Hybrid Facility-IT Devices

What Facilities staff should know about building technology systems.

View the 2-page PDF.

These building-based technology components require a hybrid approach from Facilities and IT departments working in close coordination with each other and their respective contractors for planning, design, construction, and maintenance.

Each systems category lists typical devices, their functional importance, and what Facilities’ staff should know, at a minimum, about each of them.

TECHNOLOGY INFRASTRUCTURE (PHYSICAL NETWORK)
Cable supports, cable drops and data outlets
(Cable Supports include pathways cable tray, ladder racks, conduits, and J-hooks)

Function/Importance
From classrooms to the business office, district daily operations depend on the cables that move data between and among buildings.

Cable supports, drops, and outlets all need to follow industry standards to ensure reliable operation and to facilitate maintenance and service.

> Learn more on our Technology Infrastructure Resources page.

What Facilities staff should know

Be sure cable is installed with correct supports such as cable trays, ladder racks, J-hooks, etc.
Don’t install other types of materials in these data cable supports which can compromise data transmission.
Data outlets should be consistently identified with machine-printed labels that show connection points

SAFETY AND SECURITY
Fire Alarm, Public Address, Video Surveillance, Door Alarms and Monitoring, and Motion Detectors

Function/Importance
While many of these Life Safety and Security systems still use analog hard-wired components, their functionality is often integrated on a common Internet Protocol (IP)-based platform so an event on one system can trigger an action on another.

For example, the fire alarm system can trigger an emergency announcement on the PA system. This merged platform allows for building automation based on data and building occupants and activities.

What Facilities staff should know

These systems and components should be checked annually to ensure that all devices function properly.
Both Public Address and video cameras should provide coverage of exterior areas where students gather (e.g., courtyards, athletic fields).
Electronic door hardware is required for main student and staff entrances which complicates exterior door installation.

ARCHITECTURAL, MECHNICAL, ELECTRICAL & PLUMBING
Space and MEP support

Function/Importance
Most all technology infrastructure and building systems require AMEP support including dedicated electric, conditioned environments, and secure spaces.

Telecommunications Rooms (TRs) are among the most important IT support spaces with which Facilities staff interacts.

> Learn more on our Technology Infrastructure Resources page.

What Facilities staff should know

Telecommunication and related IT equipment needs to be housed in a secure dedicated space that meets certain standards.
Both TRs and other fixed technology devices usually require dedicated electric, bonding and grounding, and environmental controls such as cooling.
Capital projects require tight coordination between Facilities, IT, BOCES/RIC, technology consultants, architects, and contractors.

ALL TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS
Documentation

Function/Importance
Building-based technology infrastructure and systems such as Communications (CM), Audio-Video (AV), and Security (SS) are updated frequently. Systems documentation needs to stay current with installations.

> Learn more about our approach to Project Closeout Documentation.

What Facilities staff should know
Fast, secure access to the latest AMEP and technology systems drawings, specs, O&M documentation, etc., reduces systems downtime and repair costs by facilitating troubleshooting and servicing.

Prepare for the future with professional, objective Planning services from Archi-Technology LLC that include a Technology Conditions Survey, Telecom Room (TR) Master Plan, and 10-year Comprehensive Technology Plan developed specifically for your district.

Our technology survey and strategic consulting services are state-aidable via BOCES CoSer or as part of your NYSED Building Conditions Survey aid. Learn more or call 585.785.4429 to discuss your district’s needs..

< Facilities & IT Hybrid Technology Components: THEORY