GUIDE
x-series c abling
Cabling guide for X-series installations
NComputing X-series products deliver exceptional multimedia performance to
multiple users sharing a single computer. This is enabled by the direct connection
between the X-series plug-in card and the access device. While the connections
use standard Category 5e and Category 6 STP cables, the signals going across the
cable are not Ethernet. Instead, the video and peripheral signals are sent directly
using all four twisted pairs of the cable. Therefore it is important to always use
correctly specified, quality cables with the X-series. This cabling guide will help
you select the right cable type and length for your installation.
Cable Type
The table below lists the two cable types that are supported by the X-series.
Shielded Category 6 cable is required above 5 meters to ensure video signal
quality over the longer distance. Cables should be terminated to RJ-45
connectors according to the standard method (wires match on both ends
of the cables as shown below). This is the most common configuration available
when purchasing standard patch cables. So called “cross-over” cables (used to
directly connect two Ethernet devices without a switch) CANNOT be used.
NComputing offers a certified 5 meter Category 5e UTP cable, which is the
longest Category 5e cable supported by the X-series. Other Category 5e cable
length options and Category 6 STP cables are readily available from a variety
of suppliers.
You have two options for terminating your cable:
1) Purchase patch cables of a specific length that have been terminated by your
cable vendor
2) Purchase a large roll of cable (often sold in 50 ft or 100 ft rolls) and then
terminate the ends yourself to create any custom length
If you choose to use the second option, make sure you have the appropriate
termination tools and carefully follow the instructions provided with the tools
to ensure proper termination. Pre-made cables are convenient, but can result
in excess cable if you cannot find the exact length you need. Making your own
cable can give you a custom fit and may save on material costs, but will require
significantly more installation time. Most customers find that using pre-made
cables is the best and easiest approach.
When sizing your cables, provide some extra length to make it easy to route
cable (i.e. for pre-made cables, choose the next biggest standard size from what
you have measured). However, avoid providing too much cable leaving excess
to be rolled or bundled. The following section provides some basic cable sizing
guidelines for typical X-series configurations.
Cable Type
Distance Supported
Category 5e UTP (unshielded twisted pair)
up to 5 meters (16.4 feet)
Category 6 STP (shielded twisted pair)
up to 10 meters (32.8 feet)
