UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE

Rural Utilities Service

**BULLETIN 1753F-302(PE-91)**

**SUBJECT: [RUS Specification for Outside Plant Housings
and]{.underline}**

**[Serving Area Interface Systems]{.underline}**

**TO:** All Telecommunications Borrowers

RUS Telephone Staff

**EFFECTIVE DATE:** November 21, 1994.

**EXPIRATION DATE:** Date of change in 7 CFR 1755.910 by rulemaking.

**OFFICE OF PRIMARY INTEREST:** Outside Plant Branch, Telecommunications
Standards Division.

**PREVIOUS INSTRUCTIONS:** This is a new bulletin. This user friendly
guide bulletin updates and consolidates information previously located
in rescinded RUS Bulletin 345-26, RUS Specification for Buried Plant
Housings (PE-35), and RUS Bulletin 345-77, RUS Specification for Serving
Area Interface Housings (PE-79).

**FILING INSTRUCTIONS:** File with 7 CFR 1755. This bulletin is
available to the RUS staff on RUSNET (text only) and can be accessed via
Internet at http://www.usda.gov/rus/home/home.htm

**PURPOSE:** This specification informs manufacturers and users of
outside plant housings and serving area interface systems of the
engineering and technical requirements that are considered necessary for
satisfactory performance in outside plant environments. This bulletin is
a user friendly guide and a reformat of the text codified in 7 CFR
1755.910 published at 59 FR 53043, dated October 21, 1994.

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this document.
However, in case of discrepancies, the regulations at 7 CFR 1755.910 are
the authorized sources.

Wally Beyer 7/3/96

Administrator Date

**TABLE OF CONTENTS**

CFR to Bulletin Conversion Table \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 4

Abbreviations \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\....
7

1\. Scope
\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 8

2\. General Information
\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 9

3\. General Documentation Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 9

3.1 Installation and Maintenance Instructions \...\...\... 9

3.2 Quality Assurance \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 10

3.3 RUS Acceptance Applications \...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 10

4\. Functional Design Criteria for Housings \...\...\...\...\.... 11

4.1 General Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 11

4.2 Housing Types and Capacities \...\...\...\...\...\...\... 11

4.3 Design and Fabrication Requirements for Housings . 13

4.4 Warning Sign \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 17

4.5 Housing Materials \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 17

4.6 Housing Finish Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 19

4.7 Installation Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 20

5\. Performance Criteria and Test Procedures for Housings .. 20

5.1 General Information \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 20

5.2 Description of Test Housing \...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 20

5.3 Environmental Requirement for Housings \...\...\..... 21

5.4 Mechanical Requirements for Housings \...\...\...\.... 26

5.5 Electrical Requirements for Housings \...\...\...\.... 30

5.6 Finish Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 30

6\. Functional Design Criteria for Binding Post Terminal

Blocks Used in SAI Cabinets \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 31

6.1 General Description \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 31

6.2 Design and Fabrication Requirements \...\...\...\..... 31

6.3 Auxiliary Features \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 32

7\. Performance Criteria and Test Procedures for Binding

Post Terminal Blocks Used in SAI Cabinets \...\...\...\..... 33

7.1 General \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 33

7.2 Environmental Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 33

7.3 Mechanical Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 36

7.4 Dielectric Strength \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 37

7.5 Operational Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 38

8\. Functional Design Criteria for Insulation Displacement

Type Cross-connect Modules Used in SAI Cabinets \...\..... 38

8.1 General Description \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 38

8.2 Design and Fabrication Requirements \...\...\...\..... 39

8.3 Auxiliary Features \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 39

**TABLE OF CONTENTS - Continued**

9\. Performance Criteria and Test Procedures for Insulation

Displacement Type Cross-connect Modules \...\...\...\...\.... 40

9.1 General \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 40

9.2 Environmental Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 40

9.3 Mechanical Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 41

9.4 Electrical Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 42

9.5 Operational Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\.... 42

10\. Packaging and Identification Requirements \...\...\...\..... 43

10.1 Product Identification \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 43

10.2 Packaging Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\..... 43

10.3 Container Marking Requirements \...\...\...\...\...\... 44

**TABLES & FIGURES**

Figure 1 Warning Sign \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\....
45

Figure 2 Thermal Shock Temperature Cycle \...\...\...\...\...\... 46

Figure 3 Environmental Test Chamber Temperature Cycle \..... 47

Figure 4 Turning Moment - Pole Mounted Housings \...\...\..... 48

Figure 5 Overturning Moment, Pad Mounted Housings \...\...\... 49

Figure 6 Measuring Load Deflection \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 50

Figure 7 Vibration Test for Packaged Housings \...\...\...\.... 51

Figure 8 Vibration Test for Unpackaged Housings \...\...\..... 52

Figure 9 Corner Drop Tests for Packaged Housings Weighing

More Than 91 Kilograms (200 Pounds) \...\...\...\..... 53

Figure 10 Edge Drop Test for Packaged Housings Weighing

More Than 91 Kilograms (200 Pounds) \...\...\...\.... 54

Figure 11 Drop Test for Unpackaged Housings Weighing

More Than 23 Kilograms (50 Pounds) \...\...\...\..... 55

Figure 12 Binding Post Arrangement for Insulation

Resistance Testing \...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\...\... 56

Figure 13 Lateral Loading of Binding Post Terminals \...\.... 57

Figure 14 Axial Pullout of Binding Post Terminals \...\...\... 58

INDEX:

Housings, Buried Plant, Telecommunications

Cabinets, SAI Systems, Telecommunications

**CFR TO BULLETIN CONVERSION TABLE**

**7 CFR** **Bulletin** **7 CFR** **Bulletin**

**1755.910** **1753F-302** **1755.910** **1753F-302**

\(a\) 1. (d)(3)(xiii) 4.3.13

(a)(1) 1.1 (d)(3)(xiv) 4.3.14

(a)(2) 1.2 (d)(3)(xv) 4.3.15

(a)(3) 1.3 (d)(3)(xvi) 4.3.16

(a)(4) 1.4 (d)(3)(xvii) 4.3.17

(a)(5) 1.5 (d)(3)(xviii) 4.3.18

(a)(6) 1.6 (d)(3)(xix) 4.3.19

(a)(7) 1.7 (d)(3)(xx) 4.3.20

\(b\) 2. (d)(3)(xxi) 4.3.21

(b)(1) 2.1 (d)(3)(xxii) 4.3.22

(b)(2) 2.2 (d)(3)(xxiii) 4.3.23

(b)(3) 2.3 (d)(3)(xxiv) 4.3.24

(b)(4) 2.4 (d)(3)(xxv) 4.3.25

\(c\) 3. (d)(3)(xxvi) 4.3.26

(c)(1) 3.1 (d)(3)(xxvii) 4.3.27

(c)(1)(i) 3.1.1 (d)(3)(xxviii) 4.3.28

(c)(1)(ii) 3.1.2 (d)(3)(xxix) 4.3.29

(c)(1)(iii) 3.1.3 (d)(3)(xxx) 4.3.30

(c)(2) 3.2 (d)(4) 4.4

(c)(3) 3.3 (d)(4)(i) 4.4.1

(c)(3)(i) 3.3.1 (d)(4)(ii) 4.4.2

(c)(3)(ii) 3.3.2 (d)(4)(iii) 4.4.3

(c)(3)(iii) 3.3.3 (d)(4)(iv) 4.4.4

(c)(3)(iv) 3.3.4 (d)(4)(v) 4.4.5

\(d\) 4. (d)(5) 4.5

(d)(1) 4.1 (d)(5)(i) 4.5.1

(d)(1)(i) 4.1.1 (d)(5)(ii) 4.5.2

(d)(1)(ii) 4.1.2 (d)(5)(iii) 4.5.3

(d)(2) 4.2 (d)(5)(iv) 4.5.4

(d)(2)(i) 4.2.1 (d)(5)(v) 4.5.5

(d)(2)(ii) 4.2.2 (d)(5)(vi) 4.5.6

(d)(2)(iii) 4.2.3 (d)(5)(vii) 4.5.7

(d)(2)(iv) 4.2.4 (d)(5)(viii) 4.5.8

(d)(2)(v) 4.2.5 (d)(5)(ix) 4.5.9

(d)(2)(vi) 4.2.6 (d)(5)(x) 4.5.10

(d)(3) 4.3 (d)(5)(xi) 4.5.11

(d)(3)(i) 4.3.1 (d)(5)(xii) 4.5.12

(d)(3)(ii) 4.3.2 (d)(5)(xiii) 4.5.13

(d)(3)(iii) 4.3.3 (d)(6) 4.6

(d)(3)(iv) 4.3.4 (d)(6)(i) 4.6.1

(d)(3)(v) 4.3.5 (d)(6)(ii) 4.6.2

(d)(3)(vi) 4.3.6 (d)(6)(iii) 4.6.3

(d)(3)(vii) 4.3.7 (d)(6)(iv) 4.6.4

(d)(3)(viii) 4.3.8 (d)(6)(v) 4.6.5

(d)(3)(ix) 4.3.9 (d)(7) 4.7

(d)(3)(x) 4.3.10 (d)(7)(i) 4.7.1

(d)(3)(xi) 4.3.11 (d)(7)(ii) 4.7.2

(d)(3)(xii) 4.3.12 (d)(7)(iii) 4.7.3

**CFR TO BULLETIN CONVERSION TABLE**

**7 CFR** **Bulletin** **7 CFR** **Bulletin**

**1755.910** **1753F-302** **1755.910** **1753F-302**

\(e\) 5. (e)(4)(v) 5.4.5

(e)(1) 5.1 (e)(4)(vi) 5.4.6

(e)(1)(i) 5.1.1 (e)(4)(vii) 5.4.7

(e)(1)(ii) 5.1.2 (e)(4)(viii) 5.4.8

(e)(2) 5.2 (e)(4)(viii)(A) 5.4.8.1

(e)(2)(i) 5.2.1 (e)(4)(viii)(B) 5.4.8.2

(e)(2)(ii) 5.2.2 (e)(4)(ix) 5.4.9

(e)(3) 5.3 (e)(5) 5.5

(e)(3)(i) 5.3.1 (e)(6) 5.6

(e)(3)(ii) 5.3.2 (e)(6)(i) 5.6.1

(e)(3)(iii) 5.3.3 (e)(6)(ii) 5.6.2

(e)(3)(iv) 5.3.4 (e)(6)(iii) 5.6.3

(e)(3)(v) 5.3.5 (e)(6)(iv) 5.6.4

(e)(3)(vi) 5.3.6 (e)(6)(v) 5.6.5

(e)(3)(vii) 5.3.7 (f) 6.

(e)(3)(viii) 5.3.8 (f)(1) 6.1

(e)(3)(ix) 5.3.9 (f)(2) 6.2

(e)(3)(ix)(A) 5.3.9.1 (f)(2)(i) 6.2.1

(e)(3)(ix)(B) 5.3.9.2 (f)(2)(ii) 6.2.2

(e)(3)(x) 5.3.10 (f)(2)(iii) 6.2.3

(e)(3)(xi) 5.3.11 (f)(2)(iv) 6.2.4

(e)(3)(xii) 5.3.12 (f)(2)(v) 6.2.5

(e)(3)(xii)(A)(1) 5.3.12.1 (f)(2)(vi) 6.2.6

(e)(3)(xii)(A)(2) 5.3.12.2 (f)(2)(vii) 6.2.7

(e)(3)(xii)(A)(3) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-- (f)(2)(viii) 6.2.8

(e)(3)(xii)(B)(1) 5.3.12.3 (f)(2)(ix) 6.2.9

(e)(3)(xii)(B)(2) 5.3.12.4 (f)(3) 6.3

(e)(3)(xii)(B)(3) \-\-\-\-\-\-\-- (f)(3)(i) 6.3.1

(e)(3)(xiii) 5.3.13 (f)(3)(ii) 6.3.2

(e)(3)(xiii)(A) 5.3.13.1 (f)(3)(iii) 6.3.3

(e)(3)(xiii)(B) 5.3.13.2 (f)(3)(iv)(A) 6.3.4

(e)(4) 5.4 (f)(3)(iv)(B) 6.3.5

(e)(4)(i) 5.4.1 (g) 7.

