Ron,
I've been researching the NEC and in particular Acticle 800-4. Equipment, which states: "Equipment intended to be electrically connected to a telecommunications network shall be listed for the purpose." I've been unable to find a definition in the NEC as to the meaning of a "telecommunications network" as it is meant in the NEC. The only references I've found to telecommunications in the NEC are: "(FPN): One way to determine applicable requirements is to refer to the Standard for Telephone Equipment, UL 1459-1987, or Communication Circuit Accessories, UL 1863-1990; and (FPN): One way to determine accepted industry practice is to refer to nationally recognized standards such as Commercial Building Telecommunications Wiring Standard, ANSI/EIA/TIA 568-1991; Commercial Building Standard for Telecommunications Pathways and Spaces, ANSI/EIA/TIA 569-1990; and Residential and Light Commercial Telecommunications Wiring Standard, ANSI/EIA/TIA 570-1991." Therefore, a few questions come to mind within the meanings of the NEC: 1. Does the term (telecommunications network) refer to public or private networks? EITHER. However, equipment used on the contiguous prroperty of a public utility is exempted. Please note that these days, not all telephone service providers are public utilities. 2. Does the term refer to networks where overvoltage conditions can be present? Maybe this can be assumed as UL1459 requires overvoltage compliance. However, UL1950 provides for classifications of TNV circuits (Annex V). 3. Does the term refer to on-premise or off-premise? The term telecommunications network has nothing to do with on-premise or off-premise and overvoltage conditions may arise either way. There is language in IEC 60950 (or at least there was) to ensure that a computer with a keyboard does no becoem a telecom network. However, the computer certainl;y can be connected to a telecom network that may or may not be subject to overvoltage conditions. 4. Will the 1999 NEC provide these definitions? Different agencies have tried to define a telecom network over the years. With convergence, this is not becoming any easier. We certainly don't need the NEC to mess around in this area. For a manufacturer of equipment, the issue is clear enough as it is. You don't know what this equipment will connect to and therefore have to assume the worst. Ciao, Vic
