There are many different types of network cable. These cables connect computers to a modem or router buy from different VoIP providers. They plug into the network port of the router or modem or into the computer’s network interface card. There are three main types of twisted-pair cables: shielded twisted-pair (STP), unshielded twisted-pair (UTP), and Gigabit Ethernet (GbE). Learn which type of network cable is right for you in this article.
Cat-5
While CAT4 and Cat5 are both twisted-pair cables, they have distinct differences when it comes to data transfer speeds. CAT5 has more twists per inch and can be used at higher speeds and longer lengths. Both are common for Token Ring networks. CAT3 can support a maximum speed of 10 Mbps, while CAT4 can go as fast as 16 Mbps. Both have a maximum length of 100 meters.
The difference between Cat5 and CAT6 cables is that the first two are unshielded and the second is shielded. This shielding helps to reduce electromagnetic interference and allows for faster data transfer. In addition, Cat6 and Cat6a cables have tighter winding and a thicker cable sheath, which minimizes noise and helps reduce signal loss.
In addition to CAT5 and CAT6 cables, CAT7 is a newer copper-based cable specification that supports speeds up to 10 Gbps and up to 100 meters. Its double shielding helps to block electromagnetic interference and crosstalk.
Cat7
When you’re thinking about buying network cable for your business, you need to understand the differences between CAT4 and CAT7. Both of these types of cables are made from twisted copper wires, but the main difference between them is the amount of twists per inch. This difference makes the cables able to transfer more data and run for longer distances. The two types of cables are widely used in Token Ring networks and support speeds of up to 10Mbps and 100Mbps.
If you’re installing network cable for a home network, you might choose to use Cat5e. While this cable is relatively inexpensive, it doesn’t have the same speed. If your business needs to communicate at high speeds, you may want to consider Cat6 or Cat7. These two types of cables also come in shielded versions, which reduce signal interference and crosstalk. While they’re both good options for your business, it’s best to choose the one that matches your network requirements.
CAT7 is a newer standard for copper cables. This type of cable supports higher data transfer rates and is designed for lengths of 100 meters. It features four individually shielded pairs and an additional cable shield to prevent crosstalk and electromagnetic interference.
Cat8
Ethernet cabling is a very important part of data centers. Its versatility and high-speed capabilities make it an excellent choice for these facilities. Data centers will need faster bandwidth to support newer technologies, such as 4K video streaming. In addition to these benefits, Cat8 network cabling is cost-effective and future-proof.
Cat6 Ethernet cable is capable of a high data transmission rate of up to 10Gbps. It can transmit up to 100 metres and is usually available in STP. This cable lacks flexibility for residential deployment, however, and is better suited for high-density environments such as data centres.
Cat 7 cables offer four twisted pairs of wires and are often fitted with a GG45 connector. In contrast, Cat 8 cables are not RJ-45 compatible, but are backward-compatible with older devices. Cat 8 can support a maximum data rate of 40 Gbps over 30 meters, compared to Cat 7’s maximum of 10 Gbps.
Gigabit Ethernet
There are a number of different Gigabit Ethernet cable types and speeds. Some of these are faster than others, but all can be used for the same purpose. Gigabit Ethernet cable is typically used for data transmission within an internal LAN network. Gigabit Ethernet is also often used for streaming video.
Ethernet cables are being upgraded constantly to increase the speed and decrease the noise. For example, CAT5e and CAT6 are both available in different speeds. Cat5e cables are the most common and the least expensive Gigabit cable types and speeds. Cat5e is also available in shielded varieties.
The latest Gigabit Ethernet cable types have significantly higher bandwidths than their predecessors. Category 6a supports up to 10 gigabits per second and has a higher frequency than Category 5e. Both of these cables are more flexible and use other techniques to reduce noise.