Table of Contents<\/h2>\n\n- Burying Ethernet Cable Options<\/a>\n\n\n
- \nUsing underground burial cable<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Using Direct Burial Exterior Ethernet Cables<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- What Makes Outdoor-rated Or Direct Burial Cables Different?<\/a>\n\n\n
- \nTemperature-resistant and UV-resistant<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Water-resistant<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Strict tests<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Installation ways<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Tips for Burying Direct Burial Cables <\/a>\n\n\n
- \nHave a Plan Before Running the Cables<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Direct Bury or Install Conduit<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Installation Environment<\/a>\n\n\n
- \nCable Jacketing<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Wire Insulation<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Power and Data Requirements<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Conclusion <\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n
![\"Ethernet](\"https:\/\/www.clooms.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/1-51-jpg.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCaption: Ethernet Cable<\/p>\n\n\n
Burying Ethernet Cable Options<\/h2>\n\n\n
The following are some of the burying cable internet options that users can choose from.<\/p>\n\n\n
Using underground burial cable<\/h3>\n\n\n
An underground burial cable is one which you can install beneath the surface as long as it’s placed inside a conduit<\/a>. Without the conduit, the cable cannot withstand the elements underground. <\/p>\n\n\n\nTherefore, to get the best results when using standard Cat-6 ethernet cables outside, ensure that you place the cables in a conduit structure like a PVC or plastic pipe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Generally, PE cable jackets have better water resistance features than their PVC counterparts. But a CPE<\/a> cable jacket offers even more water resistance capabilities than PE and PVC. <\/p>\n\n\n\nNonetheless, this jacket may stop being water resistant after a certain period, but water can ultimately get into the core of the cable when exposed for too long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cables have polymer gel or water-blocking fillers to prevent infiltration. Also, the gap separating the two conductors in a pair and the shields are essential to the overall cable balance in terms of NEXT and RL performance, which can affect system stability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nonetheless, the best kind of protection would be to run your cables via a conduit, despite it eliminating the convenience aspect of direct burial cabling. But conduits are also commonly filled with water, leading to new problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Cables](\"https:\/\/www.clooms.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/2-46-jpg.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCables in conduit<\/p>\n\n\n
Using Direct Burial Exterior Ethernet Cables<\/h3>\n\n\n
Such a cable enables users to bury them without adding conduits. They are more expensive but are well-designed for outdoor use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These cables can also come with a PVC jacket, just like their outdoor counterparts, despite having a different setup inside. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n- Gel-filled – The manufacturer inserts a gel into the cable to fill crevices. The waterproof gel inserted into the cable oozes throughout the framework, filling up all the cracks and holes while still coating all the conductors inside. The process also helps to protect the wires from external elements like water, thereby preventing any damage to the cable conductors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SAP-treated yarn – It is a kind of yarn or fiber that manufacturers treat using SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer). If something pours through the cable, these fibers absorb moisture and prevent water from reaching the cable’s innards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Waterproof tape – The waterproof tape wrapped around the conductors within the cables provides an additional layer of protection against things like moisture. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- PET tape – It shares the same characteristics as its polyester counterpart. First, get wrap-around conductors with PET tape. Then, an additional layer of Mylar tape gets placed above PET to provide extra shielding. Often, people use such a construction for shielded ethernet cables and waterproof tape and gel methods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Interior splines – Users can also find direct cables with additional protection features, such as sturdy interior splines meant to prevent accidental crushing or specialized armor that will stop pests like underground rodents from biting into the cables. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Aside from sealing against moisture, these cables often have protection against RF (Radio Frequency)<\/a> interference. <\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Direct](\"https:\/\/www.clooms.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/3-38-jpg.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDirect burial cables<\/p>\n\n\n
What Makes Outdoor-rated Or Direct Burial Cables Different?<\/h2>\n\n\n
A standard indoor ethernet cable with a strong PVC jacket is ideal for conventional connection settings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it\u2019s not an ideal choice for outdoor runs since PVC can become brittle and break down when exposed to elements and UV rays from the sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cables made for outdoor use, or direct burial are waterproof and meant to withstand prolonged exposure to cold.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n
Temperature-resistant and UV-resistant<\/h3>\n\n\n
