Industry Glossary

Structured Cabling

• Backbone Cabling: Cabling that connects entrance facilities, equipment rooms, and telecommunications rooms; typically includes fiber or high-pair copper.
• Cable Bend Radius: Minimum radius a cable can be bent without damage or performance loss; defined by TIA and manufacturer specs.
• Cable Certification: Formal testing of installed cabling to verify compliance with performance standards (e.g., TIA-568).
• Cable Count: Total number of cables in a bundle, pathway, or system; used for planning, labeling, and load calculations.
• Cable Jacket: Outer protective layer of a cable, rated for plenum, riser, or general-purpose use.
• Cable Lubricant: Approved compound used to reduce friction during cable pulls; must be compatible with cable jacket material.
• Cable Management: Organized routing and securing of cables to maintain performance, accessibility, and code compliance.
• Cable Pathway: Designated route for structured cabling, including conduit, raceway, tray, or open ceiling space.
• Cable Pulling Tension: Maximum force allowed during installation to prevent damage; defined by manufacturer specs.
• Cable Routing Assembly (CRA): Listed cable support system defined by NEC 2026 for managing and securing communications cabling in open or structured pathways.
• Cable Separation: Required distance between power and data cables to prevent interference; governed by NEC and TIA.
• Class 4 (CL4) Circuit: Fault-managed power circuit defined by NEC Articles 725 and 726, enabling higher power levels than Class 2 or 3 while maintaining safety through active fault monitoring.
• Cross-Connect: Point where cabling is interconnected via patch cords or jumpers; used for flexibility and rerouting.
• Fault-Managed Power System (FMPS): System that delivers power using continuous fault monitoring and automatic shutdown; foundational to Class 4 circuits and long-distance remote powering.
• Horizontal Cabling: Cabling from telecommunications room to work area outlets; typically limited to 90 meters per TIA-568.
• ICT Power Circuit: NEC 2026 term for circuits supplying power to ICT equipment, including PoE, LP, and FMPS-based systems.
• Labeling Standard: Defined scheme for identifying cables, pathways, and termination points; typically based on TIA-606.
• LP Cable (Limited Power Cable): Cable marked for higher allowable ampacity under bundled conditions; NEC 2026 clarifies testing and application requirements for remote-powering systems.
• Main Cross-Connect (MC): Primary location for backbone cabling termination; often located in the equipment room.
• Minimum Point of Entry (MPOE): Legacy term referring to the first accessible point where external cabling enters a building; modern terminology uses “Demarcation Point” or “Service Entrance Facility.”
• Outside Plant (OSP): Cabling installed outdoors or between buildings; subject to environmental and grounding standards.
• Plenum Space: Legacy terminology for air-handling spaces; NEC now uses “Environmental Air Plenum,” but the term remains widely used in the field.
• RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer): BICSI-certified professional specializing in structured cabling design and standards compliance.
• Remote Powering: Updated NEC 2026 term covering PoE, digital electricity, and other methods of delivering power over communications cabling.
• Riser Space: Legacy terminology for vertical pathways between floors; NEC now uses “Riser Shaft,” but the term remains common in practice.
• Structured Cabling System: Standardized architecture for telecommunications cabling, including backbone, horizontal, and work area components.
• Work Area: Location where end-user devices connect to structured cabling via outlets or ports.

