Article 100 Definitions. Communications Circuit.

Communications circuits are metallic, fiber, or wireless circuits that provide voice/data (and associated power) for communications-related services between communications equipment.
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Communications circuits are metallic, fiber, or wireless circuits that provide voice/data (and associated power) for communications-related services between communications equipment.

Code Change Summary: A new definition of the term “Communications Circuit” was created.

In the 2023 NEC®, the previous definition of the word “Communications Circuit” found in Section 800.2 was reworded and moved to Article 100.

The previous definition in Chapter 8 described and was only applicable to a communications circuit that “extends service from the communications utility or service provider up to the customer's communications equipment”. What about communications circuits installed by a home owner or IT department?

The way a “Communications Circuit” was defined in Chapter 8 of the 2020 NEC®, if a utility or service provider did not provide communications service to the premises then technically, Article 805 did not apply.

The scope of Article 805 applies to “communications circuits and equipment”. If the definition of a communications circuit is only applicable when a utility or service provider is involved, then there are no clear enforcement guidelines for some modern communications systems installations in commercial and residential applications.

Without applicable requirements, there is an increased risk of improper installations that could lead to fire or electrical shock hazards. Communications circuits should be installed using appropriate wiring methods and be properly grounded and bonded regardless of who installs it.

In the 2023 NEC®, a communications circuit can be metallic, fiber, or wireless circuits that provide voice/data (and associated power) for communications-related services between communications equipment.

Below is a preview of the NEC®. See the actual NEC® text at NFPA.ORG for the complete code section. Once there, click on their link to free access to the 2023 NEC® edition of NFPA 70.

2020 Code Language:

800.2 Definitions.

Communications Circuit. The circuit that extends service from the communications utility or service provider up to and including the customer's communications equipment.

2023 Code Language:

Article 100 Definitions.

N Communications Circuit. A metallic, fiber, or wireless circuit that provides voice/data (and associated power) for communications-related services between communications equipment.

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Article 100 Definitions. Communications Circuit.

Below is a Real Question from our Electrical Continuing Education Courses for Electrical License Renewal:

Based on the 2023 NEC, which of the following is true?

A: Communications circuits can be wireless.
B: Communications circuits can only be installed by the phone company.
C: Communications circuits can only be installed by the utility company.
D: Communications circuits can only be installed by the internet provider.
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