Is Data and Ethernet Cable the Same?
Network cable is a broad phrase that covers a wide range of uses and types of data cable. Ethernet is a technique for connecting to a local area network. Any cable that allows you to connect to a system/device within a Lan may be called an ‘ethernet cable’ or a ‘network cable.’
Ethernet Cables
A system that is wired is an ‘ethernet’ connection, contrary to a wireless one (‘Wi-fi’). The most popular type of an ethernet cable is the Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP). hyperlink to the article about the different types of data cables. This cable comes in a range of classifications, the most common of which is the Cat 5 cable.
These cables have a lengthy progression from 10 to 100 megabytes, and later from 1 to 10 gigabytes. Certain data centres have even exceeded 40 gigabytes, and in some cases, 100 gigabytes.
LAN Cable
Lan cable is a type of data connection that is used in computer networking. It is designed to be used across short distances. It includes most types of coaxial cables as well as equipment with BNC or ethernet connectors. To connect or retrieve any data, these LANs utilise wired connections.
Different characteristics of LAN cables
- Network topology - it refers to the physical location of devices and the method by which a local area network is connected
- Media characteristics - it refers to the device's physical connection to the network
Different LAN cables based on protocols
- Client/server (two-tier) - made up of complex computers known as networks, which aid in the management of disc drives, printers, and network traffic, these LANs service personal computers, workstations, and aid in the execution of programmes
- Peer-to-peer – do not function well when subjected to high workloads – there is a limit on the number of computers they support and the distance at which they can transmit data
What Are the Differences Between Ethernet and Data (Network) Cables?
- Range: Ethernet cable refers to network cables that are used in Ethernet contexts such as LAN, MAN, and WAN. It is typically used to refer to a copper or aluminium cable. However, network cable includes a wide range of cable types, such patch cable and glass optical fibre. Every connection used in a network is a network cable.
- Categorization: Present-day ethernet functions on twisted pair cables with a RJ45 connector. They come in a wide variety such as Cat5e, Cat6, etc. The concepts of ethernet and network cables are becoming increasingly similar as a result of the evolution of ethernet.
- Application: While ethernet requires a wired connection, network cabling does not necessarily – it can include both wired network, WLAN and Wi-fi.
Conclusion
The category of network cable includes Ethernet cable. The term "ethernet cable" refers to a cable that is only used in an Ethernet context, whereas "network cable" refers to all cable types utilised in various network situations.
For more information on our range of data and ethernet cables, get in touch with our expert team!
Related articles
What is the Best Ethernet Cable for Networking?
Ethernet cables are a type of data cable. ‘Ethernet’ is the technique used for connection to a local area network, hence the origin of the name of the cables. Cabling is one of your network's most critical components.Which is the Best Data Cable?There are three major data cable types which can be categorised – Coaxial (copper), Twisted Pair (copper), and Fibre Optic (fibre).Those made from copper are typically more affordable but can reach up to 10GB rates while those made from fibre are more costly but faster and stronger when it comes to the signal deterioration. However, both options offer a superior data transmission.Your choice would be determined by your present network, future networking demands, and applications, which include bandwidth, distances, environment, cost, and other factors.Copper has traditionally been used in lower-speed, short-distance networks, while fibre has traditionally been utilised in higher-speed, long-distance networks. However, with the introduction of copper cable capable of 10-gigabit speeds, this maxim is no longer valid. A hybrid network with a fibre backbone and copper horizontal cable may be the best option.What to consider before you make a decisionThe cable you select will be influenced by the kind of network you wish to run. Calculate the maximum distance between the network and the farthest computer on your network Take into account the bend radius and the amount of space available for cable runs in the floor and ceiling. Check for any electromagnetic interference Check for any physical limitations that may affect the cable of your choice What is the Best Ethernet Cable for Networking?Ethernet cable specs can be complicated, and there are several factors to consider while selecting one, including the cable's length, category, and design.Whether speed is your primary priority or security is more important to you, the decision should be based on the cable’s category rating:Cat5eCat 5e cables carry fast connection and timely transmissions across long distance. They are also cost-effective compared to the others.Cat 6Cat 6 cables carry much faster data transmission speeds over longer distances. They also can reduce crosstalk – a disruption occurrence on your communication channels when the signal transfers.Cat 7Cat 7a cables have a double shielding which makes them more resilient to interference. They are much more modern and reliable for a Smart Home.For more information on our range of data and ethernet cables, get in touch with our expert team!