(e)(4)(i)(A) 5.4.1.1 (g)(1) 7.1

(e)(4)(i)(B) 5.4.1.2 (g)(2) 7.2

(e)(4)(i)(C) 5.4.1.3 (g)(2)(i) 7.2.1

(e)(4)(ii) 5.4.2 (g)(2)(i)(A) 7.2.1.1

(e)(4)(iii) 5.4.3 (g)(2)(i)(B) 7.2.1.2

(e)(4)(iv) 5.4.4 (g)(2)(ii) 7.2.2

(e)(4)(iv)(A) 5.4.4.1 (g)(2)(ii)(A) 7.2.2.1

(e)(4)(iv)(B) 5.4.4.2 (g)(2)(ii)(B) 7.2.2.2

(e)(4)(iv)(B)(1) 5.4.4.2.1 (g)(2)(iii) 7.2.3

(e)(4)(iv)(B)(2) 5.4.4.2.2 (g)(2)(iii)(A) 7.2.3.1

(e)(4)(iv)(B)(3) 5.4.4.2.3 (g)(2)(iii)(B) 7.2.3.2

(e)(4)(iv)(B)(4) 5.4.4.2.4 (g)(2)(iv) 7.2.4

(e)(4)(iv)(C) 5.4.4.3 (g)(2)(v) 7.2.5

(e)(4)(iv)(D)(1) 5.4.4.4 (g)(2)(vi) 7.2.6

(e)(4)(iv)(D)(2) \-\-\-\-\-\-- (g)(3) 7.3

**CFR TO BULLETIN CONVERSION TABLE**

**7 CFR** **Bulletin** **7 CFR** **Bulletin**

**1755.910** **1753F-302** **1755.910** **1753F-302**

(g)(3)(i) 7.3.1 (i)(4)(ii) 9.4.2

(g)(3)(ii) 7.3.2 (i)(5) 9.5

(g)(3)(ii)(A) 7.3.2.1 (i)(5)(i) 9.5.1

(g)(3)(ii)(B) 7.3.2.2 (i)(5)(ii) 9.5.2

(g)(3)(iii) 7.3.3 (i)(5)(iii) 9.5.3

(g)(3)(iv) 7.3.4 (j) 10.

(g)(3)(v) 7.3.5 (j)(1) 10.1

(g)(3)(v)(A) 7.3.5.1 (j)(1)(i) 10.1.1

(g)(3)(v)(B) 7.3.5.2 (j)(1)(ii) 10.1.2

(g)(3)(vi) 7.3.6 (j)(2) 10.2

(g)(4) 7.4 (j)(2)(i) 10.2.1

(g)(5) 7.5 (j)(2)(ii) 10.2.2

(g)(5)(i) 7.5.1 (j)(2)(iii) 10.2.3

(g)(5)(ii) 7.5.2 (j)(2)(iv) 10.2.4

(g)(5)(iii) 7.5.3 (j)(2)(v) 10.2.5

(g)(5)(iv) 7.5.4 (j)(2)(vi) 10.2.6

\(h\) 8. (j)(2)(vii) 10.2.7

(h)(1) 8.1 (j)(3) 10.3

(h)(2) 8.2 (j)(3)(i) 10.3.1

(h)(2)(i) 8.2.1 (j)(3)(ii) 10.3.2

(h)(2)(ii) 8.2.2 (j)(3)(iii) 10.3.3

(h)(2)(iii) 8.2.3 (j)(3)(iv) 10.3.4

(h)(2)(iv) 8.2.4 (j)(3)(v) 10.3.5

(h)(2)(v) 8.2.5

(h)(2)(vi) 8.2.6

(h)(2)(vii) 8.2.7

(h)(3) 8.3

(h)(3)(i) 8.3.1

(h)(3)(ii) 8.3.2

(h)(3)(iii) 8.3.3

\(i\) 9.

(i)(1) 9.1

(i)(2) 9.2

(i)(2)(i) 9.2.1

(i)(2)(ii) 9.2.2

(i)(2)(iii) 9.2.3

(i)(2)(iv) 9.2.4

(i)(2)(v) 9.2.5

(i)(2)(vi) 9.2.6

(i)(2)(vii) 9.2.7

(i)(3) 9.3

(i)(3)(i) 9.3.1

(i)(3)(ii) 9.3.2

(i)(3)(iii) 9.3.3

(i)(3)(iv) 9.3.4

(i)(3)(v) 9.3.5

(i)(4) 9.4

(i)(4)(i) 9.4.1

**ABBREVIATIONS**

ac Alternating current

ASTM American Society For Testing and Materials

AWG American Wire Gauge

BD Buried Plant Pedestal Stake-Mounted Assembly Unit

BDA Buried Plant Pedestal Pole-Mounted Assembly Unit

BDAG Buried Plant Pedestal Extra Height Pole-Mounted

Assembly Unit

°C Centigrade temperature scale

CFR Code of Federal Regulations

cm Centimeters

cm^2^ Square centimeters

cm^3^ Cubic centimeters

cm/min Centimeters per minute

Degrees

dc Direct current

E East direction

°F Fahrenheit temperature scale

ft Feet

Hz Hertz

in. Inches

in.^2^ Square inches

in.^3^ Cubic inches

in./min Inches per minute

kg Kilograms

km/h Kilometers per hour

kv Kilovolts

lb Pounds

lb-in. Pounds-inches

m Meters

mi/h Miles per hour

m/s^2^ Meters per second squared

N North direction

N-m Newton-meters

OSHA Occupational Safety and Health Administration

\% Percent

ppm Parts per million

RH Relative humidity

RUS Rural Utilities Service

S South direction

SAI Service Area Interface

UL Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc.

V Volts

W West direction

**1. SCOPE**

**1.1** The purpose of this specification is to inform manufacturers and
users of outside plant housings and serving area interface (SAI) systems
of the engineering and technical requirements that are considered
necessary for satisfactory performance in outside plant environments.
Included are the mechanical, electrical, and environmental requirements,
desired design features, and test methods for evaluation of the product.

**1.2** The housing and terminal requirements reflect the best
engineering judgment available at the present time and may be subject to
change due to advances in technology, economic conditions, or other
factors.

**1.3** The test procedures described in this specification are required
by the Rural Utilities Service (RUS) to demonstrate the functional
reliability of the product. However, other standard or unique test
procedures may serve the same function. In such cases, RUS shall
evaluate the test procedures and results on an individual basis.

**1.4** The test procedures specified herein satisfy the requirements of
housings as well as the requirements of terminals that may be installed
within housings. Some of the requirements are interrelated to several
tests designed to determine the performance aspects of terminals and are
directly affected by testing required for housings. Therefore, the
manufacturer should carefully review all the test requirements in order
to develop a testing schedule that is comprehensive, efficient in terms
of the number of test specimens required and can be accomplished in an
orderly and logical sequence.

**1.5** The specified tests may require special facilities to comply
with Federal, State, or local regulatory requirements. Some test
procedures are potentially hazardous to personnel because of the high
voltages and mechanical forces involved. Safety precautions are
necessary to prevent injury.

**1.6** The Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. (UL) 94, Tests for
Flammability of Plastic Materials for Parts in Devices and Appliances,
fourth edition, dated June 18, 1991, referenced in this specification
can be ordered from UL at the address below:

UL Inc.

333 Pfingsten Road

Northbrook, Illinois 60062-2096

Telephone Number (708) 272-8800

**1.7** The American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM)
Specifications referenced in this specification can be ordered from ASTM
at the address below:

ASTM

100 Barr Harbor Drive

West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania 19428-2959

Telephone Number (610) 832-9598

**2. GENERAL INFORMATION**

**2.1** Outside plant housings are fabricated of either metallic or
nonmetallic materials in different sizes and configurations to suit a
variety of applications. The purpose of a housing is to protect its
contents from environmental elements, rodents, insects, or vandalism and
unauthorized access. Housings are designed with internal brackets for
accommodating splicing, bonding and grounding connections, cable
terminals, cross-connect facilities, load coils, and optical and
electronic equipment.

**2.2** Pedestals are housings primarily intended to house, organize,
and protect cable terminations incorporating terminal blocks, splice
connectors and modules, ground lugs and load coils. Activities typically
performed in a pedestal are cable splicing, shield bonding and
grounding, inductive loading, and connection of subscriber drops.

**2.3** SAI cabinets are housings intended to perform some of the same
functions as pedestals but are primarily intended to serve as the
connecting terminal between feeder cable and distribution cables.

**2.4** Outside plant housings shall be manufactured in accordance with
National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements, UL requirements, Department
of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration Standards
(OSHA), and all other applicable Federal, State, and local requirements
including, but not limited to, statutes, rules, regulations, orders, or
ordinances otherwise imposed by law.

**3. GENERAL DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENTS**

**3.1 [Installation and Maintenance Instructions]{.underline}:**

**3.1.1** Each product shall have available a set of instructions
designed to provide sufficient information for the successful
installation of the housing, cables, auxiliary equipment, and the
associated splice preparation. The instructions shall be of sufficient
size to be easily read and shall be printed using waterproof ink.
Pedestal instruction sheets shall include a list

of miscellaneous replacement parts that may be purchased locally. SAI
systems shall be supplied with complete instructions for installation
and use.

**3.1.2** When requested by RUS, or a RUS borrower, the manufacturer
shall prepare a training package for the purpose of training technicians
in the use and installation of the product and its auxiliary equipment.

**3.1.3** The manufacturer shall provide ordering information for repair
parts. Repair parts shall be obtainable through a local distributor or
shall be easily obtainable. Information describing equivalent parts and
their sources should be provided for those parts that may also be
obtained from other sources.

**3.2 [Quality Assurance]{.underline}:** The manufacturer shall
demonstrate the existence of an ongoing quality assurance program that
includes controls, procedures, and standards used for vendor
certification, source inspection, incoming inspection, manufacture, in
process testing, calibration and maintenance of tools and test
equipment, final product inspection and testing, periodic qualification
testing and control of nonconforming materials and products. The
manufacturer shall maintain quality assurance records for five years.

**3.3 [RUS Acceptance Applications]{.underline}:**

**3.3.1** The tests described in this specification are required

for acceptance of product designs and major modifications of accepted
designs. All modifications shall be considered major unless otherwise
declared by RUS. The tests are intended to show the inherent capability
of the manufacturer to produce products which have an expected service
life of 30 years.

**3.3.2** For initial acceptance the manufacturer shall:

a\. Submit an original signature certification that the

product complies with each Paragraph of this

specification;

b\. Provide qualification test data;

c\. Provide OSHA Material Safety Data Sheets for

the product;

d\. Provide a detailed explanation concerning the intended

use and capacity of the product;

e\. Provide a complete set of instructions, recommendations

for equipment organization and splicing;

f\. Agree to periodic plant inspections;

g\. Provide certification that the product does or does not

comply with the domestic origin manufacturing provisions

of the \"Buy American" requirement of the Rural

Electrification Act of 1938 (52 Stat. 818);

h\. Provide user testimonials concerning field performance

of the product;

i\. Provide product samples if requested by RUS; and

j\. Provide any other data required by the Chief,

Outside Plant Branch (Telecommunications).

**3.3.3** Each requirement of this specification must be addressed

in submissions for acceptance. The designation N/A may be entered when
the requirements do not apply.

**3.3.4** Acceptance requests should be addressed to: Chairman,
Technical Standards Committee "A" (Telecommunications),
Telecommunications Standards Division, RUS, AG Box 1598, Washington, DC
20250-1598.

