[TowerTalk] deterioration of CAT5 cable insulation

Pete Smith n4zr at contesting.com
Sun Sep 14 12:01:46 EDT 2008


I just discovered, in the wiring of my SO2R switchbox, which has been out 
at the base of my tower for 2 years (in a weatherproof box), that a number 
of the CAT5 conductors have bare wire showing through the 
insulation.  Since there was no sun or water exposure, I presume this is 
some sort of deterioration of the insulation due to temperature and 
humidity change - another reason to use outdoor-rated CAT5 for control 
wiring that will be exposed to any outside conditions.

73, Pete N4ZR



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