However small it might appear, a problem with network cabling can have a catastrophic effect on the network’s operation. Even a small kink in a cable can cause a camera to respond alternatively, and a poorly crimped connector may arrest Power over Ethernet (PoE).
Wiring standards
When wiring up an IP camera, you must use a CAT5 data cable containing 4 pairs of wires. We have two wiring standards for network cabling: T568a and T568b. T568a and T568b should not be combined on the same cable.
These two wiring standards are used to create a cross-over cable (T-568A on one end, and T-568B on the other end), or a straight-through cable (T-568B or T-568A on both ends).
Use high-quality CAT5e or CAT6
Cables are categorized based on the data rates that they can transmit effectively. The specifications also describe the material, the connectors and the number of times each pair is twisted per meter. Cat5 and Cat6 are twisted pair cable. Basically they both have 4 pairs of wires that are twisted around each other for the cable’s length. The most widely-installed category is CAT5e.
There are physical differences between Cat5 and Cat6, but the most important difference is that Cat5 is rated for 100Mbps, Cat5e is rated for 350Mbps, and Cat6 is rated at 1000Mbps.
Video files are commonly very large data files, and to be moved around the network as quickly as possible. It is recommended to utilize Cat5e or Cat6 cabling for gigabit connectivity, even if existing network switches and routers support 100 Mbps.
Have good cable runs
Ensure that cabling meets the requirements of your equipment. The distance between a transmitter and a receiver cannot be greater than 100m (325 ft.) in total. A good rule of thumb is 90 meters for horizontal runs, and 10 meters for the patch cabling. It is also important to be aware of the whole length of cable and connectors are the same type, such as STP.
Cabling should not run next to electrical mains cabling (because of interference). It is especially important to use of STP cables to maintain a high degree of immunity to RF (Radio Frequency), electrical and magnetic disturbances as well as provide the lowest possible degree of radiated and conducted Radio Frequency emission.
It is also mandatory to use an STP cable where the camera is set outdoors, or where the network cable is routed outdoors. STP cables also lower the effects of close situated power relays, motor inverters and electrical cables that are run in parallel close to network cables. This is normally accomplished since the switch or POE adapter is connected to an earthed mains socket.
The tradeoff in using UTP cables is a higher level of emitted Radio Frequency emission and higher susceptibility to radio frequency immunity.
Since network cabling typically uses solid wire, cabling should not be twisted or bent into a tight radius (not less than 4 times the diameter of the cable). Metal staples should not be used to secure cable runs. Avoid a daisy chain network topology.
Correct connectors
Network connections use RJ45 connectors designed for either stranded or solid cable, but usually not both. It is important to certify that the type of RJ45 connectors is coordinated with the type of cable, STP or UTP, used.
Keep the pairs together and wire correctly
A network cable has four pairs of twisted wires, and these are color coded (orange, green, blue and brown). The cable specification has been designed for high-speed data transfer and so little cross-talk. It is very important that no more than about 6 mm of the cable is untwisted at either end; otherwise, problems such as ‘near end cross-talk’ can arise. It is essential that wire the plug correctly and not just from pins 1 through 8 at both ends.
Environmental conditions
Environmental considerations, for example whether the camera will be installed indoors or outdoors, determine the cabling and connectors. Depending on the environment, the camera must be installed with the adequate housing to provide the correct level of protection. If the camera is exposed to acids, severe weather conditions, or extreme heat or cold, the camera needs a housing that tolerates this kind of environment.
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