Limited-Energy (Low-Voltage) Systems

• Access Control System: Electronic system that regulates entry to secured areas using credentials such as cards, fobs, biometrics, or PINs.
• Alarm Circuit: Circuit used for intrusion detection, monitoring, or alerting; governed by NEC Article 725.
• Audio/Visual (A/V) System: Low-voltage system for distributing audio and video signals in commercial or residential environments.
• Building Automation System (BAS): Integrated control system for HVAC, lighting, access, and energy management; typically uses low-voltage communication networks.
• Closed-Circuit Television (CCTV): Legacy term for video surveillance systems using analog cameras; modern systems use IP-based video.
• Distributed Antenna System (DAS): Network of antennas that improves cellular or radio coverage inside buildings.
• Fire Alarm Control Panel (FACP): Central unit that monitors and controls fire alarm system components.
• Fire Alarm System: Life-safety system that detects fire conditions and initiates notification or suppression responses.
• Intercom System: Two-way communication system used for entry control, paging, or internal communication.
• Intrusion Detection System (IDS): System that monitors for unauthorized entry using sensors, contacts, and control panels.
• Mass Notification System (MNS): System used to deliver emergency alerts through audio, visual, or network-based communication.
• NPLFA (Non–Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit): NEC-defined fire alarm circuit with higher available power than PLFA; NEC 2026 clarifies separation and installation requirements.
• PLFA (Power-Limited Fire Alarm Circuit): Fire alarm circuit limited in voltage and power output; NEC 2026 updates separation and routing rules.
• Public Address (PA) System: Low-voltage audio system used for announcements, paging, or emergency communication.
• Security Camera System: Video surveillance system using IP or analog cameras for monitoring and recording.
• Signal Line Circuit (SLC): Updated NEC 2026 definition for addressable fire alarm communication circuits used for detection, monitoring, and control.
• Structured Media Panel: Enclosure used to house low-voltage modules for networking, audio, video, and control systems.
• Video Surveillance System (VSS): Modern term for IP-based camera systems; replaces legacy CCTV terminology.
• Voice Evacuation / EVACS: Emergency Voice/Alarm Communication System; NEC 2026 updates survivability and pathway requirements.
• Wireless Access Point (WAP): Device that provides wireless network connectivity within a structured cabling system.

Electrical Systems & Power Distribution

• Branch Circuit: Circuit extending from the final overcurrent protection device to outlets or equipment.
• Breaker Panel (Load Center): Distribution panel containing circuit breakers for branch circuits and feeders.
• Conduit: Raceway used to protect and route electrical conductors; includes EMT, IMC, RMC, and PVC types.
• Dedicated Circuit: Circuit serving a single device or load to prevent overload and ensure stable operation.
• Electrical Grounding: Connection of electrical systems to earth to stabilize voltage and improve safety.
• Electrical Panel: Main distribution point for electrical circuits within a building.
• Equipment Bonding Jumper: Conductor used to ensure electrical continuity and proper bonding between equipment enclosures; NEC 2026 clarifies sizing and permitted materials.
• Feeder: Conductors that supply power from service equipment to distribution panels or subpanels.
• Grounding Electrode: Metallic element (rod, plate, or structural steel) used to establish a grounding connection to earth.
• Grounding Electrode Conductor (GEC): Conductor that connects the grounding electrode to the service equipment or disconnect.
• Intersystem Bonding Termination (IBT): Required bonding point for communications, CATV, and low-voltage systems; NEC 2026 maintains placement and accessibility requirements.
• Overcurrent Protection Device (OCPD): Device such as a fuse or circuit breaker that protects conductors from excessive current.
• Panelboard: Assembly of circuit breakers or switches used to control and distribute electrical power.
• Service Disconnect: Main disconnecting means for electrical service to a building.
• Service Entrance Conductors: Conductors between the utility point of connection and the service disconnecting means.
• Service Equipment: Equipment containing the service disconnect and overcurrent protection for the building.
• Supplementary Grounding Electrode: Additional grounding electrode used to enhance grounding performance; NEC 2026 clarifies that it does not replace required electrodes.
• Voltage Drop: Reduction in voltage along a conductor due to resistance; must be managed for long runs or high loads.

