6OH0315 Exhibit B - Cable Plant Standards.pdf

Structured Cable Plant Standards

RLP No. 6OH0315 - Exhibit B Agency Requirements

LESSOR: ______ GOVERNMENT: ______

US Citizenship and Immigration Services

6/2/2026 1 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4

Structured Cable Plant Standard

Office of Information Technology in collaboration with

Office of Facilities and Space Management

MARCH 2026

6/2/2026 2 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4

1.0 INTRODUCTION 5

1.1 Purpose 5

1.2 Background 5

1.3 Scope 6

1.3.1 System 6

1.3.2 Documentation 6

1.4 Regultory references 7

2.0 OBJECTIVES 8

2.1 Networking Requirements 8

2.2 Cable Plant Site Requirements 8

3.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: 12

Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard 12

3.1 Entrance Facility 12

3.2 Equipment Room 12

3.3 Backbone Cabling 12

3.4 Computer – LAN & Telecommunications Rooms 12

3.5 Horizontal Cabling 12

3.6 Equipment Outlet / Telecommunication Outlet 13

4.0 SPECIFICATIONS 14

Specifications – Exceptions 14

4.1 Horizontal Cables 15

4.2 Equipment Outlets / Telecommunication Outlets 16

4.4 Patch Cables 17

4.4 Patch Panels 19

4.5 Backbone Cabling 20

4.5.1 Intra-building Voice Backbone 21

4.5.2 Inter-building Voice Backbone 21

4.5.3 Intra-building Fiber Optic Backbone Cabling 21

4.5.3.1 Multimode Fiber Optic 21

4.5.3.2 Singlemode Fiber Optic 22

4.5.4 Inter-building Fiber Optic Backbone Cabling 22

4.5.4.1 Multimode Fiber Optic 22

4.5.4.2 Singlemode Fiber Optic 23

4.6 Fiber Optic Enclosures 24

4.7 Equipment Racks and Swing Gates 24

4.8 Supporting Tray & Hardware 25

4.8.1 Ladder Runway 25

4.8.2 Basket / Mesh Tray 25

4.8.3 J-hook Assemblies 26

4.8.3 Velcro 26

4.9 Cabinets and Enclosures 27

5.0 COPPER CABLE INSTALLATION SPECIFICATIONS 28

5.1 Horizontal Cables 28

5.2 Backbone Voice Multi-pair Copper Cable 31

5.3 Patch Cables (Workstation) 32

5.4 Patch Cables (Panel) 33

5.5 Copper Cable Termination 34

6.0 INSTALLATION OF OPTICAL FIBER CABLES AND CONNECTORS 36

6.1 Backbone Fiber Optic Cable 36

6.2 Horizontal Fiber Optic Workstation Cable 40

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6.3 Fiber Optic Cable Jacket 40

6.4 Fiber Optic Connector 40

6.5 Fiber Optic Cable Termination 41

7.0 EQUIPMENT RACK 43

8.0 BONDING & GROUNDING (EARTHING) 47

9.0 ADMINISTRATION AND LABELING CONVENTIONS 48

9.1 Building Designation 48

9.1.1 Floor 48

9.1.2 Computer (MDF) & Telecom Rooms (TR) / Remote Wiring Closets (RWC) 49

9.1.3 Cable Numbers 49

9.2 Equipment Outlet 49

9.3 Intra and Inter-Building Backbone Cables 50

10.0 TEST AND DOCUMENTATION PROCEDURES 52

10.1 Testing of Installed Copper Cable 52

10.2 Testing of Optical Fiber Cables 54

11.0 COMPUTER - LAN/ TELECOMMUNICATIONS ROOM SPECIFICATIONS 55

11.1 Computer – LAN & Telecommunications Rooms (MDF & TR) 55

11.2 General Requirements 55

11.3 Conduit, Pathways & Sleeve Requirements 56

12.0 DOCUMENTATION 57

12.1 Letter of Certification 57

12.2 Implementation Report 58

12.3 Detailed Materials List 58

12.4 Cable Plant Test Certification Letter 58

12.5 Copper Cable Test Results 59

12.6 Fiber-optic backbone Cable Test Results 59

12.7 As-built Drawings 59

ATTACHMENTS:

ATTACHMENT A—SAMPLE LETTER OF CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT B—SAMPLE CONTRACTOR INFORMATION FORM

ATTACHMENT C—SAMPLE IMPLEMENTATION REPORT

ATTACHMENT D—SAMPLE DETAILED MATERIALS LIST

ATTACHMENT E—SAMPLE CABLE TEST CERTIFICATION LETTER

ATTACHMENT F—SAMPLE CAT 6 CABLE PERMANENT LINK CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT G—SAMPLE FIBER CABLE CERTIFICATION

ATTACHMENT H—SAMPLE CAT 6A CABLE PERMANENT LINK CERTIFICATION

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EXHIBITS

Exhibit 1: Typical Office Cable Design

Exhibit 2: Category 6 Cable Specifications.........................................................................…

Exhibit 3: Category 6 Module Specifications………………

Exhibit 4: Category 6 Patch Cable Specifications Chart.............…

Exhibit 5: Category 6 Patch Cable Color Chart..................…

Exhibit 6: Category 6 Patch Panel Specifications Chart

Exhibit 7: Typical Equipment Rack & Enclosure

Exhibit 8: Conduit Fill Ration Chart

Exhibit 9: T568B Pair/Pin Assignments

Exhibit 10: Equipment Outlet - Typical Faceplate Layout (Triplex Outlet)………………

Exhibit 11: Typical Fiber Optic & Voice Copper Building Backbone

Exhibit 12: Fiber Optic Outside Jacket Color Identification Chart

Exhibit 13: TIA/EIA 568C Requirements for Duplex SC Standard Configuration………………..41

