But as data applications speeded up, Cat 3 soon became too slow for anything but voice telephone communications. As a result, no Cat 4 cable has been seen out in the real world for a couple of years now. What s more, as prices for Cat 5 cable and components have dropped, many installers now use Cat 5 for all voice systems as well as data systems, virtually eliminating Cat 3 from the market. But because there are no extended performance Cat 5 outlets and patch panels to connect to these premium cables, there are no guarantees the resulting systems can perform at that rating. In addition, this standard requires teledata wiring to be installed in a star or radial configuration, with homeruns from every outlet.
All information is subject to change without notice.