low frequency (electric and magnetic) fields which can disturb information technology equipment and
installations.

Very low frequency fields can be diverted with the aid of:
a) high permeability metals;
b) loop constructions compensating magnetic fields;
c) metallic walls or parts thereof, made of copper or aluminium of sufficient thickness.
Provided that the segregation distances are met cases and counter-measures against very low frequency fields
are:
EXAMPLE 1) power cabling produces too high magnetic field in relation to the environment in question;
Counter-measure: Use a screened power cable or put an overall screen around the power
cable, made of high permeability metal. Care shall be taken to consider saturation and
mechanical shocks.
EXAMPLE 2) a magnetic field arises, because part of the global (mains) current flows back through the earth
and not through the cabling (see Figure 26);
current
magnetic
field
current
Figure 26 — Magnetic field

Counter-measure: in case this magnetic field produces disturbances, this situation can be
difficult. To overcome it, a short circuit loop made of high conductive metal (such as copper)
could compensate in a good part this field and thus overcome the disturbing situation. Other
counter-measures could be taken e.g. at the “sink” side (see EXAMPLE 1). The last possibility is
to change the installation in such a way that no magnetic fields are created.
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Some local codes impose other restrictions and requirements and will in most cases take precedence over other
guidelines.
Avoid loops as explained in annex A and shown in Figure 26. Install instead as shown in Figure 27.
L
N
PE
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
e a r t h i n g st r u ct u r e
Figure 27 — Earthing arrangement

Arrange the high-voltage distribution bus bar system in such a way as to minimize the emission of magnetic fields.
Avoid installing information technology equipment near to disturbing sources.
6.10 Electrical isolation components
6.10.1 General
The installation of an electrical isolation component (isolation transformer or optocouplers) are primarily used for
the prevention of common mode signals on installed cabling or to interrupt the possible loop formed by the power
and information technology cables.
Optocouplers (including optical fibres) can be used to reduce EMI because they ensure a galvanic separation that
avoids conducted disturbances and they do not radiate.

The choice of the correct electrical information technology isolation component is application dependent.
Furthermore the designer and/or installer should consider:
− screened/unscreened cabling;
− mechanical compliance;
− disconnectivity;
− active/passive component;
− the protection level needed against common mode disturbances;
− the allowable asymmetrical disturbance at the information technology port to be protected;
− the unbalanced attenuation required;
− the compliance to EMI and safety standards if applicable;
− the insulation needs. e.g. breakdown voltage.
The choice of the correct electrical power isolation component depends upon the following:
− screened/un-screened cabling;
− mechanical compliance;
− disconnectivity;
− active/passive component;
− change of the AC power distribution system into a TN-S system if applicable;
− an equipment will have to be changed from safety protection Class I into Class II (see EN 60950) if applicable.
There is no fixed earth connection or touch current problem which forbids the mentioned change;
− the protection needed against common mode disturbances (opening of loops);
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EN 50174-2:2000
− the allowable asymmetrical disturbance at the entrance interface (port) of the device to be protected;
− the power to be transferred;
− the compliance to EMI and Safety standards if applicable;
− stray capacitance.

The installation guidelines for electrical isolation components for the protection of information technology cabling
from electrical surges developed by a rise of earth potential are covered within EN 50174-3.
Buildings installed with an equipotential earthing system may need to install isolation transformers between the
telecommunications cable pairs end-points (terminations) and connecting equipment which have a direct or
indirect connection to the equipotential network, to prevent earth loops (see Figures 28 and 29). The isolation
transformer effectively supplies a “barrier” against an end-to-end current flow (Common Mode). The isolation
transformer will attenuate low frequency AC currents and the amount (effectiveness) will depend upon its technical
characteristics.
Avoid Use
Twisted
Cable management system
Cable(s)
Coupling
Cable(s)
Transformer
Transformer
Figure 28 — Installation guidelines for transformers

--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
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Avoid
a)
Use
~
~
~
~
no
b) coupling
power power
power supply supply
supply
~
~ ~
~
c) trans-
mitter receiver
optical optical
Tx fibre Rx Tx fibre Rx
ps ps ps ps
no
coupling
ps : power
ps : power
Figure 29 — Installation guidelines for optocouplers
6.11 Surge protective devices
6.11.1 General
Voltage and current transients (surges) occur on power and information technology cabling. The origins of these
surges can be local or remote, and can be destructive to equipment and be a safety hazard to personnel.
This subclause deals only with the application of surge arresters (surge protective devices) in the cabling part
(power and information technology cabling) of the whole installation. The adequate protection of equipment does
not form part of this subclause, although some equipment influences the protection measures in the cabling part.
Surge arrestors when installed within a telecommunication system will add additional impairments (resistance,
capacitive and/or inductance). These additional impairments shall be taken into consideration when designing the
telecommunication network.