Exhibit 14: Fiber Optic Strand Color Identification Chart

Exhibit 15: Fiber Optic Wavelength Chart

Exhibit 16: Fiber Optic Application & Distance Chart

Exhibit 17: MDF - (Computer - LAN Room) Equipment Rack Elevation& Layout………….……45

Exhibit 18: TR - Equipment Rack Elevation & Layout

Exhibit 19: Grounding/Bonding Diagram (Reference TIA/EIA-J-STD-607-A)…………………..47

Exhibit 20: Specification for Sizing TBB (Grounding / Bonding)

Exhibit 21: Color Coding Reference Chart (ANSI / TIA/EIA – 606-A)

Exhibit 22: Sample – Fluke Category 6 Permanent Link Test Result

Exhibit 23: Typical Signal Loss for Fiber Optic Cables & Connectors……………………...……

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1.0 INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

This document has been prepared for the Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) with the specific purpose of setting standards for structured cable plants in support of Local Area Network (LAN), voice connectivity and security applications that will function as follows:

• Accommodate the functional requirements of present and future information services.

• Support a multi-product and multi-vendor environment.

• Facilitate the planning and installation of cabling systems that will support the diverse communication needs of building occupants.

• Ensure uniformity of structured wiring and hardware infrastructure installations in all USCIS facilities.

The primary focus of this document is to define the standards for material, infrastructure, design, installation, and certification with respect to structured cabling systems for USCIS facilities. This document shall replace, modify, or otherwise supersede previous releases of these standards. An electronic version of this document resides in the Office of Information Technology (OIT) intranet Web site. For questions or comments regarding this document, contact:

Branch Chief – Converged Services Implementation USCIS Office of Information Technology Enterprise Infrastructure Division 70 Kimball Ave.

South Burlington, VT 05403

1.2 Background

Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is a component of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The mission of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is to secure America's promise as a nation of immigrants by providing accurate and useful information to our customers, granting immigration and citizenship benefits, promoting an awareness and understanding of citizenship, and ensuring the integrity of our immigration system.

Due to the increasing demands on Service resources, USCIS personnel must be able to share information rapidly and efficiently in order to succeed in fulfilling the Service mission.

In addition to this document, which establishes the cabling standards for USCIS, other documents are being developed that provide additional related information such as:

• USCIS Computer and Telephone – LAN Room Standards & Appendix A

• USCIS AV Standards (Audio Visual)

• USCIS FSS Requirements (OSI – Facility Specific Security - Standards)

• USCIS Computer Equipment Standards

- Facility LAP (Lease Acquisition Projects) will typically include coordination meetings and approximately three (3) site visits for the installation of cable plant in accordance with the site specific S.O.W. Typical project schedule: 1st) conduct the cable plant kick-off meeting with GC, and

6/2/2026 6 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4 subcontractors prior to start of the cable installation and acceptance of submittal package to review process, drop totals, faceplate configuration and labeling sequence prints along with wireless / overhead drop requirements, Visio layout & elevation drawings and A/V requirements, manufacturer warranty, Main Building Demarcation, circuit installations, network, PBX & server hardware deployments, occupancy, etc. typically held during the 50% construction review and in-wall inspection time frame 2nd) perform an above ceiling inspection to review cable plant installation, LAN Room, TR’s / RWC’s / IDF’s Closet build-outs, etc. prior to ceiling tile installation 3rd) final GSA acceptance and inspection of cable plant to verify labeling & drop locations, inventory of specified components per S.O.W., MDF / Computer – LAN Room and if applicable, TR’s / RWC’s / IDF’s Closet final build-out(s), electrical requirements, Demarcation cable extension, etc.

1.3 Scope

1.3.1 System

Typical structured cabling systems include the following elements:

• Horizontal cable

• Horizontal cross-connects (HC / TC)

• Transition or consolidation point (optional)

• Main cross-connect (MC / MDF)

• Intermediate cross-connect (IC / IDF)

• Backbone cabling (Intra and Inter)

• Equipment Outlet / Telecommunication Outlet (EO / TO)

• Work area (WA)

• Computer – LAN (MDF) & Telecommunications Rooms / Remote Wiring Closet (TR / RWC)

• Entrance facility (EF)

• Equipment room (ER)

• Bonding (Grounding & Earthing)

• Administration

1.3.2 Documentation

This document is intended to address the following specifications and installation practices related to structured cable plant installation:

• Recognized media

• Closet requirements, environmental and design

• Distribution cabling

• Cabling specifications and limits

• Installation practices

• Performance testing

• Supporting documentation

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1.4 Regulatory references

The cabling system described in this document is derived from the recommendations made in recognized Telecommunications Industry Standards. The following documents are incorporated by reference: *NOTE: Please reference latest versions of the standards and documents listed below if applicable.

1. USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard & ANSI/TIA/EIA Standards with special sections noted below

2. ANSI/TIA-526-7-A – Measurement of Optical Power Loss of Installed Singlemode Fiber Cable Plant

3. ANSI/TIA-526-14-C – Measurement of Optical Power Loss of Installed Multimode Fiber Cable Plant

4. ANSI/TIA-568.0-E – Generic Telecommunications Cabling Standard for Customer Premises

5. ANSI/TIA-568.1.E – Commercial Building Telecommunications Cabling Standard

6. ANSI/TIA-568.2-D – Copper Cabling Standard - Balanced Twisted-Pair Telecommunications Cabling

7. ANSI/TIA-568.3-D – Optical Fiber Cabling Components Standard

8. ANSI/TIA-569-E – Commercial Building Cabling Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and

Spaces

9. ANSI/TIA-570-D – Residential Telecommunications Cabling Standard

10. ANSI/TIA-862-B – Structured Cabling Infrastructure Standard for Intelligent Building Systems

11. ANSI/TIA-5017 - Telecommunications Physical Network Security Standard

12. ANSI/TIA-598-D – Optical Fiber Cable Color Coding

13. ANSI/TIA-606-C – Administration Standard for Telecommunications Infrastructure of Commercial

Building

14. ANSI/TIA-607-D – Commercial Building Grounding (Earthing) and Bonding Requirements for

Telecommunications

15. ANSI/TIA-758-B – Customer-Owned Outside Plant Telecommunications Cabling Standard

16. ANSI/TIA-862-B – BAS, Building Automation Systems Cabling for Commercial Buildings

17. ANSI/TIA-942-B – Telecommunications Infrastructure for Data Centers

18. ANSI/TIA-1005-A – Telecommunications Infrastructure for Industrial Premises

19. TIA TSB 5018 - Structured Cabling Infrastructure Guidelines to Support Distributed Antenna Systems

20. TIA 455-C, TIA-492 Series 2000, TIA-526-7-A, TIA-526-14-C, ANSI/TIA-568.3-D – Guidelines for

Multimode and Singlemode Fiber Optic Cabling & Field-Testing

21. TIA TSB 140 – Additional Guidelines for Field-Testing Length, Loss and Polarity of Optical Fiber Optic

Cabling

22. TIA TSB 4979 - Practical Considerations for Implementation of Encircled Flux Launch Conditions in the Field

23. ANSI/TIA-492-AAAC-D – Detail Specification for 850-nm Laser-Optimized, 50-um Core

Diameter/125-um Cladding Diameter Class 1a Graded-index Multimode Optical Fibers (OM3/OM4). Current Edition

24. ANSI/TIA-1062 - Telecommunications Telephony Aspects of MLTS and Packet based Equipment, including VoIP Interface Requirements for Packet-based Gateways

25. ANSI/TIA-1152-A - Requirements for Field Test Instruments and Measurements for Balanced Twisted-Pair Cabling

26. ICSI-TDMM Latest Edition, Building Industries Consulting Services International

27. National Fire Protection Agency

28. National Electrical Code (NEC)

29. NEMA 250

30. National Electrical Safety Code (NESC)

31. IEEE-C2

32. FSS Requirements (OSI Security Standard)

If this document and any of the documents listed above are in conflict, then, as a general principle, the more stringent requirement shall apply. However, in all cases where there appears to be conflict or a specification is not clear to the contractor, the USCIS Cable Plant Management or USCIS Technical Representative must be contacted for clarification.

The contractor will abide by all applicable federal, state, county and local building codes and safety regulations along with providing required permits if applicable.

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2.0 OBJECTIVES

2.1 Network Requirements

The objective of this network approach is to provide USCIS with a standardized, cost-effective cable plant infrastructure that will accommodate present and future voice, video, data and security requirements. To ensure the longevity of the application, the structured cable plant will include a minimum 15-year application assurance warranty. Workstation cabling infrastructure shall support bandwidth demands from 100 Megabits per second (Mbps) up to 10 Gigabit speeds. Fiber optic backbone cable infrastructure shall support bandwidth demands for 10 Gigabit Ethernet. SM (Singlemode) fiber optic cable into the facility will support these larger data circuits provided by the service provider. The installation of the cable plant infrastructure shall comply with UL ratings and installation requirements of ANSI/TIA/EIA – 568C, NFPA, ASTM, NEC, local, state and federal codes and standards. This standard also provides the implementation of a one-wire solution for VoIP applications typical for USCIS facilities.

2.1 Cable Plant Specific Site Requirements

The structured cable plant standard design shall utilize the following cable distribution methods to support conductivity throughout the building:

• Horizontal workstation cabling, which will connect the user workstation, or equipment outlet / telecommunication out (EO / TO) to the nearest Computer – LAN / Telecom Room (MDF / TR) in a star topology shall be plenum Category 6. The EO / TO shall consist of two (2), Cat 6, plenum cables white in color (2D - two data) unless otherwise specified. A wall phone location shall consist of one (1), Cat 6 plenum white cable for voice. If the quantity of cables deviates from these standard and S.O.W. Site Specific Requirements, the quantity will be specified on the provided print(s). NOTE: The previous triplex standard, V2.1 with three (3), Cat 6, plenum cables white in color (2D/1V - two data & one voice) may apply for existing facilities or special applications. The V2.1 standard is available upon request.

• The EO /TO shall consists of two (2) Cat 6, modules or jacks, two data “A” & “B” (1 - blue & 1 -red in color) in a 2-port faceplate. Exception: If the previous standard applies, one voice “C” (white in color) will be utilized in a 4-port faceplate. Also “D” may be applied for special application for training room requirement, multi-user work area application or security, etc. (gray in color – Cat 6A) or F-Series module for a CATV RG6U coaxial cable.

• The faceplate of the EO / TO shall be white in color and have the flexibility of supporting two (2) inserts (jacks, modules, etc.). Any unoccupied opening(s) shall be filled with a blank insert which matches the color of the faceplate. The faceplate color may be changed to match the décor of the electrical devices and system furniture (utilized in baseboard). Exception: 4 or 6-port faceplates may be utilized for locations with multiple drops.

• The wall phone outlet shall consist of one (1) Cat 6, modules or jacks for voice (white in color) in a stainless steel plate with mounting studs. The outlet shall be at the specified height for mounting of the device to meet ADA compliance.

• The horizontal workstation cabling for the EO / TO drop locations will be terminated in the nearest

Computer – LAN / Telecommunications Room (MDF or TR) to Category 6, forty-eight (48) & twenty-four (24) port patch panels with horizontal wire management with hinged covers. The

6/2/2026 9 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4 patch panels will be labeled accordingly with “A” & “B” to identify the data and voice cabling.

Exception: “C” & “D” if applicable.

