Power over HDBaseT Cable Testing and Certification

Addressing safety and performance concerns resulting from the use of non-certified Power over HDBaseT cables

As power levels transmitted through cables increase, the heat generated within cables increases as well. This is especially true when cables are bundled together, a common occurrence in typical installations. Consequently, bundled cables operating at temperatures above their temperature rating present safety concerns. Additionally, higher temperatures in copper wires also increase cable insertion loss, which can adversely affect cable performance.

Testing against UL 4299

Aiming to address these concerns, UL Solutions worked with the HDBaseT Alliance to develop a certification program for Power over HDBaseT (PoH) cables. In the certification program, we test and evaluate HDBaseT cables in accordance with UL 4299, Outline of Investigation for Power Over HDBaseT (PoH) Cables. We test cables in a specified bundle at 100 watts and verify the HDBaseT parameters at the temperature measured during operation.

HDBaseT Recommended Cable Program

HDBaseT was designed to operate on standard communications cable infrastructure. When designing installations, owners, specifiers and installers want to know that the selected cable can fully support HDBaseT. To empower manufacturers to independently demonstrate HDBaseT support, the HDBaseT Alliance established the Recommended Cable Program. Cables submitted through this program undergo rigorous testing to evaluate whether they meet the requirements of the HDBaseT specifications. UL Solutions is an HDBaseT Alliance Recognized Testing Facility and can test cables for inclusion in the Recommended Cable Program.

The latest version of HDBaseT — Spec 3.0 — doubles the uncompressed bandwidth that can be delivered over an HDBaseT channel. This bandwidth increase places greater demands on the communications cable infrastructure, making it even more important to use cabling that has been properly tested to the HDBaseT specifications. UL Solutions can test all versions of HDBaseT, including Spec 3.0.

HDBaseT certification benefits

The HDBaseT Recommended Cable Program provides a consistent test method for evaluating cable performance when subjected to elevated temperatures caused by power handling and bundling. The test-based requirements allow for innovation in cable design. Additionally, the UL Solutions Follow-up Services program covers factory inspection and market surveillance to evaluate cables for continued compliance and helps manufacturers to reduce risk to all stakeholders in the supply chain. Manufacturers can partner with UL Solutions to evaluate communications cables for both UL PoH Certification and HDBaseT Recommended Cable Program.

Why choose UL Solutions for HDBaseT cable testing and certification? 

At UL Solutions, we apply our certification and standards development expertise as a trusted thought leader in the compliance arena. Stakeholders rely on us for research and technical knowledge to help them address safety issues and advise on new technologies. The UL Solutions Follow-up Services program helps manufacturers to assess ongoing compliance of their products. Our dedicated Global Security and Brand Protection team trains authorities and customs officials to identify products bearing counterfeit UL Marks so they can take appropriate enforcement actions.

We evaluate for compliance across the entire supply chain. Our comprehensive factory and market surveillance programs help manufacturers improve their supply chain compliance and help reduce the risk and costs associated with substandard and unsafe products. 

The integrity of the UL Mark helps protect our customers’ brand reputation. Our holographic label system establishes a unique identifier for customers, regulators, buyers, retailers and consumers. As an additional on-demand promotional opportunity, some product categories have the option to include a direct link to the company website, product page, brochure, data sheet or flyer through UL Product iQ^®.

We offer global testing and certification services for market acceptance in North America, Latin America, Europe, Middle East and Asia. To help our customers rapidly develop and launch products that meet the shifting requirements of a changing world, UL Solutions continues to evolve and expand our capabilities and services.