Glossary

Operating Room Integration

Operating Room Integration refers to the design and coordination of the underlying audiovisual, lighting, and medical equipment infrastructure within surgical suites to support clinical workflows and communication. TEECOM specializes in delivering robust infrastructure solutions that enable seamless integration of final systems, helping to improve clinical outcomes and staff efficiency.

Outside-Plant Structured Cabling (OSP)

Outside-Plant Structured Cabling (OSP) encompasses the network infrastructure installed outdoors, including fiber optic and copper cabling, conduits, ducts, and utility poles. TEECOM designs OSP systems to provide robust, weather-resistant connectivity between buildings, data centers, and telecommunications providers, ensuring reliable long-distance communication pathways.

Over-the-Air (OTA) Updates

Wireless delivery of software updates and patches directly to vehicles, enabling continuous improvement and feature enhancements without physical intervention.

PE (Professional Engineer)

PE is a licensed engineering designation granted to individuals who meet education, experience, and exam requirements and are legally authorized to sign and seal engineering documents. TEECOM’s PE-certified engineers provide trusted oversight on technology system designs, ensuring compliance with industry codes, safety standards, and project specifications.

PMP (Project Management Professional)

PMP is a globally recognized certification issued by the Project Management Institute (PMI) that validates advanced knowledge in leading and directing projects. TEECOM professionals with PMP credentials manage complex technology initiatives with a focus on scope, schedule, budget, and quality, ensuring successful outcomes for clients across industries.

PSP (Physical Security Professional)

PSP is a board certification awarded by ASIS International that validates expertise in physical security assessments, integrated system design, and threat mitigation strategies. TEECOM’s PSP-certified professionals develop comprehensive security solutions—including access control, surveillance, and intrusion detection—tailored to the needs of high-risk and mission-critical environments.

Paging Systems

Audio communication networks used for staff notifications and emergency alerts within healthcare facilities. TEECOM engineers paging systems to ensure clear, reliable messaging that supports patient care and safety.

Passenger Information Displays

Digital screens that provide real-time flight updates, gate information, and wayfinding assistance to passengers. TEECOM engineers passenger information display systems for accuracy, visibility, and seamless integration with airport operations.

Patient Engagement Systems

Technology solutions that provide in-room entertainment, education, and communication services to patients, enhancing comfort and satisfaction. TEECOM designs patient engagement systems that integrate video, internet access, and interactive content within healthcare facilities.

Patient Monitoring Systems

Technologies that continuously track vital signs and health data of patients in real time. TEECOM supports the design and integration of patient monitoring infrastructure to ensure accurate data transmission and interoperability with healthcare IT systems.

Performance Space Production

Technical design and integration of audiovisual systems for theaters, auditoriums, and live event venues.

Point of Entry (POE) / Entrance Facility (EF)

A Point of Entry (POE) or Entrance Facility (EF) refers to the designated physical space within a building or property where telecommunications services first enter. This space serves as the initial transition point between the external network infrastructure—such as fiber optic, copper, or coaxial cabling provided by service providers and campus outside plant communications—and the internal network systems of the facility

Power Distribution Units (PDUs)

Devices that distribute electrical power to IT equipment within racks, often with monitoring and management capabilities. TEECOM specifies and integrates PDUs to ensure safe, scalable, and efficient power delivery in data centers.

Power Redundancy

Backup power strategies that ensure continuous electrical supply to critical healthcare systems during outages or failures. TEECOM engineers power redundancy solutions that maintain operational integrity and patient safety.

Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE)

A metric that measures the energy efficiency of a data center by comparing total facility energy consumption to IT equipment energy usage. TEECOM incorporates design strategies to improve PUE, reducing operational costs and environmental impact.

Presentation and Collaboration

Integrated AV technologies that facilitate effective communication and teamwork, including video conferencing, interactive displays, and wireless sharing. TEECOM delivers presentation and collaboration solutions that enable seamless connectivity and engagement across teams.

Projection Mapping

The use of specialized projection technology to display images and animations onto non-traditional projection screens, or onto irregular surfaces, creating dynamic visual effects. TEECOM designs projection mapping installations that transform cultural spaces with immersive storytelling.

Public Address Systems

Audio communication networks used for announcements, alerts, and public messaging in government buildings and community spaces. TEECOM designs public address systems to ensure clear, reliable sound distribution.

