Commissioning Cabling Infrastructure for OT Networks

All Ethernet applications require the transmitted data to reach receivers without excessive loss of signal or interference from electrical noise. If the signal-to-noise ratio is too high, applications like Ethernet/IP will not function correctly, and data may be lost or require re-transmission. By employing good commissioning practices, one can ensure that the cabling installation will support traditional Ethernet physical layer requirements like 100/1000BASE-T as well as Single-Pair applications such as 10BASE-T1L and Ethernet-APL.

This paper will describe many aspects of a quality commissioning practice:

• Standards for specification of OT network wiring systems including power delivery
• Specific commissioning tests for point-to-point links to identify non-compliant cable or connectors, as well workmanship issues
• Measurement properties and associated industry standards for physical infrastructure
• Network topologies and wiring practices
• Re-purposing legacy cabling for industrial Ethernet