Here’s what ANSI wants you to know about designing and implementing smart building cabling systems

by Brianna Crandall — September 15, 2017 — BICSI, the association advancing the information and communications technology (ICT) community, recently announced the unveiling of its new Intelligent Building Design standard to provide guidance for its members and the industry to keep step with evolving trends in ICT cabling systems.

BICSI explains that ICT covers the spectrum of voice, data, electronic safety and security, project management, and audio and video technologies. It encompasses the design, integration and installation of pathways, spaces, optical fiber- and copper-based distribution systems, wireless-based systems and infrastructure that supports the transportation of information and associated signaling between and among communications and information-gathering devices.

According to a recent report from MarketsandMarkets.com cited by BICSI, the global intelligent building market is estimated to grow to approximately USD 24.73 billion by the year 2021, at an annual growth rate of 34%, compounded from 2016-2021. BICSI has responded to this growth and need in the marketplace by publishing its next ANSI-approved standard — ANSI/BICSI 007-2017, Information Communication Technology Design and Implementation Practices for Intelligent Buildings and Premises.

ANSI/BICSI 007 provides requirements and recommendations for the design and implementation of structured cabling systems and related applications for any size building or premise, regardless if it serves commercial, government, transportation, residential, or any other functions.

BICSI 007 also includes information for building automation systems, low-voltage lighting, combined data and power transmission (e.g., PoE, PoH), and a number of other systems that are routinely found inside intelligent building applications.

Additional information on ANSI/BICSI 007-2017, Information Communication Technology Design and Implementation Practices for Intelligent Buildings and Premises, including a preview of Chapters 1-4, can be found on the BICSI Web site.

Tampa, Florida-based BICSI provides information, education and knowledge assessment for the ICT industry, serving more than 23,000 ICT professionals, including designers, installers and technicians in nearly 100 countries. These individuals provide the fundamental infrastructure for telecommunications, audio/video, life safety and automation systems. Through courses, conferences, publications and professional registration programs, BICSI staff and volunteers assist ICT professionals in delivering critical products and services, and offer opportunities for continual improvement and enhanced professional stature.