• The horizontal workstation cabling for the wall phone drop locations will be terminated in the nearest Computer – LAN / Telecommunications Room (MDF / TR) to Category 6, twenty-four

(24) port patch panel with horizontal wire management with hinged covers. The patch panel will be labeled accordingly with “W” to identify the single voice locations. NOTE: A minimum of twelve (12) Cat 6 cables may also be terminated on the last twelve ports on the “W” wall phone patch panel for closet to closet conductivity for special applications to include equipment monitoring devices, Q-Flow, etc. Exception: (“D” cables may also be terminated on “W” patch panel if applicable)

• The MDF / Computer – LAN & Telecommunications Room(s) will consist of standard equipment rack(s), 7’ x 19”, with 10” vertical, doubled-sided, hinged wire management (6” may apply depending on TR / IT Closet size) and double-sided horizontal 3U, 2U & 1U wire managers, black in color (to support all cable routing), shelves and PDU’s along with complete 24” ladder runway system with rack elevation kits and drop-outs mounted above rack / cabinet configurations. (18” ladder runway may be specified in TR(’s) / TR’s / RWC’s / IDF’s Closet(s).

• The MDF / Computer – LAN Room will support a minimum of four (4) - twelve 12-port remote patch panels with Cat 6 cables will be installed on the ladder runway above the Server and PBX / VoIP enclosures and cabinets along with Security for network connections. These remote patch panels will have bundles of twelve (12) Category 6 cables routed to a Category 6, twenty-four 24-port patch panel located in an equipment rack and installed with horizontal wire management with hinged covers. The patch panel(s) will be labeled accordingly with “S” to identify the server cabling. Exception: Special application due to space allocation may allow for fewer remote patch panels with prior approval.

• The Building Demarcation is typically required to be extended to the MDF / Computer – LAN

Room with a minimum, CMP plenum-rated or CMR riser-rated 50-pair Category 3, copper backbone cable, terminated on 110 stand-off blocks (110FT) on each end for extension of voice, data and security circuits or analog (POTS) lines will be specified. Also, an armored, plenum cable 50/125um LOMM OM3, Multimode, fiber optic backbone cable is extended for data circuit extensions with LC LOMM duplex panels and LOMM connectors in a wall-mount enclosure in the Building Demarcation and rack-mount in the MDF / Computer – LAN Room along with a SM (Singlemode) armored, plenum fiber cable for circuit extensions with a RG11U cable for CATV. Two (2) 4” EMT conduit raceways with pull strings are provided by the electrician for the installation to the Building Demarcation, which is for security requirements and may be on the same floor or many so the cable length will depend on the actual distance.

An additional 24-port patch panel mounted on a 19” stand-alone rack may be specified to extend circuits to the plywood backboard for extension of the circuits in the S.O.W.

• If applicable, where closet to closet conductivity is required for voice between the TR(s) and the

MDF, a plenum Category 3 multiple pair, copper backbone cable will be specified. For intra-building conductivity the pair count will be specified and terminated on 24 or 48-port patch panels for voice cross-connect. (Pre-terminated, 25-pair Amphenol style patch panels may also be specified in the S.O.W. for PBX / Voice Server connections for analog port connections.)

• Where closet to closet conductivity is required for data, voice (VoIP) and security between the

TR(s) and the MDF / Computer – LAN Room, a plenum armored, 12-strand (Exception: 24-

6/2/2026 10 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4 strand for special applications), 50/125um LOMM OM3, Multimode, fiber optic backbone cable will be specified. An armored, plenum cable is specified for intra-building conductivity for data, voice and security applications (standard to utilize last pair), with enclosures, SC LOMM duplex panels and LOMM connectors are required for the system installation along with specified lengths and type of duplex 50um LOMM fiber optic jumpers, aqua in color. (SC-SC, SC-LC, LC- LC, etc.) Exception: USCIS existing infrastructure is 62.5um fiber optic cable for many facilities and applications, which may be specified with prior approval. Plenum armored, twenty-four strand, 50/125um LOMM OM3 or OM4 may also apply for special applications.

Also copper tie cables will be extended for voice and overhead paging requirements consisting of a combination on 5 or 50-pair Cat 3, Cat 6 and 22 or 18 AWG multi-conductor type cables.

• The equipment rack elevations and Computer – LAN / Telecommunications – LAN Room layout(s) of the patch panels, wire management, enclosures, shelves, PDU’s, UPS (if specified), etc. will be provided in the elevation drawings. The installer contractor is required to install networking hardware and provide patch cable installation. The standard configuration is: 100% of “A” ports blue in color, 20% of “B” ports, red in color and 100% of “S” ports, violet in color shall be patched in the MDF & TR(s) locations. Provide 10’ black patch cables for “A” and “B” ports patched for workstation at EO / TO. The patch cables for voice are also required with quantities and lengths specified in the S.O.W. for 20% of the “W” ports. (Additional quantities may be required if cross-connect if TR location exist) Other miscellaneous colors, lengths and quantities of patch cables for special applications may be requested in the provided S.O.W.

• The patch cable length may vary depending on specified network hardware deployment. Network switches may be mounted above or below Category 6, forty-eight (48) & twenty-four (24) port patch panels and utilize shorter, certified manufacturer specific patch cables. Lengths may vary in Computer – LAN / Telecommunications Rooms: 1’, 3’, 5’, 7’, etc. NOTE: Patch cables must be labeled on each end with designated sequence as specified, Section 5.3. Exception: 1’ patch cables may utilize one identification label due to length.

• Wireless Applications: The installation requirements for the USCIS Wireless application throughout a facility will be included in the build-out of a project. The requirement includes two (2) Cat 6 plenum cables, with two (2) data Cat 6, modules or jacks, “A” & “B” (1 - blue & 1 - red in color) in a 2-port surface boxes, mounting brackets, termination on “A” & “B” patch panels, wire management, green patch cables, etc. along with installation labor, which will be typically specified in a provided S.O.W. Site specific details will be included in the S.O.W. for the requested installation and components to comply with the facility requirements. NOTE:

Two (2) data Cat 6, “green” modules or jacks, “AP” may be specified for existing facilities for the wireless application.

