Networking cables come in different types and specifications. TIA/EIA defines four different classes of cabling: Cat-5, Cat-6, Cat-7, and Category 8 (Cat8). Cat-5 is the most common type of networking cable used for Ethernet networking today. The other two classes of cable are Cat-5e and Cat-6e, which are not as common but are still widely used. The higher the number, the faster the connection.
Ethernet cable lengths vary widely, depending on the needs of your network. While a single device can be connected to a network using a five or ten-foot cable, a larger number of devices may require a longer cable. A spool of cable can range from fifty feet to several hundred feet. For networking, Micro Center carries Cat 5 and Cat 6 cable, which are capable of speeds up to 100 Mbps, as well as Cat 5e, which can handle up to 1 Gbps.
In the past, network administrators used coaxial cable for their computer networks. These were insulated telephone wires with plastic jackets. Category 1 and Category 2 cables could transmit up to one Mbps of data, and could be upgraded to four Mbps as time went on. In the early 1990s, Category 3 cables arrived on the scene. With a frequency of 16 MHz, they were used for 10BASE-T Ethernet applications. Later, Category 4 cables arrived, offering performance as high as 20 MHz. Despite their limitations, however, they are no match for Category 4 cables.
Cat 5 and Cat 6 are the most common types of Ethernet cables used for networking. These cables contain pairs of twisted wires that are arranged in a ring. This allows the cables to transmit data over considerable distances. But these cables are expensive compared to Cat 7 and Cat 6A. If you’re planning to use them for networking purposes, make sure to read the user’s manual to learn how to connect the two types of networking cables.
Cat 6A Ethernet cables are the least flexible and are usually used for connecting external devices to computers. They connect to computers using a special adapter to enable the cable to function through a USB port. They are used as temporary cabling until more reliable cabling is available. So, the distance between computer is not too large. If the distance is greater than five meters, it is probably safer to use a thicker type of Ethernet cable.
Cat 6A cables meet stricter standards than CAT 5. The older categories are not very flexible and can lead to breakage. They are generally made of four or six pairs of wires. While CAT 5e is the most popular networking cable, it does not have the highest transmission speed. In addition, CAT6 cables have higher standards than CAT 5e and CAT5e. There are also a variety of other types of network cables to choose from.
Cat 5e and Cat 8 Ethernet cables are widely available. However, if you need specialised connectivity, you can use crossover cables. Make sure to identify these cables before you use them as they could get confused with one another and cause connection problems. Cat 5 and Cat 6 Ethernet cables are the most popular for general use and are the most flexible. They are easy to use. The best way to choose networking cables for your network is to do a speed test first.
