Copper cable networks
The first choice is still copper when it comes to a medium for telephone, data and video cables. This material is used more than ever throughout the world for the infrastructure of communication networks over short distances. It’s a trend that is rising, as the port price still proves to be cheaper when compared with fiber optics, while new technologies, such as Power over Ethernet (PoE) are only possible using metal conductors.
What does the future look like?
New technologies, such as SmartHome or the Internet of Things, are reinforcing the need for even more bandwidth and higher transmission rates. In this way, development of data transmission via copper is progressing further and higher transmission speeds will be possible in the future. While today, a data transmission rate of just 10 Gbit/s over a distance of 100 m is possible, increases to 25 Gbit/s, possibly over 50 m or 40 Gbit/s over 30 m are already in the pipeline
What does this mean for installers and telecommunications and network engineers?
Networks that are able to achieve this performance using copper cables demand properly set-up infrastructures as well as stable installations. For installers, this also means that new installations must be sufficiently tested and documented. In the case of existing networks, there is a need to test and provide proof that migration to higher speeds is possible.
What measurement technology is required for this?
The simplest testers for installations using coaxial, telephone, and data cables are verifiers - wiring testers with various functions. Our CableMasters are devices that test for correct installation and search for any wiring faults. Seven models provide cable testing and network diagnosis functions - e.g. cable tracker, cable multimeter for continuity testing, cable/wiring testers with pass/fail grading or professional cabling tester for fault finding, link detection and load tests in accordance with IEEE 802.3 af/at.