Ethernet cable categories pdf

Cat6 is the next step up that will eventually replace Cat5e as the new standard. These cables support speeds up to 10 Gbps, ten times faster than Cat5e. This makes Cat6 ideal for activities that use more data, such as streaming TV shows or online gaming. The increased speed also makes Cat6 the best choice for small-scale networks, such as a school or office with a modest number of computers.

This newer version has better shielding to block electromagnetic interference EMI and radio frequency interference RFI. If an Ethernet cable needs to be next to cables or machinery that lets off a lot of power, Cat6a can cut down on signal interference.

Even if nothing in your building might cause issues, Cat6a is also a good choice if you are near something like a radio tower or electrical substation that could cause signal issues.

Cat7 is an extremely high-speed cable with data speeds of Gbps. These Ethernet cables are shielded by default since they are most commonly used near equipment with high-energy consumption, such as data servers, that generate EMI. For at-home use, Cat7 is overkill. On a professional level, Cat7 can be used for network rooms, telco closets, and similar areas in large buildings with expansive networks. Cat8 is the latest and greatest iteration of Ethernet. It supports speeds of 30 Gbps but has more than double the bandwidth than Cat7.

The downside is that Cat8 can only sustain bandwidth that high for up to 30 meters, for now at least. Presently, Cat8 is primarily being used in data centers but will likely see more use elsewhere as the technology continues to improve in the coming years.

ShowMeCables offers every category of Ethernet available today. That includes pre-made patch cords as well as rolls of bulk cable for installation work. Both options include other features such as color-coding and cables for outdoor use in addition to the different categories.

Each cable is tested to federally regulated standards to ensure quality and backed up by warranty. Have questions? Internet Explorer will soon be unsupported on this site. Please upgrade to a newer browser to continue using our site. The conductor is surrounded by a layer of insulation which is then surrounded by another carrying conductor shield, which makes this type of cable resistant to external obstruction.

This type of cable comes in two types — thinnet and thicknet. Each type has a maximum transmission speed of 10 Mbps. Coaxial cables were previously used in computer networks, but are now replaced by twisted pair cables. A single-core coaxial cable uses a single central metal usually copper conductor, while a multi-core coaxial cable uses multiple thin strands of metal wires.

The following image shows both types of cable. The twisted-room has four pairs of wires. These wires are twisted almost to each other to reduce crosstalk and external interference. This type of cabling is common in current LANs. Twisted pair cables can be used for telephone and network cables. The difference between these is that the STP cable has an additional layer of protection to protect the data from external interference.

This type of cable uses optical fibers to transmit data in the form of a light signal. The cables have fiberglass strands surrounded by cladding material. The core is wrapped in cladding; The cladding is wrapped in a buffer, and the buffer is wrapped in a jacket. This cable can transmit data over long distances at maximum speed.

It can transmit 40 km of data at Gbps. Fiber optic cables use light to transmit data. It reflects light from one point to another. This type of cable can support longer cable lengths than other cable types a few miles. The cable has no electromagnetic interference. As you can see, this cable method has many advantages over other methods, but its main disadvantage is that it is more expensive. A variety of different cables are available for Ethernet and other telecommunications and networking applications.

These network cables that are described by their different categories, e. We want to help you out. Twisted Pairs are prevalent in the industry. These kinds are secondary only to fiber-optic cables regarding their max length and amount of speed deceleration. This type of design allows them to be increasingly flexible and much more inexpensive to manufacture. The covering on an STP cable is typically made of copper or another type of conductive substance and aids in noise reduction and enhancing connection quality.

Many people use these particular cables to reduce noise, boost connectivity, and achieve a better connection. Ethernet connectors use a specialized design with eight pins that must lock into place, typically called an 8P8C connector. Ethernet cables have a couple of different types of 8P8C connectors, and knowing the difference will help you understand different Ethernet categories more clearly:.

There are two variations based on how wires are colored and arranged, the more popular TB standard and less common TA standard not particularly important unless you are doing detailed wiring. GG45 came with several additional conductors for some frequency versatility. It is backward compatible with RJ45 connectors, but the new connector was deemed largely unnecessary, which is why Cat 8 switched to RJ How to pick the best streaming fitness challenge for you.

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