Cables are, of course, a fundamental component of wired networks. Their efficacy highly influences network connection and data transmission. Over time, manufacturers have evolved wires to be more durable and resistant to interference. It’s important to note that even the most proficient cables have their vulnerabilities. CableWholesale explores the common causes of cable failure so you can make the most informed choices when selecting and installing cords for your wired network setup.

Insulation Damage

Conductors are necessary for electric signal transference. When the quality of the conductors inside your cable is compromised, it’s known as insulation damage. Insulation damage is usually caused by:

• Bending stress
• Abrasion within the cable structure
• Conductor strand breakage

Continuity Loss

Copper conductors are susceptible to breaking, just as any other conductors are. Copper conductors can sever under increased flexing pressure, during which the cable core can’t absorb the mechanical load. A loss of continuity occurs when insulated conductors are twisted with the wrong pitch length or direction.

Corkscrewing

Corkscrewing is one of the most identifiable common causes of cable failure. Also known as the “pigtail” effect because of its appearance, the corkscrew condition occurs in a cable when torsional forces are released during operation. Reasons that forces may release include the following:

• Incorrect cable configuration
• Wrong pitch length
• Wrong pitch direction

Layered cables, rather than bundled cables, are more prone to corkscrewing.

Jacket Abrasion, Swelling, Or Cracking

A compromised cable jacket can be the pitfall of any wired network. The jacket is a protective layer that shields wires from electromagnetic interference and damage. The softer the jacket, the more susceptible the underlying layer of conductors or shielding will be to wear and tear.

Jacket swelling and cracking are additional issues that can cause cable failure. Cable jackets will swell when in contact with oils or chemicals they cannot withstand. Cracking is often the result of extreme temperatures—the jacket breaks and deteriorates down to the cable’s shield.

Running cables outside makes them highly vulnerable to abrasion and cracking from external elements. If you need to arrange an outdoor network setup, be sure to opt for durable outdoor Ethernet cables and other robust IT gear.

When setting up your cables and electronics, chances are you use different cable management tools to help manage it all. Electrical insulation tape is a common material used by folks overseeing cable organization to cover and insulate wires using electricity. Manufacturers have developed different types of electrical tapes ranging in thickness, widths, and lengths for varying technical purposes. Before setting up your network and organizing your cables, get familiar with everything you need to know about electrical tape.

What Is Electrical Tape

If you’re unfamiliar with reasons why people use electrical tape over other more basic tapes, there are a few factors that make it stand out among the rest:

• It is an effective insulator against electricity, protecting circuitry and users by not transmitting currents.
• It is heat-resistant and fireproof, improving the fire safety of any facility that uses it with their electrical devices.
• It is flexible and user-friendly, making cable connection and insulation a breeze.

The Different Types of Electrical Insulation Tape and Their Uses

What is electrical taped used for? Electrical tape has many uses and is categorized into four different varieties. Read on to discover what differentiates rubber, vinyl, mastic, and varnished cambric.

Rubber

Rubber tape usually does not have an adhesive side but sticks to itself. This means it has to be stretched entirely around a cable to effectively adhere to itself using elastic tension against the backing.

The rubber is water-resistant, a highly appreciated perk to those working in humid environments. Rubber tape is usually used for splicing and terminating wires or cables up to 69 kilovolts.

Vinyl

The most common type of electrical insulation tape used in the home, vinyl tape is used for insulation, protection from moisture, and repairing minor nicks and cuts.

It has an abrasion-resistant backing that lasts long and has flexibility, which makes it a prime option for insulating electrical connections during electrical tapping.

Mastic

Mastic tape is the portion that composes the spongey center between the backing and the adhesive. If you need versatility with your projects, mastic tape is the way to go. You can find mastic that has vinyl backing, rubber backing, or no backing.

Since it’s an affable tape, it’s popular amongst electricians. It adheres easily and can get manipulated to fit in tight spaces and around oddly shaped materials. Mastic tape is a highly revered choice for outdoor wiring needs, as it has excellent moisture and UV resistant capabilities.

Varnished Cambric

Varnish cambric electrical insulation tape is made of straight-cut woven cotton fabric. Its fabric is primed with oil and coated in an electrical insulating finish. The varnish ensures that the tape remains intact as currents pass through the wire.

Varnished cambric tape is often employed to cover bolts, corners, and rough edges that could cut through less durable tape. It’s the ideal candidate for mechanical protection and puncture resistance around your home, vehicle, or office.

