What is an Ethernet Cable?

ethernet cable

Do you have a PC at your home for gaming or work purposes? If yes, then there is something that you need to connect to the internet. That is where the ethernet networking cable comes into play. It is a wire that connects the computer to the Internet connectivity.

This might not sound like the thing to go for in an era of wireless connections and remote devices, such as laptops or mobile phones. After all, there aren’t many people that own a desktop these days. Nevertheless, the applications of ethernet or LAN cable are still relevant in this era.

So, what is an ethernet networking cable? What is an ethernet cable used for on a TV? And how can you benefit from it? We’ll provide you answers to all these questions in this article so you can have a comprehensive idea about it. Let’s start by getting a better idea of what a networking cable entails.

What do Ethernet Cables Look Like?

The ethernet cable (also known as networking or LAN cable) connects your device to the internet. The long cable comes with the RJ45 connector on both ends. It is safe to say that the networking cables look more or less the same as the traditional phone cables.

However, there is a key difference between both these cables. The networking cable comes with eight wires whereas the phone cable only has four. You can find different cable categories (Cat5e, Cat6) that can handle different internet speeds.

What is an Ethernet Cable Do?

Mostly, people tend to use networking cables for computers or sometimes laptops. This is because the internet connectivity is much better and more reliable with the LAN cable. As a result, it can make it easier to transfer data at a better speed with little to no disruption.

You might wonder: what is an ethernet cable used for on a TV? Well, a smart TV can be connected to an internet connection. As mentioned before, the internet connectivity with the wireless connection is less reliable than the one with the cable. Therefore, you can enjoy a streamlined experience when watching your favorite shows on the big screen.

Ethernet Cable Structure

An LAN cable typically consists of four pairs of twisted copper wires. Each pair is insulated and twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk.

  • Twisted Pairs: These pairs carry data signals and are the core components of the cable.
  • Insulation: Each wire is individually insulated to prevent short circuits.
  • Shielding: Some cables, especially in higher categories like Cat6a and Cat7, include additional shielding (foil or braided metal) to further reduce interference.
  • Outer Jacket: A protective outer layer safeguards the internal components from physical damage.

The specific structure can vary depending on the cable category (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat7, etc.), but the fundamental principle of twisted pairs remains consistent.

Types of Ethernet Cables

The advancements in the CAT cables were due to the increasing demand by users for better internet speeds. Therefore, there are various types of networking cables that you can find in the market. Here is a quick overview of some types of ethernet networking cables that you can find in the market:

  • Cat5 – Cat5 Ethernet cables are designed for data transmission speeds of up to 100 Megabits per second (Mbps), commonly called Fast Ethernet.
  • Cat5e Offers speeds up to 1 Gigabit per second (Gbps).
  • Cat6 Supports speeds up to 10 Gbps.
  • Cat6a Offers better Alien Crosstalk (AXT) performance for improved signal quality.
  • Cat7 Handles speeds up to 10 Gbps over longer distances.
  • Cat8 Offers even higher bandwidth and improved performance for demanding networking environments.

Limitations of Ethernet Cables

While LAN cables offer better speeds for data transmission, there are certain limitations that you need to know. For instance, they can work well within a particular length. If it goes above that, you might start to see some issues in the speed and connectivity.

Ideally, most cat networking cables will work well within the range of 100 meters (328 feet). Anything bigger than that will mean you might face issues with the internet connection. Other than that, troubleshooting can become challenging since it is difficult to find out which cable or node is the cause of the problem.

Power Over Ethernet (PoE)

Power Over Ethernet (PoE) is a technology that allows easy transmission of electrical power alongside data over LAN cables. As a result, it enables devices like IP cameras, VoIP phones, wireless access points, etc., to get power directly from the network. It also eliminates the need for different power outlets.

PoE comes in various standards, such as PoE (IEEE 802.3af) and PoE+ (IEEE 802.3at), each offering different power levels to accommodate various devices. The best thing about PoE is that it simplifies installation and reduces clutter by combining power and data transmission in a single cable.

Why use an Ethernet Cable?

Ethernet cables offer several advantages over wireless connections. They provide faster, more consistent internet speeds, especially for large file transfers and online gaming. The wired connections are less prone to interference, resulting in a more stable connection.  

Furthermore, Ethernet is generally more secure as it’s harder for unauthorized devices to access your network. With less data delay, Ethernet is ideal for real-time applications like online gaming and video conferencing.

Final Words

A networking cable is a robust tool to have by your side that can help you enjoy stable internet. So, if you’re looking to get your hands on it, then look no further. The TS Cables has a range of cables that you can choose from according to your needs.

FAQs

What is an Ethernet cable?

An Ethernet cable is a networking cable used to connect devices on a local network (LAN). It transmits data digitally at high speeds.  

How does an Ethernet cable work?

LAN cables contain pairs of twisted copper wires that carry data signals. The twisting helps reduce interference.  

What are the different types of cat cables?

Common types include Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, and Cat7. Higher categories offer faster speeds and better performance.  

How long can a networking cable be?

The cable length varies by category. Generally, longer cables mean slower speeds. For example, Cat6 supports 10 Gbps up to 100 meters.  

Can I extend an Ethernet LAN cable?

It’s generally not recommended to extend LAN cables. Use a network switch instead for better performance and reliability.