When organized correctly, data centers can be extremely resourceful facilities for businesses. Data centers help streamline data processes, whether that be storing, processing, or distributing. Because they function to support data operations, data centers are vital assets and should be treated as such. One of the more critical aspects of keeping your data center running is cable management. In this blog, CableWholesale covers what you need to know about cable management in data centers and why it’s integral to data center success.

What Is the Importance of Cable Management in Data Centers?

If you want a tidy environment, you’ll need to invest in cable management. Cable management isn’t just essential to creating a visually appealing work environment—it’s also vital to establish one that’s safe. Organizing your cables reduces electrical fire hazards as well as the risk of an employee stumbling over them.

Cable management enhances the lifespan of your equipment, too. When cables are bunched together and tangled, they can cause overheating, wire damage, and a decrease in cable performance. When an issue does arise, an organized group of cables is much easier to troubleshoot.

How To Properly Manage Your Cables

Now that you have an incentive to keep your cords organized, let’s look at what you need to know about cable management in data centers and how to best organize your facility.

Label and Color Code Your Cables

Labeling is a top priority in effective cable management. Label both ends of every cord to make identifying each one easier. The more labeled your setup is, the quicker it’ll be to manage data transmission issues.

Color coding your data center is also helpful. Note what each color cable does so that anyone who interacts with your cords knows what they’re looking at. Color coding is beneficial for safety purposes, too, as it will help employees avoid mistaking electrical cords for Ethernet cables.

Consider Cable Length

A common issue with unorganized cables is that they’re much longer than the distance they need to cover. Excess cable length causes unsightly bunches that make proper management more difficult.

Gather thorough measurements before purchasing new cables for your data center. Your cords should always have a little slack, but not so much that it interferes with your organization process.

Opt for High-Quality Cords

Cheap cables are more susceptible to interference and noise, which will hinder your workflow and data operations. Every time IT professionals must troubleshoot your cabling systems, your cable exquisite management may be compromised.

Utilize high-quality cables for your data center to reduce the need for troubleshooting and rearranging cables. Because data centers are expansive, it’s best to turn to bulk cable suppliers such as CableWholesale for your needs. With our selection of wholesale cords, you can equip a fully functioning data center without having to break the bank.

One of the main reasons people opt for wired networks over wireless is to experience less interruptions, which then makes issues with Ethernet especially aggravating. If you’re not an IT whiz, you may be unfamiliar with handling connectivity issues. Whether you’ve got to tend to Ethernet disruptions at home or in the office, consider CableWholesale’s easy fixes to try if your Ethernet is not working. Soon enough, you’ll have a seamless connection and a resourceful troubleshooting experience!

First, Check That You’ve Enabled Connection

Before you jump to any conclusions, ensure that you’ve enabled your connection under your network settings. You’ll notice an icon labeled “Ethernet.” Right-click on this image and select “Enable.” If this approach doesn’t mend your Ethernet issues, continue exploring our other options.

Assess Your Drivers

The software that makes your hardware compatible with one another is known as the driver. Without functioning drivers, your setup will fail to work with connected devices.

Always opt for automatic installation and reinstallation of drivers to avoid selecting the wrong type. Having the wrong driver on your system may be the cause of Ethernet cable incompatibility. An update of your driver software will allow it to identify the Ethernet cord and match it with the correct driver version for a more cohesive connection.

Restart the Network Adapter

Your Network Adapter won’t always work in your favor. When your wired network connection starts to get testy, consider restarting the Network Adapter.

To restart the Adapter, you’ll locate your Ethernet connection under your network settings. You’re going right-click on Ethernet and select “Disable.” You’ll wait a few minutes, then right-click and select “Enable,” hopefully restoring the ideal Ethernet speed.

Restart the Router

Another easy fix to try if your Ethernet is not working is to simply restart your router. When you refresh your router, the internet connection that your Internet Service Provider (ISP) provides your home is reset. During this reset process, the hope is that optimal Ethernet speed is restored.