**4. FUNCTIONAL DESIGN CRITERIA FOR HOUSINGS**

**4.1 [General Requirements]{.underline}:**

**4.1.1** The functional requirements for housings concern materials,
finishes, environmental factors, and design

features that are applicable to most above ground housings

used in the outside plant.

**4.1.2** Housings shall be of sufficient size to permit easily managed
installation, operational, testing, and maintenance operations. The
general shape of outside plant housings is usually comparable to that of
a rectangular column or cylinder, with the shape of any particular
housing being left to the manufacturer\'s discretion. Each design is
subject to acceptance by RUS.

**4.2 [Housing Types and Capacities]{.underline}:**

**4.2.1** Housings used in outside plant are either the smaller housings
generally known as pedestals or larger housings known as equipment or
splice cabinets. Both categories may have designs intended for stake
mounting, pole mounting, or pad mounting.

**4.2.2** The classifications of pedestals are the general purpose
channel Type (H) and the dome Type (M). The Type H pedestal has either
front only access or back and front access while the Type M pedestal has
top only access. Pedestals are further designated as follows:

+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| Stake Mounted   | Type            | Pole Mounted    | Pole Mounted    |
|                 |                 |                 |                 |
|                 |                 |                 | (extra high)    |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD3             | H               | BD3A            | \-              |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD4             | H               | BD4A            | \-              |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD5             | H               | BD5A            | \-              |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD7             | H               | BD7A            | \-              |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD14            | M               | BD14A           | BD14AG          |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD15            | M               | BD15A           | BD15AG          |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| BD16            | M               | BD16A           | BD16AG          |
+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+-----------------+

**4.2.3** The minimum volume associated with the pedestal designations
shall be as shown in the following table:

+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
|                      | Minimum Volume        |                       |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| Pedestal^(1)^        | Cubic Centimeters     | (Cubic Inches)        |
| Housing              |                       |                       |
|                      | (cm^3^)               | (in.^3^)              |
| Designation          |                       |                       |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD3, BD3A^(2)^       | 9,000                 | \(550\)               |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD4, BD4A^(2)^       | 15,000                | \(900\)               |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD5, BD5A^(2)^       | 35,000                | (2,100)               |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD7^(2)^             | 72,000                | (4,400)               |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD14, BD14A,         | 9,000                 | \(550\)               |
| BD14AG^(3)^          |                       |                       |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD15, BD15A,         | 27,000                | (1,600)               |
| BD15AG^(3)^          |                       |                       |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+
| BD16, BD16A,         | 38,000                | (2,300)               |
| BD16AG^(3)^          |                       |                       |
+----------------------+-----------------------+-----------------------+

Note (1): Housings designed for unique purposes will be

evaluated on a case-by-case basis.

Note (2): For Type H pedestals, the minimum volume is that

space as measured 5 centimeters (cm) \[2 inches (in.)\] below

the top of the housing to a point 40 cm (16 in.) above the

bottom of the lower cover plate.

Note (3): The minimum volume of the Type M pedestals shall

be the space within the dome measured from the lower edge of

of the dome to a point 5 cm (2 in.) from the top.

**4.2.4** Equipment cabinets intended for use as SAI housings shall be
assigned size designations according to their maximum pair termination
capacities. The capacity will vary depending on the type of terminating
equipment used. SAI cabinets shall be suffix designated with an \"A\"
for pole mounting, \"X\" for pad mounting, and \"S\" for stake mounting.

**4.2.5** Large pair count splice cabinets are classified according to
their splice capacity. Approximately 48 cm^3^ (3.0 in.^3^) of splice
area per pair straight spliced shall be permitted.

**4.2.6** The minimum volume associated with large pair count splice
cabinets shall be as shown in the following table:

  ----------------------- ------------ ---------- --------- ------------------------
  Splice Cabinet^(1)^     Minimum                 Maximum   
                          Volume                  Splice    

  Designation             cm^3^        (in.^3^)             Capacity (Pairs)

  BD6000                  295,000      (18,000)             6,000

  BD8000                  393,000      (24,000)             8,000

  BD10000                 491,000      (30,000)             10,000
  ----------------------- ------------ ---------- --------- ------------------------

Note (1): Additional sizes of splice cabinets shall be

considered by RUS on a case-by-case basis.

**4.3** **[Design and Fabrication Requirements for
Housings]{.underline}:**

**4.3.1** Type H pedestal housings may consist of an enclosed channel
incorporating an integrally mounted stake that serves as a backplate, or
they may be designed for universal mounting on stakes or poles. The body
of the housing shall have two major components; an upper cover and a
base cover. The upper cover shall have a top, front and back plate with
the front cover removable to permit entry and provide increased work
space. The base cover shall consist of a front plate and back plate. The
base cover back plate may be an extension of the upper back plate cover.

**4.3.2** Type M pedestal housings shall consist of a one piece upper
sleeve designed to fit over the base cover trapping air to prohibit
water from entering the splice area when installed in locations prone to
temporary flooding. Pedestals designed to be mounted extra high on poles
for locations susceptible to deep snow shall have a bottom close-off
option available to prohibit the ingress of birds, rodents and insects.

**4.3.3** The external housing components on all outside plant housings
shall provide reasonable protection against accidental removal or
vandalism. Housings shall be equipped with a cover plate retaining bolt
and cup washer that may be opened only with an industry accepted socket
type can wrench. Housings may be equipped with provisions to allow the
purchaser to install a padlock.

**4.3.4** Installed housings shall resist the disassembling force of
frost heaving applied to the bottom of ground line cover plates. The
base cover must remain stationary to stabilize the contents of the
housing cavity.

**4.3.5** In an effort to provide protection against dust penetration,
blowing snow, rain, and ultraviolet light degradation of internal
components, all mechanical gaps shall be restricted. The use of seals,
overlaps, gaskets, and dovetailing is required to assure satisfactory
protection of housed equipment.

**4.3.6** Knockouts, cutouts, or notches designed to accommodate aerial
service drops shall not be permitted. A design option for housings
intended to accommodate service drops shall include a separate channel
or equivalent in the base cover to allow future additions of service
drops without the removal of gravel or the moisture barrier in the base
of the housing. Service wire channels must be designed to prevent the
entry of birds, reptiles, rodents and insects.

**4.3.7** Minimal venting of SAI housings may be necessary to relieve
internal pressure and condensation.

**4.3.8** There shall be no aluminum housing components that will become
buried in the soil when the housing is properly installed.

**4.3.9** Housing components may be assembled using rivets, welds, glue,
bolts and nuts, or other techniques suitable for the materials involved.

**4.3.10** Housings and their components that require field assembly
must be capable of being assembled with tools normally available to
outside plant technicians.

**4.3.11** Hinged doors on SAI housings and large pair count splice
housings shall be equipped with a device that restrains the doors in the
open position.

**4.3.12** Outside plant housings shall be free of sharp edges, burrs,
etc., that could present a safety hazard to personnel involved in
installation and use of the product or to the general public. Surfaces
inside housings must not allow pinching of conductors during
installation of cover plates or the opening and closing of doors.

**4.3.13** A ground line mark shall be provided, approximately 15 cm (6
in.) below the top edge of the housing base cover plate on housings
intended for ground level mounting. Base cover plates shall have be a
minimum height of 31 cm (12 in.).

**4.3.14** Any housing, which weighs in excess of 91 kilograms (kg)
\[200 pounds (lb)\], including its contents, shall be equipped with
lifting brackets for attaching hoisting cables or chains.

**4.3.15** Housing stakes shall be a minimum of 107 cm (42 in.) in
length. If fabricated from steel, they shall have a minimum thickness of
No. 13 gauge as measured according to American Society for Testing and
Materials (ASTM) A-525-91b. Stakes shall be formed into a \"U\" channel
with a minimum depth of 2 cm

(0.75 in.). The stake shall be a single part of suitable design strength
for driving 91 cm (36 in.) into the soil with hand tools without damage
such as bending or warping. The stake shall have adequate mounting holes
having a minimum separation of 15 cm

(6 in.) for mounting the housing baseplate. The stake material must
resist corrosion and deterioration when exposed to soil and atmospheric
conditions.

**4.3.16** The housing design must permit a logical progression of
installation steps that would normally be encountered in typical field
installations.

**4.3.17** Provisions for attaching housings to stakes, poles, walls,
other housings, or pads shall be provided for each design intended for
those purposes. Locations of holes for mounting attachments may be
provided by knockouts on above ground components. Mounting hole
locations for below ground components may be predrilled.

**4.3.18** Pole mounting hardware shall provide at least l.3 cm

(0.5 in.) clearance from the pole to the housing. Pole mounting brackets
shall accommodate the wide range of pole sizes used in the telephone
industry.

**4.3.19** Pad mounted housings shall have hardware available for
anchoring the housing base to the pad. A template may be provided to
assist in the location of mounting attachment details for pad
preparation.

**4.3.20** Housings equipped with stub cables shall have strain relief
devices to permit shipping and handling of the housing without damage to
the housing or stub cables. Only RUS accepted cable shall be used for
stub cables. The cable manufacturer\'s recommendations concerning
minimum bend radius shall be observed. The minimum bend radius for most
copper cables is 10 times the cable diameter.

**4.3.21** Cable supports shall be provided near the top of the ground
line cover and other appropriate locations within the housing to provide
cable stability consistent with the intended use and capacity of the
housing. Cable supports shall be capable of holding a minimum load of 23
kg (50 lb).

**4.3.22** An adequate supply of nonmetallic retainer clips or tie wraps
capable of supporting a minimum load of 23 kg (50 lb) shall be provided
with the housing. Adequate spaces for installation of the clips or tie
wraps must be provided on the housing backplate and cable supports.

**4.3.23** Housing chambers designed for splicing operations shall be
equipped with insulated supporting straps or rods suitable for
supporting splice bundles. The insulation on the straps or rods shall
extend for the entire length of the device and shall have a dielectric
strength of 15 kilovolts (kv) direct current (dc) minimum. Housings
having an \"H\" frame design where both front and rear covers may be
removed may incorporate insulated tie bars to be used as cable supports.

**4.3.24** Housings designed to contain equipment in addition to splices
shall be equipped with a device for physically separating the splice
area from the service area of the housing.

**4.3.25** A dielectric shield rated at 15 kv dc shall be provided to
enclose the cable splice area. The shield shall extend from the lower
cable supports to within 2.5 cm (1 in.) of the top of the housing. The
shield shall be equipped with Velcro or equivalent fastening devices
designed to hold the shield in both the open or closed positions. The
fastening devices shall extend along the entire vertical edge of the
dielectric shield.

**4.3.26** Mounting arrangements for a variety of terminal blocks and
other equipment shall be provided by means of good housekeeping panels
or other devices that may enhance the service aspect of the housing.

**4.3.27** Housings designed for SAI cabinets may be shipped with
terminal blocks installed and stub cables attached. If this option is
exercised, the stub cables and terminal blocks must be RUS accepted. In
all cases, SAI cabinets must be equipped with appropriate mounting
devices for installing the peripheral equipment required for a serving
area interface.

**4.3.28** SAI cabinets shall be designed to provide physical separation
between the splicing area and the area provided for running
cross-connect jumpers.

**4.3.29** SAI cabinets and large splice housings must have an external
feature for attaching a padlock to prevent unauthorized entry.

**4.3.30** Each housing shall have a tinned or zinc electroplated copper
alloy or equivalent connector plate or bar to be used for terminating
ground and cable shield bond connections. The device shall be equipped
with captive studs and nuts with captive lock washers designed for
attaching 6 American Wire Gauge (AWG) copper bonding harness wire or
braid and a 6 AWG copper ground wire. Connector plates shall be equipped
with enough studs and nuts to provide individual connections equivalent
to the maximum number of cable sheaths recommended for the housing.
Housings shall incorporate design features that enable the field
installation of at least one additional connector plate for service
conditions that require numerous connections. A bonding and grounding
system capable of providing support and strain relief for service wires
shall be provided for housings intended for use as distribution points.
The bonding system shall be designed to provide sheath continuity as
cable and service wires are installed, and prior to any other operation
being performed. The bonding arrangement shall provide electrical
continuity between all bonds and the ground connector plate. The bonding
and grounding arrangement shall permit the lifting of individual cable
ground connections for testing and cable locating activities without
jeopardizing the grounding potential of other cables that may enter the
housing. The bonding and grounding system shall be capable of conducting
a current of 1000 amperes for at least 20 seconds.

