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Telecommunications

      
   
Testing, Repairing and Installing Home telephone Wiring - Before You Start

Before You Start

Before starting any telephone installation work, familiarize yourself with the products, procedures and safety precautions outlined in this brochure.  Be sure to review the safety precautions included with any equipment you have purchased as well.  As you work on your telephone wiring (or any wiring) the motto “safety first” should be your guide.

The telecommunications industry has become increasingly diverse with the types and number of services that are available, as well as the types and number of service providers.  The information contained in this brochure is intended to be a guide for the “typical” situation involving telephone wiring.  However, depending on the type of service you are using (i.e., cable modem, digital subscriber line (DSL) (or any high-speed internet service), VoIP etc…) you may need to refer to other materials. 

This guide will be particularly helpful if you wish to change phones, add an extension, or install your own wiring system.  To do so, you must use FCC approved jacks and telephone industry standard wiring, which are widely available at electronics and home improvement stores.

List of suggested Tools and Materials
Screwdriver Hammer
Needle nose pliers Wire stripper
Drill  Fish tape or chain
Diagonal wire cutters Tape measure
Drill and assorted bits Marking pencil
Nails to mount outlet boxes   Standard electrical outlet boxes
Jacks as required  Network interface wire junction
Staples and staple gun
(NOTE: if used properly, staples can be a convenient way to secure wiring.  However, you need to use care to ensure that you do not pierce the wiring when securing it with a staple).