Upgrade Your Ethernet Cable

Sometimes it’s the hardware that poses an issue. Cable damage or a faulty connector can cause Ethernet cords to give out over time.

Consider how long you’ve had your Ethernet cord and the advantages of upgrading it for a new one. If none of the other methods seem to mend your network issues, it’s likely time to update your cables.

Replacing Your Ethernet Cable

Make the most out of your investment by opting for high-quality cables. CableWholesale offers a range of bulk network cables, primarily high-speed Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a Ethernet bundles for premier home and office use. We also supply adapters and cable management accessories to help keep your setup high-functioning and well-organized. Contact us today to learn more about our diverse selection of network supplies.

When it comes to setting up your computer network system, there are tons of options for hardware, cables, and all kinds of equipment. The abundance of decisions to make while organizing your setup can be overwhelming, especially if you don’t have any experience with computer systems. However, optimizing your network doesn’t have to be all that complicated. In this article, we’ll look at one vital component to a well-running wired network: the Ethernet cable.

Just like any other component of a complete computer system, you have a slew of Ethernet cable options to choose from. For the sake of finding the right cord for your setup, we can categorize Ethernet cables into two separate categories—shielded and unshielded. CableWholesale reflects on the advantages of using shielded vs. unshielded Ethernet cables. Upon reviewing our comprehensive list of pros and cons between the two, you’ll have a much better understanding of how these Ethernet cables function and feel much more confident in selecting cable bundles that are optimal for your system.

Main Categories of Ethernet Cables

It’s important to distinguish the differences between Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a Ethernet cables, as you can purchase any one of them as shielded or unshielded. To start, narrow down your Ethernet cable option by determining which “Cat,” or category, cable will do the job.

Cat5e

An evolved version of Cat5 cables, Cat5e Ethernet cords have reduced crosstalk, leading to a less disruptive connection to your internet. Commonly, people peruse Cat5e cables for sale when looking to fulfill basic connectivity needs at home.

Cat6

Cat6 Ethernet cables can perform throughout expansive business infrastructures. Cat6 cables are convenient for folks looking to upgrade their cables for Cat5e and Cat5 compatible devices, as Cat6 Ethernet cords will still fit with these older devices.

Cat6 cords are also effective at reducing crosstalk due to the plastic separator spine integrated inside. This separator also contributes to greater speed.

Cat6a

A grade above Cat6 cables, Cat6a Ethernet cables support 10 Gbps and can do so for up to 100 meters of cable. Because you can cover so much ground with Cat6a cables, you’ll need ample protection against EMI. This is why you’ll find most Cat6a cables with a shielded structure to protect against electromagnetic interference.

The Difference Between Shielded and Unshielded Ethernet Cable Structures

Now that you’re aware of the differences between Ethernet cable categories and which one may be right for your connection needs, it’s time to check out the difference between shielding and unshielded Ethernet cable structures. Understanding how they’re composed can provide a better understanding of what promotes the advantages of using shielded vs. unshielded Ethernet cables and their disadvantages, too.

The Structure of Shielded Ethernet Cables

Shielded cables, or shielded twisted pair (STP) cables, contain conductive materials to provide maximum coverage from noise that would hinder your connection. Materials such as mesh or aluminum foil get wrapped around twisted wire pairs, which are then contained within a cable jacket.

The Structure of Unshielded Ethernet Cables

As you can likely infer from their name, unshielded Ethernet cables do not have the additional outer shielding that STP cables do. UTP cables are still contained by an outer jacket, but unshielded twisted pairs rely on the way that the wire pairs are twisted inside of the cable to protect them against electromagnetic interference.

If you were to cut into an unshielded cable, you wouldn’t find any additional mesh or foil wrapped around the wires. Because of their structure, UTP cables are often lighter and cheaper than STP cables.

The Pros of Using Shielded Ethernet Cables

The way shielded Ethernet cables are structured contributes to many reasons why these cables are advantageous to both business owners and homeowners in need of a reliable connection. Let’s look at the advantages that STP cables have over UTP cables.