They also come with a unique UV-resistant PVC jacket capable of handling temperatures as low as -20\u00b0 or a PE (Polyethylene) UV-resistant jacket made out of thermoplastic, which can handle temperatures of -40\u00b0.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Further, some direct-burial cables come with a thermoset jacket, which offers ideal protection in extremely high temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n
Water-resistant<\/h3>\n\n\n
Usually, manufacturers make outdoor ethernet cables using the same process as indoor cables, except for their resilient waterproof jackets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They are also not adapted for underground use unless they are within a conduit. On the other hand, direct burial cables can still get compromised in the long run if placed in wet underground soil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, their design is different from conventional ethernet cables and has extra internal protection. <\/p>\n\n\n
Strict tests<\/h3>\n\n\n
However, for a cable to be direct-burial worthy, a third party must do all the testing and ratings. Why? We need to verify that the cable has the mechanical attributes needed to withstand the rigors and demands of being outdoors and underground. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A direct-burial cable must have a rugged jacket that can survive circumstances such as installation on top of a rock, getting trampled, or long-term contact with liquids such as water without getting ripped apart or affecting its performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These cables earn a UL rating once a cable passes crush-resistance and water absorption tests. Another requirement is that it must be PLTC-rated, which involves passing the UL-1685 flame test.<\/p>\n\n\n
Installation ways<\/h3>\n\n\n
Installing Ethernet cables outside is straightforward if you use the right cabling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The only precaution one has to take is to place lightning or surge protectors at each end because ethernet cables tend to attract lightning strikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Direct-burial cabling is a bit more complicated. You must first ensure that you don’t hit pipes or utility wires when digging your trench. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In most cases, the best thing would be to contact local authorities or utility companies before embarking on the process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To avoid interference, you must also ensure that your ethernet cable is at least 6 to 8 inches away from power lines. The depth should be within this range as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And unfortunately, burying the cable does not mean it will automatically eliminate or lessen that risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, you still should install surge protectors<\/a> to help protect the cables from lightning strikes and prevent various kinds of damage to indoor equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n![\"Dusty](\"https:\/\/www.clooms.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/4-25-jpg.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDusty Ethernet Cables<\/p>\n\n\n
Tips for Burying Direct Burial Cables <\/h2>\n\n\n
You must consider some factors if you’re planning to bury ethernet cables, like the cable you intend to use, the conduit, and cable placement.<\/p>\n\n\n
Have a Plan Before Running the Cables<\/h3>\n\n\n
You have to plan the direction you’re running the cable<\/a> outside. For instance, if you’re outside and near power lines or other network cables, you cannot afford to run your cables parallel to them. They have to go in a perpendicular direction.<\/p>\n\n\nDirect Bury or Install Conduit<\/h3>\n\n\n
As mentioned above, you can use two main options to bury an ethernet cable, traditional and direct burial. The former, however, requires a running conduit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those using PVC piping may still have to add sealants on each connecting point, which could pose a risk because any moisture inside the conduit could mess up your cable. Also, don’t start digging until you\u2019re certain there are no obstacles. <\/p>\n\n\n
Installation Environment<\/h3>\n\n\n
Your local installation environment also plays a critical role in determining the direct burial cable specs you require. You have to consider factors like local climate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, is it a dry area? If so, how dry can it get? Also, consider whether you will be laying your cabling near rivers, lakes, or ponds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remember that a harsh local environment will require more expensive and higher-rated cabling. It would be best to decide which cable jacket and insulation can meet your needs. <\/p>\n\n\n
Cable Jacketing<\/h4>\n\n\n
There are two main options when picking your cable jacketing, PVC and PE. The former can withstand temperatures ranging from negative 20 degrees Celsius to about 70 degrees Celsius.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, even though PE jackets are a bit more expensive, they are more stable over a wide range of temperatures. For example, you can use them in temperatures below -40 degrees Celsius.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, if you’re in an area prone to harsh winters and don’t want to risk damaging your cables, you should opt for PE jackets. Nonetheless, PVC jackets can still work fine in warmer environments and cost less.<\/p>\n\n\n
Wire Insulation<\/h4>\n\n\n
The direct-burial cable you use is an aggregate of several wires within waterproof layers. Varying levels of water resistance mean different strengths and weaknesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As mentioned, if you’re installing your cable in a wet location next to water sources, you can try gel-based cabling since it’s a much safer choice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, if you’re installing a DBC in a generally dry area, tape-shielded cables will offer you more adequate waterproofing features and will be much easier to deal with.<\/p>\n\n\n
Power and Data Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n
