L-com customers have an impressively wide range of interests when it comes to electronic connectivity products. This became obvious when we compiled a list of the top 10 most widely read blog posts from our Engineering Hub in 2023.
Our customers are certainly interested in the day-to-day workhorse items such as Cat6/Cat6a/Cat7 Ethernet cables and USB cables. But they also want to know more about how to employ newer technologies such as LPWAN, Power over Ethernet, and fiber optic passive optical networks. They are concerned, as well, about protecting their networks from power surges, and in getting better performance from their Wi-Fi antennas in increasingly crowded airwaves.
Following are the top 10 most widely read blog posts of 2023, starting with the most popular one.
1. The Difference Between Cat 6, Cat 6a, and Cat 7
Though the Cat6 and Cat7 standards for twisted-pair cables have been around since 2002 and Cat6a since 2008, we understand that they can be confusing and we’re glad to help clarify their differences.
2. What is Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) Technology?
The popularity of this blog post reflects the increased use of connectable devices and battery-powered sensors that enable remote monitoring and manipulation of machine-to-machine and Internet of Things (IoT) devices – all of which is sustained by LPWAN technology.
3. PoE Switches vs PoE Injectors – What to Use When
As people discover the cost savings and shorter installation time of Power over Ethernet (PoE), there is increased interest in devices such as PoE switches and PoE injectors.
4. The 6 Essentials for Protecting Your Ethernet/PoE Network
Lightning strikes and other power-surge events can damage PoE devices and disrupt the networks they run on. We offer six essential guidelines for using surge protection for your PoE network.
5. IEC C13 Locking Field-Termination Power Connectors Deliver a Big Punch in a Small Package
The IEC C13 locking field-termination power connector is a three-prong cord that powers computers and many other devices, can’t be accidentally unplugged, and can be field terminated to allow for custom cable lengths.
6. What’s the Difference: Passive Optical Networks PON, GPON, EPON, 10G-PON?
If you use fiber optic cable, it’s important to understand the optical networks that rely on it. These include PONs (passive optical networks), EPONs (1 Gbps Ethernet PONs), GPONs (2.5 Gbps gigabit PONs), and 10G-PONs (10 Gbps GPONs).
7. USB-A Pinout: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding and Using the Configuration
We provide this guide because understanding the structure, functions, and applications of the USB-A pinout (arrangement of pins) is essential for connecting devices, troubleshooting, and crafting custom cable solutions.
8. Get More, and Cleaner, Fiber Connections with High-Density SN and CS Connectors and Adapters
Two recent improvements to fiber optic connectivity are fiber connectors and fiber adapters that are smaller and better protected from contaminants. This blog post discusses how these two improvements can benefit your fiber optic network.
9. Antenna Downtilt: A Practical Overview
Intercell interference is a growing problem as cellular networks expand. Having control over the radiation pattern of each Wi-Fi antenna is becoming more essential. This can be achieved with antenna downtilt, a process that directs the antenna’s vertical pattern towards the ground.
10. DB9 D-Sub Connectors: Advantages and Disadvantages
Are nine-pin DB9 D-sub connectors still relevant? Many of them have been replaced by USB connectors, and yet DB9 D-subs have benefits such as easy customization and the ability to carry data long distances. We examine the pros and cons of using them.
The products in L-com’s top 10 blog posts for 2023 are in stock now and available for immediate shipment. All orders on in-stock products placed before 6 p.m. CST weekdays will ship the same day.
Need help deciding on the right product for your application? Connect with one of our L-com technical experts now. Call us toll-free at +1 (866) 506-2818, chat with us live, or email us at sales@L-com.com.
