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Rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures can wreak havoc on your networking and electrical equipment, causing costly downtime and repair bills. That's where weatherproof NEMA enclosures come in. These sturdy, protective boxes shield your equipment from external hazards, ensuring that your network stays up and running, no matter the weather.

So, how do these NEMA enclosures work, and what are their benefits? Today, we'll discuss the role of weatherproof enclosures in protecting your network infrastructure from environmental hazards.

Understanding Weatherproof NEMA Enclosures

NEMA enclosures are specially designed protective boxes that house networking and electrical equipment, protecting it from exposure to the elements. They are made of durable materials, such as metal, plastic, or fiberglass, that can withstand harsh weather conditions, including rain, snow, wind, and extreme temperatures.

Weatherproof enclosures come in various sizes and styles, such as NEMA or IP-rated boxes. For instance, you can check the 24-inch SMC-NEIA-FL-6609 outdoor network cabinet, which is IP66-rated and contains 120VAC 10A fans to prevent overheating due to extreme temperature and operational workloads.

Industry-standard Ratings for Weatherproof NEMA Enclosures

To ensure that weatherproof enclosures meet specific requirements, manufacturers use industry-standard ratings such as NEMA (National Electrical Manufacturers Association) and IP (Ingress Protection).

The RJ45 connector is a small but powerful device at the core of Ethernet networking, which has become an essential part of our lives – from streaming movies to video conferencing. It's what enables us to access the digital world.

This article will explore this vital component and unravel the mystery behind its role in Ethernet networking. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or a curious beginner, read on to discover how it keeps us connected and how to find the right RJ45 connector for your needs.

What are RJ45 Connectors?

RJ45 connectors are small, modular plugs used to interconnect devices in Ethernet networks. The name is derived from the 8P8C design of these connectors, which has become a standard for connecting computers and other peripherals such as routers and switches.

An RJ45 connector consists of a plastic body with metal contacts on either side that connect two electrical circuits; its PoE (Power over Ethernet) version can even power up devices such as IP cameras, VoIP phones, and access points.

4 Reasons to Use RJ45 for Ethernet Networking

1. Cost-effectiveness: RJ45 connectors are relatively inexpensive and easy to install such as an EZ-RJ45 Cat5e feed-through connector for solid & standard cables.
2. Pinout verification: Before you crimp an RJ45 connector, verify your pinout to reduce any possible damages.
3. High-speed data communication: RJ45 connectors transfer data at lightning speed, depending on your network cable. The Cat8 RJ45 Field Termination Plug, a shielded RJ45 plug supporting PoE++ applications, can comfortably handle network connections with speeds up to 10, 25, or even 40 Gbps.
4. Universal acceptance: The 8P8C design of the RJ45 connector is widely accepted by many networking devices across different vendors. This makes connecting your computer or peripheral to any Ethernet network easier, regardless of where they come from.

RJ45 vs RJ11: How are They Different?

When talking about RJ45 connectors, it is important to consider their counterpart – the RJ11 connector. Even though they may appear similar, these two types have distinct applications.

The RJ45 connector has eight pins and eight wires and is 6mm by 11mm in size – primarily used to enable high–speed data transfer between computers, Wi–Fi routers, fiber modems, and NBN boxes.

In contrast, the RJ11 connector has four wires and four pins; it's smaller than its sibling at 6mm by 9.5mm and is mainly used for ADSL/VDSL connections or telephone networks. Check out our RJ11 to RJ45 wiring diagram to see the difference. RJ12 connectors are the newer version of RJ11.

Common Classifications of RJ45 Connectors

RJ45 connectors are classified based on the type of wiring used. The most common types of RJ45 connectors include Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat7.

Cat5e is the go–to Ethernet cable, utilizing an RJ45 Cat5e connector and perfect for home networks where data transmission speeds rarely exceed 100 Mbps.

For more demanding applications such as data centers and cloud computing networks, Cat6, Cat7 and Cat8 standards are used.

RJ45 Connector Accessories

RJ45 facilitates a wide selection of accessories, making Ethernet networking more convenient and productive. These include crimping tools, patch panels, couplers, adapters, and cable tester kits.

For example, the RJ45 Field Termination Jack is a br

Fiber optic distribution cable might not be considered the fanciest optical fiber cable on the market. Sturdy as it is, it is probably not part of the fiber deployment now being used on the International Space Station.

But fiber optic distribution cable is the most popular optical fiber cable SMC offers, because it is used almost everywhere in a building. It’s no wonder it is commonly referred to as “backbone” cabling – the wires that connect just about everything to everything.

