[CALUG] Ethernet switch below freezing

[junekis@comcast.net]

>From a digital point of view, temperature shouldn't affect electronics, but networks have an analog side to them too.

Temperatures affect the resistance of resistors, and the capacitance of capacitors. Oscillating circuits can drift in frequency.

Even if you protect from condensation, there could be complications.

The previous author had a good idea - an insulated box. If you are putting it in the garage, try stuffing it in a small ice-chest. It's internallly generated heated will proabably keep it warm.


> Off hand, the only thing I could really think of that might be a problem
> would be condensation forming on the electronics if it were that cold.
> Maybe a chance of some soldier joints pulling free from metal
> contracting in the cold, but I really doubt that, given any metal isn't
> going to contract that much in cold vs room temp.
> 
> If you want to help keep it from getting too cold, put the switch in a
> not well ventilated box so that it can keep itself warm.  Just make sure
> it can be converted to well ventilated for the summer given 40C/104F can
> be quickly reached in a garage in the summer (I'd be tempted to include
> a fan on the box).
> 
> -David
> 
> On Thu, 2005-12-01 at 10:49 -0500, Ray Lischner wrote:
> > I want to put an Ethernet switch in the garage. The rated specs for the
> > switch give freezing (0 C) as the lower limit. What happens if the
> > temperature drops below that? What kind of precautions do I need to
> > take? (In the summer, I think a small fan will be sufficient. The rated
> > max is 40C.)
> > --
> > Ray Lischner
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