Standards, Specification & Compliance

• ANSI (American National Standards Institute): Organization that oversees the development of voluntary consensus standards for products, services, and systems.
• BICSI: Professional association supporting the information and communications technology (ICT) industry through standards, training, and certification.
• Code Compliance: Adherence to applicable codes such as NEC, IBC, IFC, and local amendments during installation and design.
• IBC (International Building Code): Model building code governing structural, fire, and life-safety requirements for buildings.
• IFC (International Fire Code): Code governing fire prevention, fire protection systems, and emergency planning.
• IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers): Organization that develops standards for networking, power, and electrical systems, including Ethernet and PoE.
• ISO/IEC 11801: International standard for generic cabling systems supporting a wide range of ICT applications.
• NEC (National Electrical Code): Primary electrical safety code in the U.S.; NEC 2026 includes major updates for remote powering, Class 4 circuits, and cable routing assemblies.
• NEC Article 725: Article governing Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3 circuits; NEC 2026 updates separation, routing, and remote-powering rules.
• NEC Article 726: Article defining Class 4 (fault-managed) power systems, including performance, listing, and installation requirements.
• NEC Article 800: Article covering communications circuits, grounding, and protection requirements.
• NEC Article 805: Article governing communications cabling inside buildings; NEC 2026 clarifies support methods and cable routing assemblies.
• NEC Article 840: Article covering network-powered broadband communications systems, including PoE and remote powering.
• NFPA (National Fire Protection Association): Organization that develops fire and life-safety codes, including the NEC and NFPA 72.
• NFPA 72 (National Fire Alarm and Signaling Code): Standard governing fire alarm systems, emergency communications, and survivability requirements.
• OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration): Federal agency that sets and enforces workplace safety standards.
• Specification (Spec): Written requirements defining materials, installation methods, performance criteria, and acceptance standards for a project.
• TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association): Organization that develops structured cabling standards such as TIA‑568, TIA‑569, and TIA‑606.
• TIA-568: Standard defining performance and installation requirements for structured cabling systems.
• TIA-569: Standard covering pathways and spaces for telecommunications cabling.
• TIA-606: Standard for labeling and administration of telecommunications infrastructure.
• UL (Underwriters Laboratories): Testing and certification organization that evaluates product safety, including cables, power supplies, and fire alarm equipment.

Installation Workflow & Field Terms

• As-Built Drawings: Final project drawings updated to reflect actual installed conditions, including deviations from design documents.
• Cable Dressing: Organizing and aligning cables neatly within racks, trays, or pathways to improve appearance, airflow, and serviceability.
• Cable Pulling: Process of installing cable through conduit, pathways, or open ceilings using pull strings, fish tape, or mechanical assistance.
• Cable Termination: Process of attaching connectors, jacks, or panels to cable ends following manufacturer and TIA guidelines.
• Commissioning: Verification that installed systems operate according to design, specifications, and code requirements.
• Conduit Fill: Percentage of conduit cross-sectional area occupied by cables; must comply with NEC limits.
• Device Rough-In: Initial installation of boxes, brackets, and pathways before wall finishes are applied.
• Device Trim-Out: Final installation of devices, plates, and terminations after finishes are complete.
• Equipment Rack: Frame or enclosure used to mount networking, AV, or low-voltage equipment.
• Firestopping: Sealing penetrations in fire-rated assemblies using listed materials to maintain fire-resistance ratings.
• J Hook Support: Cable support method using J-shaped hangers to route and manage low-voltage cabling.
• Ladder Rack: Overhead cable support structure used to route and manage large cable bundles.
• Low-Voltage Rough-In: Installation of cabling, pathways, and backboxes before walls are closed.
• Low-Voltage Trim: Final installation of jacks, plates, modules, and equipment after finishes are complete.
• Patch Panel: Panel used to terminate horizontal cabling and provide a flexible point for cross-connection.
• Pull String: String or rope installed in conduit or pathways to assist with future cable pulls.
• Rack Elevation: Drawing showing vertical placement of equipment within a rack.
• Rack Unit (RU or U): Standard measurement for rack-mounted equipment height; one rack unit equals 1.75 inches.
• Service Loop: Intentional extra length of cable left for future maintenance, relocation, or retermination.
• Test Report: Documentation of cable certification or performance testing results.
• Termination Standard: Defined wiring scheme such as T568A or T568B used for consistent terminations.
• Wall Plate: Faceplate used to cover and protect low-voltage device openings at the work area.
• Wire Management: Use of organizers, channels, and hardware to route and secure cables within racks or enclosures.