Connecting Data Cables
Ethernet connections provide a better and more secure connection than wireless ones. The cables are also affordable, simple to locate, and utilise - one end is connected to your router, while the other is connected to the device.When you need extra length than a single cable can allow, instead of buying a longer cable, you may consider connecting two shorter ethernet cables.How to Connect Two Ethernet CablesTo connect two data cables (Ethernet) you can use a traditional RJ45 coupler. It is inexpensive and simple to use. The coupler has two ethernet ports, one on each end, in order to form one longer cable by bridging the gap between them.However, if more than one coupler is used, the signal may be degraded, or the strength of the connection could be affected. The alternative option is to re-size the cable by cutting it to the needed/required length, for which you will still need a coupler as well as wire cutters and a crimping tool.How to Cut an Ethernet Cable at the Ideal LengthStarting with a single lengthy cord is a simple and affordable approach to connecting ethernet cables. You may buy inexpensive cables in a variety of lengths; simply select the one that is long enough for your installation/arrangement.Another thing to consider is there are several types of data cable such as Cat 5e and Cat 6 cable – they function the same way but have different data transmission rates.Follow the guide below, to cut the cable in six simple steps:Step 1: Measure the length of the cable – do not cut the exact same length that you need, always leave a bit more and then clip it using the wire cutters Step 2: Strip off the protective outer jacket – using the crimping tool remove a few inches of it carefully not to damage the thin wires Step 3: Divide the wires – separate the four pairs of wires, when finished you should be left with eight individual ones instead Step 4: Put the wires in the correct order – there is an exact order in which the wires should be put- the most common method used is the T-568B: Orange/White > Orange > Green/White > Blue > Blue/White > Green > Brown/White > Brown.Step 5: Organise the wires - ensure that they are in the same order on both sides of the cable then press them together. When they are straight and there is no gap between them, cut off the excess, leaving approximately half an inch behind. Make sure you cut them straight down the middle and not at an angle. Step 6: Put the connector on - with the clip part of the connection facing away from you, carefully slip it over the wires. Each wire will be able to fit into a slot. When all the wires are at the connector's edge, push down on the RJ45 coupler using your crimping tool. How Many Data Cables Can RJ45 Couplers Connect?There is no limit on how many cables can be connected to RJ45 couplers. Nonetheless, the data transmission should be prioritised. Ethernet cables transmit connection to each other and having multiple couplers or/and cables will decrease both the quality and the speed of the connection.ConclusionCutting the length of a cable is probably the most reliable option for long-term use, but using connectors can be an easy, quick, and inexpensive fix.For more information on our range of data and ethernet cables, get in touch with our expert team!
Data Cable Types
Data cables are used to transmit electronic data from one location to another. Data cabling is either copper or fibre optics, and it is widely utilised in computer and communications systems.They can be classified into three major types:Coaxial cables (copper) Twisted pair cables (copper) Optic cables (fibre) Each has distinct properties that makes them identifiable.CoaxialCoaxial cable carries high frequency signals, and it is mostly used in older computer networks. These types of cable have a solid wire core conductor that is enclosed in an insulator and covered by a metal foil outer conductor. The circuit is completed by this outer conductor, and the entire cable is secured by a plastic cover.Though coaxial cables have a larger bandwidth, they have a far higher attenuation than twisted-pair cables. It's common in digital telephone cable wiring networks, where a single cable may transmit up to 600 Mbps of data.Coax cabling requires the use of a specific connection known as a BNC connector, which is used to connect the cable's end to a device.Twisted PairTwisted pair cables are primarily used for telecommunications and computer networks. They are made up of two copper cores that are twisted together, and each have their own plastic insulation – one carries the signal while the other is used as ground reference.The benefit of twisting is that external factors affect both wires equally. The twisting of the wires protects data transfers from signal deterioration. However, the typical length of a twisted pair cable before signal loss is around 300 feet.Types of Twisted Pair CablesUTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) cable – has one additional metal shield covering the insulated twisted pair conductors Fibre Optic CableFibre optic cables provide fast connections to the Internet via data signals in the form of light. They are primarily used in cable and telephony companies.The light channel consists of two major parts:Core Cladding – protective cover of the core Fibre optic cable is lightweight, and unlike the other two data connections, it does not suffer from signal deterioration. Fibre optic cable, on the other hand, is more costly and more delicate due to the glass sections of the cable.Types of ConnectorsSC connector – used for cable TV ST connector – used for connecting cable to networking devices Different Types of Connector for Data CablesRegistered Jack 45 (RJ45) – found in UTP & STP cables Straight Tip (ST) – usually found on the end of a multi-mode cable Subscriber Connector (SC) – found on Multimode and Single Mode optical fibre cables Lucent Connector (LC) – found on high-density deployments where multiple fibres would be terminated in a confined space Multi-fibre Push On (MPO) – duplex connector that was created with the intention of being able to be connected several times without causing any possible connection troubles What is the Most Used Cable Type for Networking?Unshielded Twisted Cable is the most popular and, in most cases, the best solution for LANs. In some situations, however, the Shielded Twisted Pair may be preferable.For more information on our range of data and ethernet cables, get in touch with our expert team!