- \nUsing underground burial cable<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Using Direct Burial Exterior Ethernet Cables<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- What Makes Outdoor-rated Or Direct Burial Cables Different?<\/a>\n\n\n
- \nTemperature-resistant and UV-resistant<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Water-resistant<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Strict tests<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Installation ways<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Tips for Burying Direct Burial Cables <\/a>\n\n\n
- \nHave a Plan Before Running the Cables<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Direct Bury or Install Conduit<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Installation Environment<\/a>\n\n\n
- \nCable Jacketing<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Wire Insulation<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Power and Data Requirements<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Conclusion <\/a>\n<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCaption: Ethernet Cable<\/p>\n\n\n
Burying Ethernet Cable Options<\/h2>\n\n\n
The following are some of the burying cable internet options that users can choose from.<\/p>\n\n\n
Using underground burial cable<\/h3>\n\n\n
An underground burial cable is one which you can install beneath the surface as long as it’s placed inside a conduit<\/a>. Without the conduit, the cable cannot withstand the elements underground. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, to get the best results when using standard Cat-6 ethernet cables outside, ensure that you place the cables in a conduit structure like a PVC or plastic pipe. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Generally, PE cable jackets have better water resistance features than their PVC counterparts. But a CPE<\/a> cable jacket offers even more water resistance capabilities than PE and PVC. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nonetheless, this jacket may stop being water resistant after a certain period, but water can ultimately get into the core of the cable when exposed for too long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The cables have polymer gel or water-blocking fillers to prevent infiltration. Also, the gap separating the two conductors in a pair and the shields are essential to the overall cable balance in terms of NEXT and RL performance, which can affect system stability. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nonetheless, the best kind of protection would be to run your cables via a conduit, despite it eliminating the convenience aspect of direct burial cabling. But conduits are also commonly filled with water, leading to new problems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nCables in conduit<\/p>\n\n\n
Using Direct Burial Exterior Ethernet Cables<\/h3>\n\n\n
Such a cable enables users to bury them without adding conduits. They are more expensive but are well-designed for outdoor use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
These cables can also come with a PVC jacket, just like their outdoor counterparts, despite having a different setup inside. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Gel-filled – The manufacturer inserts a gel into the cable to fill crevices. The waterproof gel inserted into the cable oozes throughout the framework, filling up all the cracks and holes while still coating all the conductors inside. The process also helps to protect the wires from external elements like water, thereby preventing any damage to the cable conductors.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- SAP-treated yarn – It is a kind of yarn or fiber that manufacturers treat using SAP (Super Absorbent Polymer). If something pours through the cable, these fibers absorb moisture and prevent water from reaching the cable’s innards.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Waterproof tape – The waterproof tape wrapped around the conductors within the cables provides an additional layer of protection against things like moisture. <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- PET tape – It shares the same characteristics as its polyester counterpart. First, get wrap-around conductors with PET tape. Then, an additional layer of Mylar tape gets placed above PET to provide extra shielding. Often, people use such a construction for shielded ethernet cables and waterproof tape and gel methods.<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Interior splines – Users can also find direct cables with additional protection features, such as sturdy interior splines meant to prevent accidental crushing or specialized armor that will stop pests like underground rodents from biting into the cables. <\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n
Aside from sealing against moisture, these cables often have protection against RF (Radio Frequency)<\/a> interference. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDirect burial cables<\/p>\n\n\n
What Makes Outdoor-rated Or Direct Burial Cables Different?<\/h2>\n\n\n
A standard indoor ethernet cable with a strong PVC jacket is ideal for conventional connection settings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
However, it\u2019s not an ideal choice for outdoor runs since PVC can become brittle and break down when exposed to elements and UV rays from the sun. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cables made for outdoor use, or direct burial are waterproof and meant to withstand prolonged exposure to cold.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n
Temperature-resistant and UV-resistant<\/h3>\n\n\n
They also come with a unique UV-resistant PVC jacket capable of handling temperatures as low as -20\u00b0 or a PE (Polyethylene) UV-resistant jacket made out of thermoplastic, which can handle temperatures of -40\u00b0.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Further, some direct-burial cables come with a thermoset jacket, which offers ideal protection in extremely high temperatures.<\/p>\n\n\n
Water-resistant<\/h3>\n\n\n
