3 Major Types of Network Cable
Before learning about the different types of network cables, you must be aware of what are network cables and what are they used for.
These cables are installed to communicate information among networks of computers, switches, routers, etc. Through these cable set-up internet access, file sharing, emails, and other similar services are carried out.
In case, you have shopped for or had network cables installed before, you might be familiar with some of the common cabling systems such as category 5e Cable System. Although, it is just an example of a particular kind of these cables.
Once you begin to go through, you will see that each one of these varied network cables type are crucial. If you are wondering how is it decided which cable to be used where then you should know that it depends on the environment. Below are the different types of network cables:
- Coaxial Cables
The first type of network cables is the coaxial cables. These network cables were most commonly used for connecting television sets with the antennas. It is designed in such a way that it transmits high-frequency signals. As far as the structure of a coaxial cable is concerned, it consists of an inner round copper conductor with layers of insulator and shielding to prevent electromagnetic interference.
These cables are being used for a long time now. The main reason behind the efficiency of these cables is its shielded design that allows data transmission without any interruption. However, with time, it gained some drawbacks and to cope with it enhanced network cables were introduced.
- Twisted Pair Cables
The twisted-pair cables are also known as Ethernet cables because these are mainly used for computer networks. In these wires, as the name suggests, two insulated copper wires are wrapped around each other. The twisting of cables minimizes electromagnetic interference and that’s why these are popularly used for LAN networks.
It has 2 subtypes; shielded twisted pair cable and unshielded twisted pair cable. Cat 5, Cat 6, and Cat 7 cable system are a few examples of unshielded twisted pair cables. These network cables are preferred over the shielded cables because it is comparatively cheaper.
Lastly, the latest network cable of all is the fiber optic cables. The difference between these and other network cables is that it uses strands of glass instead of insulated metals. These are capable of communicating at a much longer distance without the frequent need for signal booster. Generally, these cables are used for WAN (Wide area network).
It is so because light can travel for a long time without losing its strength. You can calculate the power of the optical signal that passes through the fiber cable with a handheld optical power meter.
Conclusion
Having some background knowledge about network cables before getting it installed can be very beneficial. Cables like fiber patch cables are being introduced now and then. Dintek is one such online store where you can find different choices of network cable and more.