What the Different Colors of Electrical Insulation Tape Mean

When you think of types of electrical tape, you probably imagine it in black. However, manufacturers produce electrical insulation tape in almost every color of the rainbow. The varying colors indicate voltage protection and insulation. It’s vital to use the right colored tape—an incorrect tape color puts technicians at risk of insufficient voltage shielding:

• Black: Many technicians default to black insulation tape for insulation of cable connections. Black tape often gets marked with color-coded phasing tape. A ring of colored tape gets wrapped near each termination end to clearly indicate the purpose of each wire.
• White: White electrical tape is often used to signify “low voltage, neutral.”
• Blue: Internationally, blue tape indicates “low voltage, neutral sheath, 230V”
• Green: In the US, green tape means “earth ground.” It’s common for green and yellow tape to be used together to imply “isolated ground.”
• Brown: Brown tape signifies “high voltage, phase A.”
• Yellow: Yellow symbolizes “high voltage, phase C.”
• Red: Typically, red tape means “low voltage, phase B.”
• Grey: The standard implication of grey tape is “low voltage, phase C.”

What To Consider When Choosing Your Tape

In understanding everything you need to know about electrical tape, you should learn a thing or two about tape selection. So, what should you reflect on when choosing which type of electrical tape to use for your network? CableWholesale looks at other elements of electrical tape to consider when investing.

Tape Grade

Backing construction, thickness, and dielectric strength are factors of a tape’s grade. The grade is highly indicative of its performance quality. Tape backings are either monomeric or polymeric, polymeric being the more durable of the two.

Choosing high-grade tapes can increase cable longevity because they are highly durable, tightly sealed, and prevent corrosion. Reflect on your network’s environment to determine which grade will be necessary.

Color

As mentioned, different colors indicate different types of electrical tape features. Many standard electrical tapes are sold in black, but you can find them in nearly every color. Choose the color of tape based on the application you will be using it for and its voltage, phase, and other electric-relevant information.

Tape Stretch

Many technicians opt for tape that can stretch without losing original form. This is helpful in wrapping wires because technicians must often stretch the tape around the cable, which needs to then return to its original form to provide a tight wrap. Lack of elongation can result in broken tape and uncovered cables.

Ease of Use

Organizing cables can be a cumbersome task. Avoid exacerbating your frustration by choosing an easy-to-use electrical tape. The tape should be easy to handle. Check to see that the tape can be torn by hand and easily wrapped around wires. Its adhesive should be strong enough to withstand the conditions of where it will be located.

Code Compliance

Familiarize yourself with your area’s building codes. Select tapes that have been meticulously tested for reliability to ensure you’re getting tools that are worthy of your investment. It’s a good idea to opt for these tapes, too, as they are most likely to comply with building code.

For Your Cable Management Consideration

In addition to using electrical tape, CableWholesale offers cable wraps, runners, straps, and ties to keep your reliable 1000ft Cat5e cable bundles organized. We have all the digital accessories your network needs to function effectively and, most importantly, safely. Check out our inventory today to learn which supplies can enhance your connection setup.

Business networks have very high demands. They need high speed, the ability to cover long distances, and often heavy bandwidth connections. When IT is enlisted for network setup, they strive to establish the most efficient connection—which is often where fiber optics come into play.

Fiber optics transmit light pulses along amenable glass threads. Though a costlier investment than copper cables, optic cables have gradually become the number one option for new or upgraded networks. CableWholesale explores why IT professionals choose fiber optics above all else.

They Offer Faster Data Transmission

Data transmission rates are measured in gigabits of data per second (Gbps) or, in some cases, terabits per second (Tbps). While most manufactured copper cable transmissions max out at 40 Gbps, fiber optics are reported to transfer data with nearly the speed of light.

Fiber Optics Can Cover Longer Distances

Attenuation is the weakening of a signal over distance. Both copper and fiber wires suffer from attenuation, but, notably, fiber optics signal can carry for much longer than copper.

Limited at roughly 330 feet, copper cables can serve well in smaller facilities. In fact, CableWholesale’s bulk cat5e cables can be finessed by IT to expand across greater distances, with consideration for signal transference. Fiber optic cables, however, can carry signals for well over 24 miles—an impressive fete for company’s that have a high cabling demand!

They’re Unaffected by EMI

Troubling EMI is one of the main reasons why IT professionals choose fiber optics over other wires. EMI, or electromagnetic interference, occurs when electrical signaling creates a field of interference surrounding cables. Cables that run near each other can suffer from crosstalk, which impedes signal transmission.

Because fiber optics transmit light, they do not generate EMI. The lack of EMI reduces security risks and the need for retransmission—a win-win for IT professionals.

Optimal for Space and Cable Management

Fiber optics strands are incredibly narrow with roughly the same diameter as human hair. Though physically less demanding than their counterpart, fiber optics are still able to send vast data at favorable speeds and distances. They’re often safeguarded with protective sheathing that puts them at about two millimeters in width.

Fiber optics are incredibly easy to manage because of the minimal space they consume. IT professionals have easier access to input areas and can rest assured their equipment is getting greater air circulation. Cable management becomes much more feasible with these narrow, proficient wires.

