Overview
This article covers copper Ethernet connections between a network switch and the RJ45 network port of an Omega Series, Ultra Series, or MaxColor Series Encoder or Decoder.
Use Cat5e or higher-rated cabling and verify that each device establishes a 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) network link. These requirements apply to both AMP Standardized and Alternate Configuration systems.
Models with fiber connections: Some MaxColor Series Encoders and Decoders also provide a 1Gb SFP connection. Refer to the specific model's documentation for module compatibility, connection options, and power requirements. The cabling guidance below applies to RJ45 connections.
Select the Cabling
- Category: Cat5e meets the minimum requirement. Cat6 and Cat6A may also be used. A higher category does not increase the speed of the device's 1 Gbps network port.
- Conductors: Use standards-compliant copper cable. Avoid copper-clad aluminum (CCA), which can cause data and PoE performance problems.
- Connection components: Use compatible plugs, jacks, patch panels, and patch cables rated for the intended cabling category.
- Installation environment: Select the appropriate cable jacket and follow the manufacturer's installation requirements. If using shielded cabling, follow its shield continuity and bonding requirements.
Cable Length
For a conventional structured copper connection, keep the complete channel within 100 meters (approximately 328 feet). This includes the installed cable run and patch cables at both ends.
- Installed cable run and terminations: Up to 90 meters (approximately 295 feet).
- Patch cables: Typically up to 10 meters (approximately 33 feet) combined.
Follow the cable manufacturer's channel limits, including any reductions required for cable construction or operating temperature.
If the required distance exceeds the copper limit, plan a nearer switch location with an appropriate uplink or a documented fiber connection on an applicable model. Changing from Cat5e to Cat6 or Cat6A does not extend the permitted distance.
Terminate and Test
Gigabit Ethernet requires all four twisted pairs (eight conductors). Use T568A or T568B wiring, with the same scheme at both ends of each straight-through cable or installed link. Follow the connector manufacturer's termination instructions.
- Keep pair twists intact as close to the termination as required.
- Use connectors compatible with the cable's conductor type and size.
- Avoid crushed cable, sharp bends, excessive pulling force, and tightly cinched cable ties.
- Test the installed run and its terminations, and check the patch cables used to connect the equipment.
A continuity test does not confirm Gigabit performance. A cable can have pin-to-pin continuity and still have split pairs or other performance problems. Use suitable cable test equipment and retain certification results when available.
After connecting the Encoder or Decoder, use AMP Gather Details or the switch's port status to confirm a 1 Gbps (1000 Mbps) network link. Device LEDs alone do not confirm link speed.
PoE Connections
For a PoE-powered Encoder or Decoder, confirm that the switch or injector meets the specific model's power requirements. Check the power available at the port and the switch's total PoE budget.
If using a PoE injector, its data connection must also support 1 Gbps Ethernet. A 10/100 Mbps injector can power a device while limiting its network connection.
See the applicable power requirements:
Power does not confirm a working data connection. A device can receive PoE while its network link is missing or operating at 10 or 100 Mbps.
Inter-Switch Connections
The 1 Gbps endpoint requirement is separate from the bandwidth needed between switches. A system can have working 1 Gbps endpoint connections and still have insufficient inter-switch capacity.
For supported connections and bandwidth planning in AMP Standardized multi-switch systems, see Multi-Switch Considerations for AMP Standardized Systems .
