ICT Bonding Infrastructure Design Best Practices
In the modern hyper-connected world, the seamless integration of information and communications technology (ICT) with electrical power systems is more crucial than ever. As data centers and enterprise networks grow in complexity, ICT professionals face the challenge of ensuring connectivity and optimal safety and performance. By Bob Faber In the modern hyper-connected world, the seamless integration of information and communications technology (ICT) with electrical power systems is more crucial than ever. As data centers and enterprise networks grow in complexity, ICT professionals face the challenge of ensuring connectivity and optimal safety and performance. At the heart of this challenge lies an often overlooked yet critical component: ICT bonding (and grounding) infrastructure. For this article, shortened references to ICT bonding are intended to include ICT bonding (and grounding). Understanding the intricacies of ICT bonding and its relationship with electrical power infrastructure is vital to modern telecommunications systems. The latest industry standards and best practices provide insights to help ICT professionals navigate the complex landscape of bonding and grounding in data centers and ICT environments.
THE FOUNDATION: INDUSTRY STANDARDS AND SAFETY CODES Understanding the regulatory framework that governs ICT bonding is critically important. The primary source for ICT bonding design and installation best practices in North America is ANSI/TIA-607-E-2024, Telecommunications Bonding and Grounding (Earthing) for Customer Premises. Published in May 2024, this standard encapsulates years of industry collaboration and expertise. Additionally, the international telecommunications standard is ISO/IEC 30129 Information Technology – Telecommunications bonding networks for buildings and other structures.
ANSI/BICSI N3-20, Planning and Installation Methods for the Bonding and Grounding of Telecommunication and ICT Systems and Infrastructure provides additional best practices and supplements both ANSI/TIA-607 and ISO/IEC 30129. While ANSI/TIA-607-E focuses primarily on performance aspects, safety practices are paramount. The National Electrical Code ® ( NEC ® , NFPA-70 ® ) and the National Electrical Safety Code ® ( NESC ® , IEEE C2 ® ) provide the important safety requirements for electrical bonding and grounding. ICT professionals must be proficient in performance standards and safety codes to create safe, efficient, and secure systems.
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