Avoiding Failures in External Network Links
External connections between buildings are often treated as an afterthought, with standard indoor leads pressed into service simply because they’re available. The result is unpredictable: performance drops, interference increases and long-term reliability becomes a problem. External environments demand a different specification, and selecting the right patch lead avoids the most common issues that installers encounter on site.
Why Outdoor Links Require a Different Approach
Connecting outbuildings, temporary structures or remote areas of a campus introduces variables that traditional patch leads simply aren’t designed to handle. Moisture, temperature variation, electrical interference and physical run distance all influence performance.
Indoor patch leads perform well in controlled environments. Outdoors, they’re exposed to exactly the conditions that degrade signal integrity.
The Most Common Causes of External Link Failures
1. Using Indoor Leads Outdoors
Installers often use what’s available, especially during call-out work. The issue is that indoor-rated leads lack the jacket durability and shielding needed to maintain consistent performance outdoors.
2. Poor Shielding and Interference
External links frequently run near power feeds, security lighting and metal structures, all of which contribute to signal interference if the cable isn’t properly shielded.
3. Excessive Distance
Longer runs amplify problems. When installers daisy-chain multiple patch leads to reach an outbuilding, every join becomes a potential failure point.
4. Lack of Testing
Pre-terminated leads not tested individually can introduce faults that only appear once the system is under load.
A Robust Solution: Cat 6a External FTP Patch Leads
The Connectix Cat 6a External FTP Patch Lead provides a simple, reliable and compliant way to deliver outdoor connectivity.
Built for External Environments
Its black, UV-resistant sheath is designed specifically for outdoor scenarios, offering better protection and longevity than indoor PVC jackets.
Shielding That Maintains Performance
The FTP construction reduces interference from lighting circuits, power lines and metal structures commonly found around building exteriors.
Factory-Tested Quality
Each lead is made in-house, individually tested and supplied ready to deploy, removing uncertainty and ensuring the installer can trust the final result.
Available in the Lengths Required
With options from short service leads to extended 75m runs - plus custom lengths - installers can avoid joints, couplers and unnecessary termination work.
Applications Where It Delivers Clear Advantages
- Linking offices or modular structures
- CCTV and security camera connections
- Extending Wi-Fi access between buildings
- Connecting external network hardware or remote cabinets
- Short outdoor backbone connections before transitioning indoors
In each case, using a purpose-built external-rated lead improves uptime and reduces troubleshooting.
Reducing Rework and Callbacks
A reliable external link reduces the risk of truck rolls, fault finding and recurring complaints. Installers benefit from predictable performance, and customers benefit from stronger network reliability.
External connections demand the right components. A Cat 6a External FTP Patch Lead offers a dependable, standards-aligned and installer-friendly way to deliver stable connectivity outdoors without compromising performance.
Talk to your Account Manager for specification support or get in touch using the below:
📞01376 346600
