Overview

A telecommunications system s retrofit involves the replacement or augmentation of an existing installation. Performing a retrofit or extensive system upgrade will always be far more complicated and labor intensive than a new telecommunications cabling installation in unoccupied spaces.

Planning for a retrofit installation involves a multitude of tasks. All of these tasks must be completed before any cable is removed or installed. When all of these planning tasks are completed, a comprehensive plan will have been developed and the telecommunications cabling installation team will be fully prepared to proceed with the project.

Determined by the scope and design of the cabling installation, each retrofit will require the telecommunications cabling installer to address a unique set of circumstances. Some retrofits may involve a simple expansion of a telephone system or a data network. Other retrofits may involve voice and data systems, the security and fire alarm systems, and an upgrade to the backbone or horizontal cabling infrastructure.

Good communications with the customer are essential when determining what part, if any, of the existing cable plant will be reused. Obtain as much information as possible from the customer and verify that the information is accurate. If the existing documentation is questionable or does not exist, it may be necessary to trace and document the current system. If the customer wants to utilize portions of the present cables and equipment, the existing components will have to conform to the new requirements. In addition, the cabling installer must test the existing cable plant...