
Published: 2021-05-31 09:58:07 - Exported: 2024-09-04 16:35:36 | NB | The information on this sheet once printed/exported is classed as an uncontrolled copy. The currency of the information should be checked by visiting the ESFG website prior to using the information for any purposes.
Published: 2021-05-31 09:58:07 - Exported: 2024-09-04 16:35:36 | NB | The information on this sheet once printed/exported is classed as an uncontrolled copy. The currency of the information should be checked by visiting the ESFG website prior to using the information for any purposes.
NSW Department of Education (DoE) is moving towards Unified Communications Services (UCS). The UCS will incorporate some or all of the following services:
The above services will be either described in full or referenced to other DoE documents including those of the Information Technology Directorate (ITD).
Considerations should include:
Refer to DG / WHOLE OF LIFE
The DoE Structured Cabling System (SCS) is compliant or exceeds the Australian Standard for Telecommunications Customer Premises Cabling (AS3080).
The SCS contains a Main Communications Room (MCR), previously referred to as the Campus Distributor (CD), remote Building Communications Room (BCR), previously referred to as a Building Distributor (BD) connecting to Telecommunications outlets (TO). The interconnection cabling is Campus Backbone Cabling (CBC) between distributors and Horizontal cabling from the MCR or BCR to the TO.
The primary location and quantities of distributors and outlets are defined within the EFSG and SCS along with the associated plans. Generally, as a guide the distance will be a radius of 70 metres between the outlet and the Communications cabinet in order to ensure a pathway no longer than 90 metres. If additional SCS are specified as part of the building works additional outlets will be defined as required of the service(s).
The NSW “Structured Cabling System Specification” defines the design plus the minimum quantity and quality of the components within the SCS. All communications cabling works performed for NSW DoE shall comply with this specification.
Civil and architectural requirements and business practices to cater for the installation of the SCS are described in the following sections.
The latest versions of the NSW DET ICT design documents are available below :
Refer to NSW DET “Structured Cabling System specifications” for the provision of Campus/Building pathways.
Conduits for external underground horizontal cabling are to be minimum 100mm diameter white conduit marked by the manufacturer as being for communications use. To limit drawing forces minimise the number of bends in the run. Install cable pits adjacent to the buildings for cable drawing purposes, or use a sweep to enter the building where it is impractical to install pits. Cables are not to be joined in cable pits.
A star topology will be used. Fibre will be run in underground conduit with an inspection pit system. Refer to SCS.
Duct for Internal Use
As part of new or refurbished buildings install duct for the voice/data cabling and socket outlets with the following specification.
Selection & Design
Finishes:
The external surfaces for exposed duct are to be finished in baked powder coat enamel of selected colour.
Colours will be selected from the colour schedules specific to a project and more than a single colour may be required in a school.
The cable pathway installed for cabling can also be used for the cabling providing manufacturers’ cable installation specifications (e.g. minimum bend radius) can be achieved. Ducts must be sized for the horizontal cabling, spare capacity and for the backbone.
Between buildings, conduits installed in the ground are the preferred pathways. Ducts installed in indoor-rated covered ways are an acceptable alternative.
Conduits used for the CBC are to be a minimum 100mm diameter white conduit marked by the manufacturer as being for communications use. To limit drawing forces minimise the number of bends in the run. Install cable pits adjacent to the buildings for cable drawing purposes, or use a sweep to enter the building where it is impractical to install pits. Cables are not to be joined in cable pits. Provide minimum 2 x 50mm diameter white conduits from pit to the site Campus Distributor within a building and minimum 1x50mm diameter white conduits from pit to each Building Distributor within a building.
CBC cables installed underground in conduit must be classified by the manufacturer as suitable for external underground use.
For new and refurbishing schools, the department’s Information Technology Directorate (ITD) shall co-ordinate the procurement of network and telephony services. To facilitate ITD’s responsibilities, the following action sheets have been developed:
NOTE: In projects where there are existing buildings that are not included in the building works, the extent of the structured cabling system must be determined in the preliminary design stages. In schools receiving new buildings they may require remedial works/equipment in the existing MCR to provision the new works. (Please see DG64.05 for more information)
Foundations.T4L, ITD
Email: Foundations.T4L@det.nsw.edu.au
School Network Solution Design Authority
Email: SNSDA@det.nsw.edu.au
Note: In DD&C type contracts the Design Guide is included in the contract documents. The contractor takes on relevant design development responsibilities. The DD&C construction documents must address the current Schools Design Guide and the DoE ITD Structured Cabling System Specification.
This section of DG 64 COMMUNICATIONS aims to assist planners in determining the brief for structured cabling, telephony, bell and PA systems as part of expand and refurbishment projects in existing schools. This section is not to be applied in any way to the requirements for new school construction as described in other sections of DG 64 COMMUNICATIONS.
