Hi --

I'm new to this site! Thanks for making it available.

I have a new 18x36' shed that I am going to put a sub-panel in. The sub-panel will be 100 amps and is approximately 120' from the main panel located in the main house. So, I will be running underground electric cable from the main panel in a trench to the shed.

I also want to run an ethernet cable (cat5) and a 24awg phone pair to the shed. Can I run all three of these cables in the same trench 24" below ground level?

Once I get the three cables into the shed, is there any problem (with interference?) running AC power (110 or 220v) stapled next to the telephone and/or cat5 cable to the boxes where the computer and telephone will be plugged in?

Thanks much for information!

Dan Gallagher

I assume you will be installing a conduit for power, and a conduit for tele/data lines. If not be sure all cables are rated for direct burial. I really do recommend that conduit be installed, insures better protection for all the cables, and allows for easy changes and upgrades later on.

Generally, we like to keep power and teledata lines away from each other as reasonable as possible, so we keep power on one side of the trench and teledata on the other, the general distance apart is 12" away from power feeder cables running adjacent lengthwise.

Once inside and near branch circuit cables, running adjacent lengthwise keep away 2", and only cross both at 90 Deg.

These are general requirements, your specific teledata cables may have their own specs to follow.