Ethernet Cable (Without Ends)
Ethernet Cat 5e cables are the “Enhanced” version of Cat 5 cables. Both cables look identical and can plug into the same port utilizing RJ-45, the end piece that allows connection to an Ethernet jack. Cat 5e cables are backwards compatible with Cat5 cables, allowing for a smooth transition to an upgraded network. Cat 5e cables support networks that run up to 1 Gbps, while Cat 5 cables support networks running at 10-100 Mbps. A higher bandwidth allows data to be transferred across a network at a faster speed. The bandwidth of Cat 5e cables can reach 250 MHz, while the bandwidth of Cat 5 is only 100 MHz. Cat 5e cables have been specifically designed to reduce crosstalk. Crosstalk is the interference that occurs between cables through the emission of electromagnetic signals when they are close to each other. This leads to errors in data transmission.
Ethernet Cat 6 cables are an improvement on the Cat 5e cables. Cat 6 cables can support 10 Gigabit Network speeds and offer up to 10 Gbps max speed. The frequency of Cat 6 cables is almost double that of Cat 5e, around 250 to 500 MHz. However, once the distance of the cable goes beyond 180 feet, the transmission speed of Cat 6 cables declines to 1 Gbps, similar to Cat 5e cables. Cat 6 cables are designed with a nylon spline in the wiring, which increases the strength and flexibility, as well as reducing crosstalk. Cat 6 cables are backwards compatible with Cat 5e cables.
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Industrial Wire Types: Part 2
Twisted Pair Wire
Twisted pair wire is most commonly seen in scenarios where data is being transfer to and from certain locations. It uses two separate conductors, twisted together, for a single circuit. The two conductors are twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference or “cross talk” between the two wires. It is common to use twisted pairs in place of a coax cable for data transfer. Coax can be fairly expensive and can be more difficult to run whereas twisted wire is not as thick or rigid and can easily be maneuvered in tough to reach locations. Twisted wire will always come in pairs, but there are no limits to how many pairs can be included in a single cable. For instance, CAT5 or CAT6 cable, which is commonly used in home and office networks, uses twisted pair wire. This type of cable has four different pairs of communication lines.
Shielded Wire
Shielded wire is different from regular wire insulation in that it is made of a conductive material. This conductive material includes, braided strands of copper (or other types of metal), non-braided aluminum and copper tape. The purpose of this shielding is to protect the signal passing through the wire from any outside interference. Unlike twisted cable, which is trying to eliminate interference among wire being used in the same circuit, shielded wire needs protection from outside interference and from other electrical circuits in the area.
Tray Cable
Tray Cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors, with or without associated bare or covered grounding conductors under a nonmetallic sheath, for installation in cable trays, in raceways, or where supported by a messenger wire. It is common to see tray cable that has many different conductors that can be used for control wiring, instrumentation and signal wiring as well as many other applications. Tray cable is often rated for use in direct sunlight applications, as well as direct burial applications. Because of the potential weight of tray cable when suspended, it will need to be supported properly to avoid hazardous environments.