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Planning the run – CommScope Drop Cable User Manual

Page 18

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Planning the Run

The time you take in examining the site prior to installation is well spent and can help you avoid problems later on.

You need to be aware of issues such as right-of-way (ROW), where you will tap into the span, the distance of the

run and where you will attach and bond the cable at the customer’s structure. Refer to Section 3/Cable Selection

to determine what cable to use based on distance or NEC 830 considerations.

Look for Antennas to Select Cable Shielding

A 60% braid/foil shield works for almost all CATV installations. If you are installing

cable intended for a more active, two-way service (internet, high-speed data), you

should consider a Tri-Shielded cable. Cellular and pager towers produce radiation

that tends to raise havoc with CATV channels 19, 20 and 21. Ham radio aerials

may also signify a problem. Urban zones (like southern California or metropolitan

New York) have inherently high levels of RF pollution. We recommend Tri-Shielded

cables with a minimum of 60% braid for areas with high RF concentrations.

Know Your ROW (Right-Of-Way)

The most direct route may not be the legal route. Make sure the route you’re planning runs ONLY over the cus-

tomer’s property. Generally, you can follow a parallel path to power or phone lines. However, UNDER NO CIR-

CUMSTANCES lash your drop to any other cable.

Locate the Tap

While most spans have taps located next to the poles, you may occasionally find a tap in mid-span. This may be

helpful in avoiding ROW issues.

Select Your Attachment Point for Ease of Bonding and Access

NEC 820 specifies that coaxial cable must be bonded, preferably with the electrical. Therefore, try to attach the

cable to the wall or corner nearest the meter. If that can’t be reached, an exterior cold water pipe (if the plumb-

ing throughout the building and back to the main is entirely metal) or an existing ground rod will do. If these are

impractical, you will have to hammer in a ground rod. In most cases, you will be selecting the cable entry point

into the building; however, if the NIU is already in place, try to attach your cable as close to it as you can, keeping

bonding considerations in mind.

Whether the

installation is

aerial or buried,

a simple site

survey now

can prevent

headaches later

4.1 Planning the Run

Overview