Common Issues with External Network Cables and How to Solve Them

External network cables are often used to connect devices outside a building to the corresponding network. As a critical part of the network, external network cables are exposed to the elements and can be damaged by a variety of factors, including weather, animals, and construction work.

Physical Damage

External network cables can be physically damaged by a variety of factors, including:

– Weather: Sunlight, rain, snow, and ice can all damage external network cables. Sunlight causes the plastic sheathing of the cable to deteriorate, while rain, snow, and ice can cause the cable to freeze and crack.

– Animals: Animals can chew on external network cables, causing them to become damaged.

– Construction work: Construction work can damage external network cables that are buried underground.

Solutions

To prevent physical damage to external network cables, you can take the following steps:

– Use cables that are rated for outdoor use. Outdoor-rated cables are designed to withstand the elements and are less likely to be damaged by weather.

– Bury cables underground. Burying cables underground will protect them from weather and animals.

– Use conduit or cable protectors. Conduit and cable protectors can help to protect cables from physical damage.

Electrical Interference

External network cables can be exposed to electrical interference from a variety of sources, including power lines, electrical transformers, and other electronic devices. This interference can cause data to become corrupted or lost.

Solutions

To prevent electrical interference from damaging external network cables, you can take the following steps:

– Use shielded cables. Shielded cables have a layer of conductive material that helps to block electrical interference.

– Use grounding rods. Grounding rods can help to dissipate electrical interference.

– Separate cables from sources of interference. Keep cables away from power lines, electrical transformers, and other electronic devices.

Water Damage

External network cables can be damaged by water if they are not properly sealed. Water can enter the cable through cracks or holes in the sheathing, causing the cable to corrode.

Solutions

To prevent water damage to external network cables, you can take the following steps:

– Use waterproof cables. Waterproof cables have a special coating that prevents water from entering the cable.

– Seal the ends of the cable. Use heat shrink tubing or other methods to seal the ends of the cable and prevent water from entering.

– Keep cables away from water sources. Avoid running cables through areas where they are likely to come into contact with water.

Conclusion

External network cables are an important part of any network. By taking steps to protect them from physical damage, electrical interference, and water damage, you can ensure that your network will continue to operate reliably for many years to come.