In company networks, various types of cables are used for different purposes. Here are the most common types and their differences:
1. Ethernet Cables (Twisted Pair)
- Types: Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, Cat8
- Use: Connecting computers, switches, routers, and other networking devices.
- Speed: Ranges from 1 Gbps (Cat5e) to 40 Gbps (Cat8).
- Distance: Up to 100 meters for standard Ethernet; longer distances with specialized cables.
2. Fiber Optic Cables
- Types: Single-mode and Multi-mode
- Use: High-speed data transmission over long distances.
- Speed: Can exceed 100 Gbps.
- Distance: Single-mode can reach several kilometers; multi-mode typically up to 400 meters.
3. Coaxial Cables
- Use: Primarily for cable internet and television signals.
- Speed: Varies, but generally lower than fiber optics.
- Distance: Effective over longer distances compared to twisted pair cables, but not as far as fiber optics.
4. USB Cables
- Use: Connecting peripherals (e.g., printers, scanners) to computers.
- Speed: USB 2.0 (up to 480 Mbps), USB 3.0 (up to 5 Gbps), USB 3.1 (up to 10 Gbps).
- Distance: Generally limited to a few meters (up to 5 meters for USB 3.0).
5. HDMI Cables
- Use: Transmitting audio and video signals from devices like computers to displays.
- Speed: Supports up to 48 Gbps with HDMI 2.1.
- Distance: Effective up to about 15 meters without signal boosters.
Comparison Overview
Conclusion
The choice of cable depends on the specific needs of the network, including speed, distance, and type of devices being connected. Ethernet cables are the most common for local networks, while fiber optics are preferred for high-speed and long-distance connections.
