Cable Installation Techniques Flashcards
7 cards from real DCI practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Cable Installation Techniques flashcards as text
What is the primary purpose of leaving a service loop when terminating cable in a telecommunications room?
Answer: To allow re-termination if a connection fails
A service loop (typically 3–10 feet) provides enough extra cable length to re-terminate the end if a punch-down is damaged or needs to be moved.
When installing horizontal cable, what is the maximum distance allowed from the work area outlet to the telecommunications room under TIA-568?
Answer: 90 meters (295 ft)
TIA-568 limits horizontal cable (permanent link) to 90 meters to leave 10 meters for equipment and patch cords in the total 100-meter channel.
Which wiring standard pinout is most commonly required for new commercial structured cabling installations in the US?
Answer: T568B
T568B is the most commonly used pinout for commercial installations in the US, though T568A is specified for government and some enterprise environments.
A cable installer notices the cable jacket is slightly crushed after installation through a conduit. What is the best course of action?
Answer: Remove and replace the cable regardless of test results
A crushed jacket can deform internal pairs and cause latent failures; the cable should be replaced to ensure long-term reliability even if it initially passes testing.
Which type of conduit fill table should be referenced when determining how many cables can be pulled through a 1-inch EMT conduit?
Answer: NEC Chapter 9 conduit fill tables
NEC Chapter 9 tables provide conduit fill calculations for conductors and cables, specifying maximum fill percentages for different conduit types and sizes.
What installation practice minimizes alien crosstalk (AXT) when running multiple Cat 6A cables in close proximity?
Answer: Maintaining random, loose cable spacing without bundling
Loose, random spacing without tight bundling prevents the consistent parallel alignment that maximizes alien crosstalk coupling between adjacent cables.
When installing a cable through a suspended ceiling, which pathway guideline must the installer follow regarding cable support?
Answer: Cables must be supported every 4–5 feet and not laid on ceiling tiles
TIA-569 and NEC require cables above suspended ceilings to be supported at intervals not exceeding 4–5 feet and must not rest on the ceiling tiles.