INFORMATION SERIES

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2023 June 17

It has come to our attention that some ops had been using telephone cables rather than Ethernet cables. Our instructions explicitly say Ethernet cables but some have been confused because of the similarity of the plugs and that they easily fit the jacks on the MADAR.

Ethernet and telephone cables look fairly similar and it is not uncommon to get the two mixed up. The key difference between the two is the size of the plastic connectors on the ends of the cable. Telephones use an RJ11/RJ12 connector whereas Ethernet uses RJ45. RJ11/RJ12 only uses 4-6 pins whereas RJ45 uses 8 pins. So they look similar and plug in OK, they won't work.

When purchasing an ethernet cable, if you are needing a longer one for example, the best way is to note the word "Ethernet" on the product description. As a precaution when we ship a MADAR unit we include a 10' Ethernet cable with MADAR purchases, and absolutely free of any charge.

When buying Ethernet cables try to get one that is relatively correct in length and not wind up any excess wire which could cause some E-M issues. Also, Ethernet lines should NOT be strapped next to any other wire, especially power adaptors. E-M interference is widespread in many offices or any room with stereo or TV equipment. Even worse is "ham" radio equipment. So distancing of Ethernet lines from any of this is very important, but using a meter or field tester to check the room will usually solve any issues.

It is another topic which we discuss in another information series paper, but purchasers sometimes move their MADARs over time and sometimes they get the wrong power supply connected. This can cause serious issues, even permanently damage the dataProbe.

Fran Ridge
MADAR Operations Director
skyking42@gmx.com
madar.site/