New York State Master Electrician Practice Exam

What is the minimum required separation between communication wires and lighting conductors on buildings?

1. 2 feet

2. 4 feet

3. 6 feet

4. 8 feet

The correct answer is: 6 feet

The minimum required separation between communication wires and lighting conductors is established to prevent electromagnetic interference and ensure the safety and functionality of the electrical systems in buildings. This distance is particularly important because communication lines, such as telephone or data cables, can be susceptible to noise from nearby electrical conductors, which can degrade their performance. Regulatory standards, such as those in the National Electrical Code (NEC), specify that communication wires must maintain a separation of at least 6 feet from lighting conductors. This distance minimizes the potential for inductive coupling and interference, thus maintaining clear signals and the reliability of the communication systems. In cases where the separation cannot be maintained, additional measures such as shielding or the use of twisted pair cables may be required to mitigate interference. However, the standard separation of 6 feet is the baseline, as this distance has proven effective in preventing issues.