USACE / NAVFAC / AFCESA / NASA UFGS-27 51 13.00 10 (April 2006)
-----------------------------------
Preparing Activity: USACE Superseding
UFGS-27 51 13.00 10 (December 2004)
UNIFIED FACILITIES GUIDE SPECIFICATIONS
References are in agreement with UMRL dated January 2009
SECTION 27 51 13.00 10
RADIO PAGING SYSTEM
04/06
NOTE: This guide specification covers the requirements for signaling system
for radio paging.
Edit this guide specification for project specific requirements by adding, deleting,
or revising text. For bracketed items, choose applicable items(s) or insert
appropriate information.
Remove information and requirements not required in respective project, whether
or not brackets are present.
Comments and suggestions on this guide specification are welcome and should
be directed to the technical proponent of the specification. A listing of technical
proponents, including their organization designation and telephone number, is
on the Internet.
Recommended changes to a UFGS should be submitted as a Criteria Change Request
(CCR).
PART 1 GENERAL
1.1 REFERENCES
NOTE: This paragraph is used to list the publications cited in the text of
the guide specification. The publications are referred to in the text by basic
designation only and listed in this paragraph by organization, designation,
date, and title.
Use the Reference Wizard's Check Reference feature when you add a RID outside
of the Section's Reference Article to automatically place the reference in the
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to update the issue dates.
References not used in the text will automatically be deleted from this section
of the project specification when you choose to reconcile references in the
publish print process.
The publications listed below form a part of this specification to the extent referenced. The publications are
referred to within the text by the basic designation only.
[NATIONAL FIRE PROTECTION ASSOCIATION (NFPA)NFPA 70(2007; AMD 1 2008) National Electrical Code - 2008 Edition][TELECOMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION (TIA)TIA-222-G(2005) Structural Standards for Antenna Supporting Structures and AntennasTIA-329-B(1989) Minimum Standards for Communication Antennas Part I Base Station AntennasTIA-374-A(2002) Land Mobile Selective Signaling StandardTIA-603-C(2004) Land Mobile FM or PM Communications Equipment Measurement and Performance Standards][U.S. NATIONAL ARCHIVES AND RECORDS ADMINISTRATION (NARA)47 CFR 15Radio Frequency Devices][UNDERWRITERS LABORATORIES (UL)UL 1069(2007; Rev thru Nov 2008) Standard for Safety Hospital Signaling and Nurse Call Equipment]1.2 SYSTEM DESCRIPTION
1.2.1 General
Supply a complete and operable system. Radio paging system shall provide selective signaling and message communications
throughout the [base] [_____]. The system shall consist of locally and/or remotely controlled paging terminal/encoder,
UHF radio transmitter, antenna, pocket page receivers, pager storage/charging units, and telephone interface
coupler to accomplish the specified functions. The system shall alert and transmit messages to individuals and
to groups.
1.2.2 Performance Requirements
NOTE: UHF transmission of radio paging should provide full coverage of the
facility and site, and for coverage of the surrounding areas near the site that
can receive paging signals from the onsite transmitter. Vicinity coverage by
the 100 watt transmitter will provide line-of-sight in all directions up to
a 40.2 km (25 mile) radius of the facility, except as limited by the contours
of the terrain and high rise buildings surrounding the site.
If the facility requires wide area radio paging coverage beyond the transmission
range of the onsite Radio Page System, the facility will need to use a wide
area paging service. This could be an existing Base/Post Radio Page System
or leased pagers from a commercial Radio Common Carrier (RCC) serving the area.
Fill in blank with name of base/post.
The radio equipment shall provide total coverage of the facility [and] [_____] without degradation of message
transmitted. Equipment shall comply with the requirements set forth in the applicable subparts of 47 CFR 15.
1.2.2.1 Page Initiation
NOTE: There are four different page initiation methods available: Total access
paging from any telephone location, limited access paging from selected telephone
location, access from push button at the encoder and access from the nurse call
system. Facility requirements must be determined to select the appropriate
mode of page initiation methods. Calls can be made from one or more specified
encoder locations. These are designated here as administrative locations.
Generally the PABX attendant will handle paging. If paging is not required
from the nurse call system, delete paragraph C. Provide a page priority chart
for input/source. Coordinate priorities with user.
a. Paging shall be initiated from [any telephone] [designated telephones] by entering the radio page
access number. When the access connection is made the system shall respond with a connection tone.