• STP cables ensure protection from interference. The conductive material that wraps around the interior wires either reflects or conducts external noise away in a fashion that doesn’t disrupt the internal conductor’s signals.
• STP cables contain greater electrical characteristics than UTP cables.
• Shielded Ethernet cables ensure full transference of data through the entirety of the cable. EMI exposure is especially present in data centers, company offices, industrial settings, and other spaces where there’s a large volume of electrical equipment. Without safeguarded cables, there’s no guarantee that you’ll be able to transmit your data without problems occurring regularly.

The Cons of Using Shielded Ethernet Cables

Though the advantages of shielded Ethernet cables are enticing, it’s essential to consider the bad alongside the good. Below are the flaws of STP cables.

• Shielding makes for heavier and larger cables, which can make installation more difficult for someone without cable installation experience.
• STP cables are generally more expensive than UTP cables for their revered protection.
• STP cables are often not as flexible as some UTP cables can be.

The Pros of Using Unshielded Ethernet Cables

While UTP cables may not have conductive materials, they still have the following advantages.

• UTP cables are flexible and lightweight, making installation fairly simple.
• Unshielded Ethernet cables are cheaper than STP cables.
• UTP cables do not require grounding and are compatible with most major networking systems.

The Cons of Using Unshielded Ethernet Cables

Check out which flaws make some folks choose STP cables over unshielded Ethernet cords.

• UTP cables are much more susceptible to unfavorable and inconvenient EMI, which means an inconsistent transmission of data.
• Unshielded Ethernet cables are not ideal for long-distance networks, as they are vulnerable to noise. Data centers and other tech facilities should avoid incorporating UTP cables in their system.
• UTP cables are often sold in limited lengths, since they’re not the premier choice for expansive networks.

So, Are Shielded or Unshielded Cables Better?

Where and how you intend to use your cables should heavily influence your decision to go with either shielded or unshielded Ethernet cables. As mentioned, larger facilities with lots of technical equipment, such as hospitals, data centers, radio stations, and airports, benefit from the advantages of STP cables. However, where minimal EMI is present, the use of unshielded Ethernet cables should suffice. You can sustain your home or a smaller office with UTP cables and your connection should work just fine.

Regardless of your preference, CableWholesale provides both STP and UTP cables of every main category Ethernet cable. Check out our expansive inventory online or give us a call to learn more about our eclectic selection of cables and cable management accessories.

When you upgrade or change an element within your computer system, the last thing you want is to realize that the piece is no longer compatible with the rest of your devices. Fortunately, as technology components have developed, so have adapters. Adapters are a convenience to both your time and money, as they establish a connection between two previously incompatible elements. Instead of having to toss or upgrade equipment, you can happily use a combination of new and old devices. In this article, we’ll flesh out our guide for choosing the right SCSI adapter for your computer.

What Is an SCSI Adapter?

Before we get into choosing an ideal SCSI adapter for your computer setup, let’s briefly explain what that is. SCSI stands for small computer systems interface. SCSI utilizes bus technology, meaning that each device within the system is connected to a central bus cable.

SCSI adapters come in handy when your system’s peripherals no longer match due to device replacements and other system upgrades. SCSI adapters allow connection between devices, so you don’t have to warp your whole interface for performance success.

What Are the Different Types of SCSI Adapters?

SCSI adapters are categorized into three main different signaling types: single-ended (SE), high voltage differential (HVD), and low voltage differential (LVD). When looking for adapters with one of these three signaling types, you’ll find them either as internal or external adapters. The three things you should always determine before investing in an adapter are:

• Whether you need internal or external.
• The required signaling type.
• The type of SCSI cables that the adapter will be connecting.

