A Simple Guide to Buying the Right Ethernet Cable

cat5 cables

When it comes to having access to the internet, people have several different options to choose from. This is especially true seeing as how there were 3.74 billion people using the internet around the world as of March 2017. While many people use Wi-FI, Ethernet cables are often a more practical and reliable choice. But how do you choose between Ethernet cable types? Let’s take a look at a few factors to consider when choosing Ethernet cables.

Solid vs. stranded cable: When referring to the copper conductor in the ethernet cables, you generally have to choose between solid or stranded Ethernet cables. In solid cables, one solid wire per conductor is used, which is often seen in Cat5 cables. On the other hand, a stranded cable consists of multiple wires per conductor, which are wrapped around each other. Solid cables are good to use for structured wiring, as they can easily be put into patch panels and wall jacks because they only have one conductor. Stranded cables can be used for crimp conductors or to create patch cables.

Desired speed: Different Ethernet cables will offer different internet speeds. If you’re looking for basic internet speeds, Cat5 cables are a great option. Cat5 cables are easy to install and they can last for several years without needing replacing. Furthermore, they’re reliable and often faster than Wi-Fi connections. But if you’re looking for even faster internet, Cat6 Ethernet cables could be a good option. While they can be more difficult to install and have a higher price tag, they do offer more speed. So depending on what you’re looking for, keep internet speed in mind.

Environmental factors: It’s also important to consider what type of environment the Ethernet cable will be in, as this will impact what kind of cable you need. If the cable is going to be in a low-vibration area or an enclosed environment, you should go with a solid conductor that offers high bandwidth. But in areas that have high vibrations and temperatures, you may want to consider a flexible cable option that is resistant to torsion and trailing.

Choosing between Ethernet cables can often be a complex process. But keep these tips in mind and buy your cables from a reputable company to ensure you’re getting the right Ethernet cables for your needs.

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