Cabling Network Devices

Types of Cables (Media)

Choosing the right cable necessary to make a successful Local Area Network (LAN) or Wide Area Networking (WAN) connection requires deliberation of the different media or cable types. For the benefit of beginners, there are many different Physical layer implementations that support multiple cable types:

UTP (Category 5, 5e, 6, and 7)

Fibre-optics

Wireless

Each cable type has its advantages and disadvantages. Some of the factors to consider are:

Cable length – how far will the cables have to go around the room or building?

Cost - Does the budget allow for using a more expensive media type?

Bandwidth – this is one of the criteria to focus your thoughts on. Does the technology used with the Cable provide adequate bandwidth?

Susceptible to Electromagnetic interference also called radio frequency interference (EMI/RFI) - Is the local environment going to interfere with the signal?

UTP cabling connections are specified by the Electronics Industry Alliance/Telecommunications Industry Association (EIA/TIA).

RJ-45

The RJ-45 connector is the male part crimped on the end of the cable. When viewed from the front, the pins are numbered from 8 to 1. When viewed from above with the opening gate facing you, the pins are numbered 1 through 8, from left to right. The standard lengths for this cable are 1.83m (6ft) and 3.05m(10ft). This orientation is important to remember when identifying a cable.