Tools & Hardware

• Anchor: Fastener used to secure hardware to concrete, block, or other solid materials.
• Bridle Ring: Ring-shaped fastener used to support low-voltage cabling in open ceilings or walls.
• Cable Cutter: Tool used to cut copper or fiber cables cleanly without deforming conductors.
• Cable Staple: Fastener used to secure low-voltage cable to wood framing; must not crush or deform the cable.
• Cable Stripper: Tool used to remove cable jackets or insulation without damaging conductors.
• Conduit Bender: Tool used to bend conduit to required angles while maintaining structural integrity.
• Crimp Tool: Tool used to attach connectors to cable ends by compressing metal contacts.
• Drill Bit (Installer Bit): Long bit used to drill through framing or inaccessible spaces during cable installation.
• Fish Tape: Tool used to route pull strings or cables through conduit or enclosed pathways.
• Hammer Drill: Power tool used for drilling into concrete, block, or masonry.
• J Hook: Cable support hanger shaped like the letter “J,” used to route and manage low-voltage cabling.
• Keystone Jack: Modular connector used for terminating network, voice, or AV cabling.
• Label Maker: Device used to print labels for cables, racks, and equipment per TIA‑606 standards.
• Ladder: Portable climbing tool used to access elevated work areas.
• Level: Tool used to ensure equipment, racks, and wall plates are installed straight and plumb.
• Nut Driver: Hand tool used to tighten nuts and bolts during hardware installation.
• Panduit / Raceway: Enclosed channel used to route and protect low-voltage cabling on walls or racks.
• Punchdown Tool: Tool used to terminate copper conductors onto 66- or 110-style blocks.
• Rack Shelf: Support shelf used to hold non–rack-mountable equipment within a rack.
• RJ45 Connector: Modular plug used for terminating twisted-pair network cabling.
• Screw Anchor: Fastener used to secure screws into drywall, block, or concrete.
• Screwdriver: Hand tool used to install or remove screws during device and hardware installation.
• Stud Finder: Tool used to locate framing members behind finished walls.
• Termination Block (66/110 Block): Hardware used to terminate and cross-connect copper cabling.
• Threaded Rod: Rod used to suspend racks, ladder tray, or cable supports from ceilings or structure.
• Torque Wrench: Tool used to tighten hardware to manufacturer-specified torque values.
• Wall Bracket: Mounting bracket used to support racks, panels, or equipment on walls.
• Wire Crimper: Tool used to compress terminals or connectors onto conductors.
• Wire Stripper: Tool used to remove insulation from individual conductors without damaging them.
• Zip Tie (Cable Tie): Fastener used to bundle and secure cables; must be used carefully to avoid over-tightening.

Firestopping & Life Safety

• Fire Barrier: Fire‑resistance‑rated wall or floor assembly designed to limit the spread of fire for a specified duration.
• Fire Caulk (Firestop Sealant): Listed sealant used to restore the fire rating of penetrated fire‑rated assemblies.
• Fire Dampers: Devices installed in HVAC ducts to prevent the spread of fire through rated assemblies.
• Fire Partition: Wall assembly with a lower fire‑resistance rating than a fire barrier, used to limit fire spread within a building.
• Fire Rated Assembly: Wall, floor, or ceiling system tested to resist fire for a specified period per UL or ASTM standards.
• Fire Rated Box: Electrical or low‑voltage box listed for installation in fire‑rated walls without additional firestopping.
• Fire Rated Pathway: Listed pathway device that maintains the fire rating of a wall or floor while allowing cable additions or changes.
• Firestopping: Process of sealing penetrations in fire‑rated assemblies using listed materials to maintain fire‑resistance ratings.
• Intumescent Material: Material that expands when exposed to heat, used in firestopping to seal penetrations during a fire.
• Life Safety System: Systems designed to protect building occupants during emergencies, including fire alarms, EVACS, and emergency lighting.
• Penetration Firestop System: UL‑listed system specifying materials and installation methods for sealing penetrations in fire‑rated assemblies.
• Smoke Barrier: Continuous membrane designed to restrict the movement of smoke during a fire event.
• Smoke Partition: Wall or ceiling assembly intended to limit the transfer of smoke, though not necessarily fire‑resistance‑rated.
• Through‑Penetration: Any opening created when cables, pipes, or conduits pass through a fire‑rated assembly; requires a listed firestop system.

