RUGGEDCOM WIN5251
Installation Guide
Chapter 2
Installing the Subscriber Unit
Weatherproofing the Subscriber Unit
19
Section 2.7
Weatherproofing the Subscriber Unit
Most outdoor subscriber unit, antenna and cable problems are caused by coaxial cable connections loosened by
vibration, allowing moisture to penetrate the connector interface. Siemens strongly recommends weatherproofing
all
outdoor cable connections to prevent the ingress of water and help secure connections.
Since PoE cables also carry DC current, the need for proper weatherproofing cannot be overstated.
Use cold shrink tubing or self-amalgamating tape, as well as UV-resistant tape and electrical insulation putty to
seal connections.
IMPORTANT!
Warranty is void if the subscriber unit is assembled without waterproof sealing or if the sealing is
removed from the connections.
IMPORTANT!
The method of weatherproofing described in this section must be completed on
all
external
connections. If surge arrestors are used, all associated connections and arrestors must be completely
wrapped with splicing tape or self-amalgamating tape.
CONTENTS
•
Section 2.7.1, “Weatherproofing a Cable”
•
Section 2.7.2, “Applying Cold Shrink Tubing”
•
Section 2.7.3, “Applying Self-Amalgamating Tape”
Section 2.7.1
Weatherproofing a Cable
To weatherproof a cable, do the following:
IMPORTANT!
PVC tape, silicon sealant and glue are not recommended for weatherproofing, as these materials are
difficult to apply accurately and are difficult to remove.
1. Spray the cable end and connector with a cleaner and de-greaser, making sure to remove any excess with a
clean lint-free cloth.
2. Spray the cable end and connector with SCC3 conformal coating and allow them to dry fully (approximately 3
to 5 minutes depending on the ambient temperature).
3. Apply cold shrink or self-amalgamating tape to the connector end. For information about how to apply
these types of seals, refer to
Section 2.7.2, “Applying Cold Shrink Tubing”
Section 2.7.3, “Applying Self-
.
4. Apply two layers of UV-resistant vinyl tape to the cable ends.
5. Apply electrical insulation putty around the very end of the cable to form a seal between it and the base
station.
