When selecting the best option to transmit data, there are three cable types to consider: twisted pair cables, fibre optic cables, and coaxial cables. Here we explore how they differ and which may be best for your needs. You can read more about determining your data cable costs here.
Twisted Pair
Twisted pair cables are commonly referred to as CAT cables, as the names of these varieties of cables are CAT, followed by numbers to indicate the speed levels, such as CAT 5, CAT 5e, CAT 6, CAT 6A, CAT 7, and CAT 8.
As the name suggests, twisted pair cables are made from twisted cables. CAT 5, CAT 6, use twisted copper cables whilst CAT 7 and CAT 8 use shielded cable. The higher the number, the faster the cables transmit data, delivering better speeds.
Fibre Optic Cables
Fibre optic cables are the newer option of the data cables, most commonly known related to broadband, offering superior technology for long-distance communication. Unlike copper wire, fibre optic cables are thin strands. These allow the data communication signal to travel farther.
Fibre optic cables are the most costly out of the three, but it’s undoubtedly the most popular solution for those who need a robust and reliable internet connection with exceptional signal capabilities.
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cable is the most common type of cable that comes to mind. They are black, white or grey cables, most often, with a plug-in head that connects to a cable jack that’s installed in the wall.
The coaxial cable is one of the most common because it’s one of the most affordable options. Coaxial cable is used as a transmission line for radio frequency signals. Its applications include feedlines connecting radio transmitters and receivers to their antennas, computer network (e.g., Ethernet) connections, digital audio (S/PDIF), and distribution of cable television signals.
EDSA are experts in data cabling. Melbourne-owned and operated, our team understands the geographic nuances that impact each solution, able to guide you on which data cable types will deliver against your goals.
Contact us today to discuss your data cabling needs.