The choice of the surge protective devices depends on the following considerations:
a) the lightning protection zones — if any — of the site;
b) the amount of energy (voltage, current, duration) to be diverted;
c) the location of surge protective devices (primary or secondary protection);
d) the allowable amount of disturbance (voltage, current, duration) at the interface (port) of the device;
e) protection against differential or common mode or both;
f) the type of the transmitted signal or cabling service e.g. EN 50173;
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g) the leakage current or stray capacitance values;

h) operational parameters e.g. response time, latching voltage;
i) the compliance to product, EMI and safety standards where applicable.
Practical protection units which are commonly supplied and installed to protect cabling entering a building are also
given within EN 50174-3.

Suppliers‘ installation instructions shall be complied with.
Where surge protective devices are used to reduce high voltages appearing in information technology cabling due
to induction from power line, they should be fitted to all pairs and should be located as close as possible to the
main earth terminal of the building (see EN 50174-3).
The surge protective devices fitted at the main distribution frame and all subscriber terminals reduce the risk of
damage to lines but their main function is to protect components having lower dielectric strength than the cables.
See Recommendations ITU-T K.20, K.21, K.44 and K.45.
Protection against fire and explosion could be provided by enclosing the surge protective devices in a suitable
enclosure. Surge protective devices should not be mounted in rooms where fire or explosion risk exists unless
special precautions are taken.
Connections of information technology cabling and earthing systems to surge protective devices should be as
short as possible to minimize surge voltage levels between the lines and the equipotential bond point (see
Figure 30).
S S S
S
P P P
P
D D D
D
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Figure 30 — Short connections of surge protective devices
6.12 Protection against lightning
6.12.1 General
A direct lightning strike can cause an enormous amount of physical damage. However, the indirect effects from a
nearby strike can also cause damage by inducing voltage surges onto mains and information technology cables.
The probability of damage for both direct and indirect effects is discussed in IEC/TR 61662. It takes into account
several parameters such as the annual ground flash density, the area of influence of the structure and the
existence of a lightning protection system.

A guide for the selection of protective measures is given in IEC/TR 61662.
This selection is closely linked to the comparison between the risk of damage and the acceptable risk which
depends upon the surge probability and the electromagnetic susceptibility of the equipment.
This guide should be considered together with ENV 61024-1 to select the protection level of the lightning
protection system. Once this level is chosen, the protection against lightning electromagnetic impulse shall be
achieved according to IEC 61312-1.

For the installation of the protection network local rules and codes of practices apply.
Planners and designers should also consider the guidelines contained within HD 384.4.442 S1.
To reduce effects of induced lightning, decrease the area of any loop e.g. use of screened cables.
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6.13 Protection against electrostatic discharge (ESD)
6.13.1 General
Main characteristics of ESD threat are:
a) charge up voltage level: normally between 2 kV and 6 kV and in exceptional circumstances up to 40 kV;
b) discharge current level: up to 50 A with a rise time of nanoseconds.
There is a risk of potential danger for ESD disturbances in the following situations:
c) Raised floors which are charged due to air circulation (for climatic reasons) within a multi storey building;
d) ESD charged objects or persons, for example due to exposure to the sun, approaching near to uncharged
equipment.
NOTE The guidelines laid down in R044-001 contain further advice.

