Author Topic: Difference between (Read 346 times)

wrag · « **on:** November 01, 2006, 08:50:34 PM »

Cat 5 cable and Cat 6 cable?

Saw recently there is a Cat6 cable available. Is it better then Cat5?

handy169 · « **Reply #1 on:** November 01, 2006, 09:03:04 PM »

i think cat 5 is rated for 100mb networks
and cat6 is rated for 1000mb networks

in a nutshell

Krusty · « **Reply #2 on:** November 02, 2006, 12:33:03 AM »

The cat just means "how many twists per inch" -- CAT5 has 5 twists per inch. CAT6 will just have 6 twists. There are other considerations, as the twists serve a purpose in most wires (in audio wires they are twisted to properly cancel out interference from outside signals). The specifics of what the twists do on network cables I have no details on.

Irwink! · « **Reply #3 on:** November 02, 2006, 06:12:43 AM »

The twists in the case of CAT 5/6 cable helps prevent EMI (electrical Interference). Yes, CAT 6 permits faster network speeds.

Angry Samoan · « **Reply #4 on:** November 07, 2006, 05:07:58 AM »

YES wrag
Purchase cable that has EIA/TIA approved Catagory V, 5, 5e 6 and UL listed printed on jacket/shealth.
If it doesnt say it, then the advertised performance could be an issue.

Quote

Originally posted by Krusty
The cat just means "how many twists per inch" -- CAT5 has 5 twists per inch. CAT6 will just have 6 twists.

Where did you read this Krusty?

CAT has nothing to do with how many twist.

Cat = Catagory

EIA/TIA's Criteria of performance and classification for 4 pair UTP/STP.
(unshielded/Shielded twisted pair)

Krusty · « **Reply #5 on:** November 07, 2006, 10:36:32 AM »

In a book, and from somebody that once taught a class.

EDIT: I know CAT stands for category, but from what I've been told, the number is how many twists for that category.