Several types of Ethernet cables are available. The three most common are Cat5e, Cat6a and the more expensive Cat7. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Learn about these cables and the pros and cons of each. Ultimately, you’ll be more likely to make a wise buying decision.
Below are some tips to make your decision easier. So go out and buy a cable!
Cat5e
Although Cat5e ethernet cables are not as fast as the high-end Cat6 and Cat8 versions, they offer a better price and are easier to find. The difference between the two is not huge, but you should choose the higher quality cable if you are trying to transfer data at high speed. For most uses, Cat5e is suitable. It can support speeds of up to a thousand Mbps, which is very good in today’s bandwidth market.
CAT5e and CAT6 cables are highly compatible and can handle speeds of up to 1000 Mbps. That’s more than twice the speed of low-end CAT5e. The difference is in the operating frequencies. Cat6 cables operate at 250 MHz, while CAT5e cables operate at 100 MHz. As a result, they can process more data than their low-end counterparts.
To understand the difference between Cat5 and Cat5e ethernet cables, it helps to understand data transfer. Ethernet cables, such as those used in businesses, can transmit data at speeds of up to 1 Gigabit per second. Both cables terminate in an RJ45 plug, which is an 8-conductor modular plug.
Cat5e cables can connect computers and other devices together, and they are also compatible with wireless technologies. The most notable difference between Cat5 and Cat5e is speed. The first is backward compatible (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Backward_compatibility) and can interface with older data and systems. However, the latter lacks backward compatibility and only supports older systems. And unlike Cat5, the latter cable can be used with older systems.
So if you need to upgrade, go for Cat5e. Your business deserves the best and the future of its data. So, upgrade your network with Cat5e cables and enjoy its benefits.
CAT5e is an enhanced version of standard CAT5 cable. It features a lower internal noise level and two twists per centimeter. This allows the cable to transmit data without significant signal degradation.
The cable supports speeds of up to one gigabit and 100 megabits per second. Both varieties are available in shielded and unshielded versions. If you are concerned about noise, choose shielded cables. Cat6 cabling is the next step up from Cat5e and is capable of reaching Gigabit speeds.
However, you don’t need this level of performance for everyday home use, but if your network is set to grow, Cat6 is a great upgrade. Just make sure your equipment has a cat6 compatible RJ45 socket. For more information, read this article. The next time you upgrade your network, consider Cat6.
Cat6a
Cat6a Ethernet cables are ideal for voice, data and video network installations. These cables meet the Specification Standards ANSI/TIA/EIA-568-B.2-10 and are ideal for voice and data networks. Although Cat6a is thicker than Cat6, its more robust sheathing is an advantage.
In addition to achieving higher speeds, Cat6A cables are much more durable, making them ideal for use in a variety of different environments. Shielded and unshielded Cat6a cables are available in the market. However, the latter type is not common, and shielded cables have an additional sheath around the individual twisted wires, reducing the risk of crosstalk. The shielded version is better for networks where there are a lot of cables, as it avoids crosstalk.
Fortunately, both types are available. If you need to install a 10GbE network, you must use Cat6a cables. When installing a network, it is crucial to understand the difference between Cat6a and Cat6. Compared to Cat6, the speed of Cat6A cables is about five times that of Cat6A.
However, the higher speed will require you to invest in more expensive cabling and high-end network equipment. Cat6a cables are more expensive than Cat6a cables, so be sure to check the specifications before buying. As with all cables, the size of a Cat6a cable should be considered when selecting.
The smaller the diameter, the less difficult the installation process will be. Plus, a smaller bend radius means easier installation. Most Cat6a Ethernet cables are made from thicker materials than the previous ones. Thicker cables will be easier to install and will also allow you to get more data transferred per second.
Cat7
Cat7 Ethernet cables are a new type of data cabling solution backward compatible with Cat5e, CAT6 and CAT6a. Cat7 cable features four twisted copper pairs for improved transmission efficiency and minimizes system noise and crosstalk. Cat7 Ethernet cables can support up to 10 Gbps over a distance of 100 meters.
Once installed, the popular Cat7 cable can be cut to the length required for racing and routed to connect the two devices. Copper twisted pairs are attached to the cable wires by two different wiring schemes. Those two there ethernet cable types are separated by a braided shield that wraps each pair. A Cat7 Ethernet cable can be terminated with RJ45 connectors, but these connectors must be purchased separately.
The cable also has a bandwidth capacity of 100 GB, which requires exact hardware synchronization. Although Cat5 and Cat6 are still popular, CAT7 is a standalone new revision of the standard. Cat8 is defined for distances up to 30 meters and up to 2000 MHz. It is intended for small footprint data centers and will be compatible with the latest technologies.
This cable is typically 30% more expensive than Cat6 cables, but the improved performance is worth it. The disadvantages of CAT7 cables are that they are less flexible than Cat6, which makes them difficult to route in tight spaces. But despite its flaws, Cat7 isn’t necessary, as other officially recognized cable categories provide nearly identical performance.
