What makes ProPlex Ethernet superior to all other Ethernet cables on the Market?
The standard ‘market’ Ethernet cables are designed for commercial building applications, telecommunication and computer networks. The backbone cables have solid conductors and are neither flexible, durable or designed for portable applications. Constant coiling and pulling on these cables would easily break the conductors. The jacket is typically a gray, blue or white PVC jacketed cable rated for indoor installation purposes only.
ProPlex PCCAT5P, PCCAT5EP , PCCAT6AP and PCCAT6APX advantages:
—ProPlex Ethernet is unique; it is designed for strength, durability and electrical performance to equal the harsh environmental conditions it is likely to be subjected to in portable touring situations.
— Stranded conductors for maximum flexibility, having electrical performance equal to that of solid conductor Ethernet cables. The stranded conductor prevents any potential breakage during coiling purposes and hence enables the signal to continue un-disturbed.
— Maximum shielding; foil and braid shielding giving maximum EMI protection. The braid also offers mechanical protection, strength, and aids in its flexibility.
— Strength members are laid up under the shields, amongst the twisted pairs to maintain the pairs twist, and hence electrical performance. They strengthen the cable core and avoid elongation of the conductors during coiling functions.
— A tough Black Polyurethane jacket is applied over the outer shield, the jacket is very durable, and resistant to cut, abrasion, UV, most organic and inorganic compounds, and a wide range of chemicals.
— Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.
What are the advantages of using ProPlex data cables with FEP insulation?
— SUPERIOR ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES.
Due to the stability of the low dielectric constant, FEP insulation has the excellent electrical properties required for cables that carry high-speed data.
— CONSISTENT PERFORMANCE.
Using additives in an insulating material may lead to inconsistent performance due to variability in manufacturing. FEP requires NO additives to meet signal performance for low capacity and low loss.
— UNEXCELLED FIRE SAFETY PROPERTIES.
Remarkable resistance to high temperature and flames because of very high melting points and auto–ignition temperatures, as well as exceptional thermal degradation thresholds. Flame propagation characteristics, such as the rate of heat release and smoke generation, are all very low.
— LONG SERVICE LIFE.
Outstanding retention of properties after aging, even at high temperatures and in the presence of solvents, oils, oxidizing agents, ultraviolet light, and other environmental agents. Since there is no use of degradable stabilizing additives, FEP offers an important safety advantage when designing products for long service life.
— WORKING TEMPERATURE.
The working temperature for permanent operation of FEP is Minus 100 Degree Celsius to plus 200 Degree Celsius. The melting point of FEP is plus 290 Degree Celsius.
Is ProPlex Ethernet suitable for constant coiling and ‘reeling’ applications?
Yes. There are installation guidelines to follow for reeling purpose.
—The minimum reel core diameter is 10cm.
—Minimum tension is used during reeling and the unreeling process.
—Terminate the cable with RJ45 plugs before reeling is initiated.
—Cable length per reel is less than 90 meters.
—Recommended to use ruggedized RJ45 connectors such as RJLnxx, RJ Field or Neutrik Ethercon for maximum support.
In the core level, under the shields, are 4–twisted pairs and 6 strength members. Two strength members are positioned centrally to perform ‘Tension Relief’ function; the other 4 strength members are twisted around the pairs, each pair being wrapped individually by one of the strength members to perform a ‘Pair Structure Holding’ function.
The length of the strength members remains constant and equal to the length of the insulated wires.
Does TMB stock dual-core fibre cable?
TMB has made the decision to standardize on quad fibre assemblies for several reasons:
—Four fibres under the one jacket gives the cable a lot more flexibility.
—It is possible to combine various signals in one cable through the use of a combiner/splitter device. TMB has products in the pipeline which will utilize all four fibres.
—Four fibres configure themselves into a square symmetrical grouping, giving extra strength and protection to the individual fibres more so than the side-by-side configuration of dual fibre.
—Almost the same price – quad fibre cable and OpticalCons are almost the same cost, only slightly more than the duo alternatives.
— TMB stocks quad OM3 MM ProPlex Fibre assemblies with OpticalCon Quad connectors in standard lengths ready for immediate shipment.
Are your cables / connectors UL Listed?
In many cases yes. And almost all TMB cable assemblies are cCSAus certified for USA and Canada. CSA certification is equivalent in all ways to UL listings.
What's the difference between a ETL, CSA US, MET Listing & UL Listing?
None. UL is more widely known, which may have some marketing benefits, but ETL, CSA, and MET is also certified as a "Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory" and products that are ETL approved have been tested to the same standards as UL.
What is your warranty on Cable Assemblies?
All TMB cables are built to the highest standards and they are expected to last a very long time. Our warranty is 1 year for any manufacturing defects.
Can a cable rated at 100A support a full continuous 12K load?
