Chapter 2
Installing the Base Station
RUGGEDCOM WIN7235
Installation Guide
24
Weatherproofing a Cable
Section 2.10.1
Weatherproofing a Cable
Most outdoor base station, 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!
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.
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 2.10.2, “Applying Cold Shrink Tubing”
Section 2.10.3, “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.
6. If the base station is installed in a marine environment (e.g. wind farm substation, coastal tower, or marine
vessel) apply a coating of marine grease to all galvanized steel components, including mounting brackets,
nuts, washers and screws. This is in addition to the anti-corrosion spray applied during the mounting process.
IMPORTANT!
Should a cable need to be replaced, make sure all surfaces are thoroughly cleaned with a cleaner and
de-greaser spray before connecting the new cable. No residue from the previous weatherproofing
materials should be evident on the connector or the base station chassis.
Section 2.10.2
Applying Cold Shrink Tubing
To apply cold shrink tubing to a cable end, do the following:
1. Disconnect the cable and slide the tube over the connector end.
2. Reconnect the cable and slide the tube up to meet the base station chassis.
