What is the maximum length of an equipment cord not using a MUTOA?

The maximum length of an equipment cord not using a MUTOA (Multi-User Telecommunications Outlet Assembly) is 5m (16.5ft). This specification is established in the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) standards, which are designed to ensure reliable performance for communication systems.

An equipment cord is defined as a patch cord that connects active equipment to a horizontal cable or to a device that extends connectivity. When cords exceed the specified length, they may excessively degrade the signal quality and introduce latency or loss in the network. This is particularly crucial when ensuring that communication systems maintain optimal performance standards.

Choosing a length of 5 meters allows for enough reach in typical installations without compromising the integrity of the signal. Longer lengths, such as 10m or 15m, would fall outside recommended guidelines and could result in poorer performance, increased attenuation, and potential connectivity issues. Thus, the 5m specification balances functionality and performance, making it the maximum allowable length for this type of equipment cord under the stated conditions.