Yes (unless your voltage is below 120 Volts): At 120 Volts a "12K" (12,000 Watt) load draws 100 Amps. At 240 Volts a "12K" (12,000 Watt) load draws 50 Amps.
ELECTRICAL "LEGALITY"
What's the difference between a ETL, CSA US, MET Listing & UL Listing?
None. UL is more widely known, which may have some marketing benefits, but ETL, CSA, and MET is also certified as a "Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory" and products that are ETL approved have been tested to the same standards as UL. Is a "Sister-lug" "legal"? The Sister-Lug is a type of bussbar clamp used for feeder connections in the West Coast Studio Industry. Approved and "legal" versions are available from TMB and Mole-Richardson.
Is a "Studio Pin" "legal"?
No. The NEC requires connectors used on feeders to be "Listed and of the locking type" - the traditional "Studio-Pin" is neither.
Should I buy Type W feeder cable or Entertainment Grade? Are they both equally "Legal"?
Listed "Type W" and "Type SC" (Entertainment Grade) feeder cables are both specifically mentioned in the NEC as "legal" for entertainment applications. TMB supplies both types: The "Type W" feeder cables are more durable, but also heavier and more expensive. The "Type SC" feeder cables are less durable but also less expensive and lighter in weight. The "Type W" is also approved for a wider range of applications than the "type SC". TMB would recommend "Type W" for general use and "Type SC" for certain applications such as on studio lots.
Are single-pole cam type connectors legal or do I have to use an interlocked system?
Regular single-pole cam type connectors are only legal when used by "qualified persons". If your feeder connections are not being made and unmade by qualified, trained professionals, you must use some kind of Interlocked system.
Is all "Type W" cable legal?
No. Type W is available in versions that are not UL Listed, these versions are not allowable for Entertainment Industry applications.
FIBRE
Does TMB stock dual-core fibre cable?
TMB has made the decision to standardize on quad fibre assemblies for several reasons:
— Four fibres under the one jacket gives the cable a lot more flexibility.— It is possible to combine various signals in one cable through the use of a combiner/splitter device. TMB has products in the pipeline which will utilize all four fibres.
— Four fibres configure themselves into a square symmetrical grouping, giving extra strength and protection to the individual fibres more so than the side-by-side configuration of dual fibre.
— Almost the same price – quad fibre cable and OpticalCons are almost the same cost, only slightly more than the duo alternatives.
— TMB stocks quad OM3 MM ProPlex Fibre assemblies with OpticalCon Quad connectors in standard lengths ready for immediate shipment.
Why do you use quad cable in your OpticalCon Duo assemblies?
We make our OpticalCon Duo assemblies with quad cable. Here is our thinking: The symmetrical, square, quad configuration actually protects the fibres from damage by crushing much better than two fibres where one often ends up on top of the other. Also, the additional fibres are not very expensive, the least costly part of the cable, so there is only a very small additional cost over dual fibre.
Why is the case option for your ProPlex Fibre reels such a lightweight case?
A lightweight, fibre case option is included in the price, of cables up to 150m in length ideal for light protection, or to protect the fibre reel inside a larger heavy-duty flight case or trunk.
CABLE
Who actually is the manufacturer of your Dataplex and ProPlex cables?
That is proprietary information but all ProPlex and Dataplex cables are built to TMB exclusive designs to ensure that they are the best data cables available anywhere in the world!
What is the voltage rating on your install cables?
ProPlex installation data cables are rated at 300v.
Do you have direct burial cable?
Some cables in our ProAqua range are rated for direct burial.
What can you use your wet location cable for and how deep can it go?
Salt water, fresh water, burial. ProAqua range is tailored and designed to meet the specific chemical requirements of our customers' intended application. TMB marketing can provide more details on request.
Are your cables / connectors UL Listed?
In many cases yes. And almost all TMB cable assemblies are cCSAus certified for USA and Canada. CSA certification is equivalent in all ways to UL listings.
What is your warranty on Cable Assemblies?
All TMB cables are built to the highest standards and they are expected to last a very long time. Our warranty is 1 year for any manufacturing defects.
What are the advantages of using ProPlex data cables with FEP insulation?
— SUPERIOR ELECTRICAL PROPERTIES. Due to the stability of the low dielectric constant, FEP insulation has the excellent electrical properties required for cables that carry high-speed data.
— CONSISTENT PERFORMANCE. Using additives in an insulating material may lead to inconsistent performance due to variability in manufacturing. FEP requires NO additives to meet signal performance for low capacity and low loss.
— UNEXCELLED FIRE SAFETY PROPERTIES. Remarkable resistance to high temperature and flames because of very high melting points and auto–ignition temperatures, as well as exceptional thermal degradation thresholds. Flame propagation characteristics, such as the rate of heat release and smoke generation, are all very low.
