What cables do I need for Wi-Fi?  (Which Cable for WiFi)
Channel: NM Cabling Solutions
Date: 2021-05-11

What cables do I need for Wi-Fi?  (cabling for WiFi) Types of Internet Cables for Wi-Fi
There are a few choices of cabling when looking at supply WiFi devices. The choice of cable will depend on the speed requirements and the type of Wi-Fi product chosen. Firstly we have a look at the types of internet cables for Wi-Fi. These are generally in three types in main stream installations. However all cables have a large amount of similarities
Twisted pairs and RJ-45 connectors
Typically Twisted-pair Ethernet cables are constructed of eight copper insulated wires in a plastic sleeve. Two wires are twisted collectively in a pair for four pairs, and then the four teams are twisted together to structure the cable. The twists and couples affect specific cable’s overall performance traits. For example crosstalk, attenuation, and electromagnetic interference (EMI).
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Categories of twisted-pair cables
There are quite a few classes of twisted-pair cabling, but only three that regularly use for Ethernet networks: Category 5e (Cat5e), Category 5e (Cat5e, or Cat5 Enhanced). In addition Category 6 (Cat6). Lastly Cat6a or Cat6 Augmented
The performance characteristics of Cat5, Cat5e, and Cat6 are as follows:
1. Cat5e Data Cabling
Cat5e cabling has been the minimum standard for over 20 years and is still a popular choice in many installations. It is limited to a maximum bandwidth of 100mhz and an internet speed of 1 Gigabit. This is applicable for all lengths of cabling installations upto 90m with patch leads and 100m for a direct cabling link
2. Cat6 Data Cabling
Cat6 cabling increases the bandwidth capability of Cat5e from 100Mhz to 250Mhz. However over the standardised industry ratification it also has a maximum internet speed of 1 Gigabit over 90m and 100m. However it has the capability of handling 10 gigabit speeds up to 55m. Therefore it is recommended when designing a structured cabling installation that the whole system is based on the 90m link for standardisation
Structured cabling routes don’t always follow the expected routes and on site changes are frequent. Therefore you may find a designed cabling run of less of 55m now exceeds that. You then lose the 10 gigabit speed straight down to 1 gigabit
3. Cat6a Data Cabling
Industry wide Cat6a data cabling is the standard for 10 gigabit speeds. It will also at the ratified distance of 90m and 100m produce 10 gigabit speeds. If your Wi-Fi units are 10 gigabit enabled or require 10 gigabit backbone cabling then Cat6a is the minimum for installation
Cat6a cable due to its construction is also better enabled to handle PoE power distribution to the Wi-Fi units which is a major part of all Wi-Fi access points

Unshielded versus shielded cables
Twisted-pair Ethernet cabling can also be unshielded (standard) or shielded (not so common). Unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cables are the most commonly installed cabling in enterprise networks and Wi-Fi. It is significantly cheaper and a great deal more excellent flexible than shielded twisted-pair (STP) cabling.
STP cabling is more expensive and much less pliable than UTP cabling. It is used more often in industrial environments and noisy environments susceptible to excessive electromagnetic interference (EMI). The character pairs of wires in STP cables wrap in foil or another metallic shielding. An outer metallic defensive may also cover the entire group of twisted pairs (beneath the outer sleeve).
Length and colour of patch cables
When choosing patch for your network, you additionally need to consider length and color:
Length:
Twisted-pair Ethernet cables come in well-known lengths such as 3, 5, 7, and 10 feet. More extended sizes are available, and you can also have customized cable lengths made. The distance between your various community devices and your network change or router will decide the length you need. Color:
Twisted-pair Ethernet patch cables are available in many colors. We advise that your systems are colour coded for ease of identification in your network cabinets. Common colours are Blue for Network, Yellow for Phone etc. In addition assign a separate colour for each of your Wi-Fi access points. Furthermore when installing the cabling put them all on a dedicated patch panel. This allows for easier management of the Wi-Fi network
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