• Q-Flow Application & Digital Signage: Where applicable, the installation requirements for the

USCIS Q-Flow application in the Information / Adjudication Waiting Rooms will be included in the build-out of a project for LCD locations. The requirement includes Cat 6 plenum cabling, with two (2) data Cat 6, modules or jacks, “A” & “B” (1 - blue & 1 - red in color) in a 2-port faceplate, termination on “A” & “B” patch panels, patch cables, etc. along with installation labor, which will be typically specified in a provided S.O.W. Site Specific Requirements for installation and components to comply with the facility.

• Voice Overhead Paging & Reservation Applications: Where applicable, the installation requirements for the USCIS Overhead Paging System application throughout the facility and in the Information / Adjudication Waiting Rooms, etc. along with reservation systems for

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Conference, Team and Training rooms will be included in the build-out of a project. The requirement includes two (2) Cat 6 plenum cables, with two (2) data Cat 6, modules or jacks, “A” & “B” (1 - blue & 1 - red in color) in a 2-port surface boxes, mounting brackets, termination on “A” & “B” patch panels, violet (purple) patch cables, etc. along with installation labor, which will be typically specified in a provided S.O.W. Site Specific Requirements for installation and components to comply with the facility.

• Security System Application: NOTE: As part of a new USCIS process, the OIT contractor will typically be responsible for the installation of the security cable installation for LAP projects only, which the security vendor will terminate accordingly with the exception of the Cat 6A cable. The security cable requirements and labeling are included in the Site Specific Cable Plant S.O.W. The installation requirements for the USCIS Security System applications on the network throughout a facility will be included in the build-out of a project. The cable requirements include plenum Cat 6A (gray in color), banana-peel or type and multi-conductor cables (18/6, 18/2, 22/2, etc. - gray in color), Cat 6A patch panels, wire management, Cat 6A conductivity / termination hardware, plenum surface boxes, faceplates, patch cables (also gray in color), racks, cabinet (provided by the security vendor), etc. along with installation labor.

These requirements are also referenced in the Security S.O.W., for the requested installation and components to comply with the facility requirements. NOTE: The security Cat 6A cables may route with the IT cable plant within the basket tray and category-rated j-hook assemblies, but all of the multi-conductor cables must maintain a minimum of 2” clearance and shall be installed in separate supporting assemblies accordingly along with separation throughout routing in the basket tray, racks, cabinets, vertical wire management, etc. Security cabling should also follow the industry standard for maximum length requirements of 90m / 295’ along with utilizing designated new or existing OIT specified spaces (Computer/LAN Room & TR’s / RWC’s) per floor for the security equipment, following the typical star topology noted below for horizontal cabling. OIT may authorize an exception if the manufacturer’s cable specifications provide different direction for length. Also, the AWG # conductor gauge size may also need to be increased due to voltage drop for longer cable lengths based on design. Reference the manufacturer installation specifications for specifications.

• CATV (Cable Television) Application: Where applicable, the installation requirements for the

USCIS CATV application may include the Information / Adjudication Waiting Rooms, FDNS Suites, Conference Rooms, Natz. Ceremony Rooms, District or Field Director’s offices, etc. will be included in the build-out of a project. The requirements may include plenum RG6U cabling, RG11 backbone cabling, conductivity / termination hardware, etc. along with installation labor, which will be typically specified in a provided S.O.W. Site specific details will be included in the S.O.W. for the requested installation / components to comply with the facility requirements.

• Tool Kit, Butt Set & Step Stool: Where applicable, items may be included with the site specific details included in the S.O.W. for IT service support to perform miscellaneous M.A.C. requests accordingly following occupancy of a new facility.

• Bonding and Grounding: Must be installed in accordance of standard J-STD-607-A and ANSI/TIA/EIA – 606 for labeling requirements. All USCIS OIT and security cabinets must be grounded by the IT contractor accordingly with wire / components included in the S.O.W.

NOTE: Enhanced / Premium Cat 6e may be specified for facilities with length concerns / challenges or a design to support the servicing multi-floors from a MDF / TR. * Also, if applicable, reference the provided USCIS Cable Plant S.O.W. for specific projects. The document will include site specific details, elevation / layout drawings, etc. for a project.

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3.0 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS: Commercial Building Telecommunication Cabling Standard

This section includes the six subsystems of a structure cabling system. These specifications reference the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)/Telecommunications Industries Association (TIA)/Electronic Industries Association (EIA) 568C recommendations. Detailed cable plant specifications and guidelines unique to USCIS are provided in Section 4.

3.1 Entrance Facilities (EF)

The building entrance facilities provide an interface for services within the structure. Outdoor cabling from a service provider or inter-building between facilities which enter the building will interface to the intra-building backbone cabling. Please refer to TIA/EIA -568C standard which defines physical requirements of the network interface. The network cable plant shall utilize the following cable distribution methods to support connectivity throughout the building.

3.2 Equipment Room (ER) / MDF (Main Distribution Frame / Computer – LAN Room)

The equipment room will contain high-end hardware for the facility and provide an interface to the Computer – LAN /Telecommunications Room(s) through intra-building backbone cabling. The functions of a TR may also be provided in the ER, this may be determined on the size of the facility.

Please refer to TIA/EIA -568C standard for design requirements. USCIS may incorporate the functions of the EF & ER within a single space which is typically referred to as the MDF / Computer

– LAN Room in a facility.

3.3 Backbone Cabling

The backbone may consist of inter-building or intra-building cabling providing the facility with an interconnection between the TR, ER and EF. A vertical connection or risers between floors will be required for a facility with multiple floors. Multiple closets may be required depending on the size of the site. The cross-connection for backbone cabling will be with intermediate and main cross-connects mechanical terminations, patch cords, jumpers, etc. for interface of multiple service types.

