s-video over cat5e distance

Cabling-Design.com FREE cabling and networking Helpdesk
icon
 Question by Daren Khatib posted 27 Dec 2005
 s-video over cat5e distance
Hello,

I am planning to run s-video and audio (left and right channel) over my pre-existing cat5e. The total distance from my wiring closet to my family room (where the TV is located) is ~ 40'.

What is the maximum distance that an s-video signal can travel over cat5e using a standard leviton type s-video punchdowns?

Do I need to purchase a specialized balun to break out the audio from video (like a muxlabs s-video / audio balun), or can I just solder bananna jacks onto the unused s-video cable?

Thank you.

Daren
icon
 Answer by Joseph Golan posted 27 Dec 2005
Dear Daren,

First here is a link to a tech note from Leviton on their s-Video connector. Read this for some important considerations involving this product.
http://www.levitonvoicedata.com/support/technotes/tech_note_detail.asp?tnID=316
and also a link to the instruction sheet:
http://www.levitonvoicedata.com/support/documents/instructionsheets/40734XXX.pdf
As the tech note discusses, the S-Video signal is unbalanced and may be affected by noise. So using the 2 spare pairs for audio may be risky. The installation sheet quotes a 75' maximum for the signal.

I believe the MuxLab balun product you are referring to is found at this URL:
http://www.muxlab.com/products/ve_svd_s-av_balun.html
This seems like a sturdier and safer solution and solves the unbalance problem of S-video. Don't forget that these baluns work in pairs, one for each end. This also leaves the cable terminated on a standard category 5e jack (either T568A or T568B) for future use and flexibility. Don't forget the patch cords (category 5e) for connecting the baluns to the jacks. Here is the link to installation instructions for the MuxLab unit:
http://www.muxlab.com/assets/files/installation_guides/VE_S-Video_Balun.pdf

Sincerely,
Joseph Golan, RCDD

Click here to see the expert's profile
Back to the current page of questions | Back to all the questions
Back to Cabling-Design.com HELPDESK | Ask your question
Residential Cabling Guide

Home Cabling Guide

Finally, an instantly downloadable book that saves you thousands in home improvement dollars! Enjoy living in 21st century technology-advanced home while increasing its selling value and competitive advantage on the real estate market. Whether your cabling is for home office or high-tech leisure, you can wire your home yourself or learn "wirish" to speak with your cabling contractors in their language!

Learn more ...