2 Starting a Sample System
2 - 6
EtherCAT Communication Unit USER’S MANUAL (3G3AX-MX2-ECT)
For the communications cable, use a category 5 or higher straight type cable that is double-shielded
with aluminum tape and braided shielding. Use a shielded connector of category 5 or higher.
Precautions for Correct Use
• The maximum cable length between nodes is 100 m. However, some cables are specified for
less than 100 m. Generally, transmission performance of twisted wire condactor is lower than
that of solid wire. Confirm the details with the cable manufacturer.
• Use the shielded-type RJ45 connectors. When selecting a connector, confirm if it can be used
with the recommended cable. Confirm the following items: conductor size, conductor type
(solid wire or twisted wire), number of twisted pairs (2 or 4), outer diameter, etc.
If an Ethernet cable of category 5 or higher is used, communications will be possible even if the
cable is not shielded. However, we recommend a cable with double, aluminum tape and braided
shielding to ensure sufficient noise immunity.
2-1-5 Recommended Products
Connection cables and RJ45 connectors