Appendix D: UTP Cabling
This appendix discusses various aspects of connection media. The performance of a MergePoint Unity
switching system for Dell depends on high quality connections. Poor quality or poorly installed or
maintained cabling can diminish MergePoint Unity switching system performance. MergePoint Unity
switching systems for Dell utilize UTP cabling.
NOTE: This appendix is for information purposes only. Please consult with your local code officials
and/or cabling consultants prior to any installation.
6.0.9 UTP copper cabling
The following are basic definitions for the three types of UTP cabling that the switch supports:
•
CAT 5 UTP (4-pair) high performance cable consists of twisted pair conductors, used primarily
for data transmission. The twisting of the pairs gives this cable some immunity from the
infiltration of unwanted interference. CAT 5 cable is generally used for networks running at 10
or 100 Mbps.
•
CAT 5E (enhanced) cable has the same characteristics as CAT 5, but is manufactured to
somewhat more stringent standards.
•
CAT 6 cable is manufactured to tighter requirements than CAT 5E cable. CAT 6 has higher
measured frequency ranges and significantly better performance requirements than CAT 5E
cable at the same frequencies.
6.0.10 Wiring standards
There are two supported wiring standards for 8-conductor (4-pair) RJ-45 terminated UTP cable: EIA/TIA
568A and B. These standards apply to installations utilizing CAT 5, 5E and 6 cable specifications. The
MergePoint Unity switching system for Dell supports either of these wiring standards. Table C.1 describes
the standards for each pin.
PIN
EIA/TIA 568A
EIA/TIA 568B
1
white/green
white/orange
2
green
orange
3
white/orange
white/green
4
blue
blue
5
white/blue
white/blue
6
orange
green
7
white/brown
white/brown
8
brown
brown
Table 5.4 UTP Wiring
Standards
Vertiv
™ | Vertiv™ Avocent® MergePoint Unity™ Switch for Dell® Installer/User Guide |
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