Ethernet Cables Explained

What is Ethernet Cables ?

• An Ethernet cable is a type of network cable.
• Ethernet cables can connect your electronic devices.
• Ethernet cables come in different lengths and colors.

Three main types of Ethernet cables

• Twisted-pair cable
• Coaxial cable
• Fiber-optic cable

Twisted-pair cable Explained

• 4 pair Cable – 8 cables
• Based on Ethernet Technique ( IEEE – 802.3 )
• Uses – Computer Network, CCTV, Telephone, Wi-Fi devices, V-SAT.
• Speed – up to 1 Gbps.
• Distance Coverage – up to 100m.
• Connector.
  • RJ-45 (RJ- Registered Jack ) – 8 pins.
  • RJ-45 (RJ) – 8 pins.
• Categories – cat1,2,3,4,5,5e,6,6a,7.
• Types
  • STP – Very less effect of EMI
  • UTP – High effect of EMI.
• Cable Color code given by TIA/EIA
  • Pair 1 – Orange, White Orange.
  • Pair 2 – Blue, White Blue.
  • Pair 3 – Green, White Green.
  • Pair 4 – Brown, White Brown.
  • Total pairs 4 = 8 wires
• Twisted Pair Cable pairs are managed to create different cable as per used by arranging is cable color.
  • Straight Over Cable – Used to connect dissimilar devices like – Computer to hub or switch, Router to switch, firewall to switch/router.
  • Cross Over Cable – Used to connect similar devices like – Router to Router, Hub to Hub, Switch to Switch,
  • Roll Over Cable – Used to connect Router, Firewall or Switch with PC for configuration Now, the above cables are based on sequence of color of cable in the connector.
• Patch Code – Industry manufactured TPC with connector.

Coaxial cable Explained

• Single copper wire.
• Proper shielded
• Connector – BNC
• Distance Coverage – up to 500m.
• Speed – 10Mbps.
• Uses – Cable TV, Bus Topology based network, CCTV.
• Types:
  • RG-58 / Thick Coaxial Cable / 10Base5 ,
  • RG-59 / Thin Coaxial Cable / 10Base2 .
• To connect PC with coaxial cable, PC must have BNC port.

Fiber-optic cable Explained

• Light – Laser / LED
• Small Diameter.
• Works on total internal reflection.
• Glass / Fiber.
• Long distance.
• Speed high.
• Flexible.
• Bandwidth high.
• Costly.