The following is a listing of the equipment and cabling used to evaluate premise hardware systems. The test setup and equipment are generally in accordance with those described in TIA/EIA 568B for cable, channels and links.

• HP 8753E network analyzer
• NORTH HILLS baluns (p/n NH14833)
• 100 ohm resistors for calibration and far end loads
• Low reactance shorting assembly used for calibration
• Amp 5-558530-3 00 Category 5e plugs with load bar or plugs designated by system manufacturer
• 90 meters of Category 6 horizontal cable installed in ceiling
• Category 6 hardware tested in channel configuration with 2.5 meter equipment cord, 2.5 meter patch panel cord and 5 meter work area cord.

Test Methods

Return loss was measured using S11 (S parameter) analyzer mode. Calibration was done using network analyzer menus. No common mode terminations were used.

The horizontal cable was reterminated after each set of hardware was tested. The cable was moved as little as possible to reduce test variation. Termination to the hardware was done according to the manufacturer's documentation. There is considerable variation in the location and arrangement of punch downs on jacks and patch panels among the hardware manufacturers tested, therefore arrangement of the pairs could not be kept consistent. Some required the pairs to be run in relatively close together, others had wider separation.

The patch cords were terminated by Quabbin Wire & Cable using the plug manufacturer's documentation or they were supplied by the equipment manufacturer. The outer end of the channel (cords) was terminated with pins; the other end with Amp plugs or plugs designated by the manufacturer.

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