Our one and the only requirement is high-speed internet from any network. A successful network and that too in terms of speed depends on its components. That includes switches, controllers, connectors, and Ethernets. Amongst all, Ethernet cables have some extra weightage and are responsible for better performance. They pass data at high-speed rates. For example, CAT 6 cables can operate frequencies up to 250MHz. At the same time, CAT 5 cables operate frequencies up to 100MHz. The CAT 5 cables are also suitable for 100Mbit applications using two-pair cables.
Identify the Requirement, Then Select the Cable
To simply your understanding, the below table specifies all the Industry frequency requirements:
But when you choose cables for the industrial purpose, you need to understand the industrial requirements to choose the right cable for your network.
Size of a Conductor
Conductors are one of the reasons behind fulfilling our needs of high data speed over long distances. Especially the conductor size. It is important to note that a standard Ethernet cable doesn’t have the same performance capacities as a solid conductor. Ethernet conductors are 26 and 24AWG size. To get better results, it is advisable to utilize the conductors of bigger size for long distance.
Profinet standard has introduced 22AWG cables. They provide even better performance over 26 and 24AWG cables. Coming to conductor’s types, there three defined within the Profinet standard.
- Stationary
- Flexible
- Special
If you use 22AWG cables, you will need to correct RJ45 connector. Because many conductors are not compatible with the increased wire size and Profinet cables’ larger outside diameter.
Shielded versus Unshielded Cables
The selection of industrial cable is dependent on the environment at your workplace. Unshielded cables are used in general for normal work environments. If your work environment is noisy, it is recommended to use shielded cables. Shielding part is made of a foil or a braid to protect the signals. In the case of extra durability and noise protection, you can use a combination of foil and braid shielded cable.
Cable Selection
Industrial cable requirements expect a high level of security standards. These cables should have robust constructions than the ones used for general use. The most obvious reason is the environment. When it comes to chemical industries, they require an extra level of safety for cables.
For example, materials such as polyurethane (PUR) are used to provide mineral oil resistance. Also, they are halogen-free. Ethernet cables for industrial use are available with solid conductors as well. They only suite static applications. If you want to use cables in a flexible way, standard conductors are of a good choice. But, for a continuous application, conductors with even high standards are of the best choice.
Packet Stability
Data packet drops can cause a great loss of data, money, and energy. Generally, packet drop occurs when one or more packets of data traveling across a computer network don’t reach their destination. When trying to get Ethernet networks for Industrial area, it is important to consider the determinism. When your network has a deterministic Ethernet system, it ensures packet transfer without any drops. Another way is by using quality internet services. It prioritizes the sensitive traffic within the network and makes sure that there are no packet drops in the system. This way you overcome the threats of an Ethernet system to make it more suitable for the factory use.
Environment
As mentioned above, the environment is one of the biggest factors to consider while choosing Ethernet cables. Several conditions like humidity, vibrations, dust, and similar issues might affect the networking equipment. This may disrupt the signal transmission through switches, damage hardware. It also affects the overall network performance. That’s the reason you have to choose the right ethernet solutions for your industrial use.
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