The paging party shall then enter the address of the pager or group of pagers. The paging party shall
then enter up to [10] [_____] numeric digits and then hang up. The system shall immediately disconnect
from the telephone connection. An automatic time out shall disconnect the call after a preset time limit
in the event that the paging party does not complete the page or does not hang up.
b. Paging shall be initiated from an administrative push button location by pressing those buttons corresponding
to a pocket page receiver code. The address shall be visually displayed on the operator station. The
message characters shall then be entered via the keyboard. The message shall be visually displayed on
the operator station. A transmit key shall then be activated to transmit the signal. [A "BUSY" indicator
lamp shall illuminate during transmission from any other administrative locations.]
c. Paging shall be initiated from a nurse call master station by activating the appropriate function
keys. Data and messages conveyed to the Radio Paging System shall include pager address, encoding data
for at least 2 priority alert signals, one for routine calls and one for code blue calls, emergency and
priority calls, and alphanumeric messages containing patient room/bed number, type of call and service
required.
1.2.2.2 Signal Processing Rates
System processing rates for paging signals shall be at least one page per second for tone and vibration alert,
no more than 6 seconds for alphanumeric display message, and 5 to 15 seconds for a voice message.
1.2.2.3 Priority
If there is more than one page input being processed at any one time, the highest priority page shall take precedence
and shall be transmitted ahead of any lower priority page in the system. Within any one priority, all pages
shall be sequenced on a first-in, first-out queue. Pages shall be processed by priority according to the rank
order listed below.
Priority Page Message Page Input Source
[_____] [_____] [_____]
1.2.2.4 Reception
A tone or silent pager vibration and an LED indication shall alert the user that a message is being received.
[If tone notification is used it shall be mutable.] A button shall allow messages to be viewed or heard.
1.3 SUBMITTALS
NOTE: Review submittal description (SD) definitions in Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL
PROCEDURES and edit the following list to reflect only the submittals required
for the project. Submittals should be kept to the minimum required for adequate
quality control.
A “G” following a submittal item indicates that the submittal requires Government
approval. Some submittals are already marked with a “G”. Only delete an existing
“G” if the submittal item is not complex and can be reviewed through the Contractor’s
Quality Control system. Only add a “G” if the submittal is sufficiently important
or complex in context of the project.
For submittals requiring Government approval on Army projects, a code of up
to three characters within the submittal tags may be used following the "G"
designation to indicate the approving authority. Codes for Army projects using
the Resident Management System (RMS) are: "AE" for Architect-Engineer; "DO"
for District Office (Engineering Division or other organization in the District
Office); "AO" for Area Office; "RO" for Resident Office; and "PO" for Project
Office. Codes following the "G" typically are not used for Navy, Air Force,
and NASA projects.
Choose the first bracketed item for Navy, Air Force and NASA projects, or choose
the second bracketed item for Army projects.
Government approval is required for submittals with a "G" designation; submittals not having a "G" designation
are for [Contractor Quality Control approval.] [information only. When used, a designation following the "G"
designation identifies the office that will review the submittal for the Government.] Submit the following in
accordance with Section 01 33 00 SUBMITTAL PROCEDURES:
SD-02 Shop Drawings
Radio Paging System[; G][; G, [_____]]
Installation[; G][; G, [_____]]
Detail drawings consisting of a complete list of equipment and material, including manufacturer's
descriptive and technical literature, catalog cuts, and installation instructions. Detail drawings
shall also contain complete wiring and schematic diagrams, system riser diagrams, and any other
details required to demonstrate that the system has been coordinated and will properly function
as a system. System riser diagrams shall include all system components, all raceways, conductors,
and elevation or plan showing physical location of all components.
SD-03 Product Data
Field Training[; G][; G, [_____]]
Training plan outlining material covered and proposed schedule, [30] [_____] days prior to
start of courses.
Radio Paging System
[Six] [_____] copies of design manuals consisting of manufacturer's standard literature.
The design manual shall identify the operational requirements for the system and explain the
theory of operation, design philosophy, and specific functions. A description of hardware and
software functions, interfaces, and requirements shall be included for all system operating
modes. The manual shall describe all equipment provided, including general description and
specifications.