Expand and refurbishment projects require a brief to be created that is directly applicable to the merging of the new works into the existing ICT infrastructure, structured cabling, telephony, bell and PA systems. Each site is unique, the scope will be determined by the Project Director in consultation with ITDs Foundation.T4L PMs, ICT Support Team Leaders and the Principal. Factors affecting the brief include:
The following examples are provided as a guide to the principles that should be followed. It does not address all situations that will be experienced in the field.
Requirement |
Example |
Current communication systems deemed suitable for expansion |
Expand into new or refurbished buildings |
Current communication systems deemed suitable but affected by building works |
Relocate and upgrade if necessary. Expand into the new or refurbished buildings |
Current communication systems deemed unsuitable for expansion |
Uplift/ Replace across the entire site |
Provide extension of the communications system in a new or refurbished building to allow it to function. |
Expand/replace structured cabling, telephony, Bell, PA cabling to the building. Expansion capabilities or replacement of these systems is to be assessed. |
Extend existing operational communications systems required by the school to the new or refurbished buildings to maintain present coverage and provide common supportable infrastructure across the site. |
Upgrade existing ICT infrastructure to accommodate new equipment that is being installed. Upgrade of existing WAP’s and switches across the site for compatibility. Expand schools digital signage system to include new or refurbished building. |
Relocate existing communications systems where their operation is affected by the additional accommodation project. |
Relocate site ICT services to either new or refurbished MCR/BCR/Floor Distributors that are affected by the works. This may include Bell, PA and telephony systems. |
Provide electrical and data schematic drawings detailing the location of backbone pathways, existing outlets, data cabinets and other associated systems and any proposed changes prior to design signoff. |
Schematics for Expand and Refurbish projects must identify changes such as additions, removal and replacements of existing infrastructure along with new building inclusions. DoE ICT must be engaged in consultation |
The latest DoE Structured cabling System Specification must be adhered to in all the above scenarios. In practice this may mean that the communications works may extend outside the area of the building works. Any required alterations to existing systems will form part of the scope for the specified work. This excludes repair or re-commissioning of existing defective systems which remains the responsibility of the school.
Refurbished buildings are to be provided with structured cabling as for new school construction. Installers should follow the structured cabling system described in this Design Guide. All cabling work requires documentation including test results and “as built” diagrams, as per the Structured Cabling Systems Specifications.
Key elements include:
Heritage buildings require specific solutions be developed in consultation with a heritage architect and shall be included in the developed brief.
The PABX should utilise VoiP for internal handsets where possible. During the construction of the brief, the existing phone system is to be assessed. A determination will be made on expansion, upgrading or replacement depending on requirements and available PABX options for the site.
During the construction of the brief any existing services will be assessed. Should either system exist and be in use, its functionality must be retained or enhanced by the refurbishment accommodation work. This may involve upgrade or replacement of existing systems to accommodate project works, or relocation of the microphone and amplifier or period bell timer to a new administration block. As well as retaining existing system/s, outlets are required to new or refurbished buildings in accordance with DoE requirements for new buildings
The “ Project Brief Template" is available here :
provision_of_ict_in_existing_schools_template_v1.docx
Manufacturers Certification
The manufacturer is required to certify that the cabling system meets specification, including the specified performance levels.
In addition, the manufacturer is to provide a written warranty certification for a minimum period of twenty (20) years.
NSW ICT Services Scheme- SCM0020
The installation of the system must be by a contractor currently pre-qualified under the NSW iCT Services Scheme- SCM0020 accreditation for site cabling under category- F02 Network Operations including delivery “as a service”.
Provide sufficient patch and fly leads for connection of TOs, as detailed:
Telecommunications Outlets (TOs) are the connection points between the SCS and the user’s equipment, i.e. computers, telephones, AV monitors or PA loudspeakers. Each TO consists of single RJ45 modular outlet, with spring loaded shutters to reduce the risk of physical damage and ingress of contaminants.
Modular outlets are mounted in pairs on the same escutcheon plate (a double telecommunications outlet), with the outlets side by side in a single gang horizontal plate, not one above the other. Thus a room designated as showing "2x2" communications outlets will have two 2-gang plates in it, a total of four RJ45 outlets.
Label each outlet with engraved plastic labels, glued and pinned. The other end of each 4-pair cable shall be the MCR/BCR to correspond.Refer to SCS.
The numbers of Telecommunications Outlets (TOs) for every space in the school are shown in the EFSG as a Double Telecommunications Outlet (DTO).
All TOs are to be installed as a dual TO on a single plate, i.e. as a DTO.
