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In the comments on this question (Using PEX as wire conduit), the issue of grounding shielded data cables on one end vs both ends came up.

For any arrangement of cables (ex. single cable, multiple cables into splitters/hubs, multiple parallel cables. etc.), how should they be grounded?

I am especially interested in both CAT6 (Ethernet) and coax (<3GHz) since I am actually about to run some underground between two different structures. In my case, both structures share a grounding electrode system, but an ideal answer would also address instances where this is not the case.

My current plan is to ground the coax on both ends with a grounding block and a grounding conductor going back to the nearest service panel, and to ground the CAT6, which is shielded, on both ends with surge protectors and a grounding conductor going back to the nearest service panel.

Machavity
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Hari
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2 Answers2

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The industry practice is to ground the main panel end and leave the field end ungrounded.

If you ground both ends you create an antenna for RF interference. Search the web for dipole antenna design.

Good luck!

ArchonOSX
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@ArchonOSX is correct. The main reason you only ground one end is that the shield is not a ground it is a drain. It catches interference in the air and drains it to the ground. It is called a family connection so you should which ground whichever father upstream than the other and ground to that electrode. In you case I would select which structure you main panel is in (mother to daughter).

Good Luck.

Retired Master Electrician
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