Usually, manufacturers make outdoor ethernet cables using the same process as indoor cables, except for their resilient waterproof jackets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They are also not adapted for underground use unless they are within a conduit. On the other hand, direct burial cables can still get compromised in the long run if placed in wet underground soil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For this reason, their design is different from conventional ethernet cables and has extra internal protection. <\/p>\n\n\n
Strict tests<\/h3>\n\n\n
However, for a cable to be direct-burial worthy, a third party must do all the testing and ratings. Why? We need to verify that the cable has the mechanical attributes needed to withstand the rigors and demands of being outdoors and underground. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
A direct-burial cable must have a rugged jacket that can survive circumstances such as installation on top of a rock, getting trampled, or long-term contact with liquids such as water without getting ripped apart or affecting its performance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These cables earn a UL rating once a cable passes crush-resistance and water absorption tests. Another requirement is that it must be PLTC-rated, which involves passing the UL-1685 flame test.<\/p>\n\n\n
Installation ways<\/h3>\n\n\n
Installing Ethernet cables outside is straightforward if you use the right cabling. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The only precaution one has to take is to place lightning or surge protectors at each end because ethernet cables tend to attract lightning strikes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Direct-burial cabling is a bit more complicated. You must first ensure that you don’t hit pipes or utility wires when digging your trench. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In most cases, the best thing would be to contact local authorities or utility companies before embarking on the process. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
To avoid interference, you must also ensure that your ethernet cable is at least 6 to 8 inches away from power lines. The depth should be within this range as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
And unfortunately, burying the cable does not mean it will automatically eliminate or lessen that risk. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Therefore, you still should install surge protectors<\/a> to help protect the cables from lightning strikes and prevent various kinds of damage to indoor equipment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/figure>\n\n\n\nDusty Ethernet Cables<\/p>\n\n\n
Tips for Burying Direct Burial Cables <\/h2>\n\n\n
You must consider some factors if you’re planning to bury ethernet cables, like the cable you intend to use, the conduit, and cable placement.<\/p>\n\n\n
Have a Plan Before Running the Cables<\/h3>\n\n\n
You have to plan the direction you’re running the cable<\/a> outside. For instance, if you’re outside and near power lines or other network cables, you cannot afford to run your cables parallel to them. They have to go in a perpendicular direction.<\/p>\n\n\n
Direct Bury or Install Conduit<\/h3>\n\n\n
As mentioned above, you can use two main options to bury an ethernet cable, traditional and direct burial. The former, however, requires a running conduit. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Those using PVC piping may still have to add sealants on each connecting point, which could pose a risk because any moisture inside the conduit could mess up your cable. Also, don’t start digging until you\u2019re certain there are no obstacles. <\/p>\n\n\n
Installation Environment<\/h3>\n\n\n
Your local installation environment also plays a critical role in determining the direct burial cable specs you require. You have to consider factors like local climate. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
For example, is it a dry area? If so, how dry can it get? Also, consider whether you will be laying your cabling near rivers, lakes, or ponds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Remember that a harsh local environment will require more expensive and higher-rated cabling. It would be best to decide which cable jacket and insulation can meet your needs. <\/p>\n\n\n
Cable Jacketing<\/h4>\n\n\n
There are two main options when picking your cable jacketing, PVC and PE. The former can withstand temperatures ranging from negative 20 degrees Celsius to about 70 degrees Celsius.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, even though PE jackets are a bit more expensive, they are more stable over a wide range of temperatures. For example, you can use them in temperatures below -40 degrees Celsius.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
So, if you’re in an area prone to harsh winters and don’t want to risk damaging your cables, you should opt for PE jackets. Nonetheless, PVC jackets can still work fine in warmer environments and cost less.<\/p>\n\n\n
Wire Insulation<\/h4>\n\n\n
The direct-burial cable you use is an aggregate of several wires within waterproof layers. Varying levels of water resistance mean different strengths and weaknesses.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As mentioned, if you’re installing your cable in a wet location next to water sources, you can try gel-based cabling since it’s a much safer choice. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the other hand, if you’re installing a DBC in a generally dry area, tape-shielded cables will offer you more adequate waterproofing features and will be much easier to deal with.<\/p>\n\n\n
Power and Data Requirements<\/h3>\n\n\n
- Wire Insulation<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
- Direct Bury or Install Conduit<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Water-resistant<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n
- Using Direct Burial Exterior Ethernet Cables<\/a>\n\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
![\"Considering](\"https:\/\/www.clooms.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/02\/5-16-jpg.webp\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n