What happens if communications cabling exceeds the cable's bend radius?

When communications cabling exceeds the recommended bend radius, the most notable consequence is signal attenuation. Bend radius is critical because it determines how tightly a cable can be bent without affecting its performance. Exceeding this radius can cause the cable to become damaged on the microscopic level, leading to increased resistance within the conductor path. This resistance can result in a loss of signal strength as the data travels through the cable.

As the signal encounters these bends that exceed the tolerable radius, it may not be transmitted as efficiently. Higher levels of signal attenuation can lead to poorer overall performance, including slower data rates and reduced distances over which the signal can be effectively transmitted.

Maintaining the manufacturer's specified bend radius is essential for ensuring optimal performance, preventing issues like attenuation, and allowing for the reliable operation of communications systems.