Issue
A BS5308 Part 1 Type 1 cable was installed under the assumption it would be used for Modbus communications. However, it was later determined that the application required M-Bus communication. This raised the question: Is the BS5308 cable suitable for M-Bus?
Product Line
Andover Continuum, EcoStruxure Building Operation, Satchwell BAS & Sigma, TAC VistaEnvironment
- M-Bus communication systems
- BS5308 Part 1 Type 1 cable (2-pair, individually screened)
Cause
The incorrect assumption that the communication protocol would be Modbus led to the installation of a BS5308 cable. Upon discovering that M-Bus was required, concerns arose regarding the cable’s compatibility with M-Bus communication standards.
Resolution
While the recommended cable for M-Bus communication is J-Y(ST)Y, which is specifically designed for indoor telephone applications and optimized for analog/digital signal transmission, the BS5308 Part 1 Type 1 cable can still be used for M-Bus under certain conditions.
Key characteristics of J-Y(ST)Y cable:
- Designed for indoor telephone and data transmission
- Aluminium-laminated plastic foil static screen with tin-plated drain wire to minimize high-frequency electromagnetic interference
- Twisted pair (TP) structure to reduce crosstalk
BS5308 Part 1 Type 1 cable considerations:
- Originally designed for instrumentation and control applications
- Features individually screened pairs, which can help reduce interference
- Electrical characteristics must be evaluated to ensure compatibility with M-Bus requirements
Conclusion:
Yes, the BS5308 Part 1 Type 1, 2-pair individually screened cable can be used for M-Bus communications, provided that its electrical characteristics meet the M-Bus system requirements. Refer to the attached calculation chart and datasheets for detailed compatibility analysis.
