COMMUNICATIONS SYSTEMS AND EQUIPMENT installed in buildings must comply with the specific rules given in Chapter 8 of the NEC. Even though these systems typically operate at lower energy levels, improper grounding and bonding can result in severe consequences for equipment and property and present shock hazards. Article 770 and the Chapter 8 articles of the NEC provide unique and specific grounding and bonding requirements for communications system installations. Grounding, in the simplest form, is the process of connecting an electrically conductive object to ground (the earth). Bonding is the process of connecting conductive objects togetherto establish continuity and conductivity. If a system or equipment is grounded, it is connected to the earth, and if objects are bonded, they are connected together to electrically become one potential, or as close to the same potential as possible. These two processes work in unison to provide safety for communications systems, equipment and property, as well as operational grounding and protective grounding functions.
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