Basic Idea Behind the Working of an Ethernet Cable

An Ethernet cable is a common networking cable. This cable connects various devices like computers, routers, and switches to each other in a local area network. There are certain limitations in the physical cable but it works fine most of the time.

In this blog, I’ll explain the fundamental ideal behind the working of an Ethernet cable.

Structure of an Ethernet Cable

An ethernet cable looks like a phone cable but it differs in size and internal structure. It has eight wires, unlike telephone cable which only has four wires. It has connectors at both ends. Ethernet cable comes in various colors. There are two basic types of ethernet cables: solid and standard ethernet cable. Solid Cables have better performance and more protection against all kinds of cross-talks and electrical interferences. Standard Ethernet cables are less likely to cracks and breaks, making them the ideal choice for indoor installations.

Plenum vs Non-plenum

These are two basic jackets in ethernet cables. Planum-rated jackets are designed for plenum spaces in any building. These are the spaces that have continues air circulation. This is an area between the floors of any building. These jackets are fire-retardant. The other type of jackets is called riser jackets. Cables with these jackets are ideal for non-plenum spaces like in elevator shafts.

Shielded and Non-shielded

If you are looking to install these cables in a busy electrical environment then Shielded Cables can be an ideal choice. These cables have a certain design that cuts down the electrical interference with aluminum foil wrapped around the wire. Another type of ethernet cable is non-shielded. In this case, each pair of wire has a foil shield around them.

Restrictions of Ethernet Cable

Any Ethernet Cable comes with certain limitations. Length and durability are two of the main factors. If an ethernet cable is too long or it is of poor quality; it will not work well and signals will be poor. Electrical resistant also affects the cable if it is too long.

Specification	Cat5e	Cat6	Cat6a
Cable Jacket	Plenum, Riser & PVC	Plenum, Riser & PVC	Plenum & Riser
Wire Gauge	24-AWG	23-AWG	23-AWG Highly Twisted
Frequencies	350 MHZ	550 MHZ	750 MHZ
Installation Temp	0°C to 60°C	0°C to 60°C	0°C to 60°C
Pairs	4 Twisted Pairs	4 Twisted Pairs	4 Twisted Pairs
Package	Easy Pull Box	Easy Pull Box	Wood Spool
Colors	Black, Blue, White, Red, Green, Yellow	Black, Blue, White, Red, Green, Yellow	Black, Blue, White, Red, Green, Yellow
Standard Compliance	ETL, FCC, CE, CSA, ISO/IES, RoHS	FCC, CE, CSA, ISO/IES, RoHS	ETL, FCC, CE, CSA, ISO/IES, RoHS