When cables have more than 25 pairs, each group of 25 pairs is wrapped with colored nylon thread, in a binder group . With most phone systems, you need a direct path from the central control unit to each phone. Phone guys call this home-run wiring. Computer guys call it star topography . Here, too, computer lingo is taking over.
Patch cable is now more common than patch cord .
When a piece of wire is cut to a specific length and has specific connectors or plugs attached, it is usually called a cord or a cable, as in extension cord , or modem cable . A standard line cord is 7' long. Other common lengths are 14' and 25'. You may also find 50'. The coiled cord between the base of a phone and the handset is usually called a handset cord.