Specifications

148 Module 125: Protege GX System Design | Understanding Physical Design
Understanding Physical Design
Cable Selection
Perhaps one of the most important yet most commonly overlooked design considerations is the selection of the
right cable types. While cost savings in materials can be made by selecting lower cost cables, the cost of
troubleshooting and resolving issues that often arise from using such cable usually outweigh the benefits.
CCA Cables
While Copper Clad Aluminium cables are attractive from a cost point of view, there are a number of negative
side effects.
 Higher attenuation (signal strength lost over shorter distance)
 Lower tensile strength (subject to damage if pulled too tightly during installation)
 Poor flexibility
 Higher temperature rises when carrying higher currents
 Exhibit oxidation of exposed aluminium at points of connection
 ICT recommends against the use of CCA cables, especially for Module Network and Reader connection.
RS-485 Module Network
While RS-485 is quite a robust network solution, any data transmission can be affected by noise.
Cat5e and Cat6 data cables were not designed to be used in RS-485 networks. While it can be used, it is
recommended that a cable specifically designed for RS-485 networks, such as Belden 9842 is used.
This is a Shielded, twisted pair, multicore cable. This is especially important for longer network runs, and in
electrically noisy environments.
Controller
Belden 9842 or equivalent
900m / 3000ft max