Are You Using The Right Patch Cables For Your Network?
A network patch cable is simply a twisted pair cable with modular connectors on each end that allow you to plug in or connect network devices. The purpose of connecting two network devices together is so you can pass data between devices or between the network devices and the network itself. They are important in network system installations, voip phone system installations, and any other applications where a network connection is created.
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Typically, network patch cables are made of Cat5e, Cat 6, or even fiber optic cable. The type of cable you use depends on the cable the network is designed with, and the connection type the network devices will accept. The most common patch cables used today are those made of Cat5e network cable. Although Cat5e, Cat 6, and fiber optic patch cables all have their own features and benefits, the end result is that a patch cable is designed fuel all your components and devices with a network signal. The twisted pair cable that is used to make network patch cables usually comes in either Cat5e or Cat 6 types. Both Cat5e and Cat 6 network cable comes in solid and stranded formats. Typically you will see patch cables made of stranded cable because this type is really made for shorter distances while being more flexible when running cables between patch panels or network devices. Solid network cable is also very popular but it is mostly used when cabling an entire building. Solid network cable works best for those longer network cable runs. The solid version is much easier to terminate onto keystone jacks because it is a solid cable where using a stranded cable could be tricky to terminate because all those little copper stands are often difficult to work with.
By now you must be asking yourself what a quality patch cable looks like! The make-up of a high quality patch cable is pretty simple. Basically, it is a piece of network cable (Cat 6 or Cat5e) with two modular connectors crimped on each end. Most high quality Cat5e patch cables use a 4-pair 24 AWG bare copper stranded wire. The modular connectors on each end are usually RJ45 type and have gold plated contacts so you get a high quality connection to support your high speed data transfers. Most quality cables are UL rated and 100% tested. The final characteristic of a high quality cable is it is manufactured by a reputable manufacture of quality cabling products. You may be telling yourself by now that a patch cable is a cheap little cable! Why do I need to buy one from a reputable manufacture? The answer is simple. Buying patch cables from a reputable manufacture may be your only safeguard to guaranteeing you install a product that will allow maximum performance and high speed data transfer rates from your network. Remember just because the cable works does not mean it is allowing your network to perform to its fullest potential! Many cheap no-name products work fine but until you hook a tester up to them you will never know if they are really allowing your network to work to its full capacity.
In summary patch cables are simple parts to a complex network. Patch cables come in different types and sizes but they are a necessity to the success of your network. Always make sure you buy quality name brand patch cables from a trusted source. It is a small price to pay to ensure your network reaches its maximum performance!