Provide a logical identification system for all components of the SCS. The identifying letters or numbers shall relate to those used on the building blocks. The system shall individually identify all distributors, both ends of all cables, the TO and the patching outlets. It shall also provide an overall site layout to allow easy recognition of the location of items.
Flexible nylon, machine printed labels are the minimum acceptable.Refer to SCS
DoE requires a 4 hour on-site training session for up to four persons on the use of the SCS. Training is to be accompanied by appropriate documentation and a video that demonstrates operation of the system and its components, including patching, cable management for voice, video and data of the SCS installed on site. Include explanation of detailed drawings left on site. The video / CD ROM may be generated from the on-site training for future use by DoE school staff.
The Project Manager will, in consultation with the School Principal, nominate the timing of this session together with the number of attendees.
Manuals are to be handed to the school during the training session. Include in copies of all cabling test reports and the (minimum) 20-year warranty certificate the manual.
As built documentation and manufacturers warranty and test results are required.
A main communications room will be required in new and some upgrade projects approved projects.
For details of the cabinets refer to DoE NSW “Structured Cabling System Specification.” and EFSG DRAWINGS PS502.21 & HS501.19 & SSP502.21
Allow for cabinets 1 , 2 & 3 as below and additional space and power for cabinet 4:
Cabinet 1 is to be located nearest to the wall. It will house the carrier passive and active equipment, wireless controllers and any ITD supplied servers and supporting equipment
Cabinet 2 is to be located adjacent to Cabinet 1. This cabinet will house the Campus Backbone Cabling and the horizontal cabling for the Library. It will also house the LAN equipment.
Cabinet 3 is required for server installation.
Cabinet 4 may be required and is dependent on the cabling density to the MCR.
A managed pathway for copper and fibre patch leads between the cabinets is required .
Provide three industrial 15A socket outlets, each on its own final subcircuit for each cabinet.
NSW DoE has a detailed Structured Cabling Specification that provides guidance and requirements for cabling within DoE Offices and Schools. Refer to DG64.02.02 Documentation References
Backbone cabling
Optical fibre cable is the only medium to be used to carry campus and building backbone networks services.
Horizontal cabling
New buildings and refurbishments are required to provide a common wireless solution compatible across the school, providing a consistent user experience and support mechanism.
The department only approves the use of local Private Automatic Branch Exchange (PABX) systems at school sites.
The local PABX system shall be compatible with SIP trunks and Public Switched Telephone Network (PTSN) over NBN telephony services.
Where possible, NBN connections are being implemented into schools and may be used to deliver carrier services.
The Foundations.T4L Project Manager (PM) shall manage contact with the department’s Information Technology Telecommunications Manager to confirm the carrier service type and requirement, and to assist with the NBN process.
Enquiries about the NBN rollout to existing DoE school sites can be made through:
DoE NBN Project Team - Managing the NBN rollout to all DoE sites
Corporate Telephony Team
A: 105 Phillip St, Parramatta, NSW 2150
T: 02 7814 3777
All carrier service creation, and change requests shall be directed to the Fountations.T4L PM. SIP orders and NBN new development and/or relocation applications will be placed by the Corporate Telephony Team.
Service suppliers shall supply and install:
Service suppliers shall coordinate connection to the SIP Trunk or PSTN over NSB service with the client and network service provider. The system shall be operational before handover. Coordination of activities and scoping is the responsibility of the Schools Infrastructure NSW Project Director (SINSW PD).
The telephone system shall:
Any existing analogue or digital handsets requiring direct copper cabling from the PABX to the handset location shall have cabling ties installed as required by the department’s current Structured Cabling System Specification (SCSS). Please see DG64.02, for more information on the department’s SCSS.
Service suppliers shall supply and install:
Service suppliers shall coordinate connection to the PTSN with the client and network service provider.
The telephone system shall operate over the SCS and must be able to be patched to operate on any outlet. The system must be operational prior to handover.
The MDF and PABX shall be installed adjacent to the Campus Distributor (CD)/Master Control Room (MCR) and then wired to the PABX voice section of the CD/MCR. The operator’s console shall be placed in the administration/clerical office.
For all schools, incoming carrier services consist of:
For new and refurbished schools, SIP Trunk is the preferred carrier service.
In exceptional circumstances, PSTN over NBN may be an acceptable option. Please check with the Foundations.T4L PM, who will confirm with the department's Information Technology Telecommunications Manager before proceeding.
For all incoming carrier services:
Some network service providers may be required to install line-work (i.e. lead-in cables, external conduit, pits and cabling). In these cases PDs and/PMs shall:
All voice exchange lines shall be connected to the school’s telephone system. Connect directory, and one (1) other exchange line are to be connected in rotary where possible.
The PABX/Key system is to be equipped with the following capabilities:
Systems, which apply voltage pulses to the signal lines during operation or standby, shall not be used without the written agreement of the SCS manufacturer.
