ANSI/TIA-568.2-D
Balanced Twisted-Pair Telecommunications Cabling and Components Standards
- Replaces ANSI/TIA-568-C.2
- Recognizes 28 AWG patch cords
- Recognizes modular plug terminated links
- Rolls in Category 8;
The Addition of 28 AWG Patch Cords
- ANSI/TIA-568.2-D now recognizes 28 AWG patch cords
- Recommends maximum length of 15 meters
- 1.95 de-rating (for reference, 1.2 for 24 AWG)
- 28 AWG only applies to patch cables
- Horizontal cable still must be 22 to 24 AWG
28 AWG patch cords to be used in places where 22 AWG to 26 AWG may be difficult or impossible to deploy. In the past, ANSI/TIA standards indicated that 28 AWG patch cord cables didn’t meet requirements – and, as a result, shouldn’t be used. Instead, the standard specifically stated that all cables in structured cabling should consist of four balanced twisted-pairs of 22 AWG to 26 AWG cable.
The Addition of the Modular Plug Terminated Link (MPTL) Configuration
ANSI/TIA-568.2-D will support the use of MPTL: A configuration where a horizontal cable run connects directly to a device when it terminates on one end to an RJ45 plug. In the past, MPTL wasn’t recognized. In this update, however, it is acceptable to connect a device in this fashion when deploying an outlet, faceplate and equipment cord isn’t practical. This configuration will be especially useful when dealing with things like wireless access points (WAPs) and surveillance cameras.
Other Notable Additions
Beyond the additions of MPTL and 28 AWG patch cords to the standard, there are a few other changes we can expect, too: One of them being the inclusion of Category 8 cabling. The standard will add the Category 8 cabling addendum originally included in ANSI/TIA-568-C.2-1 and incorporate it into the standard.
