Telecom installation by Unity Electric

Technology

Business Case

Telecom installation by Unity Electric

Project story

An installation of telecom wiring for JFK International Airport Terminal 4

Key Facts

Project figures

- 2M sq. ft. network integration
- 20+ years time on site

Introduction

Unity Electric, an EQUANS company, became the trusted electrical provider for John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 4 when it completed the initial installation of all telecom wiring and networking during its construction between 1999-2001. Since then, Unity has been called upon to perform all of the terminal’s electrical work, including wiring numerous upgrades and expansions, and providing ongoing maintenance for all of the terminal’s electrical systems.

Challenges

Airports are cold, windy places in winter, when much of the installation needed to take place. The elements of the season caused cracked cables, even when temperatures weren’t below freezing. In one case, a serious cable problem, due to a manufacturing defect, was discovered after installation. Unity worked around the clock to replace thousands of feet of cable.

In addition, when software providers discovered a problem with the system of fiber optics, they assumed there wasn’t cabling connecting two separate locations. Unity’s project manager, having extensive knowledge of the airport, indicated that this was not the case and solved all problems promptly.

Solution

Unity’s electrical work covers the entirety of the JFK Terminal 4 building. Flight information displays across the terminal allow for up-to-the-minute information including support information, baggage information, and passenger information thanks to a newly installed cabling network.

Along with electrical components for the terminal’s baggage systems, Unity has provided additional fit-outs for new construction, including recent expansions of Concourse B. Unity also provided new innovative technology when Delta Airlines initiated a terminal expansion for domestic arrivals. For this project, Unity introduced a new type of fiber-optic system that is blown into ceilings. Unity also upgraded GPU & PCA units for several Jet Bridges to meet the everchanging demands for new aircrafts.

Results

Decades of familiarity and extensive knowledge of the airport’s power and telecom systems lead to the quick troubleshooting of challenges during this project. Unity’s long history allows intimate knowledge of the facility, offering a wide range of offerings that help stakeholders solve any electrical problems.