— LONG SERVICE LIFE. Outstanding retention of properties after aging, even at high temperatures and in the presence of solvents, oils, oxidizing agents, ultraviolet light, and other environmental agents. Since there is no use of degradable stabilizing additives, FEP offers an important safety advantage when designing products for long service life.
— WORKING TEMPERATURE. The working temperature for permanent operation of FEP is Minus 100 Degree Celsius to plus 200 Degree Celsius. The melting point of FEP is plus 290 Degree Celsius.
What's the difference between a Fan-out & a Break-out?
Both of these terms apply to a cable assembly which distributes control or load circuits "out" of a Multicable carrying multiple circuits. The conductors of Multicables used in stage lighting load distribution are not designed to be "splayed out" to multiple connectors, doing so could be dangerous. A break-out assembly or some kind of transition device should always be use. It typically comprises a multipin connector wired with several individual cables, one for each circuit. Custom break-out assemblies with a variety of connectors are available from TMB.
Is your DMX cable shielded/UL Listed?
Yes and No: All ProPlex Data cables are shielded. The ProPlex "T" series is "UL Recognized" and as such is suitable for permanent installations, however it is not "UL Listed". Typically, Listed status is only a necessity for cables which carry Mains Voltage.
Do you sell 2/0 Type W/Entertainment cable?
Yes and No: "Type W" and "Entertainment" (actually "Type SC") are 2 different types of feeder cables. TMB sells 2/0 cables of both types.
Can I get 5-wire feeder all in one cable?
No. Multicables are not designed to have the individual conductors "splayed out" to individual connectors. A high power "fan-out" is not practical.
What is SC Cable? Is it the same as EISL Cable?
Yes: "Type SC" is the designation in the NEC for cables previously known as "Entertainment Industries Stage Lighting".
What makes ProPlex Ethernet superior to all other Ethernet cables on the Market?
The standard ‘market’ Ethernet cables are designed for commercial building applications, telecommunication and computer networks. The backbone cables have solid conductors and are neither flexible, durable or designed for portable applications. Constant coiling and pulling on these cables would easily break the conductors. The jacket is typically a gray, blue or white PVC jacketed cable rated for indoor installation purposes only.
ProPlex PCCAT5P, PCCAT5EP , PCCAT6AP and PCCAT6APX advantages: ProPlex Ethernet is unique; it is designed for strength, durability and electrical performance to equal the harsh environmental conditions it is likely to be subjected to in portable touring situations.
— Stranded conductors for maximum flexibility, having electrical performance equal to that of solid conductor Ethernet cables. The stranded conductor prevents any potential breakage during coiling purposes and hence enables the signal to continue un-disturbed.
— Maximum shielding; foil and braid shielding giving maximum EMI protection. The braid also offers mechanical protection, strength, and aids in its flexibility.
— Strength members are laid up under the shields, amongst the twisted pairs to maintain the pairs twist, and hence electrical performance. They strengthen the cable core and avoid elongation of the conductors during coiling functions.
— A tough Black Polyurethane jacket is applied over the outer shield, the jacket is very durable, and resistant to cut, abrasion, UV, most organic and inorganic compounds, and a wide range of chemicals.
— Suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments.
Why is ProPlex Ethernet classified as a ‘Patch’ cable?
A stranded conductor Ethernet cable is classified by IEEE as a Patch cable ONLY, suitable with a maximum run length of 10 meter maximum. There are NO standards or tests to-date allowing for stranded conductors performing as Horizonal (backbone)
ProPlex Ethernet cable was developed over a 2-year period, and resulted in a stranded conductor (flexible) cable capable of `solid conductor' Ethernet cable performance. Since the conductor is stranded, it must be classified as a Patch cable to comply with IEEE regulations
Is ProPlex Ethernet suitable for constant coiling and ‘reeling’ applications?
Yes. There are installation guidelines to follow for reeling purpose.
— The minimum reel core diameter is 10cm.
—Minimum tension is used during reeling and the unreeling process
—Terminate the cable with RJ45 plugs before reeling is initiated.
—Cable length per reel is less than 90 meters.
—Recommended to use ruggedized RJ45 connectors such as RJLnxx, RJ Field or Neutrik Ethercon for maximum support.
In the core level, under the shields, are 4–twisted pairs and 6 strength members. Two strength members are positioned centrally to perform ‘Tension Relief’ function; the other 4 strength members are twisted around the pairs, each pair being wrapped individually by one of the strength members to perform a ‘Pair Structure Holding’ function. The length of the strength members remains constant and equal to the length of the insulated wires.
Can ProPlex perform in Sub-Zero temperatures?
Although the compounds used in the manufacture of the cables are rated for constant operation at minus 25 degree C, the actual electrical performance at these temperatures has not been tested.
Do Male to Female Ethernet assemblies exist?
