AC power and Networks

[imported_rod]

I have a cat5 network cable running through my roof, from the study (family computer) to my room (my rig). Im getting a new 240V AC powerline run into my bedroom for a powerpoint, since Im currently using 3 powerboards off a single socket.

My question is whether or not i can run my network cable inside the same conduit as the AC power cable, so i dont have cables dangling out of the roof everywhere. I'm just worried than this could cause serious interference with my network connection.

Has anyone done this b4? Or does anyone know if this would work?

Thanks all
RoD

 

[xbassman]

Well, I don't run cable for a living, but back in college we were traught to always avoid potential EMI sources when making cat-5 cable runs. (ie power wires or light fixtures).

STP cat-5 may work in your situation. It will be costly though.

 

[tiap]

It's also not legal according to the NEC. Just run a second conduit. (for ease of repulling if nothing else)
Also, Unless it's something I've never seen before, you don't need 240v, A separate 20amp grounded 110v line is more than sufficient.

 

[Zepper]

Unshielded data cables shouldnt be run near AC power wiring and when it has to cross an AC wire it should be at the sharpest angle possible. You can use plenum grade LAN cable and you wouldn't need to run it in a conduit.

.bh.

 

[Tsaico]

You will have higher attenuation levels in your network if you have it running along side the AC cabling. The more you have them running parallel to each other, the more data issues you have. I would imagine in a house the runs will be relatively short where you HAVE to run them together (50ft or less), the problems are not going to be that bad, unless you have a mansion...

 

[imported_rod]

Originally posted by: tiap
Also, Unless it's something I've never seen before, you don't need 240v, A separate 20amp grounded 110v line is more than sufficient.

I live in Australia, 240V 10A is the standard here. There's lots of really long powerlines here, and you lose less power at higher voltages.

The network cable and the power cable wouldn't be running parallel together through the roof, just when they come out of the roof into my room. That wouldn't be anymore than 5 meters (15feet), 7meters at the most.

Thanks Guys
RoD

 

[tiap]

Originally posted by: rod

Originally posted by: tiap
Also, Unless it's something I've never seen before, you don't need 240v, A separate 20amp grounded 110v line is more than sufficient.

I live in Australia, 240V 10A is the standard here. There's lots of really long powerlines here, and you lose less power at higher voltages.

The network cable and the power cable wouldn't be running parallel together through the roof, just when they come out of the roof into my room. That wouldn't be anymore than 5 meters (15feet), 7meters at the most.

Thanks Guys
RoD

I know you guys have the longest straight railroad track in the world.
Buy some good cat5 or 6 and don't worry about it.
BTW, I know most computer ps are switchable for 110 vs 220, but what do you do for all your other stuff, like printers, monitors, etc? Is that why your parts seem to cost more than just the money exchange rate? Just wondering.