What is network cable?

Network cables look similar to telephone cables. Network cables have twice as many wires as telephone cables (8 to 4). The connector is slightly larger than the connector on a telephone line.

Each cable ends in a small modular plug, usually a Registered Jack 45 (RJ45) connector. A small lever at the top helps secure and unclip the network cable. When you push the cable into the network cable, it should snap. Sometimes there is an LED in the port so that the network jack will light up after a successful connection.

The length of the network cable may vary. Sizes usually start at about 0.3 meters and can go up to 30 meters or more. It is also possible to cut the cables to the length you prefer.

They also come in a variety of different colors. There is no difference in the color of the cables. Many computer network administrators color-coordinate their cables to manage and maintain their networks easily. Sometimes, Internet service providers will provide clues in different colors so that clues can be easily referenced by color.

Network Cable Construction

Network cables come in several different configurations. The most common construction is a twisted pair cable.

The two wires inside the cable are twisted together. Twisted pair cables are the industry standard cable. They have the best results in terms of maximum length and speed drop. They are beaten only by fiber optic cables in terms of performance.

One reason for their quality is that the two cables carry data in two directions, thus balancing the electric field. This reduces the electrical noise within the wire.

Electrical noise is any current or radio frequency unrelated to the data being carried. These additional signals usually interfere with the data being transmitted through the wires. Electrical noise can come from inside the cable or from outside. Ultimately, the more electrical noise there is, the lower the signal quality.

Twisted pair cables can be unshielded or shielded.

Unshielded does not have a foil or braided shield around the cable. While unshielded cables are much cheaper, the signal quality is degraded by electrical noise.

Shielded cables come with a braided or foil shield and are usually made of copper or other conductive polymers. Shielding reduces electrical noise and improves the quality of the connection.

What does a network cable do?

Typically, network cables provide an Internet connection to connect devices to the local network. They plug into the network ports on various devices.

The most common use of a network cable is to connect a WiFi router or modem to an Internet entry port or telephone line. It can also be used for hardwired devices such as televisions, computers, and other devices that require the Internet or a network to work.

You can learn more about network cable through our Custom Network Cable section. If you are interested in a custom network cable, don't hesitate to get in touch with Maojia, a professional Network Cable Manufacturer.