5 Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing Cables for Analog Signals

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The digital world still relies mainly on analogue cables for the transmission of data. Transformation is happening with the rising popularity of Single Pair Ethernet (SPE) that uses a single pair of cables instead of long-pursued twin pair wires for data transmission. Further, using a mixture of digital and analog cable is also gaining momentum. Fibre optic suppliers can be reached out to obtain the digital and analog cables of your choice. More often than not, clients go ahead without comprehensive understanding and select improper cables and connectors, resulting in a negative performance affecting the reliability of the firm.

However, one needs to understand the common mistakes while choosing analogue signals cables. Here we are elaborating on five commonly observed mistakes customers make when choosing analog cables.

1. Small Diameter Cable is not a Smart Option

Smaller diameter cables may be cheaper than larger diameter ones. Further, it would be easier to handle/ install as well. However, installing a smaller diameter analog cable is not advisable. The reduction in diameter will lead to an increase in resistance. Therefore, the signal strength will drop significantly while covering a large distance eventually causing a weak performance and a negative image to the service provider.

 2. Unshielded Cables! A Definite No

Although it may be optional to use unshielded cables in an office environment, you should not opt for unshielded ones at an industrial establishment. The noisy premises with a high amount of vibration will affect the transmission of data. Using unshielded cables in noisy environments with vibration can hamper performance. It also has safety concerns associated. None of the fibre optic cable suppliers or manufacturers will endorse the usage of unshielded cables.

3. Using Analog Cables in a Chemical Environment

Analog cables may be required at factories, industries or similar premises that have the presence of chemicals, acids or other agents in the atmosphere, as well as on the components and surface around. Almost all of the users neglect the presence of chemicals in the atmosphere while laying out analog cables. The chemicals can hamper the protective sheathing of the cables and intercept the functionality that in turn, causing diminished performance. Rather than procuring a generic type chemical-resistant cable, consider buying the cables that have resistance to the specific chemical, acid, fuel, or other contaminants present in the industrial area. Installation of additional protective sheathing also could be considered.

4. Avoid High-Resistance Cables

Some of the users don’t give the required attention to the resistance parameters of the cable. A few may believe what difference it makes. It is not the case. Using a high-resistance cable is not at all advisable. It will cause reduced speed in data transmission causing an input delay to reach the final action point. High resistance cables will cause a delay in operations, impact accuracy and lead to low performance of the machinery and the entire system. Fibre optic cable suppliers will help you check the resistance of the cable and choose the ideal one depending on your requirement.

5. Check the Cables Before Installing Those

There are different types of cables for analog signals available in the market. Each type of cable will have specifications and design peculiarities associated with the cable. The usage, the area where it can be installed, the limitations, and other similar aspects have to be confirmed before using the cables. For example, a cable for analog signals for indoor use should not be used for outdoor purposes and vice versa. A cable in the external area will have additional protective elements for keeping it safe from moisture, rain, wind, sun and other natural elements. Since the indoor cable will be in a closed and protected space, it will not necessitate such additional protective sheathing or improved safeguarding measures. Use the cable only in the space it is intended to use.

The world is rapidly embracing digitalization. Most of the entities across the globe have switched over to a mixture of digital and analog cables. However, one cannot completely ignore analog cable anytime soon. Choosing the right analog cable, avoiding the mistakes discussed here, would be a wise decision.

Norden Communications has been a leading fibre optic supplier for a long time, delivering sturdy, quality-proven and reliable cables and other components. You may talk to our experts concerning the doubts and confusions on the usage of analog signal cables or any other related issues. We are always at your service for all your concerns related to the digital world.  Established in 1998, we have been providing reliable and fast connection and trustworthy services for about two and a half decades.