**4.4 [Warning Sign]{.underline}:**

**4.4.1** A buried cable warning sign shall be securely attached to the
outside of each housing. The lettering information on the sign shall be
permanent.

**4.4.2** For pedestals, the sign shall be centered horizontally on the
front cover and the top of the sign shall be not more than

10 cm (4 in.) from the top of the housing.

**4.4.3** For SAI cabinets, the sign shall be centered horizontally and
vertically on the door. If there are two doors, the sign shall be
mounted on the left door.

**4.4.4** Deviations from warning sign location requirements are
permitted only for housing design constraints. Alternate sign locations
will be considered by RUS.

**4.4.5** The RUS standard sign design is shown in Figure 1.

**4.5 [Housing Materials]{.underline}:**

**4.5.1** Materials used in housings shall present no environmental or
safety hazard as defined by industry standards or Federal, State, or
local laws and regulations.

**4.5.2** All materials are required to have fire resistance ratings
consistent with recognized industry standards. External materials must
be flame resistant.

**4.5.3** All materials used in the manufacture of housings or component
parts must achieve the required strength properties, resist
deterioration when exposed to outdoor conditions, and be acceptable to
RUS for the specific application. New materials or materials not
familiar to the RUS staff shall be supported by test and performance
data which demonstrates their suitability for the intended use.

**4.5.4** Nonmetallic housing materials shall have a fungus growth
rating no greater than one according to ASTM G-21-90.

**4.5.5** Metallic components shall be either corrosion resistant or
protected against corrosion and must not produce galvanic corrosion in
wet or humid conditions on other metals that may be present in the
housing environment.

**4.5.6** Mill galvanized steel used in the manufacture of housings
shall comply with the appropriate requirements of one of the following
standards:

a\. ASTM A l09-91;

b\. ASTM A 366/A 366M-91;

c\. ASTM A 525-91b; or

d\. ASTM A 526/A 526M-90.

**4.5.7** Hot rolled steel shall comply with the appropriate
requirements of one of the following standards:

a\. ASTM A 569/A 569M-91a; or

b\. ASTM A 621/A 621M-92.

**4.5.8** Cold rolled steel shall comply with the appropriate
requirements of one of the following standards:

a\. ASTM A l09-91; or

b\. ASTM A 366/A 366M-91.

**4.5.9** Steel parts used for internal housing brackets shall be
hexavalent chromate coated or zinc plated in accordance with

ASTM B 633-85.

**4.5.10** Hardware items used for assembling or fastening housing
components shall be 300 series or passivated 400 series stainless steel
or hot dip galvanized in accordance with ASTM A l53-82 (1987). Other
materials will be considered by RUS on an individual basis.

**4.5.11** Aluminum components shall be fabricated from alloy types 5052
or 606l or other types that have been recognized as having acceptable
corrosion resistance and formability and weldability features.

**4.5.12** Nonmetallic parts must be resistant to solvents and stress
cracking and shall be compatible with metals and other materials such as
conductor insulations and filling compounds used in the manufacture of
cable. Plastic materials must be noncorrosive to metals and resist
deterioration when exposed to industrial chemical pollutants,
ultra-violet rays, road salts, cleaning agents, insecticides,
fertilizers, or other detrimental elements normally encountered in the
outdoor environment.

**4.5.13** Housing door seals and gaskets may be manufactured from
rubber or synthetic rubber-like elastomer materials. Seals and gaskets
shall exhibit a high degree of weatherability with an effective life of
at least 30 years in the outdoor environment. The material shall be tear
resistant and have a low compression set.

**4.6 [Housing Finish Requirements]{.underline}:**

**4.6.1** All interior and exterior surfaces of housings shall be free
from blisters, wrinkles, cracks, scratches, dents, heat marks and other
defects.

**4.6.2** There shall be inherent design provisions to prevent
objectionable deterioration of the housing such as rusting, exposure of
fiber or delamination. Secondary protection, such as galvanizing over
steel per ASTM A 526/A 526M-90 or anodizing over aluminum, shall be
provided to ensure reliability over the projected 30 year design life of
the housing.

**4.6.3** Painted metal housings shall have a minimum gloss of 60 (60°
specular) in accordance with ASTM D 523-89.

**4.6.4** All painted surfaces shall have a uniform color and texture in
accordance with ASTM D 3928-89. Nonmetallic housings shall meet
recognized industry standards concerning optical appearance for gloss
and haze as applicable for the material.

**4.6.5** The colors of housings that RUS will consider for acceptance
shall be as follows:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Color                             | Standard                          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Gray-Green                        | Munsell 6.5GY 6.03/1.6            |
|                                   |                                   |
|                                   | Munsell 4.4GY 6.74/1.5            |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Green                             | Munsell 8.8G 2.65/5.3             |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Orange                            | Federal Standard 595A             |
|                                   |                                   |
|                                   | Color Number 12246                |
|                                   |                                   |
|                                   | Munsell 0.15YR 5.26/13.15         |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Chocolate                         | Munsell 5.27YR 2.40/2.60          |
|                                   |                                   |
|                                   | Color Number 835                  |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

**4.7 [Installation Requirements]{.underline}:**

**4.7.1** The design of the housing must provide for a logical and
normal installation sequence, i.e., excavation, installation of a
foundation or base and anchoring devices, addition of hardware,
installation and bonding of cables, splicing, addition of service, and
final closing.

**4.7.2** No special tools or equipment other than that usually carried
by outside plant technicians and construction crews must be required for
installation of the housing. Security devices are the exception to this
requirement.

**4.7.3** Installation hardware shall maintain housings in an erect and
stable position when subjected to normal storm loads. Pad mounted
designs must accommodate precast or cast-in-place reinforced concrete or
other suitable prefabricated material. Brackets, inserts for fastening,
conduit openings, or other items necessary for a pad mounted
installation must be provided. The manufacturer shall provide detailed
drawings or a template for locating inserts, conduit openings, or slots
for cast-in-place pad construction.

**5. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA AND TEST PROCEDURES FOR HOUSINGS**

**5.1 [General Information]{.underline}:**

**5.1.1** The housing manufacturer shall perform adequate inspections
and tests to demonstrate that housings and housing components comply
with RUS requirements.

**5.1.2** Testing usually shall be performed at a room temperature of 24
3C (75 5°F). Temperatures for testing performed at other than room
temperature shall be determined as near the center of the product under
test as practical.

**5.2 [Description of Test Housing]{.underline}:**

**5.2.1** Each distinctly designed and configured family of housings
intended to perform a particular function shall be tested.

**5.2.2** The typical test sample shall consist of the exterior housing
components such as covers, backplates, good housekeeping panels, cap
assembly, anchor posts, decals, etc. Interior components must include
the bonding and grounding hardware for cables and service wires and the
dielectric shield. The housing may include terminal blocks or
cross-connect modules, cable splices, or the typical outside plant
equipment the housing is designed to contain and protect.

**5.3 [Environmental Requirement for Housings]{.underline}:**

**5.3.1 [Thermal Shock]{.underline}:** The test housing shall be placed
in a test chamber and exposed to the temperature cycle of Figure 2 for
five complete cycles. The step function nature of the temperature
changes may be achieved by insertion and removal of the test housing
from the chamber. The soak time at each temperature shall be four hours.
The housing shall be removed from the test chamber at the conclusion of
the five-cycle period. After the test housing temperature has stabilized
to room temperature, the housing must be inspected for deterioration of
materials and satisfactory operation of mechanical functions.

**5.3.2 [Thermal Shock and Humidity]{.underline}**: The test housing
shall be placed in an environmental test chamber at 95 3 percent (%)
relative humidity (RH) and temperature cycled per Figure 3 for a period
of 30 days. At the end of the test there shall be no rust or corrosion
of any closure components. Minor corrosion due to surface scratches,
nicks, etc. is permitted. If the closure is made of a nonmetallic
material, there shall be no signs of degradation.

**5.3.3 [Humidity and Condensation]{.underline}**: Test panels shall be
placed in an environmental chamber and subjected to 1008 hours (42
cycles) of exposure per ASTM D 2247-92. One cycle consists of 24 hours
of 100 % humidity (with condensation on the panels) at a cabinet
temperature of 38 1°C (100 2°F) and an ambient temperature of 25 1°C (77
2°F) without heat input. Upon completion of cycling, the test panels
shall be subjected to an 11 newton-meter (N-m) \[100 pound-inches
(lb-in.)\] impact test using the Gardner-Impact Tester or equivalent.
Test panels shall show no substrate or coating cracking or loss of
coating adhesion on either side.

**5.3.4 [Weatherability]{.underline}:** Three test panels shall be
tested for weatherability in accordance with the appropriate procedures
of either ASTM D 822-89 or ASTM G 23-90. Total exposure time shall be a
minimum of 800 hours. Failure is defined as fading, cracking,
blistering, or delamination on any of the three test panels.

**5.3.5** **[Low Temperature Durability]{.underline}:** Low temperature
durability shall be proven by exposing the three test panels from
Paragraph 5.3.4 of this specification to at least 25 continuous cycles
of the following test sequence:

a\. To insure complete saturation of the three test panels,

soak them for 96 hours in a container of distilled water

at 22 2°C (71.6 4°F);

b\. Lower the temperature of the water and immerse test

panels to -28 2C (-18.4 4F) and stabilize for

24 hours;

c\. Thaw the water with the samples to 22 2°C

(71.6 4°F) and stabilize for 24 hours;

d\. Repeat the procedure 24 times. Any cracking, crazing,

deforming, or delaminating on any of the three test

panels shall be considered a failure; and

e\. Remove the samples from the water and impact test the

three panels by delivering a force of 11.3 N-m

(100 lb-in.) using a Gardner-Impact Tester to each

specimen at 71, 22, and -28 2°C (159.8, 71.6, and

-18.4 4°F), after stabilizing them at those

temperatures for at least two hours. Visual inspection

shall reveal no deformation or perforation on any of

the test panels.

**5.3.6** **[Corrosion Resistance]{.underline}:** Corrosivity shall be
tested in accordance with the requirements of ASTM B 117-90. Both
scribed and unscribed panels shall be evaluated following the procedures
of ASTM D 1654-92. Scribed panels shall have a rating of at least six,
following 500 hours of exposure to salt fog, and the unscribed panels
shall have a rating no lower than 10, after 1,000 hours exposure. Visual
rust inspection shall confirm no more than 0.03 % rusting (rust grade 9)
of the surface area of the test sample when evaluated in accordance with

ASTM D 610-85(1989). The unscribed samples shall be impacted with an
11.3 N-m (100 lb-in.) force, using a Gardner-Impact Tester or
equivalent. Visual inspection of the impacted samples shall reveal no
loss of adhesion between the base material and the coating or cracking
at the finish on the test panels.

**5.3.7 [Fungi Resistance]{.underline}:** Fungi resistance of
nonmetallic housing materials shall be tested according to the
procedures of

ASTM G 21-90. Any rating greater than one shall be considered a failure.

**5.3.8 [Stress Crack Resistance]{.underline}:** The stress cracking
resistance of nonmetallic housing materials shall be tested according to
the procedures of ASTM D 1693-70(1988). The tests shall be performed at
49 2C (120 4F) for 14 days and exposed to the following materials:

a\. Industry recognized filling compounds;

b\. Isopar M;

c\. Industry recognized solvents;

d\. Industry recognized encapsulants; and

e\. Commonly used insect, pest, and weed control products

and agricultural fertilizers.

