Ethernet cables are not included with HDX systems, allowing installers the flexibility to select the cable type and length that best suit the specific requirements of their installation.
Installers are required to supply an Ethernet cable to connect:
The system hub to a network.
Audio bars to the system hub.
Microphone pods to the system hub.
Requirements
CAT5e or higher
UTP (unshielded twisted pair)
Minimum 24 AWG cable for cable runs up to 328' (100 m)
Using a higher-quality Ethernet cable can improve audio performance by ensuring more stable data transmission and reducing the risk of signal interference or loss.
Solid copper Ethernet cables are required for cable runs greater than 50' (15.24 m).
Stranded vs. solid copper Ethernet cables
Ethernet cables are available with stranded or solid copper conductors. Both types can meet the requirements for HDX systems but are suited to different uses.
Solid copper
Uses a single solid conductor per wire.
Provides more consistent signal performance and lower signal loss.
Required for cable runs greater than 50' (15.24 m).
Stranded copper
Uses multiple smaller copper strands twisted together.
More flexible and easier to route.
Recommended for short, movable or temporary connections.
For best results, use solid copper cable for fixed installation runs and stranded copper cable only where flexibility is required.
Recommendations
Do not use cable runs longer than 328' (100 m).[TR4.1]
Avoid cable runs that cover more than one room.
Avoid inter-building cable runs.
Avoid cable runs that span from floor to floor in a building.
Copper clad aluminum conductors must not be used.
Always use cabling and wiring that meets applicable national, regional and local electrical codes or ordinances.
Plenum rated cables
For installations that require plenum-rated cables, it’s recommended material/cabling is used in accordance with the applicable national, regional and local electrical codes or ordinances.
What is a plenum?
A plenum is an air-filled space within a structure. The most common type of plenum that Nureva conferencing systems are used with is the open space above the ceiling.
What does plenum rated mean?
Air travels throughout a building via plenum spaces, constantly circulating. With this circulation, there is the potential for smoke or toxic fumes to move through the plenums of a building. Plenum rated means that the cables are designed to meet a specific standard to restrict the spread of fire and limit the amount of smoke or fumes emitted during a fire.
Plenum rated USB cable or plenum rated Ethernet cable?
HDX systems have a USB cable that connects the system hub to the computer. Nureva recommends keeping the connect module close to the computer, using the included USB-A to USB-C cable[TR5.1]. The system hub may be installed up to 328' (100 m) farther away from audio bars and microphone pods using Ethernet cables.
If running the Ethernet cable through a plenum is required, use a plenum rated Ethernet cable that meets the requirements outlined at the beginning of this article.
Warning
For installations that require plenum-rated cables, it’s recommended material/cabling is used in accordance with the applicable national, regional and local electrical codes or ordinances.