ACMA Restricted Cabling Registration Exam flashcards

32 cards. Read the term and the definition here. The deck at the top of this page is optional.

Horizontal cable length limit

The horizontal cable run from the work area outlet to the telecommunications room patch panel is limited to 90 metres, leaving 10 metres for patch cords in the 100 metre channel.

Permanent link

The fixed cabling between the work area outlet and the patch panel, excluding equipment and work area cords. It is tested from end to end and must not exceed 90 metres.

Channel definition

The complete end-to-end transmission path including horizontal cable, connectors, and all patch and equipment cords at both ends. Its maximum length is 100 metres.

Cat6A frequency rating

Category 6A balanced twisted pair cable is characterised to 500 MHz and supports 10GBASE-T over a full 100 metre channel. It is typically shielded to control alien crosstalk.

Cat6 10GBASE-T distance

Unshielded Category 6 cable supports 10GBASE-T to approximately 55 metres in a four-connector channel; beyond that distance alien crosstalk and insertion loss degrade the link.

Plenum cable rating

CMP-rated cable is designed for air-handling spaces. Its jacket limits flame spread and produces low smoke and low toxicity, which is why it is mandated in plenum return ceilings.

Riser cable rating

CMR-rated cable is intended for vertical riser shafts between floors. It resists flame propagation up the shaft but is not suitable for air-handling spaces.

Twist rate purpose

Each pair in a twisted pair cable has a different twist rate so that crosstalk couples differently along the length, preventing cumulative noise between adjacent pairs.

Termination untwist limit

Only the minimum length of pair twist is removed at a termination, commonly under 13 millimetres, because untwisted conductor sections radiate and pick up crosstalk.

UTP bend radius

During installation, unshielded twisted pair cable should not be bent tighter than four times its outer diameter. Tighter bends distort pair geometry and raise attenuation.

Fibre bend radius

Optical fibre cable should not be bent tighter than ten times its outer diameter during installation. Excess bending causes macrobending loss and can fracture the glass core.

Multimode fibre window

Multimode fibre is optimised for 850 nanometre transmission using VCSEL sources. OM3 and OM4 grades support high-speed links over building-scale distances.

Singlemode fibre use

Singlemode fibre has a small core carrying one propagation mode, giving very low loss at 1310 and 1550 nanometres for long links between buildings or sites.

Power and data separation

Communications cable is run at a specified clearance from mains cabling, and crossings are made at right angles, to limit induced noise and electrical hazard.

Consolidation point

An interconnection point within the horizontal cabling, often in an open-plan ceiling, that allows reconfiguration. It counts toward the 90 metre horizontal limit and adds a connector.

Entrance facility

The point where external carrier cables enter the building and meet internal backbone cabling, including protection devices and the demarcation between network and customer cabling.

Cable labelling practice

Both ends of every cable carry the same unique identifier, and outlet-to-patch-panel mapping is recorded so that moves, adds and changes can be traced without retesting.

Registration scope

Registration is held by an individual and limited to endorsed categories such as structured, coaxial or optical fibre. Work outside the endorsed scope is not permitted.

Network boundary

The network termination device marks the division between carrier network cabling and customer cabling. Registered cablers work only on the customer side of this boundary.

Registered cabler accountability

The registered cabler is answerable for compliance, safety and quality of the cabling work, including work performed by assistants under their supervision.

Supervision of trainees

Unregistered assistants may perform regulated cabling tasks only under the supervision level required by the regulator, with the registered cabler retaining responsibility for the result.

Compliance record

A document left with the customer after installation, recording the work performed, cable types used and test outcomes, demonstrating conformity with the wiring rules.

Test result retention

Certification test data and as-built records are kept for the period set by the regulator so the installation can be audited or fault-traced later.

Treat cable as live

Any cable is assumed energised until proved de-energised with a tested meter, because communications cables can carry remote power or induced voltage.

Working at heights

Ladder and elevated platform work requires stable footing, correct ladder angle, three points of contact and exclusion of the drop zone before any cable is run.

Trench and pit safety

Before entering a pit or trench, check for gas, standing water and traffic hazards, and use barriers and a spotter. Confined spaces follow an entry permit process.

Registration renewal

Registration is time-limited and renewed only when the cabler meets the regulator's conditions, including evidence of current competence and payment of fees.

Change of details

Registered cablers must notify the regulator of changes to name, contact details or employment that affect the register, so the public record stays accurate.

Reasonable care and skill

Consumer law requires cabling work to be performed with reasonable care and skill and fit for the stated purpose, regardless of any contract terms.

Defect rectification

When a fault or non-compliance is found, the cabler must correct it at their own cost and document the rectification, rather than leaving it for the customer.

Accurate quotation

A quote or estimate must describe the scope, cable types and inclusions accurately, because misleading representations about cabling work breach consumer protection law.

Continuing competence

Renewal depends on keeping current with standard revisions and technology changes, so cablers update skills rather than relying on initial training alone.