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ARA series Users Manual
INTRODUCTION
ARA series systems communicate using standard TCP/IP data
protocols. As professional audio equipment it is almost manda-
tory the use of ARA products with compatible professional net-
work hardware. Gigabit switches can be found in the industry
in a very wide range of prices and features but always keep in
mind that domestic intended hardware may not perform prop-
erly as there exist limitations managing network bandwidths
and impossibility of managing a big number of devices.
The quality of the network cabling used is also a key factor to
not face problems specially when dealing with distances close
to the limit (100meters) and big bandwidths. As a general rule
only use CAT6e or CAT7 cabling with the proper shielding.
Ethernet cables are used to transmit data between network de-
vices, such as computers, routers, and switches. Both Cat6e and
Cat7 cables are types of Ethernet cables that are designed to
support high-speed data transfer rates and reduce signal inter-
ference. However, there are some differences between the two:
ARA series
Networking
1. Bandwidth:
Cat6e cables are designed to support band-
widths of up to 500 MHz, while Cat7 cables can support up
to 600 MHz. This means that Cat7 cables have a higher ca-
pacity for transmitting data at faster speeds.
2. Shielding:
Cat6e cables usually have shielding around each
pair of twisted wires to reduce crosstalk (interference be-
tween wires). On the other hand, Cat7 cables have individu-
al shielding around each pair of twisted wires, as well as an
overall shielding around all four pairs. This provides better
protection against crosstalk and external electromagnetic
interference.
3. Connectors:
Cat6e cables use the same RJ45 connectors as
most other Ethernet cables, while Cat7 cables use a different
type of connector called GG45, which is designed to support
higher frequencies and reduce crosstalk.
4. Distance:
Both Cat6e and Cat7 cables can transmit data over
distances of up to 100 meters (328 feet), but Cat7 cables are de-
signed to maintain their signal quality over longer distances.
Overall, Cat7 cables are a more advanced and expensive op-
tion than Cat6e cables, and are typically used in high-perfor-
mance network environments that require very high band-
widths and reliable transmission of data over long distances.
Cat6e cables are a more affordable and widely used option for
many standard Ethernet applications.
It’s important to note that the maximum distance is 100m
(328feet) for a single ethernet CAT6e cable (for 10 Gbps speeds)
segment without any repeaters or switches in between. If you
need to extend the distance beyond these limits, you can use
repeaters, switches, or fiber optic cables to extend the reach of
your Ethernet network.