Spare Parts
Spare parts data, as specified.
Contractor Qualifications
Document certifying that Contractor meets specified qualifications.
Manufacturer Qualifications
A statement attesting that manufacturer meets specified qualifications.
SD-06 Test Reports
Approved Test Plan
Test plan and procedures, not later than [_____] days prior to the start of testing. The
test plan and test procedures shall explain in detail, step-by-step actions and expected results
to demonstrate compliance with the requirements of this specification, and the methods for simulating
the necessary conditions of operation to demonstrate performance of the system.
Testing
Test reports in booklet form showing all field tests performed to adjust each component and
acceptance tests performed to prove compliance with the specified performance criteria, upon
completion of installation and testing of the system. Each test report shall include the final
position of controls, operation mode of the equipment, and the manufacturer's name, model number,
and serial number of test equipment used in each test.
SD-07 Certificates
Encoder/CPU
Transmitter
Antenna
Pocket Page Receiver
Manufacturer's certificate indicating compliance. Where equipment or materials are specified
to conform to the standards or publications and requirements of EIA and UL, certificates attesting
that the items furnished under this section of the specification conform to the specified requirements.
SD-10 Operation and Maintenance Data
Radio Paging System[; G][; G, [_____]]
[Six] [_____] complete copies of maintenance manuals listing routine maintenance procedures,
possible breakdowns and repairs, and troubleshooting guides. The instructions shall include
equipment layout and simplified wiring and control diagrams of the system as installed. [Six]
[_____] complete copies of operator manuals outlining the step-by-step procedures required for
system startup, operation and shutdown. The manuals shall include the manufacturer's name,
model number, service manual, parts list, and a brief description of all equipment and their
basic operating features.
1.4 QUALITY ASSURANCE
1.4.1 Contractor Qualifications
The Contractor shall have the following qualifications in radio paging systems: A minimum of 5 years experience
in the application and installation of this type of system and equipment, and factory trained personnel to perform
systems engineering and design, installation, testing, training, maintenance and repair service.
1.4.2 Manufacturer Qualifications
The manufacturer shall have a minimum of 5 years experience in producing the types of radio paging systems and
equipment specified. Manufacturer shall guarantee parts availability for a minimum of 7 years from date of system
acceptance by the Contracting Officer.
1.5 DELIVERY, STORAGE, AND HANDLING
Deliver equipment in original packages with labels intact and identifications clearly marked. Store equipment
until installation time, protected from weather, humidity, corrosive fumes, temperature variations, dirt and
dust, and other contaminants.
1.6 EXTRA MATERIALS
Submit spare parts data for each different item of equipment and component in the system, after approval of the
detail drawings and not later than [_____] months prior to the date of beneficial occupancy. The data shall
include a complete list of parts and supplies, with current unit prices and source of supply.
PART 2 PRODUCTS
2.1 STANDARD PRODUCTS
Provide materials and equipment which are the standard products of a manufacturer regularly engaged in the manufacture
of such products and that essentially duplicate items that have been in satisfactory use for at least 2 years
prior to bid opening. Equipment shall be supported by a service organization that can provide service within
24 hours.
2.2 IDENTICAL ITEMS
All items of the same classification shall be identical. This requirement includes equipment, assemblies, parts,
and components.
2.3 NAMEPLATES
Secure nameplates with manufacturer's name, type or style, model and serial number to each item of equipment.
2.4 EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS
Equipment installed indoors shall be capable of operating in an environment of 13 to 35.0 degrees C 55 to 95
degrees F temperature and 45 to 60 percent relative humidity.
2.5 PAGING TERMINAL
Provide a paging terminal which is a desk mounted unit having alphanumeric keyboard with function keys to initiate
and control paging functions, a noise-cancelling microphone, and an LCD digital display to show all characters
entered and alarm messages from system diagnostics. Terminal shall have the ability to program pager address
and features.
2.6 ENCODER/CPU
NOTE: If Nurse Call System interface is not required, delete references to
Nurse Call System.
Encoder shall conform to the requirements of TIA-374-A. Encoder shall be modular in construction utilizing plug-in
modules and stored program control for system features, receiver address and page grouping programming, and automatic
supervision of system, cable or transmitter failure. Encoder shall provide all necessary programming, memory,
processing, encoding, call prioritization, nurse call interface and self checking diagnostics for the radio paging
system. Wired capacity shall be at least [8] [_____] data input lines capable of operating simultaneously.
