Long Gigabit Ethernet Run

cat6fibergigabit-ethernetnetworking

I am trying to get an Gig-E network between two buildings that are approximately 260 ft. away. While some TRENDnet switches failed to be able to connect to each other over Cat 6 at that distance, two Netgear 5-port Gig-E switches do so just fine. However, it still fails after I put in place APC PNET1GB ethernet surge protectors at each end before the line connects to the respective switches. So I find myself wondering if I simply need to find a better surge protector that doesn't degrade the signal as much (if so, what kind would you recommend?) or if I should give up on copper and use fiber between the buildings.

If I opt to go the latter route, I could really use some pointers. It looks like LC connectors are the most common, but I keep running into some others as well. A media converter on each end seems like the simplest solution, but perhaps a Gig-E switch with an SFP port would make more sense? Given a very limited budget, sticking with my existing copper seems best, but if it is bound to be a headache, a 100 meter fiber cable is something I think I can swing cost wise.

Best Answer

While Ethernet runs should extend up to 330 feet, as you've found many pieces of cheap equipment don't meet that specification. The most reliable solution you'll find here is to run fiber from one building to the next. It provides inherent galvanic isolation, so there's no need for surge suppressors (which probable don't work the way you think they do in the first place) or any potential attenuation problems.

If your current gear can accept GBIC/SFP/SFP+ fiber modules, that will be the cheapest and most flexible route. Media converters tend to be of cheaper quality, and I avoid them at all costs.

Be careful to get modules rated for your applications:

  • Distance: Your application is 100m, easily covered by any fiber. There are different distance ratings however. Multi-Mode fiber is can cover 220m or 550m depending on module (SX and LX respectively). Single-Mode fiber covers 10km, 40km, to 80km (LX, EX, and ZX respectively).
  • Connectors: Will depend on the module. Most GBIC modules use SC. Most SFPs use LC. Some patch panels use ST and there are others less commonly.
  • Fiber Type: For your run you'll want OM2 50/125 µm Multi-Mode Fiber (It's orange, and very easy to find; especially with connectors already attached). In 2015 it should cost <$200 for the fiber, installation will likely be much more. If you wanted to use Single-Mode, both OS1 and OS2 are rated for the same speed at the same distances. The difference is in their materials and completely unimportant for short runs (people installing long runs should know the difference, if they don't it's time to find a new contractor).

Get two identical modules, do not mix and match unless they're being provided by an expert who has a guarantee, worth more than the paper it's written on, that they'll work together.

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