Tree topology combines the functions of star and bus topology. Businesses with larger networks usually adopt this type of network for its benefits. Its ability to serve several devices at once enables versatile performance under one network. Though tree topology has a handful of plusses, it also has its flaws to be wary of. CableWholesale reviews the advantages and disadvantages of tree topology, as well as its features.

How It Works

In a tree topology network, groups of star-configured workstations connected to a linear bus mainline cable. Using the main line, different network groups can transmit data to one another. One of the reasons tree topologies are often employed by large companies is because their setup allows for network expansion without having to compromise connection. In the next section, we’ll dive into a few of the advantages of tree topology, followed by its disadvantages.

The Advantages of Tree Topology

Because it combines two different topologies, tree topology offers nearly each perk of bus and star topologies. Here’s why this topology type serves larger business well:

• Highly scalable: Workstations can be added without major hassle or fretting over interrupting other devices’ connection. New gadgets simply need a hub to connect to that derives from the main transmission cable.
• Centralized Monitoring: The layout of a tree topology makes it easier to manage and monitor connection than other topology types. This is helpful for when a network needs reconfiguring and determining the source of a connection issue.
• Point-to-Point Wiring: Tree topology uses point-to-point wiring for individual segments. This streamlines maintenance and other IT problems.

The Disadvantages of Tree Topology

Now that we’ve looked at the benefits of a tree topology network, let’s assess what makes some people uncertain about using it. The cons of tree topology are:

• Single Point of Failure: If the mainline cable—also referred to as the backbone of a tree topology system—fails, then connection between networks stops. Though separate networks can continue to function off their hub, it’s inconvenient for necessary cross network communication.
• Challenging Configuration: Because they’re so large, tree topologies are challenging to set up. It takes plenty of consideration to ensure your cables are running safely and effectively.
• High Cable Demand: The cost of setup can be a turnoff for folks considering tree topology. Since the topology requires lots of wires, its best to make bulk or wholesale orders.

CableWholesale supplies everything you could need for a successful tree topology network. Our bundles of 100 ft Ethernet cables allow you to go the distance with your company’s network setup, and our cable management accessories help you keep order. Contact one of our technical professionals today to learn about which of our products qualify for lifetime warranty to get the most out of your connection supplies.

Does quarantine, cold weather, or mere boredom have you looking to create or upgrade your entertainment system? A home theater or gaming setup has several aspects worth optimizing to create an ideal listening and viewing experience. CableWholesale reflects on what you need for a home entertainment setup to make your time at home more exciting.

The Sight: A TV or Video Projector

First and foremost is the device that will display every video—a TV or video projector. Because of technological advancements, there are several TV and video projector options that guarantee a crisp, clear image. Current choices for viewing equipment include the following:

• LED, LCD, or OLED TV: TVs can now relay images in 720p, 1080p, or 4k Ultra HD resolution—4k Ultra HD being the most commonly available option for TV sizes above 40-inches.
• Video projector or screen combination: Projectors provide a unique experience that mimics the real theater in the comfort of your home. To maximize a video projector’s image, your entertainment room must be as dark as possible. For smaller rooms, viewers should opt for a short-throw projector.

The Sound: Home Theater Receiver and Company

The listening experience is just as important as the viewing experience when it comes to gaming and watching your favorite films. To construct the best sound system for all your entertainment endeavors, your setup should include a receiver or preamp, loudspeakers, a subwoofer, and any necessary acoustic treatments.

Home Theater Receiver or Preamp/Amp

Home theater receivers nearly function as the heart of sound systems. They serve a multitude of functions, including:

• A radio tuner with access to AM/FM, HD, and satellite radio.
• A preamplifier to control the selected video and audio source. It redistributes sound signals to the appropriate amplifier channels and the subwoofer output. An AV receiver preamp can also redirect video signals from source components (DVD, Blu-ray disc players, etc.) to the TV.
• A built-in multi-channel amplifier that transmits sound signals to the speaker setup.

While a home theater receiver will suffice for most entertainment systems, some setups require more segregation to avoid interference. For setups that need flexibility, preamplifier and amplifier combinations are the best substitute.

Loudspeakers

Speakers are another essential element within a sound system. To create the best acoustic match between your whole system’s components, buy the same brand and related model speakers for your theater. Listen to various speakers and setup types before choosing one that’s right for your home.

The Subwoofer

The subwoofer is responsible for reproducing extremely low frequencies in movies and music. The right subwoofer for you will depend on the entertainment room’s size and whether it’s carpeted.

The Safeguard: Surge Protector or Power Conditioner

With all the effort you put into mastering a high-quality entertainment system, it’s worth adequate protection. Not all entertainment equipment can perdure a sudden power outage. Safeguard your costly devices with a surge protector so you don’t have to toss your investments after power surge or outage.