The most common source of danger from static electricity is the retention of charge on a conductor or on insulating
sheath where virtually all the stored energy can be released in a single spark to earth or to another conductor. The
accepted method of avoiding the hazard is to connect all conductors and sheaths to each other and to earth by
electrical paths with resistances sufficiently low to permit the relaxation of the charges.
Antistatic or conductive type materials can be used to avoid the retention of static electricity. The most appropriate
maximum value for the resistance to earth from all parts of such equipment is 1 MΩ although values up to 100 MΩ
are acceptable in some cases.
6.13.3 Installation rules

Connect all partially conductive and non-metallic cable management systems to each other and to earth by
electrical paths to permit the relaxation of any electrostatic charges (10 Ω).
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Antistatic or conductive type flooring materials used should be earthed to avoid the retention of static electricity
(10 Ω).
6.14 Corrosion
When interconnecting metal conductors, electro-chemical compatible metals should be used to minimize corrosion
effects, otherwise this could deteriorate the connecting initial impedance. When surfaces of metals with different
electro-chemical properties are connected together there will be a galvanic potential between these surfaces. The
rate of corrosion depends on this electro-chemical potential between two metals and the conditions under which
contact is made. In practice it has been found that a maximum of 300 mV is ideal for maintaining a low galvanic
effect in a moderately corrosive environment. To ensure a low impedance contact and a reliable electrical contact,
lower potential differences shall be taken into account (100 mV to 500 mV). Humidity and environmental factors of
the location shall be taken into consideration, too.
Values in the shaded zone (see Table 2) indicate compatible metal couples; however, this should not be construed
as being devoid of galvanic action. Compatible couples represent a low galvanic effect.
To minimize dissimilar metal corrosion, the following preventive measures shall be used:
a) select metals which form a compatible couple (e.g. use nickel, not naval brass, in contact with silver);
b) interpose a metal which reduces the potential difference between the two metals (e.g. tin plate brass to be
used next to aluminium or use a tin or cadmium plated washer between a steel screw in contact with
aluminium);
c) design the metal contact such that the relative area of the cathodic (more noble) metal is smaller than the
anodic metal one (e.g. stainless steel screws in aluminium chassis);
d) apply corrosion inhibitor such as zinc chromate primer or paste (e.g. use zinc chromate inhibitor when
assembling steel screws in aluminium).
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Table 2 — Galvanic couples (in mV) for some common metals (electrolyte: water + 2 % NaCl)
Aluminium 99.5%
Nickel or Monel
Stainless steel
Chromium
Hard steel
Cadmium
Soft steel
Platinum
Copper
Brass
Silver
Lead
Zinc
Tin
Platinum 0 250 350 430 570 650 800 840 1 000 1 090 1 095 1 100 1 200 1 400
Stainless steel 250 0 100 180 320 400 550 590 750 840 845 850 950 1 150
Silver 350 100 0 80 220 300 450 490 650 740 745 750 850 1 050
Nickel or Monel 430 180 80 0 140 220 370 410 570 660 665 670 770 970
Copper 570 320 220 140 0 80 230 270 430 520 525 530 630 830
Brass 650 400 300 220 80 0 150 190 350 440 445 450 550 750
Tin 800 550 450 370 230 150 0 40 200 290 295 300 400 600
Lead 840 590 490 410 270 190 40 0 160 250 255 260 360 560
Sof t steel 1 000 750 650 570 430 350 200 160 0 90 95 100 200 400
A luminium 99.5% 1 090 840 740 660 520 440 290 250 90 0 5 10 110 310
Hard steel 1 095 845 745 665 525 445 295 255 95 5 0 5 105 305
Cadmium 1 100 850 750 670 530 450 300 260 100 10 5 0 100 300
Chromium 1 200 950 850 770 630 550 400 360 200 110 105 100 0 200
Zinc 1 400 1 150 1 050 970 830 750 600 560 400 310 305 300 200 0
When filters are used, care should be paid to corrosion problems. The metallic filter cases should have a
non-corroding surface in order to ensure a low contact resistance (approximately 100 µΩ) of the case to the
interface with the victim apparatus throughout an extensive period of time.
The telecommunication cable termination on insulation transformers, surge protective devices or systems shall be
protected from corrosion, particularly if installed outside of a controlled environment. Corroded contacts or cable
termination affect the installed protection arrangements and increase the impedance of the mechanical
joint/connection to the building earthing arrangements.
Protection of any contact surfaces within any protection device installed in an outside environment shall be
assured.
7 Additional installation practices for optical fibre cabling
7.1 General
This clause details the particular recommended practices for the installation of optical fibre cable and closures.
--``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---
Recommended optical fibre cabling test schedules are contained in EN 50346.