Display message storage shall be provided for at least [16] [_____] messages of up to [32] [_____] characters
per message. Voice message storage shall be provided for a [30] [_____]-second code blue voice message. Stored
Code Blue message shall be processed to the transmitter on a top priority basis. Interruption or loss of ac
power to the system shall not cause loss of or change to stored programs. Nurse call system interface shall
be in compliance with UL 1069.
2.7 TELEPHONE INTERFACE COUPLER
Telephone interface coupler shall contain the necessary circuitry to provide proper paging access for the telephone
system. The unit shall provide automatic disconnect upon paging party hang-up, back-up timer to automatically
disconnect after an adjustable period of [15] [_____] to [45] [_____] seconds, automatic disconnect or busy signal
for override of higher priority signal, and balanced 600 ohm output.
2.8 TRANSMITTER
NOTE: Radio paging systems are available in very high frequency (VHF) and ultra
high frequency (UHF) range 30 MHz to 900 MHz. VHF systems are generally wide-area
systems whereas UHF systems are usually onsite systems as called for by this
specification. Systems that interface with Nurse Call Systems are always UHF
and generally have a transmitting range of 40.2 km (25 miles) line-of-sight.
Consult Base Frequency Coordinator for guidance in the selection of the frequency.
RF power output is dependent upon required range of transmission, contour of
territory covered, antenna characteristics and antenna mounting height. Manufacturer
can assist in determining proper power output and parameters of the transmitter.
Transmitter shall conform to the requirements of TIA-603-C, TIA-374-A, and to the following:
a. Frequency: [_____] [MHz] (Contractor shall contact the Contracting Officer to obtain the operating
frequency of the system).
b. Frequency stability over operating temperature range: plus or minus 1 PPM.
c. Modulation deviation: plus or minus 5 kHz.
d. Spurious and harmonic emissions: 85 dB down.
e. RF power output: [_____] watts nominal.
f. Output impedance: 50 ohms.
2.9 TRANSMISSION LINE
NOTE: The type and parameters of the transmission lines are dependent on the
distances between transmitter and antenna.
a. Solid foam polyethylene dielectric helixes rated at 2000 watts will be used
when distance between base station and antenna is 18.3 m (60 feet) or less.
b. Solid foam polyethylene dielectric helixes rated at 3000 watts will be used
when distance between base station and antenna is between 18.6 m and 39.6 m
(61 and 130 feet).
c. Air-polyethylene dielectric helixes rated at 5000 watts for VHF will be
used when distance between base station and antenna is between 39.9 m and 61.0
m (131 and 200 feet). For UHF, and specific applications, consult manufacturer.
Transmission line shall be corrosion-resistant polyethylene-jacket type with inner and outer copper conductors,
separated by [solid foam polyethylene dielectric] [air polyethylene dielectric] helixes. The line shall have
a minimum bending radius of ten times the outside diameter and an average power rating of [2000] [3000] [5000]
watts. Adapter kits for termination to antenna and base station shall be provided. Maximum attenuation at the
specified frequency shall not exceed 1.51 dB per 30.5 m 100 feet.
2.10 ANTENNA
NOTE: The type of antenna indicated is applicable to some of the transmission
sites. Based on the radiating space and coverage required, consult manufacturers
to determine parameters of the correct antenna for the specific application.
Antenna and antenna structure shall conform to TIA-222-G and TIA-329-B. The antenna shall be [omnidirectional
and vertically polarized 2 MHz band width, 500 watt power rating, 50 ohms nominal impedance, a voltage standing
wave ratio of 1.5 to 1 or less, and a minimum gain of 2.8 dB over a half-wave dipole] [_____]. The antenna shall
be constructed of fiberglass-encased radiating elements. Lightning protection and equipment for separate grounding
of the antenna mast shall be provided.
2.11 POCKET PAGE RECEIVERS
2.11.1 Types
NOTE: The types of pocket page receivers are listed. Consult the facility
for the types of pagers required and delete the types not required. Voice pagers
are usually limited to code blue and priority/emergency pages that originate
from a telephone access or page operator console.