No, ALL cable mount connectors are Male RJ45 plugs. ALL chassis’ are the female receptacle (Jack). To extend an Ethernet run a Female-Female adaptor is required, Neutrik NE8FF.
CONNECTORS
Are there two versions of a 6-pin XLR?
TMB uses the term “Switchcraft compatible” because there are two completely different 6-pin XLR configurations. One is the IEC International Standard – the original used by Neutrik, Canon, etc… This is the 6-pin used by DHA “Light Talk” and Strand remotes. The other is originally unique to Switchcraft, although Neutrik and others make this configuration now (Neutrik calls it “Switchcraft compatible”). This is the 6-pin used for ETC RFU and LINK cables and Rosco fogger remotes.
What is the pin out on a 7-pin Socapex?
There is no standard wiring on a 7-pin connector for motor control. Normally the center pin, (#5), is used for the ground. However, the pins used for control and the pins used for power vary from rental company to rental company. Usually they are in groups - [1,2,3, control], [4,6,7 power], or [1,2,3, power], [4,6,7 control].
Since there is no industry standard, you should always double check the wiring of any equipment that is sub rented and used with your gear. The reason to double check your gear is that 7-pin connectors carry power and control together and there is a potential for harming the equipment or the operator if the wiring configuration is not confirmed.
What does the 19th pin of a Socapex do?
Socapex has become a generic term applying to the types of connectors commonly used for "6-circuit" lighting load distribution. In the normal 6-circuit configuration, the 19th pin is not used.
Do TMB ProSeries connectors mate with other brand 19pin connectors?
Yes! TMB 19 Pin Pro Series connectors are fully compatible with other manufactures such as Socapex, Veam VSC, LEX LSC, Tourmate / Tourflex Do VSC & Socapex mate? VSC stands for "Veam Socapex Compatible". The Litton-Veam VSC series of connectors are fully compatible with Socapex "419" series connectors.
Can you use Socapex for 8 or 9 circuit load distribution?
Yes, although we would not recommend it. The predominant standard is for 6-circuits and there are many benefits in having "industry-standard" wiring. However, we do have a few customers who use "Socapex" type connectors for 8 or 9 circuits and our assembly shop does fabricate 8 or 9 circuit cable-assemblies to order.
Do you carry Cam-Lok helox devices?
No. "Cam-Lok" and "Helox" are the trademarks of 2 different manufacturers. In the entertainment industry, the term "Cam-Lok" is used to describe the most widely used locking single-pole feeder connectors.
Are my single-pole cam connectors waterproof?
No. single-pole cam type connectors common in the entertainment industry are UL-Listed for dry locations only. Equipment using these connectors must be protected from moisture.
How do you assemble a single-pole cam connector?
You could make your life easy and have TMB install the connector for you. If you need to do it yourself, remember the following tips:
— Lots of WD40 or silicon spray.
— Do not cut the boot back too far. You want a tight seal!!
— Make sure to carefully line up the insert stud with the boot receiver before pulling the boot over the insert.
— Always pull, never push.
— Use a rag to pull the boot.
Is a single-pole cam connector a locking device?
Yes: Cam connectors are UL Listed as "Locking connectors"
Is it standard to have the sex of neutral & ground cam connectors reversed?
No. There is no standard. It is always a good idea to have a couple of male-to-male and female-to-female adapters in your work trunk. We have them in stock.
What is the standard thickness of gold plating on an RJ45 plug contact?
50 microns, to maintain true IEEE electrical performance. Be careful, there are RJ45 plugs available on the market with only 5-10 micron thickness of Gold plating. All RJ45 plugs used on ProPlex assemblies have a 50-micron Gold plating on the contacts.
Is a 200 amp "cam" interchangeable with a 400 amp?
Single-pole cam connectors, yes. Interlocked connector systems, no.
TMB
What is the warranty on your products?
TMB proprietary and exclusively distributed products are warranted against defective materials or workmanship from the date of original sale by TMB. Duration of the warranty depends on the product.
View the full warranty here https://tmb.com/tmb-product-warranty/
Are you a rental company?
No, absolutely not. Throughout our history, TMB's number one market has been the professional rental companies. TMB takes great care not to compete in its customers' markets.
Are you open on Saturday?
Yes. Our Sales office is not open over the weekend, but you can always reach us on one of our 24-hour emergency lines to arrange an emergency shipment or for answers to urgent questions.
Los Angeles: +1 818.829.6116
New York: +1 201.219.0159
London: +44 (0)76.6920.6952
What does “EXW” mean?
TMB routinely uses the following shipping terms (also known as incoterms): EXW, DAP and DDP.
We use EXW for any international shipment that is collected by a customer or their agent from a TMB location.
We use DAP for any international shipment for which TMB is arranging delivery to the customer. We use DDP for international shipments for which we bear the cost of import charges (usually for samples or memo loans).