Jimsky's Computer Accessories

Network Patch Cables

A Network patch cable is an eight-wire cable that consists of four pairs of twisted wires terminated with RJ-45 connectors at both ends. There are also patch cables for fiber optic cabling. Both of these patch cable types are used to connect two network devices together, for the purpose of passing data between them. Network patch cables fall under the Cat5 or Cat5e cable standards. There is a newer Cat6 standard now being manufactured and sold for the higher-speed gigabit networks.

The most common types of network patch cables are Cat5 and Cat5e. The major difference between the two is the length that the cable that data can be transferred reliably.  Cat5 cable has a limit of 328 feet, while Cat5e range is 1140 feet. The highest rated type cable is Cat6 category.  Cat6 is rated for 1800 feet, while Cat6e is rated for 3280 feet. By the way, the ‘e’ stands for ‘enhanced’.
UTP stands for Unshielded Twisted Pair. It is a cable type with pairs of twisted insulated copper conductors contained in a single sheath. UTP cables are the most common type of cabling used in desktop communications applications. So a network cable consists of four pairs of wires. Each pair is twisted to help prevent picking up external interference.

Shielded cable has an outer sheath to help cut down on outside EMI (Electro-Magnetic Interference) which can impact data throughput. This is a foil material surrounding the data wires. This type of cable is known a shielded network cable and is available for all categories (CAT..) of network cable.

Network patch cables can be ordered as either stranded or solid wire. Stranded cables are more flexible, which is critical for cabling that will require bending and handling. Stranded cable is good for short runs where movement is likely, but it has a reduced distance rating. This construction is great for the flexing and the frequent changes that occur at a patch panel or wall jacks. Solid cabling provides for longer distances and is used for permanent installation.  This type cable has better electrical performance than stranded cable and is traditionally used for inside walls and through ceilings – any type of longer run of cable. By the way, the recommended maximum length for patch cables made from stranded cable is 33 feet.

Cross-over cables are wired different at the connectors when making a network patch cable. In this specialty configuration, cable that crosses over pins 1&2 and 3&6. This type of cable is primarily used to connect two PCs together, or for what is known as cascading hubs (or switches), and it has been largely made obsolete by the newer devices that can automatically sense what kind of connection needed.

Check computerpartsplus.com to see all types and lengths of network patch cables.

Network patch cables are taken for granted much of the time, but can be a weak link of network signal flow if not kept in good order.

About the Author

Donald Daugherty is owner of computerpartsplus.com, an Internet supplier of low cost computer parts and accessories. Quantity discounts are offered on all items.

Help with PC network cables please?

I want a cable to connect my PC to router. I’ve got the 2 options below, the first is £1.7 and the second is £0.01, apart from the length what’s the difference?? Thanks

I assume you’re looking at Ebay, check POSTAGE costs ofr the 1p option, or is that starting price of an auction ?

Also item No 1, does NOT state what the Cat rating of cable is, you want cat5e or cat6 now, if it’s plain cat5 it’s not as good cable.

Other than that the difference is 5m in length

Cat 6 Cabling – Giganet Category 6 UTP Connector Termination