Additional guidance on the installation of optical fibre cabling out side of a building is contained in EN 50174-3.
7.2 General precautions

Suitable protective caps should be fitted to the exposed ends of the optical fibre cable. These should not be
removed until required and should be replaced or renewed as required until the optical fibre cable has been
correctly terminated.
7.3 Pre-installation practices

The optical fibre cable should be tested for compliance with its specification prior to further handling. Installed (laid)
optical fibre cable acceptance tests should be undertaken to avoid contractual disputes.
The installer should determine any measures necessary to prevent the optical fibre within the optical fibre cable
experiencing direct stress following installation. Where long vertical runs are proposed, optical fibre cables need, in
some cases, to deviate from the vertical at intervals as recommended by the manufacturer (by the inclusion of
short horizontal runs or loops).
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7.4 Optical fibre cable practices

A minimum agreed length of optical fibre cable should be allowed at each closure position. This is to enable
subsequent access to the closure and to ensure sufficient length for cable management, acceptance testing and
also to reduce the problem of damage to the end of the optical fibre cable.
7.5 Final assembly of closures

Labels according to series EN 60825 should be applied adjacent to all accessible optical interfaces (see 4.5).
7.6 Termination practices
7.6.1 Jointing/termination of optical fibres

The use of either fusion splicing or mechanical jointing techniques provides a permanent stable, low attenuation
connection of optical fibres.
The performance of a splice is dependent upon the capability of the technique, the workmanship applied to
achieve the splice and the subsequent workmanship applied to protect the splice to ensure satisfactory operational
lifetime.
Mechanical spliced joints are achieved by the alignment of the two optical fibre ends within a protective sleeve.
Manufacturers‘ recommended instructions for protection and retention of the optical fibres should be observed.
The mechanical splice is generally retained by either friction or adhesive bonds to the optical fibre. In some cases
it is necessary to provide further strain relief for the completed joint.
Fusion spliced joints are achieved by welding the core and cladding regions of the two optical fibre ends. The
fusion splice should be protected by a suitable sleeve or splint.
The fusion splice is generally retained within the protective sleeve by either friction or adhesive bonds to the
optical fibre. In some cases it is necessary to provide further strain relief for the completed joint.
Termination can be done by direct application of connectors to the installed optical fibre, e.g. glueing techniques,
or splicing or mechanical connection of a pre-manufactured pigtail to the optical fibre of the installed optical fibre
cable.
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Labelling of optical fibre installations should be such that the polarization of duplex optical fibre connections is
known and consistent throughout the installation.
During the direct application of connectors to the installed optical fibre, the recommended installation procedures
should be followed.
Connectors applied to optical fibres should be subjected to visual inspection as defined in EN 50346.
7.6.2 Optical fibre management

All splice joints and their strain relief mechanisms should be fixed within the optical fibre management system of
the closure.
Under no circumstances shall splices be left unsupported
© BSI 01-2001

Page 39
EN 50174-2:2000
Annex A (informative)
Coupling mechanisms and counter-measures

A.1 General
EMC performance of installed cabling is influenced by several different coupling phenomena which may have
adverse effects at different frequencies. These situations are explained in the following.
A.2 Counter-measures against galvanic or common mode impedance coupling

Impedances in common mode current paths, if they cannot be avoided, should be kept as low as possible.
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The main counter-measures to minimize the effects of common mode impedance coupling are:
a) reduce the common mode impedance;
b) reduce the amplitude of the disturbing currents.
A.3 Counter-measures against capacitive coupling

The main counter-measures to minimize the effects of capacitive couplings are:
a) symmetrical transmission on balanced cabling
Conductors are identically exposed to the same electric field. Induced interfering voltages in both conductors
have the same polarity and amplitude; the wanted differential mode signal remains unaffected up to certain
frequencies. The interference appears as an unwanted common mode signal. Depending on its common mode
rejection ratio, the correct operation of connected equipment is influenced by the presence of common mode
voltages;
b) screened cabling and/or metallic or composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC
purposes
diminish the influence of electric fields if the cable screen or cable management system (see Figure A.1):
− is continuous along the cabling channel;
− is earthed and bonded as detailed in this standard.
Since the cable management system is fixed at earth potential, unwanted electric charges cannot cause
voltage rises. At high frequencies the method of grounding of the screen at the cable ends is very important.
Even a few centimetres of unscreened lead (pigtail) can compromise the screen effectiveness.
metallic screens
source victim
Figure A.1 — Screened cables reduce capacitive coupling
A.4 Counter-measures against inductive coupling