Choosing a High-Quality SCSI Adapter for Your Computer

Choosing the right SCSI adapter for your computer doesn’t have to be complicated. From our selection of SCSI adapters, you’ll be able to connect the mismatching devices within your system instead of having to upgrade. With the right assortment of high-quality SCSI adapters, you can have a well-running computer system without having to make a steep investment. Contact us today to learn more about our SCSI equipment. From internal to external SCSI adapters, cables, and terminators, you’re sure to find just what you need to create an optimal system.

If you have ever enjoyed a movie or video game with dazzling graphics and sounds, chances are you were reaping the advantages of an HDMI cable and connector. Video game consoles, Blu-ray players, and cable boxes—each of these devices have developed with HDMI outlets, so HDMI cords can transmit visuals and audio to your TV screen or gaming monitor. Though HMDI cables are extremely popular these days, their variety of functionalities, types, and different setups can make things a little confusing for the average person. If not paired with the right devices or cable management processes, your HDMI cable’s performance may falter. CableWholesale looks at everything you need to properly set up your HDMI connectors to prevent poor HDMI performance from happening.

What Is HDMI?

HDMI stands for High-Definition Multimedia Interface. HMDI connectors are the modern middleman for establishing a connection between audio-visual devices.

Simply put, it’s responsible for getting audio and video to your television, projector, or speaker system. Different HDMI cords offer different functionalities, such as Ethernet or especially high-grade video and audio transmission. For the most part, people use only one type of HDMI cable and connector—more on that later.

What Do HDMI Cables and Connectors Look Like?

Separating and categorizing your home or office’s cables can be a hassle. CableWholesale describes the appearance of both HDMI cables and HDMI cords, so you don’t have to waste time rummaging through a bundle of wires.

What an HDMI Cable Looks Like

The HDMI cable used to transmit data from one device to another will look different than most cables because of its chunkier end with the connector component that goes into your monitor or speaker system. This part of the cable is often rectangular, dense, and holds the connector in place. Most HDMI cables are black, but you can always color-code them with a little electrical tape.

What an HDMI Connector Looks Like

The connector is typically what sets the HDMI cable apart from the rest. They’re unique from a USB connector, as the outlet on your television or other audio-visual device is shaped like a trapezoid. This means that you can only plug the cord in one way for it to fit, nixing the indecisiveness of whether you have your cable plugged in correctly.

You’ll find that most HDMI connectors are silver, though there are the occasional gold-plated HMDI connectors that stand out. Gold plated or not, your HDMI connector will work just as well. The base of an HDMI connector, or the bulky part that supports both connector and cable, is usually black in color.

On the market, there are straight and right-angled cables. Straight HDMI cords are very popular, though right-angled are favorable for hard-to-reach spots. If you already have a straight connector, but would enjoy the benefits of a right-angled connector, you can always utilize an HDMI cord adapter to achieve the same thing.

Different Features of HDMI That Users Love

Here are a few advantageous features of HDMI that users appreciate.

Transition-Minimized Differential Signaling (TMDS)

With ordinary cables, log distances tend to interfere with data transmission, meaning inconvenient signal loss and disruptive noise. TMDS safeguard HDMI from these hindrances as it transmits audio and video data from one device to the next.

High-Bandwidth Digital Content Protection (HDCP)

With HDCP and Extended Display Identification Data (EDID) chips on connectors and ports, HDMI devices can authenticate the credentials of both devices that are receiving and sending information. Once legitimacy is verified, data is transmitted in a process that’s known as a “handshake” in the IT world. This protective measure shields whatever your HDMI is transmitting from interception.

Display Data Channel (DDC)

HDMI build enables VESA DDC support, which is essential to your devices projecting the data in an optimal fashion. The VESA DDC is a set of protocols that enable HDMIs to adjust monitor settings after inquiring about the audio and video formats it can process. This information swap between source and display is known as Extended Display Information Data, transmitted by the Display Data Channel.

Consumer Electronic Control (CEC)

Many modern streaming devices support CEC, which allows users to navigate up to 15 HDMI devices connected to one TV with a single remote.

Chroma Subsampling

A form of video data compression, chroma subsampling minimizes color data during transmission to reduce the odds of a hindrance to image quality.

