If you don't need twisted pair for the signaling lines, look at multi-
wire sprinkler cables. The big box stores list them in 18/4, 18/5,
18/7, and 18/10 in 500 ft rolls. Should be available from the sprinkler
supply houses in 1000' spools. Sprinkler cable may be a bit more rugged
than CAT5 (#18 vs. #24) ...
OTOH the big box stores seem to be more expensive (18/5 x 500' @ $155)
than places like Cable Wholesale (1000' gel filled direct burial
*copper* CAT5e @ $110).
73,
... Joe, W4TV
On 2018-07-16 11:36 AM, Eric NO3M wrote:
I'm in the process of finding a replacement cable to supply power
(+24VDC) and differential serial signaling (RS-485) to my remote RX
switching matrix and vertical arrays. Total run is about 600ft. The
original cable was outdoor rated, gel infused CAT5 using 3-cond for
VDC+, 3-cond for VDC-, and the remaining two cond for serial. It lasted
almost 7 years.
Recent searches for a reasonably priced replacement CAT5 have brought up
a lot of candidates, but with CCA (copper clad aluminum) conductors. I'd
prefer pure copper as far as the power lines are concerned, but price
increases dramatically.
Any recommendations on a suitable and decently priced cable to do the
job, supplier? Perhaps parallel runs of 18/2 or 16/2, 18/4 or 16/4, or
a good deal for CAT5 with pure copper?
Thanks
73 Eric NO3M
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