**5.3.9** **[Chemical Resistance]{.underline}:**

**5.3.9.1** Chemical resistance shall be determined by immersing
representative nonmetallic material samples in each of the following
solutions for 72 hours at 22 2°C (71.6 4°F):

a\. 3% sulfuric acid;

b\. 100 parts per million (ppm) trichloroethane in water;

c\. 0.2 N sodium hydroxide; and

d\. Unleaded high octane gasoline.

**5.3.9.2** There shall be no swelling, deformation, or softening of the
material samples or any discoloration of the solution.

**5.3.10 [Ultraviolet Resistance]{.underline}:** Test panels of metallic
and nonmetallic outer housing materials shall be subjected to 700 hours
exposure per ASTM D 2565-92 using the type BH apparatus. The panels
shall not exhibit fading, blistering, checking, or delamination.

**5.3.11 [Weathertightness]{.underline}**: The housing shall be mounted
in its typical field installation position and sprayed with water. The
temperature of the water shall be adjusted to be equal to or warmer than
the temperature of the cabinet interior to avoid the possibility of
condensation. A water spray head shall be used to direct water at the
housing so that the water stream will strike the assembly at a downward
angle of 45 degrees. The flow of the water shall be 3.8 liters per
minute (one gallon per minute), with 276 kilopascals (40 pounds per
square inch) head of pressure. The spray head shall be held 1.8 meters
(m)

\[6 feet (ft)\] from the test cabinet. The spray head shall be adjusted
so that water impinges uniformly over the housing surface. The duration
of the test shall be five minutes. All vertical cabinet surfaces shall
be tested by this procedure. The exterior of the cabinet shall be
thoroughly dried with towels (no heat drying) prior to examination of
the housing interior. The interior of the housing shall be checked for
presence of water. Wetting of over-lapping surfaces is permitted. There
shall be no presence of water inside the housing.

**5.3.12 [Wind Resistance]{.underline}:**

**5.3.12.1** Stub pole or wall mounted SAI and large pair count splice
housings shall be subjected to a load (F) as shown in Figure 4 and the
following table to simulate the turning moment equivalent to a uniform
wind load of 161 kilometers per hour (km/h) \[100 miles per hour
(mi/h)\] perpendicular to the largest surface area:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| Maximum Area of Largest Surface   | Load            |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| Square Centimeters (cm^2^)        | Kg              | (lb)            |
|                                   |                 |                 |
| \[Square Inches (in.^2^)\]        |                 |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 5,200 (800) or less               | 18              | \(40\)          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 5,201 to 9,100 (801 to 1.400)     | 32              | \(70\)          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 9,101 to 13,000                   | 45              | \(100\)         |
|                                   |                 |                 |
| (1,401 to 2,000)                  |                 |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 13,001 to 16,200                  | 57              | \(125\)         |
|                                   |                 |                 |
| (2,001 to 2,500)                  |                 |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+

Note: The procedure for housings with larger surface areas

will be evaluated by RUS on a case-by-case basis.

**5.3.12.2** The housing shall remain in its original mounting position
throughout the test and exhibit no mechanical deformation.

**5.3.12.3** Pad or ground mounted SAI or splice housings shall be
subjected to a load (F) as shown in Figure 5 and the following table to
simulate the overturning moment equivalent to a uniform wind load of 161
km/h (100 mi/h) perpendicular to the largest surface area:

+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
| Height                | Maximum Area of       | L |           |         |
|                       | Largest Surface       | o |           |         |
|                       |                       | a |           |         |
|                       |                       | d |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
| cm (in.)              | cm^2^ (in.^2^)        |   | kg        | (lb)    |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 11,000 (1,700) or     |   | 91        | \(200\) |
|                       | less                  |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
| 122 (48) or less      | 11,001 - 13,000       |   | 104       | \(230\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (1,701 - 2,000)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 13,001 - 14,900       |   | 118       | \(260\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (2,001 - 2,300)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 11,700 (1,800) or     |   | 91        | \(200\) |
|                       | less                  |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 11,701 - 14,300       |   | 109       | \(240\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (1,801 - 2,200)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
| 123 - 152 (49 - 60)   | 14,301 - 16,200       |   | 127       | \(280\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (2,201 - 2,500)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 16,201 - 18,800       |   | 145       | \(320\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (2,501 - 2,900)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 18,801 - 20,800       |   | 163       | \(360\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (2,901 - 3,200)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 20,801 - 23,400       |   | 181       | \(400\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (3,201 - 3,600)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 14,300 (2,200) or     |   | 109       | \(240\) |
|                       | less                  |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 14,301 - 16,900       |   | 127       | \(280\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (2,201 - 2,600)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
| 153 - 183 (61 -72)    | 16,901 - 19,500       |   | 150       | \(330\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (2,601 - 3,000)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 19,501 - 22,700       |   | 172       | \(380\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (3,001 - 3,500)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 22,701 - 25,300       |   | 190       | \(420\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (3,501 - 3,900)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+
|                       | 25,301 - 27,900       |   | 213       | \(470\) |
|                       |                       |   |           |         |
|                       | (3,901 - 4,300)       |   |           |         |
+-----------------------+-----------------------+---+-----------+---------+

Note: The procedure for housings with larger surface areas

will be evaluated by RUS on a case-by-case basis.

**5.3.12.4** The housing shall remain in its original mounting position
throughout the test and exhibit no mechanical deformation.

**5.3.13 [Fire Resistance]{.underline}:**

**5.3.13.1** The test housing shall be installed in a manner typical of
field installation. U.S. No. 1 wheat straw shall be placed on the ground
around the housing base in a one meter (3 ft) radius at an approximate
depth of 10 cm (4 in.). The straw shall be ignited and permitted to burn
fully. After the housing has

cooled, its contents shall be inspected for evidence of ignition,
melting, burning, or structural damage. Damage sufficient to impair
service constitutes failure.

**5.3.13.2** Polymeric materials shall be tested in accordance with UL
Publication 94, dated June 18, 1991. Materials used in housing
components shall have a rating of 94V-0 or 94V-1 and shall not sustain
combustion when an open flame source is removed.

**5.4 [Mechanical Requirements for Housings]{.underline}:**

**5.4.1 [Impact Resistance]{.underline}:** The test housing shall be
subjected to the following impacts according to its minimum volume or
minimum width and depth as shown in the following table:

+----------------------+----------------------+---+-----------+-----------+
| Minimum Volume       | Minimum Width        | I |           |           |
|                      |                      | m |           |           |
|                      | or Depth             | p |           |           |
|                      |                      | a |           |           |
|                      |                      | c |           |           |
|                      |                      | t |           |           |
|                      |                      | F |           |           |
|                      |                      | o |           |           |
|                      |                      | r |           |           |
|                      |                      | c |           |           |
|                      |                      | e |           |           |
+----------------------+----------------------+---+-----------+-----------+
| cm^3^ (in.^3^)       | cm (in.)             |   | N-m       | (lb-ft)   |
+----------------------+----------------------+---+-----------+-----------+
| Less than 35,000     | Less than 13 (5)     |   | 68        | \(50\)    |
|                      |                      |   |           |           |
| (2,100)              |                      |   |           |           |
+----------------------+----------------------+---+-----------+-----------+
| 35,000 (2,100) or    | 13 (5) or greater    |   | 136       | \(100\)   |
|                      |                      |   |           |           |
| greater              |                      |   |           |           |
+----------------------+----------------------+---+-----------+-----------+

**5.4.1.1** The impact force shall be delivered to the front, back, and
top surfaces. Circular housings shall be impacted on side surfaces 180°
apart and on the top. The device used to deliver the force shall be
spherical and approximately 25 to 31 cm

(10 to 12 in.) in diameter. A typical test procedure may include the use
of a hard rubber bowling ball, weighing 6 to 7 kg

(13 to 16 lb), enclosed in a mesh bag, attached to a rope with a metal
ring. The load shall be dropped vertically on the top surface and
applied to the sides with a pendulum motion using the appropriate height
and extension arm to achieve the required impact force. The housing must
be impacted at the approximate mid-point of the surface area.

**5.4.1.2** Housings shall be conditioned for a minimum of eight hours
at -40°C (-40°F) in an environmental chamber prior to testing. If the
chamber is insufficient in size to conduct tests within the chamber, the
housing may be removed and shall be tested within 10 minutes after
removal.

**5.4.1.3** After impact testing, the housing shall not exhibit
fractured or ruptured surfaces sufficient to allow the ingress of
moisture or dust. The housing shall not exhibit mechanical damage that
would impair the functioning of hinges, latches, locks, etc.

**5.4.2 [Load Deflection]{.underline}:** Free standing buried plant
housings shall be tested for load deflection in accordance with Figure
6. The assembled housing shall be rigidly held in place by a mechanical
means to simulate a normal field installation. A length of wire or
cable, or other suitable material, shall be placed around the top
section of the housing and deadended. The wire or cable shall be
initially tensioned to 23 kg (50 lb). A measurement shall then be taken
of the deflection of the housing at the top as shown in Figure 6. The
deflection shall be recorded at incremental loads of 23 kg (50 lb) until
destruction of the housing occurs. The average load for the three
directions shall not be less than 136 kg (300 lb) and the minimum load
in any direction shall be 113 kg (250 lb). Failure is defined as housing
component fracture or crazing of the housing\'s surface finish.

**5.4.3 [Vibration Requirements]{.underline}:** The test housing and its
contents shall be subjected to acceleration at a sine wave frequency
sweep rate as shown in Figure 7 for a housing packaged for shipment and
Figure 8 for an unpackaged housing. The frequency sweep may be performed
continually or sequentially. The test shall be conducted once along each
of three mutually perpendicular axes of the housing. There shall be no
mechanical or electrical degradation of the housing or its contents.
Noticeable damage to the housing constitutes failure.

**5.4.4 [Drop Test Requirements]{.underline}:** Housings shall be
subjected to appropriate drop tests according to their weight. The drop
tests shall be performed on housings and their contents as normally
packaged as well as on unpackaged housings. The tests shall be conducted
on a smooth level concrete floor or similar unyielding surface. For
corner drops, the packaged housing and its contents shall be oriented at
impact such that a straight line drawn through the struck corner and
package geometric center is approximately perpendicular to the impact
surface.

**5.4.4.1** Packaged housings and their contents weighing 91 kg

(200 lb) or less shall be capable of enduring a single drop on each face
or corner without damage from a height specified as follows:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Packaged Housing Including        | Drop Height                       |
| Contents - Weight kg (lb)         |                                   |
|                                   | cm (in.)                          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 0 to 9 (0 to 20)                  | 76 (30)                           |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 10 to 23 (21 to 50)               | 61 (24)                           |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 24 to 45 (51 to 100)              | 53 (21)                           |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 46 to 91 (101 to 200)             | 46 (18)                           |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

**5.4.4.2** Packaged housings and their contents weighing more than 91
kg (200 lb) shall be capable of enduring a single drop on each of two
diagonally opposite corners of the package without significant damage
from a height specified as follows:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Packaged Housing Including        | Drop Height                       |
| Contents - Weight kg (lb)         |                                   |
|                                   | cm (in.)                          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 92 to 453 (201 to 1000)           | 30 (12)                           |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Over 453                          | 15 (6)                            |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

**5.4.4.2.1** The packaged housing and contents shall be placed on its
normal shipping base with one corner supported 15 cm (6 in.) above the
floor and the other corner of the same end supported

30 cm (12 in.) above the floor as shown in Figure 9. The unsupported end
of the package shall be raised so that the lowest corner reaches the
height listed above and then allowed to fall freely.

**5.4.4.2.2** The procedure of Paragraph 5.4.4.2.1 of this specification
shall be repeated for the diagonally opposite corner.