Different Formats That an HDMI Cord Can Support

Various Audio Formats

HDMI devices support at least the minimum standard of uncompressed stereo LPCM audio. HDMI supports common audio formats for television, movies, and music, including the following:

HDMI 1.0-1.1 Video Formats

• 720p at 25/30/50/60 Hz
• 1080p at 25/30/50/60 Hz

HDMI 1.2-1.2a Video Formats

• 720p at 100/120 Hz
• 1440p at 25/30 Hz

HDMI 2.0-2.0b Video Formats

• 1080p at 240 Hz
• 1440p at 100/120 Hz
• 4K at 50/60 Hz
• 5K at 25/30 Hz

HDMI 2.1 Video Formats

• 1440p at 240 Hz
• 4K at 100/120 Hz
• 5K at 50/60/100/120 Hz
• 8K at 50/60/100/120 Hz
• 10K at 50/60/100/120 Hz

Are There Different Kinds of HDMI Connectors?

Yes, there are five different types of connectors. Though only one type is typically used, the other HDMI connector types are worth a mention in our guide to everything you need to properly set up your HDMI connectors, as we want to ensure you’re not purchasing the wrong one.

Type A Connector

The standard HDMI connector, type A is often used for entertainment systems such as DVD and Blu-Ray players. This type of HDMI connector has 19 pins, is 13.9 mm x 4.45 mm, and compatible with single-link DVI-D.

Type B Connector

B connectors are physically smaller than type A and offer dual-link connections.However, type B connectors are now obsolete because their transmission speed is overshadowed by type A.Testing to see what works with this.

Type C Connectors

C HDMI connectors are mini connectors designed for connection with portable devices. They still have 19 pins but are 10.42 mm x 2.42 mm in size.

Type D Connectors

This type of connector is considered a micro connector and dons a size of 5.83 mm x 2.2 mm.

Type E Connectors

E connectors are known as automotive connection systems. They secure cables in place with locking tabs and have an adapter for connection with other HDMI connectors.

When finding the right cables for your computer’s display, sorting between all your options can be overwhelming. CableWholesale breaks down the differences between VGA vs. DVI cables and provides a brief explanation as to what they are to help you determine which one is better for your display.

A Brief Breakdown of What VGA and DVI Cables Are

VGA and DVI cables are both used to transfer video from an output source to an input source. But what is a VGA cable? VGA stands for Video Graphics Array, while DVI stands for Digital Visual Interface. DVI cables are newer in comparison, and both cables are identifiable by their varying connectors and ports. VGA connectors and ports are typically blue, while DVI connectors and ports are usually white.

How Do They Differ?

The key difference that sets VGA and DVI cables apart is the video quality they provide and how video signal transfers within each. To give you a better idea of which one is best for your display when it comes to VGA vs. DVI, we must compare the two.

Display

VGA cables are often susceptible to noise because they have an analog interface. Nearby devices and wires may interfere with your display quality. Because of their vulnerability to noise, VGAs’ picture quality is considered lower than digital interface cables.

Because DVI connectors are newer, they’re considered more developed than VGAs, offering quick, clean signal transmission with devices that support DVI.

How Signal Is Transferred Through Cables

VGA connection is analog, meaning the signal transmits in one direction within the cable, from output to input.

Different DVI cables offer different types of signal transmission. DVI-A supports analog interface, DVI-D supports digital interface, and DVI-I supports both digital and analog.

Audio Signal

Neither VGA nor DVI cables have audio capabilities. You must use a separate audio cable should you need to transmit audio signals.

Where To Get VGI and DVI Cables

CableWholesale has a wide selection of both VGA products and DVI products to choose from to help you maximize your computer setup. Whether you’re looking for a VGA cable adapter for simple or aged devices or a DVI converter, we have everything you’ll need to secure a video signal. We also offer cable management accessories that allow you to achieve a computer system setup that is efficient and neat.