Pathways & Support Systems

• Cable Tray: Support system used to route and manage large volumes of low‑voltage or electrical cabling overhead.
• Conduit: Raceway used to protect and route electrical or low‑voltage conductors; includes EMT, IMC, RMC, and PVC types.
• Flexible Conduit: Bendable conduit used where movement, vibration, or tight routing conditions exist.
• Hanger: Hardware used to suspend cable supports, conduit, or tray from structure.
• J Hook Support: Cable support method using J‑shaped hangers to route and manage low‑voltage cabling.
• Ladder Tray: Open cable tray with side rails and rungs, used for large cable bundles and long‑run pathways.
• Raceway: Enclosed channel used to route and protect cabling on walls, ceilings, or racks.
• Support Bracket: Bracket used to mount cable supports, devices, or hardware to structure.
• Threaded Rod: Rod used to suspend racks, ladder tray, or cable supports from ceilings or structural members.
• Trapeze Support: Support assembly using threaded rod and horizontal channel to hold cable tray or other pathway systems.

Fiber Optics

• Attenuation: Loss of optical signal strength as it travels through a fiber; measured in decibels (dB).
• Connector Polish Type (UPC/APC): Defines the end‑face geometry of fiber connectors; UPC provides low return loss, while APC offers even lower return loss using an angled end‑face.
• Fusion Splice: Permanent fiber‑to‑fiber connection created by aligning and melting fiber ends with an electric arc.
• Insertion Loss: Loss of signal caused by connectors, splices, or components added to a fiber link.
• LC Connector: Small‑form‑factor fiber connector commonly used in modern networking equipment.
• Light Source: Test instrument used to send calibrated optical power through a fiber during certification.
• Multimode Fiber (MM): Fiber type with a larger core that supports multiple light paths; used for shorter‑distance links.
• Optical Loss Test Set (OLTS): Certification tool that measures insertion loss and verifies fiber link performance.
• Optical Time Domain Reflectometer (OTDR): Test instrument that identifies fiber faults, splices, and distances by analyzing reflected light.
• Patch Cord (Fiber Patch Cable): Factory‑terminated fiber cable used to connect equipment to patch panels or enclosures.
• Pigtail: Short fiber cable with a factory‑installed connector on one end, used for splicing into fiber strands.
• Singlemode Fiber (SM): Fiber type with a small core that supports a single light path; used for long‑distance, high‑bandwidth links.
• Splice Tray: Tray used to organize and protect fiber splices within an enclosure.
• Splice Enclosure: Protective housing used to secure and manage fiber splices in indoor or outdoor environments.
• Wavelength: Specific frequency of light used for fiber transmission; common wavelengths include 850 nm, 1310 nm, and 1550 nm.

Wireless Systems

• Access Point (AP): Device that provides wireless network connectivity and bridges wireless clients to the wired network.
• Bluetooth: Short‑range wireless communication technology used for peripherals, sensors, and device‑to‑device links.
• Cellular Repeater: Device that amplifies and retransmits cellular signals to improve coverage inside buildings.
• Distributed Antenna System (DAS): Network of antennas that improves cellular or radio coverage throughout a building or campus.
• Mesh Network: Wireless network topology where multiple nodes communicate with each other to extend coverage and improve reliability.
• RF Spectrum: Range of radio frequencies used for wireless communication, including Wi‑Fi, Bluetooth, and cellular.
• Signal Strength (RSSI): Measurement of received wireless signal power, used to evaluate coverage and performance.
• Small Cell: Low‑power cellular radio node used to improve coverage and capacity in dense environments.
• Wi‑Fi 6 / 6E / 7: Generations of wireless networking standards offering higher throughput, lower latency, and improved efficiency.
• Wireless Controller: Centralized device used to manage, configure, and monitor multiple wireless access points.
• Wireless Survey: Assessment of wireless coverage, interference, and performance to determine optimal access point placement.

Testing & Certification

• Certification Testing: Testing performed with calibrated equipment to verify that installed cabling meets TIA or ISO/IEC performance standards.
• Continuity Test: Basic test confirming that each conductor is properly connected end‑to‑end without opens or shorts.
• Fluke Tester: Industry‑standard certification tool used to test copper and fiber cabling for compliance with performance standards.
• Loopback Test: Test where a signal is returned to the source device to verify transmission and reception integrity.
• OTDR Test: Fiber test that identifies splices, connectors, faults, and distances by analyzing reflected light.
• Performance Testing: Testing that measures cable performance parameters such as NEXT, attenuation, and return loss.
• Power Meter: Instrument used to measure optical power levels in fiber links.
• Qualification Testing: Testing that verifies a cable can support specific applications (e.g., 1G or 10G Ethernet) without full certification.
• Return Loss: Measurement of reflected signal energy caused by impedance mismatches in copper or fiber links.
• Signal Integrity Test: Test that evaluates the quality of transmitted signals to ensure reliable communication.
• TDR (Time Domain Reflectometer): Tool used to locate faults in copper cabling by measuring reflections along the conductor.
• Wiremap Test: Test that verifies correct conductor pairing and pinout for copper cabling.