Power conditioners are smart gadgets to add to your system because they regulate and monitor power usage. Prevent ghastly electric bills and overpowered devices with a power conditioner.

The Connection: Cables and Speaker Wires

In order to have a cohesive and functioning setup, every piece of equipment needs to get connected. Having the appropriate wires is critical to quality streaming—whether that’s online or via a source component. Measure the distance between outlets and inputs to decipher which cable length is best for your system. CableWholesale has premier HDMI cables with Ethernet that provide HQ connection for optimum video and gaming setups.

Speaker wires will also be specific to your devices’ needs and distance from one another. You must consider the speaker wires’ gauges—14- and 16-gauges are the most recommended for audio systems. 18-gauge speaker wires are not recommended for long distances, as they’re very thin and are susceptible to electrical interference.

Questions To Consider Before Setting Up

Nothing’s worse than having the process of upgrading your system hampered by negligence. Various factors of your entertainment area should be considered to ensure optimal enhancements. Large, small, wide, narrow—whatever the dimensions of your entertainment space, ask yourself the following questions before ordering and installing equipment.

• Is ambient light present? How much? A lot of natural lighting can cause glare on TV screens or screen surface reflection. For video projectors, natural light can wash out the video image. Too much ambient light doesn’t make for an ideal viewing party and may encourage you to invest in curtains or shudders to use while streaming or gaming.
• Is the room carpeted? Carpet absorbs sound, making it critical to consider when building out your sound system. Bare floors cause echo and reverb that hinders the audial experience. To strike the perfect audio, have a balance of reflective and absorbent materials in your entertainment room.
• What kind of material makes up the wall structure? Drywall tends to help with echo absorption more than wood, but it still generates some unwanted vibrations. If you have persistent issues with unfavorable audio artifacts, equip the room with acoustic treatments.
• Where will your home entertainment system components go? As you’ll find when building out your entertainment setup, there are a lot of items to be organized. Accommodate for the abundance of devices and cords with proper cable management and storage compartments.
• Will you locate speakers inside the room, in the wall, or elsewhere? Assess where the best location for the speakers will be. Deciding whether they will be installed in the walls, around the TV, on the ceiling, or elsewhere will inform which kind of speakers are right for an optimal surround sound.
• Where will you have seating in relation to the screen? The way your entertainment room’s furniture is arranged will influence which kind of screen and screen size to go with. You’ll want one that provides a clear image to every seat in the room.

Getting Started

As you start to assemble and acquire what you need for a home entertainment system, consider CableWholesale for all your connectivity and cable management needs. We offer cables in bulk to make your entertainment system endeavors feasible. With our supplemental cable accessories, you can manage a tidy gaming and viewing space. Contact us today to discover which of our products can help enhance your setup.

Sometimes referred to as a coax cable, coaxial cables are electrical wires that transmit signals from point A to point B. They’re popular due to their insulation layer that reduces electromagnetic interference. Coaxial cords are sturdy in nature, each varying type shielded so the center conductor can transmit information efficiently. In this article, CableWholesale covers what you need to know about coaxial cables and how they may be beneficial to your entertainment or computer network.

What Are Coaxial Cables Used For?

There are two main categories of these cables: ones with an electrical resistance of 75 Ohm and ones functioning with 50 Ohm. 75 Ohm wires are primarily used for video, while 50 Ohm cables are utilized for data and communications.

Of the two categories, there are roughly four different types of coaxial cables. You may use them around the house or office for television, phone connection, and other daily conveniences. Each type (RF, RG-6, RG-59, and RG-11) performs best under different circumstances and for different purposes.

The Advantages of Coaxial Cables

• The center conductor offers considerable protection that prevents the connection from becoming disrupted. The inner conductor is enveloped in foam insulation, wrapped in a metal braided shield, and covered in a plastic jacket.
• Their special design allows you to place these cables next to metal objects without losing transmission as you would with other cables.
• These cables can be installed easily and are flexible.

The Disadvantages

In inspecting what you need to know about coaxial cables, don’t overlook their flaws. Though highly versatile and durable, coaxial cables have their limits.

• They are bulkier than other cables.
• Due to the insulation thickness, coaxial cords are expensive for long-distance networks.
• Coaxial cables have to be grounded to prevent interference.
• They are still at risk of interference via T-joint. T-joints can be inserted by breaking the cable, gaining access to a variety of potentially sensitive information.

Contact CableWholesale today to learn more about the versatility of our coaxial cables. If you’re not looking for coaxial cables, we also supply 100-foot HDMI cables and bundles of other distances, so you can optimize your entertainment or office network setup as needed. We have a wide selection of cable management equipment, too, for when your network needs refinement.