The main counter-measures to minimize the effects of inductive couplings are:
a) Symmetrical transmission on balanced cabling
Single conductors are twisted together; the surfaces of possible induction loops are very small. Only few
magnetic field lines penetrate these loops. Adjacent twists create induced voltages in phase opposition which
as a consequence cancel each other. The induced difference between the two conductors approaches close to
zero. On the other hand a common mode disturbance is induced in the loop formed with the (twisted)
conductors and the earth. The influence on the equipment is reduced by the common mode rejection of the
connected port.
© BSI 01-2001

Page 40
EN 50174-2:2000
b) Screened cabling
Screened cabling provides, depending on the frequency and the materials used, protection against magnetic
fields if the screen is earthed at both cable ends. In general, no adequate protection against magnetic fields is
given, if the screen of the cable is not connected to ground. Exceptions to this rule exist e.g. when the
unconnected cable screen is placed on the surface of or near to an earthing structure.
c) Metallic or composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC purposes
Metallic or composite cable management systems systems specially designed for EMC purposes can diminish
the influence of magnetic fields if:
− elements are properly bonded;
− the cable management system has a low impedance earthing at both ends;
− the frequency is above a minimum value(depending on material and thickness).
The disturbing magnetic field also induces a current in the loop built up with the cable management system and
the earth. This current creates an opposite magnetic field which compensates the initial one. At minimum the
effect can be improved with a Parallel Earth Conductor to cable. The PEC principle is explained in
IEC/TR 61000-5-3.
Since both capacitive and inductive coupling exist simultaneously, the composite takes into account the effect of
each contributor, unless one of the two may be neglected.
A.5 Counter-measures against radiated coupling

The main counter-measure to minimize the effects of radiated couplings are:
a) for field to cable (see Figure A.2)
reduce the antenna effect of the victim cable (reduce the cable height “h”, put the cable into metallic or
composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC purposes, use screened cables correctly
bonded, add earthed parallel conductors, add filters or ferrite beads, etc.);
b) for field to loop (see Figure A.3)
reduce the victim loop area (reduce height and length of the cable, all the solutions of a) are also valid);
c) use the Faraday cage principle
A screened cable connected at both ends with the screening of the equipment is a possible solution; the
equipment need not be earthed in the case of high frequencies. When connecting both equipment to earth,
current loops should be avoided or at least minimized. Radiated coupling decreases with distance and through
the application of symmetrical transmission on balanced cabling.
E field
i
Equipment
Ground reference
Figure A.2 — Electrical field to cable, capacitive coupling example

H field
signal
cable
Equipment
Equipment
i
2
h
1
Ground loop
area
Ground reference
Figure A.3 — Magnetic field to loop, inductive coupling example
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Page 41
EN 50174-2:2000
A.6 The EMC concept
A.6.1 Questions to be answered in view of the practical realization of EMC concepts

Use the EMC checklist of Table A.1 step by step and set checkmarks as appropriate.
Table A.1 — EMC Checklist
Aspects to be considered Answer Comment