Some design requirements include:

• Star topology

• No more than two hierarchical levels of backbone cross-connects

• No bridge taps are allowed

• Main and intermediate cross-connect patch cords or jumpers should not exceed 20m or 66 feet

• Areas of high levels and sources of EMI/RFI should be avoided

• Work zone distribution cabling for open office space

• Bonding (Grounding & Earthing) should meet the standard requirements of J-STD-607-A

3.4 Computer – LAN & Telecommunications Room (MDF & TR)

The Computer – LAN / Telecommunications Rooms will contain the components of the structured cabling system and equipment or connection for services supporting the users of voice and data. The terminations and cross-connections for voice and data of the horizontal and backbone cabling are contained in this space. Please refer to the TIA/EIA - 569 standard for design requirements.

3.5 Horizontal Cabling

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The horizontal cabling is the connection extending services from the Telecommunications Room (TR) to the Equipment Outlet (EO) / Telecommunications Outlet (TO). This connection consists of horizontal cabling (UTP, ScTP, fiber optic, etc.), telecommunications outlet (faceplate, furniture outlet, multiple outlet system, etc.), cable terminations (patch panels, blocks, jacks, modules, etc.)

and cross-connections (patch cables, cross-connect wire, jumpers, etc.). The four types of recognized media for horizontal cabling are:

• 4-pair UTP cable

• 4-pair ScTP cable

• 2-fiber, 62.5/125um optical cable

• 2-fiber, 50/125um optical cable

The maximum distance of horizontal cabling is 90m or 295 feet. A total of 10m or 33 feet is allowed for the patch cables in the TR and at the work area. To comply with TIA/EIA-568C specification distance limits, the cable run from any user workstation location to the nearest wiring center shall not exceed 100 meters (328 feet). The actual length of a cable run is defined as the total combined length of the horizontal cable, work area and TR patch cables. When planning or designing office space the TR locations should be located within 90 meters of any workstation outlet.

This design approach allows for the addition of patch cables without exceeding the specification distance limits. NOTE: Enhanced / Premium Cat 6 may be specified for facilities with length concerns / challenges or a design to support the servicing multi-floors from a MDF / TR. This allows for a cable length up to 106 meters and 10 meters of patch cables, which will meet some manufacturer requirements for an extended distance channel warranty for a 15-year time frame. See compliant manufacturers for specifications.

A multi-user equipment outlet assembly (MUTOA) is optional for open office environments. The MUTOA is not allowed in ceiling or access or raised floor applications. Special work cable area (patch cable) lengths are required depending on the horizontal cable length. Please refer to the standard requirements of TIA/EIA-568C for installation, labeling and a table for horizontal and work area cable lengths.

A consolidation point is also an option for open office environments or similar applications with multiple variations for installation. Only one consolidation point is allowed in the horizontal cabling and a distance of 15m or 49 feet for the TR and UTP cable must be extended to the work outlet. The transition from UTP to flat under carpet cable is not allowed. Please refer to the standard requirements of TIA/EIA-568C for installation, labeling and spare requirements.

The use of centralized optical fiber cabling offers flexibility with centralized electronics or server farms with fiber horizontal and backbone. Please refer to the standard requirements of TIA/EIA- 568C for installation requirements.

Note: Building pathways shall be installed in “dry” locations that protect cables from moisture levels that are beyond the intended operating range of “inside” premise cable. Slab-on-grade designs wherein the pathways are installed underground or in concrete slabs that are in direct contact with earth are considered to be “wet locations”. If applicable, the appropriate OSP (Outside Plant) cabling for this location should be installed to meet the specification of the condition along with the associated hardware.

3.6 Equipment Outlet / Telecommunication Outlet

The Equipment Outlet / Telecommunication Outlet should have a minimum of two outlet ports, one

6/2/2026 14 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4 for voice (100 ohm UTP/ScTP 4-pair, 568A or 568B) and one data (100 ohm UTP/ScTP 4-pair, 62.5/125um or 50/125um fiber). Please refer to TIA/EIA -568C standard for requirements.

*NOTE: Please reference USCIS typical Equipment Outlet / Telecommunication Outlet (EO / TO) configuration listed above in the Cable Plant Specific Site Requirements and Exhibit # 10.

Exhibit 1: Typical Office Cable Design

4.0 SPECIFICATIONS

This section provides detailed component characteristics and specifications with respect to the materials used to install the structured cable plant. The key design requirements have been include for each section.

Exceptions:

If an existing facility is collocated with another DHS agency, then all new cabling will follow the current building standards of the hosting agency, except it must meet the minimum requirement of Category 6 cable as specified in Exhibit 2.

Any questions should be directed to the Branch Chief – Converged Services Implementation

USCIS Office of Information Technology Enterprise Infrastructure Division 70 Kimball Ave.

South Burlington, VT 05403

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NOTE: A minimum 15-year performance / application assurance warranty on the Structured Cable System Installation shall be issued by the manufacturer of the conductivity hardware. All components of the cable plant shall be included in the provided warranty with the manufacturer of the conductivity hardware or the cable manufacturer as the single point of contact. Any exception on the manufacturer support of warranty must be reviewed and approved by an OIT USCIS representative.

4.1 Horizontal Cabling

The specified horizontal cabling will consist of a star topology extending from the TR to the work area EO. The horizontal cabling system components consist of the horizontal cabling, information outlet, cable terminations, cross-connect patch cables. All cable, equipment, and materials shall meet applicable ANSI/TIA/EIA-568C, National Electrical Code (NEC), Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) 802 and Underwriters Laboratory (UL) Verification Program standards. All cable equipment and materials must be manufactured by facilities that are International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9001 registered and certified.

• Shall be Category 6 rating in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-568C along with offering Enhanced / Premium Cat 6 cable products.

