Physical Layer: Wiring, Connectors, and Hardware

The wiring used in an RV-C network is a simple twisted pair, installed in a bus topology. A “trunk” is laid (we recommend Raychem 2019E0309 as a 20 gage cable that satisfies the impedance limits), and terminated at each end with a 120 ohm resistor placed across the pair. Nodes are connected to the trunk by “drops” of the same cable, teed into the trunk. Drops can be no longer than six feet, and can connect only a single node. No shielding is required. The two lines are designated “High” and “Low” (or sometimes “+” and “-” or “A” and “B”). All nodes are connected high to high, low to low.

RV-C does not designate a particular connector. The RV-C lines may be on a separate connector or part of the main connector for a product. Generally it should not be connected via a splice to a pigtail. Permanent splices make it very difficult to locate a problem in the wiring.