Project Management & Documentation

• Change Order: Formal document modifying the original scope, schedule, or cost of a project.
• Closeout Package: Final documentation delivered at project completion, including as‑builts, test results, warranties, and O&M manuals.
• Daily Report: Record of on‑site activities, manpower, progress, and issues for a given workday.
• Drawing Set: Collection of project drawings including floor plans, risers, details, and schedules.
• Job Walk: On‑site review of project conditions used for estimating, planning, or verifying installation requirements.
• O&M Manual (Operations & Maintenance): Documentation outlining system operation, maintenance procedures, and manufacturer information.
• Project Schedule: Timeline outlining project phases, milestones, and required completion dates.
• RFI (Request for Information): Formal request used to clarify design intent, resolve conflicts, or obtain missing information.
• Scope of Work (SOW): Document defining the tasks, deliverables, and responsibilities required for a project.
• Site Survey: Assessment of existing conditions to determine installation requirements, pathways, and equipment locations.
• Submittal: Documentation provided for approval prior to installation, including product data, shop drawings, and samples.
• Test Report: Documentation of cable certification or performance testing results.

Slang & Field Lingo

• Bang Box: Slang for a surface‑mounted electrical box used in tight or exposed locations.
• Batwing: Slang for a multifunctional clip used to mount J‑hooks or hardware to grid wire or structure.
• Birdcage: A messy, tangled cluster of cables caused by poor routing or unmanaged slack.
• Blue Juice: Cable lubricant used to reduce friction during pulls.
• Bone Yard: Area where leftover materials, scrap, or unused equipment is stored.
• Bug Nut: Slang for a small connector or wire nut used for quick terminations.
• Chicago Screw: A two‑piece fastener used for securing straps, hangers, or hardware.
• Chasing: Following another trade to install work immediately after they finish.
• Coffin: A large junction box or oversized enclosure.
• Colorado Jim: A slang term for a cable support bracket used to secure low‑voltage cabling to structural elements.
• Doghouse: A cramped, awkward, or temporary work area.
• Drop a String: To drop a pull string down a wall cavity or opening for cable pulling.
• Fire Tape: Heat‑resistant tape used to wrap or protect cables during fire‑rated penetrations.
• Fish: To route a pull string or cable through a wall, ceiling, or conduit.
• Frogger: A flexible drill‑bit extension used to navigate tight or angled spaces.
• Genny: Slang for a generator used on job sites.
• Goat Head: A multi‑hole metal bracket used for supporting multiple J‑hooks or threaded rod.
• Home Run: A direct cable run from the device location back to the telecom room without splices.
• Hot Work: Any task involving heat, sparks, or open flame, requiring a hot‑work permit.
• Mule Tape: Flat pulling tape used for long conduit pulls.
• Noodle: Slang for flexible conduit or any overly flexible run.
• Pancake Box: A shallow electrical box used where wall depth is limited.
• Pencil‑Whip: To sign off on work or documentation without actually verifying it.
• Pigtail: A short wire used to join multiple conductors to a single termination point.
• Pull a Homer: To run a dedicated cable directly back to the telecom room.
• Rat’s Nest: A chaotic, tangled mess of cables.
• Redhead: A plastic bushing used to protect cables entering metal conduit.
• Smurf Tube: Blue flexible ENT conduit used for low‑voltage pathways.
• Snake a Wall: To fish a cable or tool through a wall cavity.
• Stiffy: A rigid fish rod used for pushing through tight or long pathways.
• Taco: Slang for bent or crushed conduit.
• Whip: A short flexible conduit or cable assembly used for equipment connections.
• Widowmaker: Any dangerous cord, panel, or setup that poses a serious shock hazard.
• Zip Snake: A pull tool used to quickly route string or cable through tight spaces.