**5.4.4.2.3** The packaged housing and contents shall be capable of
enduring a single drop on each edge of the base of its normal shipping
position from the required height without damage and shall remain
operational without function impairment. The packaged housing and
contents shall be placed on its base with one edge supported on a sill
15 cm (6 in.) high and the unsupported edge raised to the required
height as shown in

Figure 10 and allowed to fall freely.

**5.4.4.2.4** The procedures of Paragraph 5.4.4.2.3 of this
specification shall be repeated for all edges of the base.

**5.4.4.3** Unpackaged housings and their contents weighing 23 kg (50
lb) or less shall be capable of enduring a single drop on each face and
adjacent corners without significant damage from a height specified as
follows:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Unpackaged Housing Including      | Drop Height                       |
|                                   |                                   |
| Contents - Weight kg (lb)         | cm (in.)                          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 0 to 9 (0 to 20)                  | 10 (4)                            |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 10 to 23 (21 to 50)               | 8 (3)                             |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

**5.4.4.4** Unpackaged housings and their contents weighing more than 23
kg (50 lb) shall be capable of enduring a single drop without
significant damage when lifted by its normal hoisting supports as shown
in Figure 11 and with its lowest point at a height specified as follows:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Unpackaged Housing Including      | Drop Height                       |
|                                   |                                   |
| Contents - Weight kg (lb)         | cm (in.)                          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 23 to 45 (51 to 100)              | 5 (2)                             |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

**5.4.5 [Firearms Resistance]{.underline}:** All housings shall be
tested for resistance to penetration by direct impact from a 12 gauge
shotgun equipped with a modified choke and the use of a 3-3/4 dram
equivalent powder charge and 35 grams #6 lead shot fired from a distance
of 15 m (50 ft). The 12 gauge shotgun shall be fired from a normal
standing position at the front side of the housing. Penetration through
the housing wall by the lead shot shall constitute failure.

**5.4.6 [Lifting Hardware Requirements]{.underline}:** The lifting
hardware on housings and their contents that weigh more than 91 kg (200
lb) shall be tested. The housing shall be fastened to a restraining
device such as a concrete slab and subjected to loading through the
lifting attachments to simulate the lifting load. For the first test a
lifting line equipped with a dynamometer shall be attached to the
housing lifting hardware and a load applied equal to three times the
weight of a fully equipped housing. Deformation or damage to the housing
or lifting hardware constitutes failure. A second test shall be
conducted with the same arrangements as for the first except that a load
shall be applied equal to six times the weight of a fully equipped
housing. There shall be no catastrophic failure of the lifting hardware
or housing.

**5.4.7 [Stub Cable Strain Relief Tests]{.underline}:** Housings
equipped with cable stubs and cable shipping retainer shall be tested by
lifting a test housing, with the maximum length and weight of cable
orderable, in a manner causing the full weight of the cable to be
supported by the cabinet. Examination of the cable sheath after lifting
shall reveal no tearing, rupturing, or other damage. The cable
conductors and shield shall be tested for shorts and opens. Electrical
defects to the stub cable or damage to the housing constitutes failure.

**5.4.8 [Door Restrainer Evaluation]{.underline}:**

**5.4.8.1** The housing shall be positioned with the door held in the
open position by the door restraining device. A load, determined in
accordance with the following table, shall be applied to the center of
the door, perpendicular to the door and in each of the opening and
closing directions.

+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| Maximum Area of Door Surface      | Load            |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| cm^2^ (in.^2^)                    | kg              | (lb)            |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 5,200 (800) or less               | 72              | \(160\)         |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 5,201 to 9,100                    | 127             | \(280\)         |
|                                   |                 |                 |
| (801 to 1,400)                    |                 |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+
| 9,101 to 13,000                   | 181             | \(400\)         |
|                                   |                 |                 |
| (1,401 to 2,000)                  |                 |                 |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------+-----------------+

Note: Test procedures for housings with larger doors will

be evaluated by RUS on a case-by-case basis.

**5.4.8.2** There shall be no functional failure of the restraining
device nor mechanical damage to the housing.

**5.4.9. [Security Evaluation]{.underline}:** The security locking
device shall be capable of withstanding a maximum torque of 2.8 N-m

(25 lb-in.) without incurring physical damage to the closure, thereby
resulting in a condition where the closure cannot be either accessed or
locked.

**5.5 [Electrical Requirements for Housings]{.underline}:** Each bonding
stud and nut location shall be evaluated by attaching one lead from a dc
or alternating current (ac) power source to a bonding stud with the nut
torqued as specified by its manufacturer and the other power source lead
connected to the closure grounding conductor connector. The current path
thus established must be capable of sustaining a current of l,000
amperes root-mean-square for at least 20 seconds without fusing or
causing any damage to the closure or its contents.

**5.6 [Finish Requirements]{.underline}:**

**5.6.l [Impact Resistance]{.underline}:** The finish on painted metal
surfaces shall not exhibit radial cracking on the impact surface
(intrusion) when indented at 18 N-m (160 lb-in.) with a 1.6 cm

(0.6 in.) diameter spherical indentor. This test shall be performed in
accordance with ASTM D 2794-94 with the exception that the test panel
shall be of the same material, thickness, and finish as the pedestal
housing being evaluated.

**5.6.2. [Finish Adhesion]{.underline}:** Painted finishes shall be
tested for adhesion of finish in accordance with ASTM D 2197-86(1991),
Method A. There shall be no gouging in the top coat when tested with an
8 kg (l7.7 lb) load. Gouging is defined as removal or separation of
paint particles or breaking of the finish by the scraping loop to the
extent of exposing base metal.

**5.6.3 [Color Evaluation]{.underline}:** The color of the housing
finish should be compared against the Munsell system of color notation,
as described in ASTM D l535-89 to determine color consistency with that
desired.

**5.6.4 [Gloss Evaluation]{.underline}:** The finish on painted housings
shall be tested on two approximately 20 cm x 20 cm (8 in. x 8 in.)
samples for each color used in accordance with the procedures of

ASTM D 523-89. The finish shall have a minimum gloss of 60

(60° Specular).

**5.6.5 [Secondary Finish Evaluation]{.underline}:** Evidence of
secondary protection shall be required for RUS acceptance. Typical
secondary protection is galvanizing per ASTM A 526/A 526M-90 for steel
surfaces.

**6. FUNCTIONAL DESIGN CRITERIA FOR BINDING POST TERMINAL BLOCKS**

**USED IN SAI CABINETS**

**6.l [General Description]{.underline}:** A conventional binding post
terminal consists of a metallic element or post, one end of which is
configured for the permanent connection of 22, 24, or 26 AWG solid
copper conductors and the opposite end is configured for recurring
connections and disconnections of solid copper cross-connect wire using
a threaded screw or stud and nut combination for gripping the wire. The
terminal is usually housed in a SAI cabinet. However, the terminal may
receive limited use in smaller pedestal-type housings and pole mounted
cabinets in the outside plant environment.

**6.2 [Design and Fabrication Requirements]{.underline}:**

**6.2.1** Terminal blocks used in outside plant housings are expected to
perform satisfactorily for a nominal design life of 30 years.

**6.2.2** All individual terminals or terminal fields must be enclosed
and the terminal enclosure must be totally filled with an encapsulating
grease or gel which prevents connection degradation caused by moisture
and corrosion. The encapsulant must provide complete encapsulation of
terminal metallic connections and surfaces and totally fill all voids
and cavities within individual terminal enclosures or terminal field
enclosures to prevent ingress of moisture. The encapsulant must not
restrict access to the terminal or restrict craft personnel from making
connections. The encapsulant must be compatible with the standard
materials used in cross-connect hardware and wiring.

**6.2.3** Binding post terminals shall not be susceptible to damage
under normal use of standard tools used by outside plant technicians
such as screwdrivers and test set clips.

In addition, use of other tools such as scissors, diagonal cutters and
long nose pliers for tightening and loosening screws shall not result in
damage to the terminal.

**6.2.4** Terminals shall be designed so that a typical technician using
customary tools shall be able to terminate cross-connect wire on a pair
of terminals, or to remove it, without causing an electrical short
between any two terminals or any other adjacent terminals.

**6.2.5** The terminal count sequence shall be indicated using numerals
of at least 0.25 cm (0.10 in.) in height.

**6.2.6** A means shall be provided to distinguish feeder terminals from
distribution terminals.

**6.2.7** A means shall be provided to identify tip terminals and ring
terminals in a terminal field. The identification convention shall
indicate tip on the left with ring on the right for horizontal spacing
and tip on the top with ring on the bottom for vertical spacing.

**6.2.8** The preferred height of the highest terminal in the connector
field in a ground mounted SAI unit shall be 168 cm

(66 in.) or less as measured from the top surface of the mounting pad.
The bottom or lowest terminals in the connector field shall be at least
46 cm (18 in.) from the top surface of the pad.

**6.2.9** Pole mounted aerial units shall be 84 cm (33 in.) or less in
width. The maximum allowable height of the highest terminals in a pole
mounted aerial unit is 168 cm (66 in.) as measured from the top surface
of the standard balcony seat used with the interface. For computation
purposes, 15 cm (6 in.) shall be allowed for the distance between the
bottom of the interface and the top of the balcony seat.

**6.3 [Auxiliary Features]{.underline}:**

**6.3.1** SAI cabinets with terminal designs which do not permit direct
attachment of common test instrument clips to terminal pairs without the
occurrence of shorts shall be equipped with single pair auxiliary test
contacts. The auxiliary test contacts shall attach to a terminal pair
and provide a set of secondary terminals which will accept typical test
instrument clips without the occurrence of shorts. Wire used to connect
the auxiliary test contacts to the secondary terminals shall be 20 gauge
minimum stranded conductor copper wire with a minimum dielectric
strength between conductors of l5 kv. The test connector shall be
functional on all terminal pairs.

**6.3.2** A 25 or 50 pair test connector shall be available which can be
used to make reliable electrical contact to terminals associated with
discrete 25 pair binder groups. The multi-pair test connector shall be
provided with a minimum of l.8 m (6 ft) of suitable cabling terminated
to a connector, for interfacing with test sets common to the industry.
The multi-pair test connector shall be functional on all terminal
groups.

**6.3.3** A special service marker shall be available which must attach
to a binding post terminal to identify special circuits and insulate
exposed metal parts from accidental shorts from tools and wires. A
supply of 25 special service markers shall be provided with each SAI
cabinet. The color of special service markers shall be red.

**6.3.4** A supply of twisted pair cross-connect wire shall be supplied
with housings that are equipped with cross-connect terminals or that
have provisions for mounting cross-connect terminals. The minimum length
of cross-connect wire supplied is dependent on the SAI cabinet terminal
capacity as follows:

+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Cabinet Termination Capacity      | Wire Length                       |
|                                   |                                   |
| (pairs)                           | m (ft)                            |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 1 to 600                          | 60 (200)                          |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| 601 to 1200                       | 120 (400)                         |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+
| Over 1200                         | 180 (600)                         |
+-----------------------------------+-----------------------------------+

**6.3.5** The cabinet shall be equipped to store the length of wire in a
manner designed for convenient dispensing. The cross-connect wire supply
shall be easily replaceable.

**7. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA AND TEST PROCEDURES FOR BINDING POST**

**TERMINAL BLOCKS USED IN SAI CABINETS**

**7.1 [General]{.underline}:** Many of the tests described in this
paragraph require that the terminal block be installed in an appropriate
housing in its typical field configuration.

