Exceeding 100m: An Inside Look at CommScope’s GigaREACH® Extended Ethernet Solution
- Joe Wenman
- Nov 27
- 3 min read
Overview
In today’s enterprise networks, the push toward digital transformation is constant. Organisations Across today’s enterprise environments, the demand for reliable, far-reaching network connectivity continues to grow. Organisations are expanding their use of IP devices, intelligent building systems, IoT sensors, and perimeter security equipment, often in locations well beyond the traditional limits of standard Ethernet cabling.
As integration specialists, we see a common challenge across campuses, industrial facilities, and legacy buildings: how do you deliver dependable IP connectivity to endpoints hundreds of metres from the nearest network room, without resorting to costly fibre or IDF installations?
At Protek Systems, we regularly face this scenario. And one of the most effective tools we rely on is the CommScope GigaREACH® Extended Ethernet solution.
What Is GigaREACH®?
CommScope GigaREACH® is a proven extended Ethernet technology designed to push data and power far beyond the standard 100-metre Ethernet limitation, while maintaining enterprise-grade performance and reliability.
It enables organisations to utilise existing copper cabling – including legacy twisted pair that may have been installed decades ago – to support modern IP devices across long distances.
For our customers, this means high-quality connectivity without the cost, complexity, or disruption of installing new fibre infrastructure.
Protek’s Deployment in San Jose: A Real-World Example
One of our recent projects on a major office campus in San Jose, California, demonstrates exactly why we rely on this solution.
The client required connectivity for vehicle gates, intercom systems, and multiple high-resolution CCTV cameras positioned around the perimeter of the campus. These endpoints were well beyond the 100-metre reach of standard Ethernet, and installing fibre would have meant trenching across roads, landscaped areas, and operational access routes.
Instead of putting the campus through major civil works, we designed a solution built around CommScope GigaREACH.
Using existing copper pathways, Protek Systems delivered:
Reliable extended-distance Ethernet and PoE
Full IP functionality for cameras and intercoms
A rapid deployment with minimal disruption
A scalable foundation for future devices and expansions
The project delivered significant cost savings compared to a fibre-based approach, while meeting the client’s performance and security requirements.
Why Extended Ethernet Matters
Modern enterprises depend on a diverse range of connected devices:
Security cameras and intercoms
Vehicle gate controllers
Building management systems
IoT sensors and automation equipment
Wireless access points
Digital signage and environmental monitoring
These devices often sit in locations where pulling fibre is impractical, expensive, or entirely disruptive.
Extended Ethernet solutions like GigaREACH are the bridge between legacy infrastructure and modern IP connectivity.
Key Advantages of the GigaREACH® Solution
1. Distances Far Beyond Standard Ethernet
Deliver stable Ethernet and PoE hundreds of metres from the network room.
2. Reuse Existing Cabling
Turn legacy copper pairs into a high-value asset instead of replacing them.
3. Power and Data Over a Single Pair
Ideal for cameras, sensors, and access control hardware.
4. Minimal Disruption, Maximum Speed
Avoid civil works, building shutdowns, or complex infrastructure upgrades.
5. Enterprise-Grade Reliability
A CommScope-engineered solution designed to perform in demanding environments.
Where We See GigaREACH Deliver the Most Value
Perimeter Security: Gates, intercoms, licence-plate cameras, and remote CCTV locations.
Smart Building Upgrades: Modernising legacy buildings or large campuses where existing cabling cannot be replaced easily.
Industrial and Transport Environments: Factories, loading yards, warehouses, and transportation hubs.
Healthcare, Education, and Hospitality: Where disruption must be minimised and uptime is critical.
Building Smarter, More Connected Campuses
For Protek Systems, extended Ethernet is a core capability that enables us to deliver modern, intelligent infrastructure without unnecessary cost or disruption. The CommScope GigaREACH solution has become an essential part of our toolkit for campuses, industrial facilities, and any environment where distance challenges arise.
Our deployment in San Jose is just one example of how this technology helps organisations achieve full IP connectivity in locations that were previously out of reach.
If you’re planning a project where traditional Ethernet won’t reach, or where fibre installation isn’t practical, our engineering team can help you design a solution that delivers performance, reliability, and long-term value. Email sales@proteksystems.co.uk or schedule a meeting.
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