HDMI cables transmit high-quality audio and video from one device, such as a Blu-Ray player or gaming console, to another device, such as a monitor to display images and emit sound. Different evolutions of the cable support varying video and audio formats to suit different devices and data transmission needs. CableWholesale offers a complete user’s guide to HDMI cable types and their uses for those looking to buy an HDMI cable online. The more familiar you are with HDMI cables and connectors, the easier it’ll be to set up a comprehensive system.

Types of HDMI Cables

Standard

Standard HDMI cables are compatible with earlier applications, making them a rarer cable than most other HDMIs. Most consumers opt for High-Speed HDMI cables over these cords, as they can’t withstand data transmissions for more recent resolutions, bandwidths, and refresh rates.

Resolutions Supported

• 1080i
• 720p

Standard With Ethernet

A standard HDMI with Ethernet cable will deliver the same performance functions as the standard HDMI, with the bonus of an additional dedicated network channel. Both connected devices must be HDMI Ethernet cable-friendly for users to take advantage of the cord’s perks.

Resolutions Supported

• 1080i
• 720p
• HDMI Ethernet Channel

High Speed

Designed for more advanced displays than standard HDMIs can handle, the high-speed HDMI cable supports resolutions up to at least 1080p.

Resolutions Supported

• 1080p
• 4K at 60 Hz (Hertz)

High Speed With Ethernet

Compared to the high-speed HDMI cable, this cable allows for device networking with its additional dedicated data channel, given that both connected devices are compatible with an HDMI Ethernet Channel.

Resolutions Supported

• 1080p
• 4K at 60 Hz
• HDMI Ethernet Channel

Getting Your HDMIs

It won’t matter how much you review this complete user’s guide on HDMI cable types and their uses if you purchase poor-quality cords. At CableWholesale, customer satisfaction is our top priority, and that’s why we’re committed to products that exceed performance expectations. With our wide selection of HDMI products, you’re sure to be satisfied with your choice.

Ethernet cables are an essential component in any successful wired network. As cable manufacturers continue to fine-tune their Ethernet cords, there are more and more options for those trying to set up a reliable system. In order to get the most out of your network equipment investments, learn how to choose the right Ethernet cord for your application.

Selecting the Right Category

There are three main types of Ethernet categories: Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, “Cat” being short for category. Each type of Ethernet cable has a unique connectivity performance and distance limitations. Here’s a brief breakdown of what they offer.

• Cat5e: These cords have minimized crosstalk and are typically adequate for all home connection needs.
• Cat6: Cat6 can reach up to an impressive 1 Gbps. Because of their capability, these cables are effective for large and demanding networks. Cat6 cables are even less susceptible to crosstalk than Cat5e cables.
• Cat6a: These wires are essentially an upgraded version of the Cat6. They offer 10 Gbps for up to 100 meters in length. Data centers and other complex tech facilities are likely to implement these wires.

Considering Its Location

Temperature and moisture can have an adverse effect on network cables. You should always be mindful of the conditions your cords will have to withstand. Some cable jackets provide better protection against certain elements than others.

If your application requires cables to run outdoors, equip your setup with Ethernet wires that can endure external elements. For data transmission, phone lines, and networking, CableWholesale supplies large spools of outdoor Cat6 cable that are built to last and perform well through various weather conditions.

Determining the Right Length

It’s a fairly simple concept—you need to meticulously measure your space to determine your length needs. Too short a cable won’t suffice, and too long a cable will unnecessarily complicate cable management and organization. A good rule of thumb is to go for a cable length that’s slightly longer than your measurement, as this ensures your cord has some give but isn’t laying sloppily.

CableWholesale has a diverse selection of Ethernet cords for you to choose from. Whether you’re setting up a wired network for your home or office, you’ll need reliable hardware to get you started. Our cables come in an assortment of categories, lengths, builds, and colors, so you can hand-select the ones that will best suit your application. Our abundance of additional cable management accessories makes us the perfect one-stop-shop for all things wired network.