Specifications

TOKEN RING NETWORK CABLING
4-4
STP CABLE SPECIFICATIONS
The following is a summary of cable specifications that apply to STP
cabling used with Cabletron Systems Token Ring products. Product
changes could produce differences between this summary and the
individual product specifications. Always refer to the specific product
installation guide for current specifications.
Cabletron Systems Token Ring products support IBM Type 1, 2, 6 and 9
shielded twisted pair (STP) cable, which are described as follows:
• Type 1 consists of two shielded twisted pairs (STP) of 22 American Wire
Gauge (AWG) solid wire for data. It is typically used for the longest
cable runs within the walls of buildings.
• Type 2 is similar to Type 1 data cable, but has four additional
unshielded twisted pairs of 22 AWG solid wire carried outside of the
shield casing. It is typically used for voice communication.
• Type 6 consists of two STP of 26 AWG stranded wire for data. Type 6 is
used in patch panels or to connect devices to/from wall jacks.
• Type 9 is similar to Type 1, but uses 26 AWG solid wire.
STP Construction
An STP cable has a braided metallic shielded enveloping two twisted
pairs of copper wire. The purpose of the shield is to protect data traffic on
the wire from intrusive and unwanted electrical interference from outside
sources. The shield must be grounded at both ends of the connection.
Figure 4-2 illustrates STP components.
Figure 4-2. Shielded Twisted Pair Cable
Recommended Maximum Cable Lengths and Stations
Table 4-1 lists recommended trunk (RI/RO) and lobe lengths for STP cable
types 1 and 2 used with active and passive Cabletron Systems products at
4 and 16 Mbps. It also lists maximum stations supported.
Plastic Sheath Shield Twisted Pair