- An Ethernet cable is one of the most popular forms of network cable used on wired networks. Ethernet cables connect devices on local area networks such as PCs, routers, and switches.
- Ethernet cables are physically manufactured in two basic forms called solid and stranded.
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Solid Ethernet Cables:
- Solid Ethernet cables offer slightly better performance plus improved protection against electrical interference.
- These are more commonly used on business networks, wiring inside office walls or under lab floors to fixed locations
Stranded Ethernet Cables :
- These are less prone to physical cracks and breaks making them more suitable for travelers.
- These cables are more commonly used in home networking and by travelers
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Types of Ethernet Cables :
- Cat-5 Cable
- Cat-5e Cable.
- Cat-6 Cable.
Differences between Cat5, Cat 5e and Cat 6 Cables :
Differences
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Cat5
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Cat5e
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Cat6
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| Performance | Adequate, but greater potential for crosstalk/interference. | Less crosstalk/interference than CAT5. | Potentially more interference than CAT6. |
| Speed | 100Mbps | 1000Mbps | 10 Gbps |
| Frequency | Up to 100MHz | Up to 100MHz | Up to 250 MHz |
| Max. Length | 100 meters | 100 meters | 55 meters |
| Cost | Varies by length and manufacturer, but generally a little cheaper than CAT5e. | Varies by length and manufacturer, generally $0.20 - $0.30 per foot. | Varies by length and manufacturer, with $0.40 - $0.60 per foot as an average; generally about 20% higher than Cat5e. |
| Protection | Low | Moderate | High |
| Future uses | Limited | Adequate | More |
Examples :