Yes No
1 Building
1a) Existing building? ∆1) Ο1)
1b) New building projected? ∆ Ο
1c) New building existing? ∆ Ο
1d) New and existing building mixed? ∆ Ο
1e) Hospital? ∆ Ο
2 Power distribution system
2a) TN-S? Ο Ο Best solution
2b) TN-C-S? ∆ Ο
2c) TN-C? ∆ Ο
2d) TT? ∆ Ο
2e) IT? ∆ Ο
3 Disturbing sources
3a) Transformer station? ∆ Ο
3b) Proximity to electrical traction? ∆ Ο
3c) Proximity to high voltage power lines? ∆ Ο
3d) Arc welders? ∆ Ο
3e) Frequency induction heaters? ∆ Ο
3f) Transmitting equipment (radio, television, wireless telephone and radar)? ∆ Ο
3g) Does the installed equipment2) comply with relevant European EMC- Ο ∆
Standards?
3h) Power cables screened? ∆ Ο
3i) Proximity to coaxial or unbalanced cabling? ∆ Ο
4 Customer requirements concerning security
4a) Very sensitive application(s)? ∆ Ο
4b) Hospital environment? ∆ Ο
5 Structure of the existing and/or future earthing and bonding network
5a) Mesh topology, CBN or MESH-BN? Ο
5b) Star topology, IBN or MESH-IBN? ∆
5c) Trunk structure? ∆
5d) More than one answer a),b),c) ∆
6 Cable management systems, raised floors
6a) 1. generic cabling parallel to power lines ∆ Ο
2. premises cabling parallel to power lines ∆ Ο
6b) Plastic or metallic (aluminium or steel) cable management systems ∆ Ο Plastic
∆ Ο Steel
∆ Ο Aluminium
6c) Plastic or metallic separation between information technology cabling and ∆ ∆ Plastic
power lines? Ο ∆ Steel
Ο ∆ Aluminium
6d) Are the metallic or composite cable management systems specially Ο ∆
designed for EMC purposes earthed repeatedly or at least at both ends?
6e) Is the cabling between buildings carried out with metallic cables? ∆ Ο
NOTE 1 Ο = No action required ∆ = See A.6.2.
NOTE 2 This refers not only to the connected equipment but also to other equipment in the environment (e.g.
copiers, fluorescent lighting).
© BSI 01-2001
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Page 42
EN 50174-2:2000
A.6.2 Actions resulting from the answers of Table A.1
A.6.2.1 Building
1a) Existing building?

Yes Old buildings have the highest probability of critical electricity distribution systems and the earthing and
bonding system is based on very old concepts. In addition some of the older buildings are protected by
special laws which do not allow all actions to be performed in the building. For example: Drilling of holes
not allowed everywhere, removal of wooden parts is forbidden, technology has to fit without disturbing the
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architecture, etc.
Extremely critical:
Complete and very precise analysis required. Answer all questions and setup action plan to make sure that
installation will work. Corrective actions are costly, therefore early customer information is required for
decisions and budget planning.
For information about earthing and bonding see 6.7.
1b) New building projected?

Yes Use the opportunity to influence the planning activities of building planner to have an integrated
EMC-concept e.g.
− electricity distribution system TN-S (see 6.4);
− space for cable management systems, cabinets;
− provision of appropriate earthing and bonding at the required location (see 6.7);
− separation of generic cabling paths from fluorescent illumination (see 6.5.3).
1c) New building existing?

Yes Same problems as 1a) except:
− electricity distribution system TN-S generally existing (see 6.4);
− equipotential bonding network available (see 6.7).
1d) New and old building mixed?

Yes The combination of old and new buildings is as critical as installations in old buildings. The combination of
different systems creates many problems.
Check, whether the electricity distribution system is of the same type, preferably TN-S system.
Possible solutions:
− all buildings have TN-S systems (see 6.4);
− interconnect both PE's of the TN-C systems on the main earthing terminal (see 6.7);
− use of isolation transformers (see 6.10);
− use of optical fibre links without metallic sheath (see clause 7);
For information about earthing and bonding see 6.7.
1e) Hospital
Yes Installations in hospitals require different precautions due to the following reasons:
− Influence of the information technology signals to medical equipment: Equipment used for intensive
care, heart pacemaker, monitoring devices etc.
− Influence of the medical equipment signals to the information technology signals: Equipment which
sends strong signals, microwaves, etc.
− Higher class of fire precautions: Look for all relevant laws and regulations for the hospital area and
follow them strictly. No exeptions are allowed.
© BSI 01-2001

Page 43
EN 50174-2:2000
A.6.2.2 Electricity distribution system
2a) TN-S system

Yes Best EMC solution. For further information see 6.4.
2b) TN-C-S system

Yes For further information see 6.4.
Screened cabling in combination with TN-C/TN-C-S and equipment with protection Class I requires
interruption of screen and generally the installation of a protective device bridging the interruption.
2c) TN-C system

Yes The remark in 2b) concerning the interruption of the screen remains valid for 2c).
2d) TT system
2e) IT system
A.6.2.3 Disturbing sources
3a) Transformer station

