NEC in the Facility, April 26, 2011

Many facilities are installing wireless routers to provide connectivity between industrial process devices and control systems as well as setting up wireless networks for other reasons. However, wireless routers still require a wired system behind them (usually with Ethernet to the routers). Sometimes, a wireless network ends up being wired even in a "user zone." For example, metallic obstructions may be easier to wire around than to try to surmount wirelessly. If you have broadband, you have a wired system. This means compliance with Art. 830.

If your wired system involves aerial cables (for example, to connect two buildings), you must comply with 830.44. Some key aspects of this section of the NEC include:

• Where practical, locate broadband cables below electric light or power conductors on their poles.
• Don't attach broadband cables to a cross-arm that carries electric light or power conductors.
• Keep broadband cables at least: 8 ft from all points of roofs over which they pass, 9.5 ft above grade, 11.5 ft above areas not subject to truck traffic, and 3 ft from any building openings.
• Separate broadband cables from other conductors, and fasten securely.