• Four-pair, eight conductor, 100-Ohm, 23-24 American Wire Gage (AWG), solid annealed bare high quality copper.

• The cable should have contiguous, 2-foot segment-length markers printed on the cable jacket. The markings must also show the applicable performance CAT 6, as well as the fire rating of the cable being installed.

• The finished cable shall be 100% plenum, CMP, rated in accordance with the requirements of UL 444, NFPA 262, and ASTM D 4566-05 standards. (See Exceptions Below)

• All horizontal cables must have a jacket color of white (unless otherwise specified).

• If an existing cabling infrastructure is in place, the specifications may vary to match the color and cable type. Any deviation from the above standards must be authorized.

Note: Category 6 cable must meet or exceed specifications listed in Exhibit 2.

Exhibit 2: Category 6 Cable Specifications

Specification Category 6 (250MHz)

Frequency Range 1-250 MHz

Insertion Loss (minimum) 32.8 dB

NEXT (minimum) 38.3 dB

PSNEXT (minimum) 36.3 dB

ACR (minimum) 6.6 dB

PSACR (minimum) 3.6 dB

ELFEXT (minimum) 19.8 dB

PSELFEXT (minimum) 16.8 dB

Return Loss (minimum) 17.3 dB

Propagation Delay(maximum) 538 nanoseconds (ns) @ 250MHz

Delay Skew (maximum) 45 ns / 100m @ all frequencies

6/2/2026 16 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4

Exception: CM or CMR may be utilized if installed in conduit raceway or in specified space for application with prior authorization only. Category 6A UTP may be specified for a unique and / or security requirements (cameras, video, environment, etc.) upon prior approval only or per specifications listed in a S.O.W. provided by USCIS. All components must be compliant for a specification of Cat 6A UTP systems and meet manufacturer requirements.

4.2 Equipment Outlets / Telecommunication Outlets

Each workstation area shall use a standard EO / TO (faceplate, system furniture plates & surface boxes) that can support a minimum of four (4) inserts (jacks, modules, etc. of RJ-45 footprint non-keyed). Dual-connection interfaces may be utilized if EO supports minimum of (4) connections. If a fiber optic termination is utilized in the EO, an insert(s) which support SC simplex or duplex connection are required. Regardless of the installation contractor, all voice and data cable shall utilize a single Equipment Outlet, which includes surface boxes for above ceiling installation for wireless / overhead paging applications. Equipment Outlets must be capable of future growth without the need to replace the entire assembly. If the EO / TO utilizes a dual gang plate at the workstation drop location the designated ports shall be located in a left to right configuration (consider location as two standard drops).

• Shall be White or Off-White in color.

• Shall provide for two (2) or four (4) inserts (jacks, modules, etc.).

• Shall offer six (6) inserts in a single-gang footprint (jacks, modules, etc.).

• Shall accommodate opening size provided in system furniture baseboard or channel opening.

• Shall offer a double-gang footprint (accepts typical of eight (8) – twelve (12) jacks, etc.).

• Shall offer ANSI/TIA/EIA symbol icons or shutters for application identification (DATA, VOICE, etc) in multiple colors and configurations.

• Provide individual label window(s) for cable identification (mandatory requirement).

• Provides a high-density design.

• Constructed of high impact, flame-retardant thermoplastic to meet requirement for above ceiling installation for wireless / overhead paging / reservation system applications.

• Be independently verified for Category 6 compliance.

• Provided Channel Solution with patch cable assemblies for Category 6 compliance.

• Meets or exceeds ANSI/TIA/EIA- 568C for Category 6 specifications and have designation visually displayed.

• Must be certified by the UL.

• Mounts to standard electrical single gang and dual gang boxes.

• Available in a multitude of colors.

• Offers non-keyed RJ-45 style connectors with shutter or protection cover assembly.

• Provide category ratings on outlet per ANSI/TIA/EIA standard.

• Allow termination with a single conductor impact tool.

6/2/2026 17 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4

• Provides backward compatibility to allow performing categories of cables or connecting hardware to operate to their full capacity.

• Provides standard 110D type Insertion Displacement Connector (IDC) Printed Circuit Board (PCB) mounted connector.

• Support industry standard for T568B wiring options on each individual module.

• Shall offer solutions for secure environments.

• Allows for a minimum of 200 terminations without signal degradation below standards compliance limits.

• Meets all ANSI / TIA – 1096-A, previously Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part 68 specifications (shall have minimum of 50 micro of gold plating on each tine with minimum force of 100 grams).

• Must match make and model in existing facilities.

• Keystone style inserts (modules, jacks, etc.) required for all assemblies or adapters. The keystone allows for flexibility of manufacturer’s products and compatibility within an existing faceplate.

• Provides interchangeability between multiple manufacturer type modules.

• Provides option in which module can be mounted into an IEC 60603-7 compliant opening (keystone).

• Shall offer SC simplex and duplex inserts for fiber optic connection(s) and also except LC, MTRJ, ST, etc. inserts.

• Match manufacturer and design of existing facility installations. (The faceplate color may be changed to match existing product type and/or the décor of the electrical devices. Any deviation from the standard must be authorized.)

• Shall offer plenum-rated assembly to meet requirement for above ceiling installation for wireless / overhead paging applications.

• Module must meet the following Category 6 performance specifications below.

Exhibit 3: Category 6 Module Specifications @ 250 MHz

PARAMETERS Worst Case Typical

Insertion Loss (dB) 0.12 0.14

NEXT (dB) 0.8432 dB 4.37

FEXT (dB) 2.1 5.1

Return Loss (dB) 6.9 8.3

4.3 Patch Cables

The installer contractor is required to install networking hardware and provide patch cable installation. The standard configuration is: 100% of “A” ports blue in color and 30% of “B” ports red in color shall be patched in the MDF and TR(s) locations. Provide 10’ black patch cables for “A” and “B” ports patched for workstation at the EO / TO. The patch cables for voice are only required if specified in the S.O.W. for the “C” ports. If the quantity of patch cables deviates from these standards or if labeling is required, these items will be specified in the provided Scope of Work.