Yes Production of disturbing magnetic fields (50 Hz). Rise of earth potential.
3b) Proximity to electrical traction

Yes See 3e).
3c) Proximity to high-voltage power lines

Yes See 3e).
3d) Arc welders

Yes See 3e).
3e) Frequency induction heating

Yes High current low frequency phenomena are very common in this environment.
Possible solutions:
− make sure to use equipment complying with enhanced immunity requirements;
− avoid galvanic and inductive coupling;
− request manufacturers‘ information concerning field strengths in relation to the distances;
− use:
i) screening techniques;
ii) sufficient distance from the high current installation (see 6.5);
iii) adjacent routing of power circuits and signal cables for the information technology equipment
(see 6.5);
iv) screened power and signal cables; the screen shall be bonded to the equipment at both ends
(see 6.3);
v) thickened wall steel conduit earthed at many points;
vi) optical fibre links without metallic sheath (see clause 7).
© BSI 01-2001 --``,,-`-`,,`,,`,`,,`---

Page 44
EN 50174-2:2000
3f) Transmitting equipment (radio, television, wireless telephone and radar)

Yes 1) Fixed transmitter installation: measure field strength and install components according to the measured
values.
2) Movable transmitter: Analyse the worst case situation of transmitting equipment, ask producer or PTT
about signal levels and install components according to the given values.
The earthing and bonding concept has to be checked in detail to have optimum protection
(see 6.7).
3g) Does the installed equipment comply with relevant European EMC Standards?
No Use only equipment complying with the relevant EMC-requirements (CE marking).
Special applications (coexistence with other systems) may require more stringent installation practices on
equipment complying with enhanced requirements.
3h) Power cables screened?

Yes Screened power cables are very seldom installed but in computer centers and similar you may find
screened power cables. information technology installations nearby are less critical but make sure that the
power cable screens are included in the earthing and bonding concept (see 6.3 and 6.7).
3i) Proximity to coaxial or unbalanced cabling

Yes Under consideration.
A.6.2.4 Customer requirements concerning security
4a) Very sensitive application(s)

Yes Some areas require extreme precaution to prevent outages due to EMC phenomena, e.g. production
control of chemical industry, applications with risk to life, etc. Very sensitive installations require highest
quality components, highest workmanship quality, backup lines, backup hubs, automatic backup
procedures, high level of documentation, documentation of backup activities, etc.
4b) Hospital environment

Yes Hospital environments have to be analyzed to minimize EMC risk to life support machine.
No disturbance of health controlling/monitoring devices, etc. Installation only possible when hospital
business will allow.
A.6.2.5 The structure of the existing and/or future earthing and bonding network
5a) Mesh topology, CBN or MESH-BN?

Yes Principle configurations see 6.7.
5b) Star topology, IBN or MESH-IBN?

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5c) Trunk structure

5d) More than one answer (a/b/c)

Yes Under consideration.
© BSI 01-2001

Page 45
EN 50174-2:2000
A.6.2.6 Cable management systems, raised floor
6a) Parallel to power lines

Yes Minimum distances shall be respected; however parallel routing is recommended in order to avoid large
induction loops (see 6.5).
6b) and 6c) Plastic or metallic cable management systems, separation

Yes Plastic cable management systems assure a well defined separation distance within guaranteed limits (see
6.5).
Metallic or composite cable management systems specially designed for EMC purposes allow less
distance if metallic separation (correctly bonded) is used (see 6.7).
6d) Are the metallic sections earthed?

No Install the earth according to the standards (see 6.7).
6e) Cabling between buildings carried out with metallic cables?
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Yes Overvoltage protection required.
© BSI 01-2001

Page 46
EN 50174-2:2000
Bibliography
EN 50081 series, Electromagnetic compatibility — Generic emission standard.

EN 50082 series, Electromagnetic compatibility — Generic immunity standard.
EN 50083 series, Cable networks for television signals, sound signals and interactive services.
EN 50098-1, Customer premises cabling for information technology — Part 1: ISDN basic access.
EN 50098-2, Customer premises cabling for information technology — Part 2: 2048 kbit/s ISDN primary access
and leased line network interface.
4)
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EN 50346 , Information technology — Cabling installation — Testing of installed cabling.

