Everything You Need to Know About Cables

Not all cables are created equal.

Enormous strides in technology has changed the way we connect our networks. It is essential to have fast speeds, reliable service, and the right cables for your business to succeed.

But, what is an “Ethernet cable”? How do you know that your office has the right connection?

To understand what cable is right for you, it’s vital to understand the differences between each. Cables have developed into categories, such as Category 5e, Category 6, and Category 6A. The higher the number, the most recent the cable is, improved for higher speeds and connectivity.

CableLAN is helping local, national, and global corporations stay connected with the most relevant, fastest cables for a reliable network.

Types of Cables

Category 5e

Category 5e (Cat-5e) are the most common cables in homes and offices today.

5e cables–the ‘e’ standing for enhanced–is an upgraded cable. The original Cat-5 cables were upgraded, albeit not physically. Enhancements come from more rigorous testing for increased speed and compatibility.

Category 6

Category 6 (Cat-6) cables are the cables of the future. Set to replace HDMI cables in the coming years, Cat-6 cables work on a higher frequency, creating cohesive communication that eliminates unnecessary “crosstalk.”

Category 6A

Category 6 (Cat-6A) cables are similar to the Cat-6 but with slight improvements in speed and build. These are the latest cables for business. However, if your technology doesn’t yet meet the Cat-6A requirements, than Cat-6 cables are a fine substitute for the time being.

So, what’s the big deal?

So how does a cable eliminate interference and result in faster speed? The answer is not as mysterious as it may seem. Intricate wire twisting as well as isolation is the key to faster speeds, and we have none other than Alexander Graham Bell to thank for it!

Cable twisting was invented by Alexander Graham Bell in 1881 for telephone wires that ran alongside power lines. He discovered that by twisting the cable every few utility poles, not only increased range, but it reduced pesky interference.

Cable twisting graduated from telephone wires and today it is the foundation to eliminate interference among Ethernet cables, between internal wires (XT), and external wires (AXT). Physically, there are two differences between Cat-5 and Cat-6 cables; the number of twists per centimeter on the wire, and the sheath thickness.

At its core, cables are all about innovation!

Connecting Your Business

Ready to connect your business with the latest cables? CableLAN Products carries electrical and fiber optic cables for all your voice, video and data communication needs. We stock Category 5e and Category 6, and Category 6A electrical cables, coaxial cables and indoor and outdoor fiber optic cables from many of today’s leading manufacturers.

CableLAN’s premium quality cables meet the latest standards. A brief phone call to our inside sales representatives will get you prompt answers to your questions about premises and campus wiring products. Contact us today!