Long Gigabit Ethernet Run

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.

Solution 1:

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.

Solution 2:

It's generally not recommended to run copper directly between buildings as individual structures tend to be separately grounded (or earthed, if you prefer). Even a relatively small difference in potential can destroy equipment and even create a hazardous condition for people working on the equipment.

Perhaps more to the (immediate) point connection integrity can be significantly degraded - especially if the method/path used to run the cable between buildings is subject to excessive interference. This can manifest as poor performance even on in-spec runs.

The right way to do this is with fiber. Distance limitations cease to be a practical issue, electrical isolation is assured and the network will perform as it should. Go for a simple media converter or a switch with native capability for fiber ports - either will be fine for your application. If you don't have need for additional fiber capacity, the media converter is probably the cheaper/less intrusive mechanism.

PS - Don't be concerned with what "ought" to work. The distance certifications on network media exist for a reason, a reason which will become abundantly clear when a previously working over-spec installation ceases to function for no apparent reason. Saving a bit of money up front doesn't seem like much of a deal when whole buildings are cut off.

Solution 3:

You might have a look at Ubiquiti's line of products, specifically their airFiber solution.

Could be over kill for a mere 260ft, or not what you're looking for specifically... but I've been using some of their products lately and they're pretty awesome. Fun to check out at least!

Solution 4:

Simple kludge: Put the "Netgear 5-port Gig-E" at each end, and directly connect those to, and only to, the desired TRENDnet switch.

Technical cable length limit is 100m/328ft. Some folks have had luck getting runs of 200m. Ethernet surge protectors aren't the right tools for the task of amplifying the signal or squelching noise. Assuming no impediments to the cable run (notably interference generating sources), would suspect inadequate cabling and/or below standard termination.

Fiber is the standard. If budget is a constraint, simple copper should suffice.