True or False: You do not need to provide primary electrical protection for network-powered broadband communications conductors that are not exposed to lightning.

The assertion that primary electrical protection is not needed for network-powered broadband communications conductors that are not exposed to lightning is false. Even if the cables are not directly exposed to lightning, they can still be affected by other electrical interference, surges, or faults.

Primary electrical protection is essential to safeguard the integrity of communications systems against various electrical hazards. This protection can include the use of surge protection devices, grounding techniques, and proper installation practices to minimize the risk of damage from electrical surges, which can occur due to conditions such as nearby equipment operating under fault conditions or sudden changes in electrical load.

The requirement for protection applies regardless of the environment, whether indoors, outdoors, underground, or in dry conditions. Ensuring that all network-powered devices are adequately protected against voltage spikes is a vital part of maintaining reliable communications systems and safeguarding them from potential malfunctions or degradation in performance over time. Thus, the need for primary electrical protection remains critical.