Pocket page receivers shall conform to the requirements of TIA-603-C, and TIA-374-A. Receivers shall be of the
following types, with quantities as indicated:
a. Tone alert only; [_____] each.
b. Tone alert and voice; [_____] each.
c. Tone alert and numeric display; [_____] each.
d. Tone alert, voice and numeric; [_____] each.
e. Tone alert and alphanumeric display; [_____].
f. Vibration alert; [_____].
g. Vibration alert and numeric display; [_____] each.
h. Vibration alert and alphanumeric display; [_____] each.
Display receivers shall have capacity to store at least 4 messages of at least 10 characters for numeric display
and at least 8 messages of at least 32 characters for alphanumeric display. Stored messages in memory shall
be recallable as often as desired by pressing a recall button. A protected memory location shall be available
to store messages at the user's discretion. A back light shall be provided to allow reading of messages under
low ambient light. Tone alert receivers shall have volume level control and two distinct signals to distinguish
routine pages from code blue, emergency and priority type pages. Codes for receiver address shall be programmable/reprogrammable
using programmable firmware or replaceable code module. Receivers shall be assignable to at least two paging
groups. Voice pagers shall have adjustable volume level.
2.11.2 Power
Power source shall be interchangeable between disposable alkaline batteries and rechargeable nickel-cadmium batteries.
Low battery alert shall be provided to indicate marginal charge on the battery. Battery charging contacts shall
be recessed. Receivers shall come equipped with [alkaline] [nickel-cadmium] batteries.
2.12 BATTERY CHARGERS
NOTE: If disposable batteries are used, delete this paragraph. The recharge
time for battery chargers varies with different manufacturers. Manufacturers
should be consulted, based on facility requirement.
Battery chargers for rechargeable batteries shall be of [single] [and] [multicharger] type with charging indicator
for each receiver or battery. Multicharger unit shall be capable of charging [_____] receivers and [_____] spare
battery sets simultaneously. The chargers shall have a nominal input voltage of [120] [_____] volts ac 50 to
60 Hz. The maximum charging time shall be [_____] hours. Furnish [[_____] desk-mounted single] [and] [[_____]
multicharger] units as indicated. Chargers shall provide a signal to the encoder when the receiver is in the
rack to indicate unavailability. Pages originating from telephones shall result in a distinct absence tone response
to the paging party.
PART 3 EXECUTION
3.1 EXAMINATION
After becoming familiar with the details of the work, verify the dimensions in the field, and advise the Contracting
Officer of any discrepancy before performing the work.
3.2 INSTALLATION
NOTE: Because a Radio Page System is used to issue instructions during emergency
conditions, the system must be connected to the Emergency Power System, Life
Safety Branch according to the Health Care Facility standard, NFPA 99.
Installation shall be as shown and in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations, except where otherwise
indicated.
3.2.1 Wiring
Wiring shall be installed in rigid conduit, intermediate metallic conduit, or electric metallic tubing as specified
in Section 26 20 00 INTERIOR DISTRIBUTION SYSTEM.
3.2.2 Transmission Line
The transmission line shall be installed in conduit, with the outer conductor and lighting arrestor grounded
to the conduit. Installation shall comply with NFPA 70.
3.3 MANUFACTURER'S SERVICES
Provide the services of a manufacturer's representative who is experienced in the installation, adjustment, and
operation of the equipment specified. The representative shall supervise the installing, adjusting, and testing
of the equipment.
3.4 FIELD TRAINING
Conduct separate training courses for operating and maintenance staffs. Number of attendees for each course
shall be as designated by the Contracting Officer. The training period, to total [8] [_____] hours of normal
work time per course, shall start after the system is functionally completed but prior to final acceptance tests.
Training shall cover all of the items contained in the approved operating instructions and maintenance manuals
and follow the submitted training plan.
3.5 TESTING
Notify the Contracting Officer [30] [_____] days before acceptance tests are to be conducted. Conduct tests
in accordance with the approved test plan. Furnish all instruments and licensed personnel required for the tests.
Coduct the tests for all pages on all selected codes and groups to insure that the pages meet the operational
requirement of these specifications. Perform tests with a field intensity meter to measure the transmitted field
strength throughout the required area of coverage. The minimum field strength shall assure specified tone and
voice reception. If any deficiencies are revealed during any test, such deficiencies shall be corrected and
the tests shall be reconducted.