Networking - Cat 5/6 Cable - Regional dealer locator
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There are several different categories of network cabling, Cat3 and 4 were use for a very limited time due to the emergence of 100Base-TX networks, current LANs (Local Area Networks) are cabled using Cat5e or Cat6 UTP (Universal Twisted Pairs). 
The main difference between Cat5e and Cat6 is transmission performance. Cat5e UTP is the most widely use and is suitable for networks running 1000Base-TX or Gigabit networks and has a bandwidth of 100 MHz, Cat6 has a bandwidth of 250 MHz this includes better shielding from external influences, these improvements means less re-transmissions of lost or corrupted data packets under certain situation, which translates into higher reliability for Cat6 networks compared to Cat5e networks, both Cat5e and Cat6 have an effective working length of 100 meters.
Cat5/6 cable or structured cabling is now used for many applications including computer networking, telecoms systems, multiroom systems and also for distributing HDMI.
A patch panel is usually used to terminate the cat 5 cables in a central postion and depending on the application being used either terminates in a wall plate or in a cat 5 connectors type RJ45. A punch down 
tool is used to terminate the cat 5 in the patch panel or wall plate. A special tool is required to install the RJ45 connector onto the cat 5 cable. It is easier an more reliable to terminate in patch panel or wallplate then use pre-terminated cat 5 cables to connect equipment.
Generally installers use different coloured cat 5 cable for each application to mak
e it easier to identify when installing. There are two wiring formats used when installing cat 5 Type A and Type B. You can use either but must ensure that all cables in the system are installed in the same format.
Adaptors and baluns are used to adapt the cat 5 cable for connection to different equipment.
It is widely recognised that a wired system will provide a better and more reliable signal that a wireless signal. Cat 5 cables are relatively inexpensive and versatile so it is always worth installing a network just to cover yourself for future developments.