Should medium-power network-powered broadband communications cables share pathways with high-voltage cables?

Sharing pathways between medium-power network-powered broadband communications cables and high-voltage cables should be avoided due to safety and performance considerations. High-voltage cables carry significant electrical currents, which can create electromagnetic interference that negatively impacts the performance of the data communication systems. This interference can lead to signal degradation, reduced data rates, and increased error rates in the communication cables.

Moreover, there are significant safety hazards involved. High-voltage cables can present electrical shock risks, and in the event of a fault condition, they could potentially endanger personnel working near the low-voltage systems.

Building codes and safety regulations often explicitly recommend that low-voltage communication cables be installed separately from high-voltage wiring to mitigate these risks. These guidelines not only help maintain the integrity of communication networks but also prioritize the safety of workers and end-users.