Category 5 cables are twisted pair cables incorporating eight different wires that are twisted into four pairs. Category 5 cables, often called Cat 5 cables, are designed for use with computer networks. Cat 5 cables are usually used for Ethernet, as they can carry up to Gigabit Ethernet (1000BASE-T). However, Cat 5 cables are also used for VoIP telephony and video signals.
Solid Conductor & Stranded Cat 5 Cables
Cat 5 cables are available in solid copper and stranded copper conductors. Stranded cables are more durable, as their construction allows these cables to bend more before breaking. Patch cables are always stranded while structured cables are always solid conductors. It’s easy to tell what kind of cable you have because the specifications will be printed on the outer sheath.
Cat 5E
Category 5E is the current specification of category 5 cables. Cat 5e was introduced as the new standard in 2001. The upgraded specifications for cat 5E cables reduce the amount of crosstalk, which is essentially the warping of signals on one pair of wires because of signals from another pair of wires.
Using Cat 5 Cabling?
There are many decisions you’ll need to make if you’re updating your system. This includes VoIP phones, computers, WAPs, network devices and more. If you’re not sure what to do with your current system, trust the experts are Voicecom Plus. We review your business’s processes and goals to create a system that will work best for your company and grow as you do.
Enhanced Capability
Deciding between Category 6 cabling or Category 5E cabling? Installing Cat 5 cabling isn’t the best choice for businesses nowadays but you may want to decide between Cat 6 and Cat 5E. While Cat 6 cabling is more expensive, the additional cost provides enhanced capability for your telephone system. If you have the network capability for gigabit-plus speeds, Category 6 wiring may be the right choice for you. Likewise, if your infrastructure demands 100-meter cabling runs or you’re concerned about crosstalk, Cat 6 cabling might be the answer.
Takeaways
- Category 5 (cat 5) cables are often used for Ethernet, and they can carry up to Gigabit Ethernet. However, these cables can also be used for video and VoIP telephony. Cat 5 cabling systems are being transitioned to the new standard Cat 5E – your business should consider the other cabling options when upgrading.
- Cat 5 cables are available in both stranded and solid forms, with stranded cables being more flexible.
- Cat 5E is the new standard, and its specifications reduce interference from one pair of wires to another.
Contact Voicecom Plus Today
If your business needs a reliable and advanced telecommunications solution, Voicecom Plus is the answer. We have been in business in the Tri-State area since 1992, and we have successfully installed thousands of commercial telecommunications systems. We provide the sort of customer service that a bustling business needs, including 24/7 customer support. Whether you’re a startup or a multinational corporation, our diverse range of telecommunications solutions ensures that we can meet all of your needs. Contact us today for more information.
