Temperature-related changes in dielectric constant and dissipation factor of insulations increase attenuation in data cables used in building plenums

Local area network performance can deteriorate when high temperatures cause cable attenuation to increase. This problem can be prevented by careful selection of insulating materials. Dissipation factor and dielectric constant for FEP, PVC, and ECTFE were measured at frequencies from 1 kHz to 300 MHz at 20 degrees C and 60 degrees C. Increases in values for these properties can be related to increases in cable attenuation observed at elevated temperatures.<
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