Ethernet Cabling Requirements
CSX400 and CSX400-DC User’s Guide 51
Noise — Crosstalk, or externally induced impulses, can cause noise. Impulse noise may cause
data errors if the impulses occur at very specific times during data transmission. Generally, noise is
not a concern. If you suspect noise-related data errors, you may need to reroute the cable or
eliminate the source of the impulse noise.
Temperature — Multi-pair PVC 24 AWG telephone cables typically have an attenuation of
approximately 8–10 dB/100 m at 20°C (68°F). The attenuation of PVC insulated cable varies
significantly with temperature. At temperatures greater than 40°C (104°F), Cabletron Systems
strongly recommends using plenum-rated cable to ensure attenuation remains within specification.
Multimode Fiber Optic Network
When connecting a multimode fiber optic link segment to the CSX400 (using an EPIM-F1/F2),
ensure that the network meets the following requirements:
Cable Type — Use the following multimode fiber optic media:
•50/125 µm fiber optic cabling
•62.5/125 µm fiber optic cabling
•100/140 µm fiber optic cabling
Attenuation — Test the fiber optic cable with a fiber optic attenuation test set adjusted for an
850 nm wavelength. This test verifies that the signal loss in a cable falls within the following
acceptable levels:
•13.0 dB or less for a 50/125 µm fiber cable segment
•16.0 dB or less for a 62.5/125 µm fiber cable segment
•19.0 dB or less for a 100/140 µm fiber cable segment