**7.2 [Environmental Requirements]{.underline}:**

**7.2.1 [Insulation Resistance/High Humidity and Salt Fog
Exposure]{.underline}:**

A test specimen shall consist of a standard ground or pole mounted
housing equipped with a full complement of binding post terminals
equipped with 25 special service markers. The minimum number of
terminals to be tested shall be 100 pair (100 tips and 100 associated
rings). The test terminals shall be selected to form a terminal array of
approximate square dimensions. A 91 cm (36 in.) length of cross-connect
wire shall be installed on each test terminal. All tips shall be joined
together and all rings shall be joined together with a 48 volt dc
potential applied as shown in Figure 12 during the high humidity/salt
fog and simulated rain exposures. The 48 volt dc may be temporarily
removed from the test samples during the measurement process and the
ring terminal being measured shall be isolated from the remaining ring
terminals. The terminal insulation resistance shall be measured at a
potential of 100 volts dc using suitable instrumentation with a minimum
measurement range of 10^4^ to 10^12^ ohms.

**7.2.1.1** **[High Humidity]{.underline}:** The test housing shall be
placed in an environmental test chamber at 95 3% RH and the temperature
cycled as shown in Figure 3 of this specification for a period of 30
days. The cabinet doors shall remain in the fully open position. The
insulation resistance between the ring terminal of each sample and all
the common tip terminals shall be measured each 24 hours when the
temperature is between 38 and 57C (100 and 135F) and increasing. The
minimum insulation resistance when measured in accordance with Paragraph
7.2.1 of this specification shall not be less than 1 x 10^6^ ohms.

**7.2.1.2** **[Salt Fog]{.underline}:** A test housing with its doors
closed shall be placed in a salt fog 35C (95°F) test chamber and exposed
to a salt fog spray per ASTM B 117-90 for a period of 30 days. The
insulation resistance should be measured every 24 hours as indicated in
Paragraph 7.2.1 of this specification and shall not be less than 1 x
10^6^ ohms. The special service markers shall exhibit no sign of fading,
corrosion, swelling, warping, running color, or other signs of
deterioration.

**7.2.2 [Insulation Resistance/Simulated Rain Exposure]{.underline}:**

**7.2.2.1** A test housing as described in Paragraph 7.2.1 of this
specification shall be tested for water infiltration. The test shall be
conducted using the method described in Paragraph 5.3.11 of this
specification. The cabinet doors shall remain closed for the duration of
the test. The insulation resistance between the ring terminals and the
common tip terminals shall be measured during and immediately following
the spray application as indicated in paragraph 7.2.1 of this
specification and shall not be less than 1 x 10^6^ ohms.

**7.2.2.2** With the cabinet doors open, a spray of tap water at a rate
of 3.8 liters per minute (1 gallon per minute) at 276 kilo-pascals (40
pounds per square inch) shall be directed on the terminal array for a
period of 1 minute saturating all of the terminals. Following the spray
application the doors shall be closed. The cabinet shall be maintained
in a temperature environment of 26 to 28°C (78 to 82°F) at 95 3% RH for
6 hours. The insulation resistance shall then be measured as specified
in Paragraph 7.2.1 of this specification. The minimum insulation
resistance shall not be less than 1 x 10^6^ ohms.

**7.2.3 [Contact Resistance]{.underline}:** A minimum of 100 terminals
equipped with cross-connect wire that has been installed in a manner
typical of that used in the industry shall be temperature cycled.

**7.2.3.1** The test shall consist of eight-hour temperature cycles with
one-hour dwells at extreme temperatures of -40°C to 60°C

(-40°F to +140°F), and temperature changes at an average rate of 16°C
(60°F) per hour between the extremes. The relative humidity shall be
maintained at 95 3%. The eight-hour test shall be conducted for 512
cycles. Millivolt drop measurements shall be made initially and after 2,
8, 16, 32, 64, 256, and 512 cycles with the samples at room temperature.
The resistance measurement technique must conform to ASTM B 539-90. The
measurement method must have an accuracy of at least 30 microohms for
resistances less than 50 milliohms. The change in contact resistance
shall not exceed 2 milliohms.

**7.2.3.2** A minimum of 100 terminals equipped with cross-connect wire
installed in a manner typical of the industry shall be maintained at
118°C (245°F) during the test period, except during disturbance
measurement periods where each wire connection to the terminals shall
have a 0.23 kg (0.5 lb) force momentarily applied in a manner to stress
the connection. Initial millivolt measurements shall be made without
disturbing the joints in accordance with Paragraph 7.2.3.1 of this
specification with the samples at room temperature. After initial
measurement each sample shall be disturbed followed by a millivolt drop
measurement after 1, 2, 4, 8, 16, and 33 days. The change in contact
resistance should be less than 2 milliohms when compared to the initial
measurement.

**7.2.4 [Fire Resistance]{.underline}:** A fully equipped cabinet
including a full complement of cross-connect jumpers shall be installed
in the standard field arrangement and tested for fire resistance in
accordance with Paragraphs 5.3.13 through 5.3.13.2 of this
specification. After cooling, the cabinet, terminals, and associated
wiring shall be inspected for signs of ignition, melting, burning, or
structural damage of sufficient consequences such that the results are
service affecting.

**7.2.5** **[Encapsulant Material Compatibility]{.underline}:** The
terminal connection encapsulant compound must be compatible with the
standard materials used in cross-connect hardware and wiring when aged
in accordance with ASTM D 4568-86 at a temperature of

80 1°C (176 2°F). The conductor insulation shall retain a minimum of 85%
of its unaged tensile strength and elongation values. The cross-connect
hardware shall exhibit no visible material degradation.

**7.2.6 [Encapsulant Flow Test]{.underline}:** Terminal connection
encapsulant must remain stable at 80 1°C (176 2°F) when tested in an
environmental chamber. Test specimens shall be suspended in a preheated
oven over a glass dish or other drip-catching medium for a period of 24
hours. At the end of the test period, the glass dish shall be examined
for evidence of flowing or dripping of encapsulant from the
cross-connect terminal. More than 0.5 gram of encapsulant in the dish at
the end of the test constitutes failure.

**7.3 [Mechanical Requirements]{.underline}:**

**7.3.1 [Vibration]{.underline}:** A test housing equipped with a full
complement of cross-connect terminals and jumper wiring shall be
subjected to vibration testing in accordance with Paragraph 5.4.3 of
this specification.

**7.3.2 [Torsional Capacity of Binding Posts]{.underline}:** The test
specimens shall consist of the complete binding post terminal consisting
of the screw or nut, washers if required, and threaded post or stud
respectively.

**7.3.2.1** Test specimens shall include the terminals along the matrix
edge at mid-span locations as well as centrally located terminals. Tests
shall be conducted using a torque indicating screwdriver, or wrench,
with an accuracy of 0.17 N-m

(1.5 lb-in.) or better. The torque indicating device shall be used to
tighten a screw or nut until failure of the screw or nut is achieved.
Tests shall be conducted while the test specimen is stabilized at
temperatures of -40°C, 20°C, and 71°C (-40°F, +68°F, and at +160°F.)
Record the torques at terminal failure. At least 10 test specimens shall
be tested at each temperature. The failure torque shall not be less than
2.8 N-m (25.0 lb-in.) for each temperature.

**7.3.2.2** The post or stud of the binding post terminal shall not fail
before the screw or nut when increasing torque. The faceplate or
receptacle restraining the post or stud shall not fail before the screw
or nut when increasing torque.

**7.3.3 [Lateral Loading Capacity of Binding Posts]{.underline}:** A
minimum of three sets of 25 terminals shall be tested with the test
specimens stabilized at temperatures of -40°C, 20°C and 71°C

(-40°F, + 68°F, and 100°F). The test arrangement shall include the
terminals along the matrix edge at mid-span locations as well as
centrally located terminals. A force measuring device, such as a
dynamometer, shall be attached to the end of a binding post terminal and
a 16 kg (35 lb) force applied orthogonally to the terminal axis in 4
perpendicular directions as shown in

Figure 13. Permanent deformation in excess of 0.08 cm (0.03 in.) or any
structural damage in either the terminal or faceplate constitutes a
failure.

**7.3.4 [Axial Pullout Resistance]{.underline}:** A minimum of three
sets of 25 terminals shall be tested with the test specimens stabilized
at temperatures of -40°C, 20°C and 71°C (-40°F, +68°F, and 100°F). The
test arrangement shall include the terminals along the matrix edge at
mid-span locations as well as centrally located terminals. A force
measuring device, such as a dynamometer, shall be attached to a terminal
and a force of 16 kg (35 lb) applied on axis as shown in Figure 14.
There shall be no permanent deformation in excess of 0.08 cm (0.03 in.),
any structural damage, or terminal pull-out in either the terminal or
the faceplate.

**7.3.5 [Test Connector Reliability]{.underline}:**

**7.3.5.1** A single pair connector shall be capable of making a minimum
of 100 successive connections to binding post terminals without the
occurrence of an open circuit. The test shall include terminals along
the matrix edge, center, top, and bottom.

**7.3.5.2** A multi-pair test connector shall be attached to the binding
post terminal field and tests for opens between the binding post
terminals and the test connector shall be conducted. All circuits must
prove good. The test shall be repeated along the terminal matrix edges,
center, top, and bottom.

**7.3.6 [Service Cycle Reliability]{.underline}:** A torque indicating
device or wrench with an accuracy of 0.17 N-m (1.5 lb-in.) or better
shall be used to tighten the terminal screw or nut as appropriate to 1.7
N-m (15.0 lb-in.). The terminal nut or screw is then loosened and
retightened to 1.7 N-m (15 lb-in.). After 50 repeated connections and
disconnections, the terminal shall be placed in an environmental chamber
at 95% RH where the temperature shall be cycled as indicated in Figure 3
of this specification for a duration of 72 hours. The terminal shall
then be momentarily removed from the chamber and the test procedure
repeated. After a total of 250 loosening and retightening cycles have
accumulated, the terminal must be capable of withstanding a torque of
1.7 N-m (15 lb-in.).

**7.4 [Dielectric Strength]{.underline}:** All housing components in the
vicinity of unsheathed field cable conductors, unsheathed housing stub
cable or harness conductors, terminals, or cross-connect wire paths
shall have a minimum dielectric strength of 500 volts ac to the cabinet
grounding and bonding bracket. Dielectric strength is tested by
connecting one lead from a 500-volt ac at 0.5 ampere source to the
cabinet ground connector and the other lead is passed along the surfaces
of all cabinet components in the vicinity of unsheathed cable or harness
conductors, cross-connect wire paths, and in the splice area where
unsheathed field cable conductors may be located. Sparkover constitutes
failure.

**7.5 [Operational Requirements]{.underline}:**

**7.5.1 [Durability]{.underline}:** In order to verify the durability
requirements while minimizing the number of test housings required to
complete the test program, the binding posts selected for tests shall be
separately identified and then checked to establish compliance after the
various tests have been conducted.

**7.5.2** Twenty-five jumper connections shall be made on each of two
binding post connectors chosen at random from a representative sample in
an assembled interface unit. After exposure to this test, these and
adjacent connectors shall be inspected for damage such as cracks or
chips in metal or plastic parts. Failure consists of structural damage,
open circuits through the connector, or inability to pass the torsional,
lateral loading, or axial pullout tests described in Paragraphs 7.3.2
through 7.3.4 of this specification.

**7.5.3** Select six binding posts at random in a representative
interface. On each connector, attach any test cord included with the
unit and then remove the test cord as follows. On binding post sample 1,
remove the cord normally ten times. On binding post sample 2, remove the
cord ten times by jerking the test leads straight out. In these and the
remaining tests, do this without releasing any manual attachment
mechanisms. On sample 3, remove ten times by jerking downward at 45°
from horizontal; sample 4, upward at 45° ten times; sample 5, left 45°
ten times; sample 6, right 45° ten times. Check for opens and damage in
the test cord, clips, and connectors. Failure consists of structural
damage, open circuits through the connector, or inability of the
terminal blocks to pass the torsional, lateral loading, axial pullout,
test connector reliability, or dielectric strength tests described in
Paragraphs 7.3.2 through 7.3.5.2, and Paragraph 7.4 of this
specification.

**7.5.4** Use craft tools such as scissors, diagonal cutters, and long
nose pliers to loosen and tighten screws where the binding post design
does not prohibit the possibility. Failure consists of severe structural
damage.

