Outdoor network cable

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 Question by Beth Harris posted 05 Aug 2005
 Outdoor network cable
We need to run cable for our computer network from one building to another(a school). What type of cable is safe to use and how would it need to be installed? We need to avoid the ground if possible, but I want to know the specifics of that, too.
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 Answer by Joseph Golan posted 06 Aug 2005
Dear Beth,

Big question with lots of information needed to fully answer.

You say you need to avoid the ground. Well there are 2 physical connection possibilities: Aerial or buried. Aerial will require poles or other attachment points at a maximum of 150' distance and must also have proper ground clearance per codes for saftey. Then you have a choice of copper or fiber optics cable. My suggestion is to go with fiber optics as it is not prone to electrical disturbances or lightning. Total distance will also play into this decission as anything over 90 meters (295 feet will force you into the fiber optic cable. What type of fiber will be judged by the type of network equipment, signals, available media adapters, etc.

Sincerely,
Joseph Golan, RCDD

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