Our indoor distribution fiber cable is a go-to, general purpose cable that can be installed vertically or horizontally. Its tight buffered design, with multiple protection layers around the fiber core, suits it well for use as LAN backbone wiring within a building. This includes trunk cabling that runs horizontally to connect data center equipment, telecom rooms and workstations, as well as vertically up and down riser shafts between floors.

By the way, distribution fiber cable is not limited to use in large commercial installations. It also works well in fiber to the home (FTTH) applications, including both individual homes and multi-tenant buildings.

And let’s not forget that a huge benefit of fiber optic distribution cable is found in those first two words: fiber optic. Compared to Ethernet installations, fiber increases your network’s bandwidth, long-distance reach and immunity to EMI/RFI.

At SMC, indoor fiber optic distribution cable comes in both riser and plenum versions.

Riser-Rated Fiber Optic Distribution Cable

Riser-rated distribution cable is used for wiring in vertical spaces from one floor to another in a building, including in elevator shafts. It has a basic fire rating and is widely used in both commer

The term “bulk quantity” might bring to mind the image of an assembly line. But at ShowMeCables it means the opposite.

When you order bulk cable from us − say, a 1,000-foot roll of Cat6, a 500-foot roll of fiber optic or 100 feet of coax − you get the ability to customize an installation to meet your exact needs.

When you purchase bulk cable from ShowMeCables, you get six big benefits:

Bulk Cable in Your Specialty

We don’t just offer bulk cable in the most popular types. Whatever your need, we have it − in Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7 and Cat8, 10GX tray cable, fiber optic, coaxial, low-loss coaxial, telephone wire, audio and video, multi-conductor, portable cord, variable-frequency drive cable (VFD). fire alarm cable

Whether you're streaming videos, transferring files, or accessing cloud services, you need a reliable and efficient network that can handle your bandwidth demands. That's where the Belden Cat6 Plenum Cable comes in. With its advanced technology and superior performance, the Belden Cat6 Plenum Cable is the future-proof choice for high-speed data transmission in commercial buildings, data centers, and other applications.

This article will explore the benefits of the Belden Cat6 Plenum Cable, its use cases, and how you can get the most optimal cable for your needs.

What is Cat6 Plenum Cable?

The Cat6 Plenum Cable is a high-performance twisted pair cable suitable for home networks, business networks, and data centers. This sixth-generation cable comprises eight copper conductors twisted together in four pairs to provide extremely high-speed data transmission.

However, what sets the Cat6 Plenum cable apart is its unique design and construction, which make it ideal for use in plenum areas of buildings. Plenum areas are spaces within buildings that facilitate air circulation for heating and cooling systems. These areas are highly prone to fire outbreaks, and this is where the Cat6 Plenum Cable truly shines.

The high-quality Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) ensures that Cat6 Plenum cables provide superior flame-retardant properties. The cable's jacket and insulation are made with Fluorinated Ethylene Propylene (FEP), which enables it to deliver high-quality performance even at high temperatures.

5 Advantages of Using the Belden Cat6 Plenum Cable

With over 100 years of experience in the industry, Belden is a trusted name for cable and connectivity solutions. The company's Cat6 Plenum Cable provides many advantages over other cables available in the market.

HDMI patch cables are the ideal solution for elevating your audiovisual experience. With these superior-quality cords, you can connect all of your devices and enjoy a crystal–clear picture and sound on any TV or computer.

This article will explore everything you need to know about HDMI patch cables, including different types of connections, their benefits, and how to choose the right one for your needs.

What is an HDMI Patch Cable?

An HDMI patch cable, also known as an HDMI cable or HDMI cord, is a cable used to transmit high-definition audio and video signals between electronic devices. They can connect your television, laptop, gaming console, or other devices with an HDMI port.

A typical high–speed HDMI cable consists of a plug connected to two connectors – one Type A (standard) and the other Type C (mini) – via a flat ribbon cable.

Depending on the type of connection you require, you may also need different cabling lengths. For instance, the L-Com HDMI Flat LSZH Cable is available at different lengths from 0.5m to 5m. 

Simultaneous Audio and Video Transmission with HDMI Cables

HDMI cables provide the convenience and cost–effectiveness of simultaneous audio and video transmission, eliminating the need for multiple connections or separate audio and video cables. Enjoy high–definition resolutions up to 4K with multi–channel surround sound formats for a truly immersive experience.

Types of HDMI Patch Cables

When it comes to HDMI patch cables, you have several options available:

Standard HDMI Cables

Standard HDMI cables offer reliable connectivity for older consumer electronics. With a bandwi

ShowMeCables keeps an inventory of 25,000+ products. And yet we realize that, for some of you, 25,000 is not enough.