Public Safety Communications

Reliable, interoperable communication networks used by emergency responders and public safety agencies. TEECOM engineers public safety communication systems to support seamless coordination and rapid response.

Public Space Design

The planning and integration of technology and security systems in parks, plazas, and community areas to enhance safety, accessibility, and user experience. TEECOM collaborates on public space design that balances openness with effective monitoring and control.

Punch Walk

A final walkthrough conducted at the end of a construction or installation phase to identify incomplete items, deficiencies, or adjustments needed before project closeout. TEECOM participates in punch walks to ensure all technology systems are fully functional, compliant, and ready for client handover.

RCDD (Registered Communications Distribution Designer)

RCDD is a prestigious certification issued by BICSI that validates advanced knowledge in the design, integration, and implementation of structured cabling systems. TEECOM’s RCDD-certified professionals lead the development of reliable, scalable network infrastructure for voice, data, AV, and security systems across complex building environments.

RTPM (Registered Telecommunications Project Manager)

RTPM is a BICSI certification that recognizes expertise in managing telecommunications projects from planning through implementation. TEECOM’s RTPM-certified professionals oversee the coordination of low-voltage systems—such as structured cabling, IT, and AV—to ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with client goals.

Radar (Radio Detection and Ranging)

A detection system employing radio waves to identify objects’ location, distance, and speed, providing robust sensing capabilities in various weather and lighting conditions.

Raised Floor

Raised floors create a plenum space beneath the equipment, allowing for the distribution of cool air to the server racks.

Real-Time Location Systems (RTLS)

Technologies that track the real-time location of patients, staff, and equipment within healthcare facilities. TEECOM implements RTLS solutions to improve asset management, patient safety, and operational efficiency.

Remote Collaboration

Technologies and practices that enable teams to work together effectively from different locations using digital tools. TEECOM designs remote collaboration solutions that ensure seamless communication, file sharing, and project management across dispersed workforces.

Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM)

Technology platforms that allow centralized monitoring and control of infrastructure systems from remote locations. TEECOM deploys RMM tools to provide real-time visibility, proactive maintenance, and rapid response for mission-critical operations.

Research Facilities

Purpose-built environments equipped to support scientific inquiry and experimentation. TEECOM engineers research facilities with advanced ICT, security, and environmental systems optimized for operational excellence.

Resilience

The ability of a facility or system to maintain continuous operation and recover quickly from disruptions. TEECOM designs resilient mission-critical infrastructure by applying redundancy, robust materials, and proactive monitoring to minimize downtime.

Resilience Planning

Strategies and technologies to ensure government operations can continue or quickly recover during disruptions or disasters. TEECOM supports resilience planning through redundant systems, backup power, and robust infrastructure design.

Reverberation Time

The amount of time it takes for sound to decay by 60 decibels after the sound source has stopped. This metric indicates how lively a space sounds. Short reverberation times are typical of controlled environments such as classrooms or studios, while longer reverberation times often perceived as enveloping or echoey may be more appropriate for spaces like cathedrals or concert halls. TEECOM establishes reverberation time targets early to support each space’s function to meet the user experience acoustic design goals.

Riser Room (RR)

The Riser Room provides a location for cabling to pass through a floor to the rooms above and below, and does not house electronic equipment.

Room Acoustics

The characteristics of sound behavior inside enclosed spaces, influenced by surfaces, geometry, and materials. Also referred to as interior acoustic quality. TEECOM tailors room acoustics to the intended use for each space within a project to reduce reverberation, enhance auditory experiences, and improve speech clarity.

Room Reservation Systems

Digital scheduling platforms that manage the booking and availability of conference rooms and shared spaces. TEECOM assesses client needs and recommends a room reservation systems best suited to support AV control systems and calendar tools, optimizing space utilization and meeting productivity.

SAE J3016

A standard developed by SAE International that defines six levels of driving automation for on-road motor vehicles. It provides guidance for the capabilities and limitations of automated driving systems, ranging from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full driving automation).

SLA (Service Level Agreement)

A formal contract that defines the expected performance, availability, and responsibilities between service providers and clients. TEECOM advises on SLAs to ensure technology systems meet operational goals and maintain mission-critical uptime.

Secure Communication Networks

Robust and encrypted communication infrastructures that protect sensitive government data and support confidential information exchange. TEECOM designs secure communication networks to ensure integrity, availability, and compliance with federal security standards.

