How to Prepare Your Office for a T1 Installations

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smart jackIf you order T1 services for your new office, here is a list of things you need to do to prepare the site. If the site is not properly setup, you will be bumped to the end of the installation queue. That is why it is very important to make sure you have everything ready to go. After the T1 has been installed by the service provider, you will need to hire a separate technician to connect your network to the T1. This service is known as a demarc extension.

Installation Coordinator

The first thing you need is a chose representative from your company to be the point of contact to coordinate the install. When you order your service they will ask you for his or her name and phone number. That person has to have the proper knowledge and authority of the building and the services that are being installed. This includes access to the building and where & when the circuit is to be installed. This chosen person is usually the building manager or owner.

Physical Preparation for the T1 Circuit

The building must be prepared for the T1 installation to be completed in a timely manner. You will need the following materials:

  • 4’x8′ sheet of flame retardant plywood
  • #6 AWG grounding wire
  • Conduit
  • Pull string

First, install the plywood near the point of service. This will act as a backboard where the service provider will install their hardware and equipment. Make sure that you install this in near proximity to the point where the cables enter the building. Your service provider will not extend the cabling to a remote part of the building.

Second, connect a #6 AWG grounding wire from the backerboard to the main power circuit. This will act like a ground so the service provider can ground their equipment.

Third, install external and internal conduit pathways for the routing of the new cables. Conduit keeps a clear pathway for the installers.

Lastly, install a pull string through the conduit, so the service provider can pull their cables to the installation spot.

Installation Day

If you have followed the above steps, installation day should be very easy and be performed quickly. The service provider will contact you and let you know when they will be onsite. When they get onsite, you will need to show them where their services are to be performed. Make sure you have any keys or permissions to access different areas of the building.

Post Installation

After the T1 has been installed, you will need to hire a private company to run another cable from the T1 to your equipment closet. This process is called a demarc extension. This video covers the basics of a demarc extension. You can also find out more about our demarc extension services here.