6/2/2026 18 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4

• Shall be compliant in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-568C specifications for Category 6 transmission parameters up to 250 MHz and have designation visually displayed.

• 4-pair, UTP stranded conductors for extended flex-life cables.

• RJ-45 modular connector on both ends straight through termination (8 position / 8 conductor).

• Certified by the manufacturer of the termination hardware (best channel performance characteristics).

• Cables shall be available in a wide variety of colors and lengths.

• Length of any patch cable typically shall not exceed 16’ (5m) unless otherwise specified for special application (training rooms, COOP, etc.).

• Provides backward compatibility with lower performing categories.

• Meets all Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Part 68 and IEC 60603-7 specifications (shall have minimum of 50 micro of gold plating on each tine with minimum force of 100 grams) and are resistant to corrosion from humidity extreme temperatures and airborne contaminants.

• Patch cable shall be secured with Velcro (tie-wraps shall not be used for any application of the installation)

• Quantities and lengths may vary due to layout of racks and equipment. * See Cable Plant S.O.W.

Attachment A – Site Specific Requirements

• The patch cable length may vary depending on specified network hardware deployment. Network switches may be mounted above or below Category 6, forty-eight (48) & twenty-four (24) port patch panels and utilize shorter, certified manufacturer specific patch cables. Lengths may vary in Computer – LAN / Telecommunications Rooms: 1’, 3’, 5’, 7’, etc.

• See designation charts for specifications, color and length requirements. * See Exhibit 5 below

• Patch cables shall be labeled on each end with designated sequence as specified, Section 5.3.

Exception: 1’ patch cables may utilize one identification label due to length if applicable.

Exhibit 4: Category 6 Patch Cable Specification Chart

Frequency (MHz)

Attenuation (dB/100m)

PS ELFEXT

(dB)

PS NEXT

(dB)

1 2.4 67.8 72.3 4 4.5 55.8 63.3

10 7.1 47.8 57.3 16 9.1 43.7 54.2 20 10.2 41.8 52.8

31.25 12.8 37.9 49.9

62.5 18.5 31.9 45.4 100 23.8 27.8 42.3 200 34.8 21.8 37.8 250 39.4 19.8 36.3

6/2/2026 19 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard

Exhibit 5: Category 6 Patch Cable Color Chart (NOTE: Cat 6A utilized for Security)

Specification Color Length

“A” Port - Data(equipment rack) Blue 1’, 3’ & 5’ (unless otherwise specified)

“B” Port - Data(equipment rack) Red 1’, 3’ & 5’ (unless otherwise specified)

“C&W” Port - Voice (equip. rack) White 7’ & 10’ (unless otherwise specified)

“D & Security” - Port (application) Gray 3’, 5’ - 20’(unless otherwise specified)

Servers / AV (equipment rack) Black & Violet / Purple 1’, 5’- 15’ (unless otherwise specified)

Servers / AV (cabinet / enclosure ) Violet / Purple 10’ & 15’ (unless otherwise specified)

Overhead Paging (equip. rack) Violet / Purple 1’, 3’ & 5’(unless otherwise specified)

Wireless Use (drop & equip. rack) Green / Gray (plenum) 1’, 3’ & 5’ (unless otherwise specified)

Data A&B ports(VoIP phones/desktops) Black 7’,10’& 20’ (unless otherwise specified)

Exception: Refer to USCIS Cable Plant Scope of Work for “Specific Site Requirements” which include lengths and quantities for individual projects.

4.4 Patch Panels

The patch panels for the data and voice, horizontal cabling shall be installed in the equipment racks in the TR(s). The patch panels shall be Category 6, forty-eight (48) & twenty-four (24) port with horizontal wire management with hinged covers. The patch panels will be labeled accordingly with “A”, “B”, “W” & “S” (if applicable “C”) to identify the termination of data and voice cabling.

Layout and elevation drawings will be provided for equipment rack(s).

The single voice wall phone, horizontal cabling shall be installed in the equipment racks in the TR(s) on a separate patch panel. This patch panel shall be a Category 6, twenty-four (24) ports with horizontal wire management with hinged covers. The patch panel will be labeled accordingly with “wall phone locations” to identify the termination of single voice locations.

• Shall be compliant in accordance with ANSI/TIA/EIA-568C specifications for Category 6 transmission parameters up to 250 MHz and have designation visually displayed.

• T568B wiring standards.

• Forty-eight (48) port & twenty-four (24) port standard configuration.

• Provide RJ-45 interface.

• Provides standard 110D type IDC termination.

• Provide rear wire management hardware for cable support.

• Provide modular design to facilitate field repairs.

• Available in low and high-density configurations.

• Meet the standard EIA-310 relay rack spacing specifications.

• Meets all ANSI / TIA – 1096-A, previously FCC Part 68 specifications.

• Available in twelve (12) port configuration (for server applications with mounting bracket or assembly); Utilized for application similar to consolidation point, MOS, MUTOA, etc.

6/2/2026 20 USCIS Structured Cable Plant Standard Version 2.4

• Available in blank port configuration, 12, 24, 48, etc. (multimedia, modular, quick port, keystone, etc.) to accept keystone modular assemblies; Note - Utilized with prior authorization only.

• Match manufacturer and design of existing facility installations. (The patch panel may be changed to match existing product type. Any deviation from the standard must be authorized.)

Exhibit 6: Category 6 Patch Panel Specifications

Specification Category 6 (250MHz)

Frequency Range 250 MHz

Insertion Loss (minimum) 32 dB

NEXT (minimum) 46 dB

FEXT (minimum) 35.1…