R&M, the globally active Swiss developer and provider of high-end infrastructure solutions for data and communications networks, has drawn up guidelines for extended local data networks. These support network planners in developing extensive cabling systems for smart buildings and industry. The R&M guidelines contrast the advantages of tried-and-tested structured cabling with the modern approach of application-specific extended reach cabling. The guidelines are published in the new white paper «Beyond 100 Meters». It is available free of charge on the R&M website (link at the end of the text).
Local data networks require greater ranges
Manufacturers and planners around the world are beginning to move beyond the 100-meter limit for local data networks (LAN). By default, network devices and structured copper cabling are designed for transmission distances of up to 100 meters. The standardized link length helps to ensure stable signal transmission up to 10 Gigabit Ethernet across device generations in IT and office networks.
Today, the demand for ranges of more than 100 meters is growing. Longer transmission distances are needed, for example, for Internet-based building automation in smart buildings and factories. The extended reach LAN has recently been promoted on the market as a solution. Initially, it is based on optimized copper cables. «This cabling is not always up to the task of handling future or unfamiliar applications,» says Matthias Gerber, R&M Market Manager LAN Cabling.
Matthias Gerber explains: «Although the extended reach approach opens up new possibilities, it cannot replace structured cabling. Structured and non-application specific LAN cabling remains the basis of future-proof building networks. Ranges of more than 100 meters are not a product feature or a new standard, but a challenging engineering task.»
Using new technologies such as Single Pair Ethernet
R&M specifies corresponding guidelines for network planning in the white paper «Beyond 100 Meters», in which the company advocates a differentiated and holistic approach. First of all, network planners should verify whether structured cabling – expanded by additional distributors, zone cabling, fiber optic or hybrid cabling, and modern technologies such as Single Pair Ethernet – is the best solution.
Matthias Gerber advises: «Only after these options have been evaluated should extended reach copper cabling be considered as an exception. It can be defined either for several applications in terms of cabling class or specifically for a single application. Extended reach cabling must be planned based on the application. Data rate, network devices, power supply, temperature, electromagnetic interference, cable bundling and design as well as the expected service life of the installation all influence what range is possible and practical.»
Why is R&M emphasizing the structured cabling approach? «The value of structured cabling is not in the transmission distance. The decisive factor is that it is independent, interoperable and sustainable, as well as future-proof. It supports a wide range of applications and end devices throughout their entire life cycle. This principle is becoming increasingly important, especially with the increasing convergence of IT, building technology, and automation.»
