Ethernet Cable

Ethernet cables, also known as network cables, internet cables, or LAN cables, are physical cables that are used to connect devices like computers, routers, switches and other networked devices in a local area network (LAN). They are fundamental for establishing high-speed, reliable connections between various networked devices, allowing them to transmit data such as internet traffic and network communications efficiently and securely. They do so by transmitting electrical signals over copper or fiber optic wires.

Each cable consists of twisted pairs of wires, which help to reduce susceptibility to electromagnetic interference and crosstalk from adjacent wires, enhancing signal integrity and reliability. The most common types of Ethernet cables include Cat 5, Cat 5e, Cat 6, Cat 6a, Cat 7, Cat 8 and Cat 8.1, which correlates to how effectively they can reduce interference and support higher bandwidths. Ethernet cables provide faster speeds and more stability than wireless connections making them crucial for applications requiring reliable connectivity and high-speed data transmission.

Features of Ethernet Cables

• Physical Design: Ethernet cables typically consist of twisted pairs of copper wires encased in a protective outer sheath. The most common type of Ethernet cable is known as "Category 5e" (Cat 5e) or "Category 6" (Cat 6). Cat 5e cables can handle speeds up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps), while Cat 6 ethernet cables can support speeds up to 10 Gbps.
• Connectors: Ethernet cables use connectors called "RJ-45 connectors" at each end. These connectors have eight pins that make contact with the eight wires inside the cable. They are designed to snap into Ethernet ports on devices.
• Ethernet Standards: Ethernet cables adhere to various standards, such as 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and 1000BASE-T, which specify the maximum data transfer speeds they can support. Newer standards like 10GBASE-T support even faster data rates.
• Cable Length: Ethernet cables have a maximum recommended length, which depends on the specific standard and cable quality. For example, Cat 5e cables should not exceed 100 metres (about 328 feet) in length for optimal performance.
• PoE (Power over Ethernet): Some Ethernet cables support Power over Ethernet, allowing both data and electrical power to be transmitted over the same cable. This is often used to power devices like IP cameras and VoIP phones.
• Colour Coding: Ethernet cables often follow a colour-coding scheme for the wires inside. The most common colour code is TIA/EIA-568-B, which specifies the order of wire pairs within the cable.
• Physical Layer: The physical layer of Ethernet cables includes the media type (such as copper or fiber optic), signal encoding methods, and transmission technology. It dictates how bits are transmitted over the medium, ensuring that devices can communicate effectively.
• Ethernet Crossover Cables: Ethernet crossover cables are designed to connect two similar devices directly, such as two computers, without the need for a switch or router. This is achieved by crossing the transmit and receive signal pairs, allowing direct data transfer between the devices.

Common Types of Ethernet Cables

Here are some of the most common types of Ethernet cables:

Cat 5e (Category 5e)

Cat 5e cables are among the most used Ethernet cables. They support data transfer speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) and are suitable for most home and small office network applications.

Cat 6 (Category 6)

Cat 6 cables are an improvement over Cat 5e and can handle higher data transfer speeds, up to 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) over shorter distances.

Cat 6a (Category 6a)

Cat 6a cables, also known as Cat 6 Augmented, offer even higher data transfer speeds, up to 10 Gbps over longer distances than Cat 6 cables.

Cat 7 (Category 7)

Cat 7 cables are designed for high-speed networking and offer data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps.

Cat 8 (Category 8)

Cat 8 cables are the latest addition to Ethernet cable categories and are designed for extremely high-speed data transfer.

Cat 8.1 (Category 8.1)

Cat 8.1 is a variant of Cat 8 cables designed for use in residential and commercial applications. It supports data transfer speeds of up to 25 Gbps.

For more information, please check out our guide to ethernet cables.

Cable Construction

The internal structure of an Ethernet cable is designed to ensure efficient data transmission and minimise interference. There are a number of different components and configurations. These include:

• Twisted Pairs: Ethernet cables consist of multiple pairs of twisted copper wires. The twisting helps reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk between adjacent pairs, ensuring signal integrity.
• Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP): UTP Ethernet cables lack additional shielding around the twisted pairs. They are cost-effective and commonly used in environments with minimal electromagnetic interference.
• Shielded Twisted Pair (STP): STP cables have an additional shielding layer around each twisted pair or around all pairs together. This shielding provides extra protection against EMI, making STP Ethernet cables suitable for environments with high interference.
• Foiled Twisted Pair (FTP): FTP Ethernet cables feature a foil shield around all twisted pairs. This type of shielding offers a balance between protection and flexibility, reducing EMI while maintaining ease of installation.
• Outer Jacket: The outer jacket of an Ethernet cable is typically made of durable plastic, protecting the internal wires from physical damage and environmental factors.

Industrial Applications of Ethernet Cables

Ethernet cables are a cornerstone of modern industrial operations, enabling robust and reliable network communications across various sectors. These cables connect machines and sensors, facilitating real-time monitoring and control of production processes such as:

• Real-Time Monitoring and Control: Ethernet cables connect various devices such as machines and sensors, allowing for continuous monitoring and precise control of production processes.
• Industrial Automation Systems: In automated manufacturing, Ethernet cables link programmable logic controllers (PLCs) with human-machine interfaces (HMIs) and other devices, ensuring seamless communication and coordination.
• Data-Intensive Applications: Ethernet cables support the fast and accurate transmission of data necessary for monitoring equipment health and performance, which can be used for data-intensive applications such as predictive maintenance.
• Control Systems: Ethernet networks are vital for control systems, managing processes efficiently and improving productivity by enabling quick data exchange between different system components.
• Asset Tracking and Inventory Management: In industrial Ethernet networks, Ethernet cables facilitate asset tracking and inventory management, ensuring streamlined operations and better resource allocation.
• Connectors: High-quality Ethernet cable connectors such as RJ45, M12, and M8 are essential for secure and stable connections in industrial applications. These connectors are designed to withstand harsh environments, providing strong mechanical and electrical connections that maintain signal integrity and prevent data loss.
• Signal Quality: Maintaining a high signal quality is crucial in industrial environments. Ethernet cables with proper shielding, such as STP (Shielded Twisted Pair) and FTP (Foiled Twisted Pair), minimise electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk. This ensures consistent data transmission, which is essential for the reliability and efficiency of industrial operations.

Ordering and Delivery Information: Ethernet Cables

RS is a trusted supplier and distributor of Ethernet cables, offering a wide range of options from leading brands such as Phoenix Contact, Siemens, StarTech.com, TE Connectivity, and more. Whether you're looking to upgrade your network infrastructure or starting a new project, RS provides comprehensive solutions to meet your connectivity needs. In addition to Ethernet cables, we offer complementary products like Ethernet connectors and Ethernet connector accessories, as well as cable trunking and cable ties, so you can find everything you need for a robust and reliable network setup in one place.

Simply browse our online platform to filter and select Ethernet cables according to your required specifications. We offer a range of delivery options across Australia. For more details on our delivery services and fees, please refer to our Delivery Page.