HD 384.2 S1, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary — Chapter 826: Electrical installations of buildings (IEC
60050-826:1982).
against overvoltages — Section 442: Protection of low-voltage installations against faults between high-voltage
systems and earth.
ENV 61024-1, Protection of structures against lightning — Part 1: General principles (IEC 61024-1:1990,
modified).
ETS 300 253, Equipment Engineering (EE) — Earthing and bonding of telecommunication equipment in
telecommunication centres.
IEC 60050-161, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary — Chapter 161: Electromagnetic compatibility.
IEC 60050-195, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary — Chapter 195: Earthing and protection against electric
shock.
IEC 60050-604, International Electrotechnical Vocabulary — Chapter 604: Generation, transmission and
distribution of electricity — Operation.
IEC 60364-5-548, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 5: Selection and erection of electrical equipment —
Chapter 548: Earthing arrangements and equipotential bonding for information technology installations.
IEC/TR 61000-5-2, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) — Part 5: Installation and mitigation guidelines — Section
2: Earthing and cabling.
IEC/TR 61000-5-3, Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) — Part 5-3: Installation and mitigation guidelines —
HEMP protection concepts.
IEC/TR 61662, Assessment of the risk of damage due to lightning.
R044-001, Safety of machinery — Guidance and recommendations for the avoidance of hazards due to static
electricity.
R064-004, Electrical installations of buildings — Part 4: Protection for safety — Chapter 44: Protection against
overvoltages — Section 444: Protection against electromagnetic interferences (EMI) (IEC 60364-4-444:1996,
modified).
Recommendation ITU-T K.20, Resistibility of telecommunication switching equipment to overvoltages and
overcurrents.
Recommendation ITU-T K.21, Resistibility of subscriber‘s terminal to overvoltages and overcurrents.
Recommendation ITU-T K.44, Resistibility tests for telecommunication equipment exposed to overvoltages and
overcurrents.
Recommendation ITU-T K.45, Resistibility of access network equipment to overvoltages and overcurrents.
———————
4)
In preparation by TC 215
© BSI 01-2001

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Provided by IHS under license with BSI blank
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BRITISH STANDARD |

Ð aid enquirers to understand the text;

This British Standard, having Amendments issued since publication

ISBN 0 580 36793 2

Copyright British Standards Institution

Information technology — Cabling installation

Technologies de l’information — Informationstechnik —

Central Secretariat: rue de Stassart, 35 B-1050 Brussels

Ref. No. EN 50174-2:2000 E

Copyright British Standards Institution

Copyright British Standards Institution

Annex A (informative) Coupling mechanisms and counter-measures ..................................................... 39

Copyright British Standards Institution

Copyright British Standards Institution

Building design Cabling design Planning phase Implementation Operation phase

5.2: Common bonding or (and) 4: Specification 6: Documentation 5: Quality assurance

Figure 1 — Relationship between series EN 50174 and other design standards

Copyright British Standards Institution

EN 50173, Information technology — Generic cabling systems.

Copyright British Standards Institution

3 Definitions and abbreviations

Copyright British Standards Institution

[826-04-02 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]

[826-04-07 of HD 384.2 S1:1986]

[604-04-07 of IEC 60050-604:1989]

Copyright British Standards Institution

surge protective device (SPD)

Copyright British Standards Institution

4.2 Protection against electric shock

4.2.1 Active equipment

4.2.2 Cabling components

4.3 Fire and chemical hazard

Copyright British Standards Institution

4.4 Explosive and asphyxiating gases

4.5 Optical fibre hazard

4.6 Separation requirements for metallic cabling

4.6.1 Metallic information technology cables and mains power cables

4.6.2 Cable separation in fire barriers

5 General installation practices for metallic and optical fibre cabling

Copyright British Standards Institution

5.2 General precautions

5.3 Pre-installation practices

5.4 Preparation of cable route

Copyright British Standards Institution

5.5 Cabling practices

5.6 Cable management systems

5.7 Temporary labelling

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5.8 Installation of closures

- adaptors should be inspected for contamination;

5.9 Termination practices

6 Additional installation practice for metallic cabling

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6.2 Balanced transmission

6.2.2 Design guidelines

6.2.3 Installation guidelines

6.3.2 Installation guidelines

According to the above considerations:

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