Find Out All You Need to Know About Ethernet Cables
While many computer systems and electronic devices now offer wireless solutions for internet and network connectivity, there are still many reasons why hardwire connections may be required and/or desired. When a hardwire connection is needed for a system, one will utilize connectivity solutions known as Ethernet cables, those of which are the standard for creating a healthy and efficient network.
Also referred to as network cables, Ethernet cables are those used to establish communication between routers, switches, modems, computers, servers, and other such components and assemblies. While Ethernet cables are most often used for a system to access the internet with network connectivity, they may also be used between individual computer systems or devices to create a local area network (LAN). As stated before, the most modern way of accessing the internet is through Wi-Fi technology, but wireless connections are still not as reliable or secure as hardwire connections with the possibility of network performance drops, signal interference, lower speeds, and other such issues. For businesses, data centers, and other such areas, these potential downsides are too great of a risk, and thus Ethernet cables continue to dominate as reliability and performance is key.
Ethernet technology traces back to development starting in 1973, and it began with Xerox PARC researcher Bob Metcalfe finding a way to connect computers, servers, and printers so that they could share data with the benefit of a high-speed networking system. Soon after in 1980, Ethernet technology was commercially introduced, and in 1983, the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) standardized the technology. Leading into the present, manufacturers continue to follow the standards set out by IEEE when creating any type of Ethernet cable.
While early Ethernet technology is quite restrictive in comparison to today’s standards and network expectations, there have been many advancements over the years that have allowed such cabling to become very powerful. Ethernet cables are generally categorized into categories, utilizing names such as CAT 1, CAT 2, and CAT 3 to discern the specific type. Generally, a cable is grouped into one of the categories based on its bandwidth, data rate, and shielding. As of the present, 8 major categories exist for Ethernet technology.
CAT 5 cables are a very popular option that are often used for standard computer networking, and they come in the form of twisted-pair cables that support data, video, and telephone signal transfer. These Ethernet cables typically transfer upwards of 100 Mbps, and they were created in 2001. The CAT 5e cable is considered the predecessor of the CAT 5 cable, and it can both transfer at a speed of up to 1 Gbps and resist crosstalk. The CAT 6 cable also supersedes the CAT 5 cable as the following release, and it is a twisted pair cable with a physical separator between the four pairs of cabling and foil shielding. Over short distances, CAT 6 cables are able to transfer at speeds of 10 Gbps. The most modern cable is the CAT 8 Ethernet cable, and it is able to protect its inner layers from electromagnetic interference. Over 30 meters, CAT 8 cables can relay data at a speed of 40 Gbps with almost no crosstalk whatsoever.
Whether you need CAT 5, CAT 6, CAT 8, or other such Ethernet cables, look no further than NSN Fulfillment. We are a leader in IT technology, presenting top-quality components that have been sourced from top manufacturers that we trust. With our unwavering dedication to quality control, we proudly conduct business with AS9120B, ISO 9001:2015, and FAA AC 00-56B accreditation. Furthermore, we enact a strict NO CHINA SOURCING pledge, meaning every purchased part ships out alongside all qualifying certifications and manufacturing trace documentation. Get in touch with a team member today and see how we can operate as your strategic sourcing partner for all your operational needs!
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