Beginner's Guide to Network Cables: What are they? - Tektel.com
Network Cables

Beginner's Guide to Network Cables

Written by: Tektel Team

Beginner's Guide to Network Cables

The key to smooth connectivity is based on the underestimated infrastructure. Network cables are essential in ensuring seamless data transfer between devices and maintaining the intricate web of connections that power both our personal and professional activities.

The guide offers a look into various types of network cables along with their purposes and tips for proper installation and upkeep for those new to the subject.


What are network cables?


Network cables are materials utilized for linking and transmitting information among computers and other network devices like routers and switches.. They are available in varieties tailored to meet distinct needs for speed distance, and functionality.. Familiarity with the types of network cables is crucial, for establishing a dependable and effective network connection.


Different Kinds of Network Cables


-Ethernet cables


-Unprotected Twisted Pair (UTU)


-Protected Twisted Pair (PTT)

-Coaxial cables


-Fiber optic cables


-Cat5e (Category 5 Enhanced)

Speed: Up to 1 Gbps

Frequency: 100 MHz

 

 

-Cat6 (Category 6)

Speed: Up to 10 Gbps over short distances

Frequency: 250 MHz


Cat6a (Category 6 Augmented) 

Speed: Up to 10 Gbps over longer distances

Frequency: 500 MHz

 

Cat7 (Category 7)

Speed: Up to 10 Gbps

Frequency: 600 MHz

 


Cat8 (Category 8) 

Speed: Up to 40 Gbps

Frequency: 2000 MHz


Wired Connections

Twisted pair cables commonly referred to as Ethernet cables are widely used in households and commercial settings, for networking purposes categorized according to their performance capabilities.



UTP cords are the Ethernet cables that are commonly used over the place because they include twisted wire pairs to decrease electromagnetic interference (EMI) avoiding the necessity for extra protection layers This makes them pliable to handle and simple to set up while also being economical. Which is why they're a common pick, for both household and workplace networks.


Shielded Twisted Pair cables, commonly referred to as STPs. STP cables come with shielding to provide enhanced protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI). This feature makes them ideal for locations to high levels of interference like industrial environments or spaces, with multiple electronic devices present. However STP cables are pricier. Offer less flexibility compared to UTP network cables.


Electric cables used for transmitting data and signals resembling tubes placed concentrically. Older network cable installations and specific uses often rely upon cables in their setups to transmit signals effectively over extended distances while minimizing signal loss levels due, to their structure comprising a central conductor surrounded by insulating and metallic layers for shielding purposes.


These cables are known for their durability. Are frequently employed in delivering cable television and internet services efficiently.


Cable used for TV connection


Modern uses of cable television programming services and satellite television channels in conjunction, with high speed internet connectivity.

The cable type RG59 is commonly used for transmitting video signals, older software, Closed circuit television setups.


Cables made of fiber optics


The use of fiber optic cables represents the epitome of network cable technology in terms of speed and dependability as they utilize light to transfer data with minimal signal loss and resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI). These cables are particularly well suited for transmitting data over distances, at high speeds.


Multi Mode fiber

The diameter at the core measures, between 8 and 10 microns. Utilize long distance.


Telecommunications

Multi mode optical fiber commonly abbreviated as MMF.


The diameter, at the core ranges from 50 to 62 microns. Short to medium distance communication is commonly used in settings such, as area network cables (LAN) and data centers.


Selecting the Network Cable

When choosing network cables for your setup it's important to take into account factors to ensure smooth performance and compatibility, with your network needs.


Requirements for speed and data capacity


Consider the speed needs of your network equipment and software applications; for instance if you require fast internet connection or frequently transfer large files. Consider choosing Cat 7 cables or, above for performance.


Space apart

Calculate the length the cable must span across from one end to another point of connection you wish to reach out to use fiber optic cables for extensive stretches and Ethernet network cables such as Cat 69 for shorter distances up, to a moderate range effectively.


Nature

When setting up the network cable connections in locations, Shielded Twisted Pair (STPs) are ideal for places with high electromagnetic interference (EMI) whereas Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTPs) are better suited for everyday use cases. For outdoor settings cables, with extra shielding might be needed.


Money Matters

Keep your budget in check while considering the performance requirements, in mind. Although higher grade cables deliver performance they also come with a higher price tag. Select the cable within your budget that suits the intended use case.


Setting Up and Up keep Ensuring network cables are properly. Maintained is essential for their long term durability and top notch functionality, with these key pointers to bear in mind:


Prevent any harm to the body

Make sure the cables are not squeezed or bent tightly and are shielded from any physical harm or exposure to damage by employing cable management options such as conduits and cable trays for their protection.


Please provide the text that needs to be paraphrased so I can transform it into human writing.


Make sure you don't go over the length advised for the type of cable you're using for instance cables like Cat 55 and Cat 66 should stay under 100 meters, in length.


Arrangement

Make sure to tag the network cables and arrange them in an orderly manner to prevent any entanglement or mix up when dealing with problem solving or enhancements.


Regular assessments are necessary

Make sure to test network cables from time, to time to verify that they are working properly by using network testers to examine continuity signal power and potential issues.


Taking the environment into account

Make sure to shield cables from the elements like moisture and heat by using weather durable cables, in outdoor or challenging conditions.


Streamlined network

Network cables serve as the foundation of any network by establishing the links that enable data to move between devices smoothly and effectively. It is crucial to grasp the kinds of network cables available along with their specific uses and recommended procedures for installation and upkeep in order to establish a dependable and high performing network. 


Regardless of whether you're creating a network cable for your home or business be it scale or large scale selecting the appropriate network cables and caring for them adequately will guarantee top notch performance and durability in the long run.


Starting out in the realm of network cables can feel overwhelming for newcomers; with this helpful guide, at your disposal now you possess the essential understanding required to make educated choices and establish a reliable network system. Keep in mind that the crux of a network doesn't just rely on advanced technology but also hinges on meticulous infrastructure planning and upkeep. Wishing you all the best with your networking endeavors!

Network Cables
Just added to your wishlist:
My Wishlist
You've just added this product to the cart:
Go to cart page