PID - Workshop (3h)
Passive Infrastructure Day
PID - Workshop (3h)
Why Passive Infrastructure Determines Network Quality
Practical recommendations & best-practice guidelines for the deployment of passive infrastructure in Gigabit Ethernet networks
As Gigabit Ethernet becomes increasingly common in industrial automation, the passive network infrastructure – consisting of cables, connectors, and patch panels – is gaining strategic importance. This area not only accounts for significant material and installation costs but is also one of the most frequent sources of network issues during commissioning and operation. Many companies still rely on installation concepts that have evolved over time based on individual experience and practices.
However, a comprehensive and technically sound concept in accordance with EN 50173 for structured cabling systems in industrial environments is often missing. User organizations such as PROFIBUS & PROFINET International (PI) and ODVA provide proven recommendations for 100 Mbps networks. However, practical guidelines for the growing requirements of Gigabit Ethernet infrastructures are still limited.
The workshop is aimed at hardware design engineers, as they lay the foundation for the quality and cost-effective-ness of network connections throughout the machine’s lifecycle. It is also intended for installation technicians and software commissioning engineers, who are responsible for identifying and correcting any remaining installation faults during startup. In addition, the workshop is relevant for service personnel, helping to ensure that something as simple as replacing a connector does not result in hours of unplanned machine downtime.
What awaits you?
Workshop Topics – Theory:
Ethernet Cable Design and Terminology
- Star Quad vs. Double Twisted Pair for 100 Mbps
- AWG conductor sizes
- EMC shielding and crosstalk shielding
- How EMC shielding works and how it should be connected
Connectors
- Various RJ45 connectors for field assembly (4- and 8-pin)
- Various M12 connectors for field assembly (4- and 8-pin)
- Pre-assembled 4- and 8-pin cables
Patch Panels (Outlets)
- Different types of patch panels required for Gigabit installations
Cable Measurements
- Cable certification according to Cat. 5, Cat. 6, and Cat. 7
- Basic measurements for identifying installation errors
- Cable testing through switches
Workshop Topics – Practical Session:
Participants will assemble different cable types and connectors and learn about their advantages and disadvantages. Gigabit connections with and without patch panels will be set up and tested to demonstrate the benefits of structured cabling and the practical use of cable certification and measurement technology.
A PROFINET demonstration setup will also show how intermittent and difficult-to-reproduce faults, such as loose contacts, can be identified using PLC diagnostics, switch web interfaces, and professional diagnostic tools.
Passive Infrastructure Day
Free Workshop at Your Location
- Duration: 3 hours
- Number of participants: max. 8
Request a free Workshop Passive Infrastructure Day with no obligation. Once we receive your request, we will contact you to schedule a convenient time.
Downloads
Do you have any questions?
Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have.
Your contact person
Luise Wolf
Marketing- +49 (0)34491 / 580-228
- Send an email
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