Considerations for the implementation of test access points a best practice guide

Choosing the right number and configuration of test access points is a necessity for smooth maintenance and testing operations throughout the usage time of a panel. This process should begin when designing the panel, with a consideration of the type and amount of test access points needed. Secondly, a choice of hardware and the associated benefits can be made (e.g. knife-blade switches or a test block/test plug solution). Once a decision about the hardware has been made, the specific configuration of the access point needs to be determined. In this step, as well as already in the previous step, possible benefits of standardization should be taken into account. Finally, a lab setup of the chosen technology and configurations can be used for a test-run, as well as advance training of personnel. In some cases design can be done from the ground up, in others retrofit solutions are required for pre-existing installations. This paper looks at the process of designing panels with test access points from an international perspective, showcasing real-world best practice examples.