**8. FUNCTIONAL DESIGN CRITERIA FOR INSULATION DISPLACEMENT TYPE**

**CROSS-CONNECT MODULES USED IN SAI CABINETS**

**8.1 [General Description]{.underline}:** Cross-connect modules
normally consist of multiple metallic contact elements that are retained
by nonmetallic fixtures. The contact elements are spliced with permanent
wire leads compatible for splicing to 22, 24, or 26 gauge cable on one
side and configured for the acceptance of recurring connections and
disconnections of plastic insulated cross-connect wire on the other
side. Cross-connect modules are

usually housed in a SAI cabinet. However, modules may receive limited
usage in smaller pedestal-type housings and cabinets in the outside
plant environment.

**8.2 [Design and Fabrication Requirements]{.underline}:**

**8.2.1** All individual terminals or terminal fields must be enclosed
and the terminal enclosures must be totally filled with an encapsulating
grease or gel which prevents connection degradation caused by moisture
and corrosion. The encapsulant must provide complete encapsulation of
terminal metallic connections and surfaces and totally fill all voids
and cavities within individual terminal enclosures or terminal field
enclosures to prevent ingress of moisture. The encapsulant must not
restrict access to the terminal or restrict craft personnel from making
connections. The encapsulant must be compatible with the standard
materials used in cross-connect hardware and wiring.

**8.2.2** The cross-connect module manufacturer shall make available any
nonstandard tools and test apparatus which are required for splicing,
placing of jumpers, and the performance of maintenance operations.

**8.2.3** The module shall be designed so that a typical outside plant
technician using tools shall be able to terminate cross-connect wire on
terminals, or to remove them without causing electrical shorts between
any other terminals.

**8.2.4** The pair count sequence terminated on a module shall be easily
visible and shall have numerals of at least 0.25 cm

(0.10 in.) in height.

**8.2.5** Feeder terminations shall be easily distinguished from
distribution terminations.

**8.2.6** Tip and ring terminations shall be easily visible and shall be
identifiable as described in Paragraph 6.2.6 of this specification.

**8.2.7** The preferred locations for cross-connect modules to be
mounted inside a housing is the same as those for terminals and are
described in Paragraphs 6.2.7 and 6.2.8 of this specification.

**8.3 [Auxiliary Features]{.underline}:**

**8.3.1** Housings equipped with cross-connect modules shall be equipped
with auxiliary test contacts as described in Paragraphs 6.3.1 and 6.3.2
of this specification.

**8.3.2** Special service markers shall be available for cross-connect
modules as described in Paragraph 6.3.3 of this specification.

**8.3.3** Housings equipped with, or designed for, cross-connect modules
shall contain a supply of cross-connect wire as described in Paragraph
6.3.4 of this specification.

**9. PERFORMANCE CRITERIA AND TEST PROCEDURES FOR INSULATION**

**DISPLACEMENT TYPE CROSS-CONNECT MODULES**

**9.1 [General]{.underline}:** Many of the tests described in this
Paragraph require that the cross-connect module be installed in an
appropriate housing in its typical field configuration for testing.
Resistance measurements should be made with an electrical device which
measures changes in resistance for each test parameter measured. The
tests specified provide an indication of the stability of the electrical
connections under the test conditions encountered.

**9.2 [Environmental Requirements]{.underline}:**

**9.2.1** A fully equipped arrangement of cross-connect modules having
approximately 25 special service markers shall successfully complete
environmental testing in accordance with Paragraphs 5.3 through 5.3.13.2
of this specification.

**9.2.2** **[Insulation Resistance/High Humidity and Salt Fog
Exposure]{.underline}:**

Insulation resistance measurements shall not be less than 1 x 10^6^ ohms
when cross-connect modules are tested by a procedure similar to that
described in Paragraphs 7.2.1 through 7.2.1.2 of this specification.

**9.2.3 [Insulation Resistance/Simulated Rain Exposure]{.underline}:**
Insulation resistance measurements shall not be less than 1 x 10^6^ ohms
when cross-connect modules are tested by a procedure similar to that
described in Paragraphs 7.2.2 through 7.2.2.2 of this specification.

**9.2.4 [Contact Resistance]{.underline}:** The change in contact
resistance should not exceed 2 milliohms when cross-connect modules are
tested by a procedure similar to that described in Paragraphs 7.2.3
through 7.2.3.2 of this specification.

**9.2.5 [Fire Resistance]{.underline}:** A housing fully equipped with
cross-connect modules and jumper wiring shall be tested for fire
resistance by a procedure similar to that described in Paragraph 7.2.4
of this specification.

**9.2.6** **[Encapsulant Material Compatibility]{.underline}:**
Cross-connect wire insulation and cross-connect hardware shall exhibit
no visible material degradation when tested by the procedure described
in Paragraph 7.2.5 of this specification.

**9.2.7 [Encapsulant Flow Test]{.underline}:** The cross-connect contact
encapsulant shall drip no more than 0.5 gram when tested by the
procedure described in Paragraph 7.2.6 of this specification.

**9.3 [Mechanical Requirements]{.underline}:**

**9.3.1 [Vibration]{.underline}:** A housing fully equipped with
cross-connect modules shall be vibration tested in accordance with
Paragraph 7.3.1 of this specification.

**9.3.2 [Test Connector Reliability]{.underline}:** The test connectors
supplied with housings intended for cross-connect modules shall
successfully complete 100 successive connections as described in
Paragraphs 7.3.5 through 7.3.5.2 of this specification.

**9.3.3 [Service Cycle Reliability]{.underline}:** A combination of
multiple insertions of jumper wires, vibration, and temperature cycling
shall be performed on cross-connect modules. The multiple insertions on
approximately 100 connections shall be accomplished by 300 operations
consisting of insertion, removal and reinsertion of new jumper wire.
Contact resistance shall be measured and the final insertion of jumper
wire shall not be removed from the connectors but must be subjected to
vibration testing in accordance with Paragraph 7.3.1 of this
specification and temperature cycled as indicated in Figure 3 of this
specification for a duration of 72 hours. After vibration and
temperature cycling, the average change in contact resistance shall be
no greater than 2 milliohms.

**9.3.4 [Jumper Wire Pull-Out Resistance]{.underline}:** Test modules
that have received no prior conditioning shall be equipped with 100 38
cm (15 in.) jumper connections of the gauges recommended for use with
the module using the insertion tool recommended by the cross-connect
module manufacturer. With the test samples suitably supported, wires
from each sample shall be pulled, one at a time, by a tensile machine at
a cross-head speed of

6 centimeters per minute (cm/min) \[2.4 inches per minute (in./min)\].
Wires shall be pulled both perpendicular and parallel to the plane of
the cross-connect field and shall withstand a load of at least 1.1 kg
(2.5 lb) before pulling out.

**9.3.5 [Cable Conductor Pull-Out Resistance]{.underline}:** Test
modules that have received no prior conditioning shall be equipped with
100 26, 24 and 22 AWG 38 cm (15 in.) cable conductors using the
insertion tool recommended by the cross-connect module manufacturer.
With the test samples suitably supported, conductors from each sample
shall be pulled, one at a time, by a tensile machine at a cross-head
speed of 6 cm/min (2.4 in./min). Wires shall be pulled both
perpendicular and parallel to the plane of the face of the splice module
and shall withstand a load of at least 1.1 kg (2.5 lb) before pulling
out.

**9.4 [Electrical Requirements]{.underline}:**

**9.4.1** **[Dielectric Strength]{.underline}:** A housing fully
equipped with cross-connect modules shall be tested for dielectric
strength in accordance with Paragraph 7.4 of this specification.

**9.4.2** The dielectric strength of a contact within the cross­connect
module to contacts on either side shall be tested. The module shall be
tested in a dry environment with an ac power source capable of supplying
8 kv at a rate of increase of 500 volts per second, a circuit breaker to
open at breakdown, and a voltmeter to record the breakdown potential.
Cross-connect modules shall be prepared in accordance with industry
accepted splicing techniques with leads trimmed to approximately 38 cm

(15 in.). The dielectric strength of each contact to the contacts on
either side shall have an average dielectric strength of approximately
5.0 kv.

**9.5 [Operational Requirements]{.underline}:**

**9.5.1 [Durability]{.underline}:** In order to verify the durability
requirements while minimizing the number of test housings required to
complete the test program, the contacts selected for tests shall be
separately identified and then checked to establish compliance after the
various tests have been conducted.

**9.5.2** Twenty-five jumper connections shall be made on each of two
contacts chosen at random from a representative sample in an assembled
interface unit. After this test, these and surrounding contacts shall be
inspected for damage such as cracks or chips in metal or plastic parts.
Failure consists of structural damage, open circuits through the
connector, or inability to pass the jumper wire pullout tests described
in Paragraph 9.3.4 of this specification.

**9.5.3** Select six contacts at random in a representative interface.
On each of these contacts attach any test cord included with the unit as
specified under normal use of that cord and then remove the test cord as
follows. On sample 1, remove the cord normally ten times. On sample 2,
remove the clip ten times by jerking the test leads straight out. In
these and the remaining tests, do this without releasing any manual
attachment mechanisms. On sample 3, remove ten times by jerking downward
at 45 from horizontal; sample 4, upward 45 ten times; sample 5, left 45
ten times; sample 6, right 45 ten times. Check for opens and damage in
the test cord, clips, and cross-connect modules. Failure consists of
structural damage, open circuits through the connector, or inability of
module to pass the test

connector reliability, jumper wire pullout, and dielectric strength
tests described in Paragraphs 9.3.2, 9.3.4, and 9.4.2 of this
specification.

**10. PACKAGING AND IDENTIFICATION REQUIREMENTS**

**10.1 [Product Identification]{.underline}:**

**10.1.1** Each housing, terminal block, or cross-connect module shall
be permanently marked with the manufacturer\'s name or trade mark.

**10.1.2** The date of manufacture, model number, serial number and RUS
assigned designations shall be placed on a decal inside housings. The
product identification nomenclature must correspond with the
nomenclature used in the manufacturer\'s quality assurance program.

**10.2 [Packaging Requirements]{.underline}:**

**10.2.1** Buried plant housings shall be packaged securely in an
environmentally safe container to prevent either deterioration or
physical damage to the unit during shipment, handling and storage.

**10.2.2** The product with all the necessary parts shall be shipped in
one container unless significant advantages to the user can be obtained
otherwise. Packaging of parts in the carton shall be such that the parts
become available in the order in which they are needed. The package
should be clearly marked as to which end to open. Packages shall be
clearly labeled, and correspond to the names given in the instructions.

**10.2.3** Products packed in shipping containers shall be cushioned,
blocked, braced, and anchored to prevent movement and damage.

**10.2.4** All products shall be secured to pallets with non-metallic
strapping. The strapping and the manner employed shall be of sufficient
quantity, width, and thickness to preclude failure during transit and
handling.

**10.2.5** The use of shrink or stretch film to secure the load to the
pallet is permitted. However, such film must be applied over the
required strapping.

**10.2.6** Containers that are too large or heavy to be palletized, such
as crates, shall be shipped in their own containers. When practical,
these containers shall be provided with skids to facilitate fork-lift
handling.

**10.2.7** When packaged, the outer cartons shall meet the requirements
of the Uniform Freight Classification and the National Motor Freight
Classification.

**10.3 [Container Marking Requirements]{.underline}:**

**10.3.1** The package shall be readily identifiable as to the
manufacturer, model number, date of manufacture, and serial number.

**10.3.2** The RUS assigned housing designation shall be stamped or
marked on the outside of the package container with letter and number
sizes large enough for easy identification.

**10.3.3** Each package shall be marked with its approximate gross
weight.

**10.3.4** All containers carrying delicate or fragile items shall be
marked to clearly identify this condition.

**10.3.5** All marking shall be clear, legible, and as large as space
permits.