Program the system to operate in the following manner:
a) Total Barring: All extensions totally barred to 0011, 0055, 0100, 0176, 0173, 0103, 0101, 0102, 1291, 0108, 0107.
b) STD to have access to all areas other than those listed in (a) above.
Department of Education to advise which outlets are to be programmed for use.
Service providers shall:
The cable from the TPF to the active telephone patch panel in the CD may be terminated as 1 pair per outlet (i.e. 1 pair to be terminated onto Pr 1). However, some PABX systems may require additional pairs per termination.
Note that all Voice grade cables installed as part of the backbone is to be terminated both ends into modular (RJ45) outlets with 4 pairs terminated in every modular outlet.
There is to be a minimum of 4 hours training of nominated staff in the care and operation of the PABX/Key system. Training is to be accompanied by adequate documentation. The Project Manager shall nominate the timing of this session, together with the number of attendees in consultation with the School Principal
Service providers shall organise the supply and installation of a 4G/5G compatible dual sim GMS gateway (Please see SG1011.4.4 for more information).
SIP Trunk and PSTN over NBN services are reliant on power being supplied and will not remain fully operational during a power failure or loss of carrier service. A robust backup mobile phone plan should be considered in the event that the SIP Trunk or PSTN over NBN services are out of service.
No. Students | Incoming Lines | Working Extensions (inc handsets) | |||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Primary Schools
|
|||||
1 HB | 1 | - | 1 | ||
2 - 4 HBs | 1 | 3 | 1 | ||
5 - 7 HBs (Core 7) | 2 | 4 | 1 | ||
8 - 14 HBs (Core 14) | 2 | 8 | 1 | ||
15 - 21 HBs (Core 21) | 3 | 10 | 1 | ||
22+ HBs | 3 | 10 | 1 | ||
Central Schools
|
|||||
30 - 112 | 1 | 3 | 1 | ||
113 - 159 | 2 | 6 | 1 | ||
160 - 240 | 2 | 7 | 1 | ||
241 - 450 | 2 | 12 | 1 | ||
451+ | 3 | 14 | 1 | ||
Secondary Schools
|
|||||
Streams 1 - 3 | 3 | 14 | 1 | ||
Stream 4 | 3 | 15 | 1 | ||
Stream 5 | 3 | 19 | 1 | ||
Stream 6 | 4 | 22 | 1 | ||
Stream 7 | 4 | 22 | 1 |
Three (3) video collaboration bundles are to be provided per school. These devices are to be installed onto learning displays in locations as determined by the principal.
Further information, including a quick reference guide for the video collaboration bundles is available from:
ICT and Infrastructure Coordination, Infrastructure Services, Information Technology Directorate (ITD) - Email: ryan.ohara4@det.nsw.edu.au
Documentation Reference
The NSW DoE “Schools Collaboration Standard” is available here: DoE_Schools_Collab_Standard_v1._2020021
The NSW “DoE “AV Specification” is available here :
Install period alarms in all primary and secondary schools. The period alarms are intended for the indication of events throughout the school from a central control point, usually the Clerical Office. The signal type and frequency of the period alarm will vary from site to site depending on the schools start and finish time, daily period program, assemblies, sports programs, the weather, evacuations and other unforseen emergencies.
Due to the relative complexity of the daily school program, specify and install a programmable timer to operate the period alarm system.
The alarm device type shall be agreed with DoE and will be at a minimum an under-dome bell contrived to be vandal resistant and weatherproof if externally located. Speakers, hooters and sirens may also be considered. The number and location of devices will be influenced by:
Generally, install period bells on the following basis:
The following limitations will apply:
Place bells where the effective ranges can overlap to eliminate potential intermediate bell locations.
Depending on the location of buildings on site, the alarm devices may be wired directly back to the distribution board nearest the Clerical Office. Where voltage drop may be considered a problem, supply the devices from a local E.D.B., controlled from the control point.
Programmable Timer
The programmable timer must be a digital timer with the program capacity to store data for three different types of day (e.g. standard academic day, sports day, assembly day) in a standard weekly cycle. The unit must also have an inbuilt facility for manual actuation to allow for special period days and/or variations in the number of bells to be rung. Facility for the isolation of the output circuit during holidays or special period days is essential. Provide a rechargeable battery backup to retain the program and the correct time for at least 24 hours. The unit should be permanently connected and be separately circuited.
Programming the timer must be a relatively simple task. The timer shall also be able to provide a signal that can be used for the control of lighting.
Mount the timer within a recessed DIN enclosure with lift-up flap in the clerical office in the administration block.
Obtain the required programme from the school and program the timer.
Provide the school with three copies of the timer operating instructions including with each a copy of the installed program.