What is the maximum allowable distance between grounding points for direct buried telecom cable?

• A. 305 m (1001 ft)
• B. 152 m (500 ft)
• C. 100 m (328 ft)
• D. 400 m (1312 ft)

Answer: (A)

Spacing grounding points along a direct-buried telecom cable is about keeping a continuous, low-impedance path to earth. If the distance between bonding/grounding points becomes too long, the ground path impedance rises, which can allow voltage differences to develop along the route during faults or lightning events. That increases the risk of equipment damage, improper operation of protection, and potential shock hazards.

Therefore, the recommended maximum distance between grounding points is about 305 m (roughly 1000 ft). Keeping grounding points within this span helps ensure consistent ground potential along the cable, effective bonding of shields and armor, and reliable protection during surge events.

The other distances are either shorter than necessary, which would require more grounding points without added benefit, or longer than the recommended limit, which would compromise the grounding effectiveness.