Security Communication Systems (SCS)

Security Communication Systems (SCS) are integrated platforms that enable secure, real-time voice and data communication among security personnel and emergency responders. TEECOM designs SCS solutions to enhance coordination, situational awareness, and response effectiveness within mission-critical and complex facilities.

Security Operations Centers (SOC)

Centralized facilities where security monitoring, incident response, and management are conducted using integrated technology systems. TEECOM designs SOCs to optimize situational awareness and coordination for enterprise and mission-critical security operations.

Security Portals

Controlled entry points equipped with security screening technologies such as metal detectors, X-ray scanners, and biometric verification.

Security Public Address Systems

Public Address Systems are audio communication networks used to broadcast announcements, alerts, and emergency messages throughout buildings or campuses. TEECOM designs PA systems that deliver clear, intelligible sound coverage, integrating with other security and communication technologies to support occupant safety and operational needs.

Security Screening Technology

Advanced equipment and systems used to detect prohibited items and ensure passenger safety during security checks. TEECOM integrates security screening technology with facility design to support efficient and compliant screening processes.

Sensor Networks

Distributed arrays of sensors that collect data on vehicle position, environment, and traffic conditions.

Server Racks

Enclosures that house servers and related IT equipment, providing physical support, cooling, and cable management. TEECOM engineers rack layouts optimized for airflow, accessibility, and scalability within data center environments.

Site Survey

An on-site evaluation conducted to assess existing conditions, infrastructure, and spatial constraints before design begins. TEECOM performs site surveys to gather critical data that informs accurate, coordinated technology system design and installation planning.

Smart Airports

Airports that leverage IoT, automation, and data analytics to optimize operations, enhance security, and improve passenger experience. TEECOM implements smart airport technologies that integrate building systems, communications, and data platforms.

Smart Buildings

Smart buildings integrate advanced technology systems and data analytics into building design to automatically monitor, control, and optimize performance, occupant comfort, and energy efficiency. TEECOM applies this term within the context of integrated, user-focused solutions that enhance performance and experience.

Smart Buildings (Workplace)

Buildings equipped with interconnected technologies that monitor and automate systems for enhanced efficiency, comfort, and security. TEECOM integrates smart building solutions that align IT, AV, security, lighting and shades, and environmental controls.

Smart Campus

A technology-enabled campus that uses IoT, automation, and data analytics to improve safety, sustainability, and student services. TEECOM implements smart campus solutions that optimize facility operations and enrich campus life.

Smart City Infrastructure

Connected systems and technologies deployed across urban environments to improve public services, safety, and sustainability. TEECOM implements smart city infrastructure including IoT networks, sensor arrays, and data analytics platforms.

Smart Lighting Controls

Automated systems that manage lighting intensity, color, and scheduling to enhance ambiance and energy efficiency in cultural spaces. TEECOM designs smart lighting controls that adapt to exhibit needs and visitor experiences.

Smart Traffic Systems

Integrated technologies that manage traffic flow, signal timing, and incident response using data analytics and connectivity.

Software House Installer/Maintainer

Software House Installer/Maintainer Certification validates the ability to install, configure, and maintain access control systems built on the C•CURE platform. TEECOM team members with this certification deploy secure, scalable security solutions that integrate with broader building systems to support operational continuity and regulatory compliance.

Sound Isolation

Reducing the transmission of sound from one space to another. Other common terms include sound transmission and soundproofing. TEECOM develops sound isolation strategies to achieve speech privacy and acoustic separation goals.

Sound Masking

The addition of ambient background sound to reduce the intelligibility of speech and increase privacy. TEECOM guides the design and calibration of sound masking systems for workplace and healthcare environments to limit distance of intelligible speech transmission, balance speech privacy, and acoustic comfort.

Sound Masking in Healthcare Settings

The use of ambient background noise to reduce the intelligibility of speech, enhancing privacy and comfort in sensitive healthcare areas. TEECOM designs sound masking systems tailored to clinical environments to meet HIPAA and regulatory standards.

Sound Reinforcement

Audio amplification of live sound. TEECOM designs sound reinforcement solutions for diverse spaces, enhancing speech intelligibility and musical quality.

Sound Reinforcement Systems

Audio systems that amplify and distribute sound clearly across performance and event spaces. TEECOM engineers sound reinforcement solutions to ensure balanced, high-quality audio for diverse cultural programming.