Sometimes you need connectivity products in nonstandard lengths and configurations. For instance:

• Unique combinations of cables, connectors and adapters for Ethernet, fiber optics, RF coaxial and more
• Specially made antennas
• Weatherproof NEMA enclosures with pre-installed mounts or equipment

SMC offers these types of custom products and more, and this blog post reveals how surprisingly easy it is to get them. But first, if you’re undecided whether custom connectivity is the way to go, let’s summarize the three main benefits of such products.

Custom Products Last Longer

Going custom means choosing a product that is designed for a certain purpose. A custom wireless antenna handles the exact gain and frequency you need. Mounting plates in a custom NEMA enclosure can be metal or nonmetal for RF applications. When your installation operates within the electrical parameters, tolerances and environmental conditions it was intended for, it will perform better and last longer. Less maintenance will save you money.

Custom Products Mean Less Was

Multimode fiber optic cable supports high bandwidths, works great at shorter distances, has a larger core size that is easy to terminate and is usually cheaper than single-mode fiber cable.

So, why do so many people prefer single-mode fiber?

This blog post explains the benefits and uses of single-mode fiber optic cable, as well as the differences between single-mode simplex and duplex.

Single Mode: Stronger Signal, Longer Distance

Single-mode fiber optic glass has a narrower core than multimode and light travels a single path (mode) through it. Single mode’s smaller core minimizes reflection of light passing through, so there is less signal attenuation, or loss of strength. This allows single-mode fiber cable to transmit over distances up to 62 miles or more, and with virtually unlimited bandwidth. Applications include longer distance LANs, telephony and cable TV, although it is used in data centers as well.

Multimode fiber has a much larger core diameter and light travels multiple paths through it. It has more signal attenuation and thus is best for shorter distances, typically a maximum of 1,000 to 1,800 feet. Also, it is generally less expensive than single mode, which requires the use of pricier single-mode fiber optic transceivers. A fiber optic transceiver converts an electrical signal to an optical (light) signal and vice versa.

Simplex vs Duplex Fiber

If you choose a single-mode fiber optic cable, you can get it in either simplex or duplex. A simplex f

As network technologies advance, there’s a growing need for high-quality antenna cables to facilitate faster, more reliable connections between devices.

An LMR-600 is a top-of-the-line coaxial cable that offers users superior performance due to its low signal loss characteristics. Today, we’ll highlight what makes LMR-600 ideal for home or business networks and how you can get yours.

What is an LMR-600 Cable?

The LMR-600 is a low-loss coaxial cable used to connect various networking devices over long-distance runs. It is designed with an inner conductor that consists of a solid bare copper wire surrounded by two (or four) layers of foam polyethylene insulation and an outer jacket made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

The combination of the materials used in LMR-600 makes it one of the highest-grade cable solutions available for networking applications. Its low-loss characteristics make it ideal for radio frequency applications such as WiFi networks, cellular base stations, and broadband access systems.

Top 5 Characteristics of the LMR-600 Cable

LMR is a registered trademark of Times Microwave Systems, meaning that all cables manufactured under this name follow strict guidelines for quality and performance. Here are the top 5 characteristics of an LMR-600 coaxial cable.

1. Durability: You will get a UV Resistant Polyethylene jacket surrounding the LMR-600 cable, making it exceptionally durable and suitable for at least 20 years of outdoor use.
2. Low-loss: With only half the signal loss of popular 400 series cables and a quarter of the loss seen with RG6 cables

So, it's time to install or upgrade your network infrastructure. You may have heard about armored fiber optic cables and are wondering what they are, if you need them, and where to buy them. In this guide, we’ll discuss the basics of armored fiber optic cable so that you can make an informed purchase decision.

What Is an Armored Fiber Optic Cable?

An armored fiber optic cable is strong and durable by design, making it ideal for use in harsh environments. The armor is usually made from stainless steel or aluminum, which helps protect the delicate strands of glass inside the cables from external damage.

You’ll tend to find this cable in areas with a significant risk of physical harm, such as industrial settings or locations with extreme weather conditions.

Classifications of Armored Fiber Optic Cable

Armored fiber optic cables come in various sizes, shapes, and construction materials. Generally you can classify them based on their suitable applications and supported modes, which are:

• Singlemode: If you need to set up a long distance connection, you should use Singlemode cables as these can carry a signal for miles. You can also opt for an OS2 cable, a subclass of Singlemode cables. For instance, Corning Atlos Singlemode OS2 cable uses FastAccess® Technology and water-swelleable materials so that you don’t need to regularly clean the cable.
• Multimode: Alternatively, Multim