What is Ethernet over Coax Technology?
Ethernet over Coax (EoC) technology allows data and power (PoC) transmission over existing coaxial cables, making it a cost-effective option for upgrading legacy systems. This article will explore the technical aspects, benefits, and environments where IP/PoE over coaxial cables can be used, concluding with key takeaways.
When Should You Use EoC Devices for Network Upgrades?
Imagine you have a barn that uses RG59 coaxial cable for TV signal transmission connected to your home, and now you want to upgrade to internet TV or install a wireless router. Replacing that long coaxial cable could be challenging and labor-intensive. This is where EoC devices come in handy. Instead of replacing the coaxial cable, you can use EoC equipment to transmit internet signals over the existing coaxial lines.
How to Use EoC Devices for IP and PoE Networks
First, you connect EoC devices to both ends of your coaxial cable. Then, attach the relevant network equipment—computers, switches, cameras, or routers—to the EoC devices.
For PoE applications, the EoC setup consists of a transmitter and receiver, which need to be installed correctly. The power-supplying device, like a PoE switch, should be connected to the receiver, while the powered device, such as a camera, should be connected to the transmitter. For example, a camera would be the transmitter (Tx), and the PoE switch would be the receiver (Rx). In SC&T’s system, the camera is the IP packet transmitter, and the switch is the receiver, but power flows in the opposite direction—from the switch to the camera.
Once the transmitter and receiver (or transceiver if you have bidirectional equipment) are installed on both ends of the coaxial cable, you can connect your network devices and start transmitting.
Key Specifications for Ethernet over Coax Devices
IP or PoE Devices?
Before using EoC devices, determine whether you're powering PoE devices or simply transmitting IP signals. If you're using a PoE switch to power devices like PoE cameras, you need PoE-capable EoC devices. For standard IP transmission without PoE, regular EoC equipment will suffice.
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Passive Ethernet over Coax transceivers: IP01K
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Active Ethernet over Coax transceivers: IP09CK
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Active PoE over Coax kits: IP09CPK
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Active multi-PoE over Coax kits: IP09CPHK
PoE Standards
If you're using PoE devices, be mindful of PoE standards like IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt, which are typically listed in the product specifications. PoE standards are backward compatible, so equipment that supports IEEE 802.3bt can also power devices requiring the IEEE 802.3af standard.
How Much Bandwidth Do You Need?
Bandwidth is critical for network transmission. If your device requires 100Mbps, but your EoC equipment can only transmit at 10Mbps, you'll experience poor performance or no transmission at all. Always ensure the bandwidth matches your equipment's requirements.
Distance and Transmission Conditions
EoC utilizes existing coaxial infrastructure, so transmission performance depends on various factors:
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Distance: How far the signal needs to travel.
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Coaxial cable type: The quality and specifications of the coaxial cable (e.g., RG59 or RG6U).
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Power supply conditions.
For example, SC&T’s IP09C series can transmit 100Mbps over distances up to 500 meters (1,640 ft). Beyond this distance, bandwidth decreases to 10Mbps. Additionally, better-quality cables like RG6U allow for greater PoE power transmission at the same distance compared to RG59 cables.
PoE power also decreases over longer distances. These conditions and limitations are usually specified in the product's manual.
Why Choose Ethernet over Coax? Key Advantages
Cost Savings with Existing Infrastructure
Many older buildings already have coaxial cables installed, primarily for TV signal transmission. Using EoC adapters avoids the need for costly re-cabling, saving time and money. Rewiring can be particularly expensive in large or multi-story buildings. From our experience with system integration, using EoC can save 20–30% of upgrade costs, especially in difficult-to-rewire areas like tunnels, or where coaxial lines are buried underground and re-cabling would require excavation.
Longer Transmission Distances
Coaxial cables can transmit signals over greater distances than twisted-pair cables like Cat5e or Cat6, making EoC ideal for long-distance network connections.
Stability and Interference Resistance
Coaxial cables offer better protection against interference, ensuring stable signal transmission, especially in environments with high levels of electromagnetic interference (EMI).
Upgrading Existing Systems
Many older analog surveillance systems rely on coaxial cables. Using EoC adapters allows you to upgrade these systems to IP surveillance without replacing the existing coaxial infrastructure.
Supporting Multiple IP Devices on One Coaxial Cable
SC&T’s IP09CPHK kit extends EoC technology to support multiple IP/PoE devices. With one coaxial cable, you can transmit data and power to up to four devices over distances as long as 500 meters (1,640 ft).
How Can EoC Save You Time and Money?
System integrators have used Ethernet over Coax in projects with tight time and budget constraints. For example, in road surveillance systems or areas where cables are buried underground, upgrading to IP devices without digging up roads or underground cables is much faster and more cost-effective. EoC devices are well-suited for projects of this nature, saving significant time and money.
Ethernet over Coax Applications
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Home network extension: Use existing coaxial cables to extend internet coverage.
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Smart home devices: Provide stable network connections for smart home hubs.
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Gaming: Deliver reliable, low-latency network connections to gaming consoles.
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Media streaming: Connect smart TVs or media players for stable network access.
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Surveillance systems: Link IP cameras to a network and transmit data and power via coaxial cables.
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Small offices: Avoid the hassle of rewiring by utilizing existing coaxial infrastructure.
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Network printers: Ensure stable network connections for office printers.
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Hotels: Provide stable network connections to individual rooms.
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Commercial buildings: Offer reliable network access in office spaces.
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Industrial environments: Connect equipment in factories or warehouses.
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Temporary setups: Ideal for events or temporary office spaces like exhibitions.
Ethernet over Coax offers a practical solution for upgrading legacy systems, saving time and money while providing stable, long-distance network transmission.
