U.S. Courts Design Guide
executive offices, conference rooms, and training rooms must be connected to
the satellite downlink system.
Data and Communications Requirements
Personal computers, network and communications servers, peripheral computer
equipment, and new technologies require substantial flexibility in power supply, data
connections, and lighting. Requirements for connecting data and communications
equipment throughout the courthouse include extensive conduits, cable trays,
raceways, and chases. In most courthouses, one network connects personal computers,
data and communication servers, and peripheral equipment in the judges' chambers,
Clerk's Offices, and other judiciary-related offices.
In multi-story buildings, several vertical raceways and conduits totally
dedicated to electronic networking for data, communications, and video
systems must be installed. These raceways and conduits need to be several
times the diameter of existing or projected short-term line demands.
Access flooring is recommended for the entire courthouse per Facilities
Standards for the Public Buildings Service. If access flooring is not possible
due to budget constraints, a cellular deck should be provided as a second-best
option. Rigid conduits in the floor for wire distribution are not acceptable.
A secure, air-conditioned data/telecommunications closet(s) should be located
near the judges' chambers, courtroom, and court offices to contain network
equipment. The use of cable trays rather than conduits should be considered.
Increased use of automated systems could reduce the need for storage space
for paper files and legal documents both in the Clerk's Office and judges'
chambers.
Mechanical-Electrical Requirements
The evolution of computers has generally eliminated the need for large, expensive,
specialized computer rooms. Personal computers and network servers require no
special environmental features other than a secure space with supplemental or
separately-zoned HVAC system, and a clean power supply with a dedicated ground.
These areas have the following requirements:
Data and communications network servers do not need to be connected to the
courthouse emergency power system. Servers must be installed by the courts
with an uninterrupted power supply (UPS) system that will compensate for a
low voltage condition or electrical spike and that can execute a soft shutdown
of the server, which logs off users, saves data, and closes files.
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12/19/97
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