Soundscaping

The intentional design of auditory environments using natural or amplified sounds to support placemaking, enhance user experience, or create immersive spatial identities. TEECOM applies soundscaping principles to craft acoustic environments that support wellness, productivity, and brand identity.

Space Utilization

The analysis and optimization of how physical spaces are used to improve efficiency and employee experience. TEECOM provides space utilization solutions leveraging sensors and data analytics to inform design and operational decisions.

Speech Privacy

The degree to which unintended listeners can understand a conversation in a nearby or adjacent space. High speech privacy means speech is generally unintelligible, while low speech privacy allows conversations to be easily overheard and understood. TEECOM designs for the appropriate level of perceived speech privacy by supporting design of partition construction and receiving background noise level.

Strategic Consulting

Advisory services that align technology decisions with an organization’s long-term vision, operational needs, and user experience goals. TEECOM provides strategic consulting to help clients plan for future-ready spaces, optimize technology investments, and navigate complex project requirements.

Structured Networks

An organized approach to network design that uses standardized cabling, hardware, and protocols to ensure scalability and performance. TEECOM’s structured network designs support efficient data flow, simplified management, and future expansion.

Surgical Telepresence

Remote collaboration technologies that enable surgeons and specialists to participate in procedures virtually via high-definition video and audio. TEECOM designs surgical telepresence systems to facilitate expert consultation and training while maintaining surgical room sterility and efficiency.

Sustainable Technology

Technology solutions that reduce environmental impact through energy efficiency, renewable integration, and resource conservation. TEECOM incorporates sustainable technology practices to support green building certifications and operational savings.

Telecom

Telecom, short for telecommunications, refers to the transmission of voice, data, and video over wired and wireless networks. TEECOM’s telecom design services include structured cabling, carrier coordination, and signal distribution systems that support seamless connectivity across enterprise and mission-critical environments.

Telematics

The integration of telecommunications and informatics to collect and analyze vehicle data such as location, speed, and diagnostics.

Telemedicine

The use of digital communication technologies to provide remote clinical healthcare services, enabling virtual consultations and patient monitoring. TEECOM designs telemedicine infrastructure that ensures secure, reliable, and HIPAA-compliant connectivity for healthcare providers and patients.

Telepresence

High-fidelity audiovisual systems that simulate face-to-face interactions for virtual meetings, enhancing engagement and presence. TEECOM implements telepresence solutions to support immersive, lifelike remote collaboration experiences.

Terminal Design

The architectural and technological planning of airport passenger terminals to support efficient flow, safety, and comfort. TEECOM contributes to terminal design by integrating technology infrastructure, AV systems, and security solutions.

Theater AV Systems

Comprehensive audiovisual systems that support live performances, film screenings, and presentations in cultural venues. TEECOM engineers theater AV systems for optimal sound quality, lighting control, and seamless production integration.

Tier Classification (Tier I-IV)

A standardized system by Uptime Institute that rates data centers based on infrastructure robustness and redundancy, from Tier I (basic) to Tier IV (fault-tolerant). TEECOM assists clients in designing and documenting facilities to achieve desired Tier levels.

Time-To-Market

The period between the initial concept of a project and its availability for use or operation. TEECOM helps reduce time-to-market by streamlining technology design and coordination processes, enabling clients to open facilities faster and gain earlier returns on investment.

Turnstiles and Pass Gates

Mechanical or electronic entry control devices that regulate pedestrian flow while ensuring secure access.

UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply)

A backup power system that provides temporary electricity during power outages or fluctuations, ensuring continuous operation of critical equipment. TEECOM integrates UPS solutions tailored to facility needs to safeguard against data loss and system downtime.

Ultrasonic Sensors

Short-range sensors that use high-frequency sound waves to detect nearby objects, commonly used for parking assistance and close-proximity obstacle detection.

Unified Communications

The integration of multiple communication methods—such as voice, video, messaging, and conferencing—into a single platform. TEECOM designs unified communications systems to enhance connectivity, collaboration, and productivity.

Uptime Institute

An industry authority that certifies data center performance based on rigorous standards for design, construction, and operations. TEECOM collaborates with clients to meet Uptime Institute certifications and optimize data center reliability.

V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) Communication

A communication technology that allows vehicles to exchange information with other vehicles, infrastructure, pedestrians, and networks.

