Cat 5 and Cat 6 Cables : The Ultimate Guide
Whether you’re using a Cat 5 or a Cat 6 cable , you’ll find many differences. While they are both made from twisted pairs of copper wire, their function has significant differences. Cat 5 and Cat 6 cables are types of twisted pair cables used in Ethernet networking to connect devices such as computers, routers, switches, and other network components. In summary, Cat 5 and Cat 6 cables are both used for Ethernet networking, but Cat 6 cables offer higher performance and faster data transmission speeds compared to Cat 5 cables.
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So, What is the Difference Between Cat 5 and Cat 6 Cables?
Cat 5 Cable (Category 5) :
Cat 5 cables were one of the earliest standards for Ethernet cables and were widely used in the late 1990s and early 2000s.
They support data transmission speeds of up to 100 Mbps (megabits per second) and are suitable for both Fast Ethernet (10/100 Mbps) and Gigabit Ethernet (1000 Mbps) networks.
Cat 5 cables consist of four twisted pairs of copper wires, usually with unshielded twisted pairs (UTP) or shielded twisted pairs (STP) configurations.
While Cat 5 cables are still functional for many basic networking needs, they have largely been replaced by newer standards like Cat 5e and Cat 6 for higher performance and faster speeds.
Cat 6 Cable (Category 6) :
Cat 6 cables are an enhanced version of Cat 5 cables designed to support higher data transmission speeds and reduce crosstalk (interference) between wires.
They support data transmission speeds of up to 10 Gbps (gigabits per second) over short distances (up to 55 meters) and are suitable for Gigabit Ethernet networks.
Cat 6 cables have more stringent specifications for crosstalk and system noise compared to Cat 5 cables, which allows them to provide better performance and reliability, especially in environments with high interference.
Like Cat 5 cables, Cat 6 cables also consist of four twisted pairs of copper wires, but they have more twists per inch and often feature thicker insulation to reduce crosstalk.
There are several differences between the two cables, but they are both backwards-compatible and compatible. You should be able to determine the exact cable specifications you need for your network. The most crucial difference between a CAT5 and a CAT6 cable is in the sheathing.
Feature
CAT5e
CAT6
Speed
>/=1 Gbps
Performance
Good for basic applications
Better performance and offers a reduced crosstalk
Cost
Cheaper
More expensive
Ideal for
Home networks or small offices
Demanding applications & future-proofing
Name
Frequency
Ethernet Signal Supported
Connector
Cat 5
1 – 100MHz
10/100 Base T
8p8c, RJ45
Cat 5e
2 – 100MHz
10/100 Base T. Gigabit Ethernet
8p8c, RJ46
Cat 6
3 – 250MHz
10/100 Base T. Gigabit Ethernet
8p8c, RJ47
Cat 6a
4 – 500MHz
10/100 Base T. Gigabit Ethernet, 10Gig Ethernet
8p8c, RJ48
Cat 7
5 – 600MHz
10/100 Base T. Gigabit Ethernet, 10Gig Ethernet
GG45, TERA
Cat 7a
6 – 1000MHz
10/100 Base T. Gigabit Ethernet, 10Gig Ethernet
GG45, TERA
CAT5e vs. CAT6 Cost
Several factors contribute to the pricing of Ethernet cables, with key determinants including length, quality, copper content, and manufacturer. On Screwfix, a popular UK trade site, cables range between £0.99p and £90 depending on various factors. Typically, CAT6 cables are priced approximately 10-20% higher than CAT5e cables.
CAT5e: Generally cheaper, with prices ranging from around £0.50 to £2 per metre.
CAT6: Slightly more expensive, with prices ranging from around £1 to £3 per metre.
A Handy Youtube Guide About Cat 6 Cables
Cat 5 and Cat 6 Cable & other related articles:
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