Vehicle Data Security

Measures and technologies that protect autonomous vehicle data from unauthorized access, tampering, or cyber threats.

Vibration

Analysis and mitigation of vibration transmitted through ground-borne, structure-borne, and human-induced paths. TEECOM collaborates with the design team to implement vibration mitigation strategies that reduce source impact or limit transmission to sensitive receiving points across a range of systems and project types.

Video Surveillance (VSS)

Video Surveillance Systems (VSS) use cameras and recording technologies to monitor and document activities within and around a facility. TEECOM designs VSS solutions that provide high-resolution imaging, intelligent analytics, and seamless integration with access control and security platforms to enhance situational awareness and incident response.

Video Surveillance Systems

Integrated camera and monitoring solutions that enhance security and situational awareness in public spaces and government facilities. TEECOM engineers video surveillance systems tailored to specific civic safety needs.

Virtual Classrooms

Online learning environments that facilitate real-time interaction between instructors and students using video, audio, and collaborative tools. TEECOM designs virtual classroom technology to support engaging and accessible remote education.

Visitor Experience Design

The holistic planning of physical and digital elements to create engaging, accessible, and memorable experiences for cultural institution visitors. TEECOM collaborates on visitor experience design by integrating technology, wayfinding, and acoustics.

Visitor Management System (VMS)

A digital platform that streamlines the registration, verification, and tracking of visitors entering a facility.

WELL AP

WELL AP is a credential awarded by the International WELL Building Institute that signifies expertise in designing and delivering spaces that advance human health and well-being. TEECOM’s WELL AP-certified professionals integrate technology systems—such as s, lighting, and environmental monitoring—to support wellness-focused building performance and achieve WELL certification goals.

Wayfinding

Digital and physical systems that assist patients and visitors in navigating complex healthcare campuses. TEECOM implements wayfinding solutions including interactive kiosks and signage to improve user experience and reduce stress.

Wayfinding Solutions

Digital and physical navigation tools that help students, faculty, and visitors easily locate buildings, rooms, and services on campus. TEECOM implements wayfinding solutions including interactive kiosks and mobile apps to enhance campus accessibility.

Wayfinding Systems

Integrated signage and digital navigation aids that help citizens and visitors locate services, offices, and facilities within government complexes. TEECOM implements wayfinding systems that enhance accessibility and reduce confusion.

Wayfinding in Airports

Navigation systems—including signage, digital kiosks, and mobile applications—that help travelers find gates, amenities, and services. TEECOM implements wayfinding solutions that reduce passenger stress and improve flow through complex airport environments.

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is a wireless networking technology that allows devices to connect to the internet and communicate within local area networks using radio waves. TEECOM designs Wi-Fi systems to provide secure, high-speed, and reliable wireless connectivity tailored to the specific needs of commercial, mission-critical, and enterprise environments.

Wide-Area Network (WAN)

A telecommunications network that spans large geographic areas, connecting multiple LANs or remote sites. TEECOM engineers WAN solutions that optimize bandwidth, latency, and redundancy to support distributed operations.

Wireless Microphone Systems

Microphones using radio frequencies (RF) instead of connections for audio transmission. TEECOM designs wireless microphone solutions optimized for cultural venues and events.

Wireless Networks

Robust Wi-Fi and cellular networks designed to support mobile devices, medical equipment, and communication systems in healthcare environments. TEECOM engineers wireless networks that ensure secure, reliable connectivity critical to clinical workflows and patient care.

Workplace Digital Signage

Networked digital displays used for communication, branding, and information sharing in the workplace. TEECOM implements digital signage solutions that deliver dynamic content across lobbies, corridors, and meeting areas.

Workplace Wayfinding Systems

Digital and physical navigation aids that help employees and visitors find their way within complex office environments. TEECOM designs wayfinding systems that combine signage, interactive kiosks, and mobile apps to improve user experience.

iBwave I

iBwave Level 1 Certification demonstrates foundational knowledge in designing in-building wireless systems, including cellular and public safety networks. TEECOM team members with this certification use iBwave tools to model, validate, and document RF designs that ensure strong signal coverage in complex indoor environments.

iBwave II

iBwave Level 2 Certification signifies advanced proficiency in designing and optimizing in-building wireless networks. TEECOM professionals with this certification manage complex RF system designs, including multi-technology deployments, interference mitigation, and detailed equipment planning to ensure reliable indoor wireless coverage across large-scale facilities.