New York Network Cabling?

Do not let the mention of network or cabling stress you out. Network & Cabling are vital components of today’s high-tech world, but the reality is that the concept of network cabling and many of the details involved are quite simple. For example network cabling, when simplified, is connecting various components, or pieces, together to allow data, or information, to pass between them. That’s all there is to it.

What is a Local Area Network?

A local area network (LAN) is typified by what is comparatively a  small geographic area. This can be put into perspective by considering that a wide-area network (WAN) may span the globe or space. Another significant characteristic of a LAN is that they typically achieve higher data transfer rates compared to WAN’s.

New York Data Cabling

There are several issues that need addressing in a decision to upgrade data cabling, because after all, upgrading can be expensive. First of all, are the modem, router, server, switches, and other equipment new enough and fast enough to have outgrown Cat 5? Is the network primarily used for surfing the net, database entry, video streaming, or graphics design? How much traffic is on the network? Is network traffic expected to grow in the future?

New York Cat 5, Cat5e and Cat 6 Cabling

Here are the basic differences of Cat 5, Cat 5e, and Cat 6 cables.
  • Cat 5: This standard was the first to attempt 100 Mbps data transfer. It is usually unshielded, so EMI has a greater influence on the signal. It is rated up to 100 MHz, but because of the noise issue, it is not used very often in new installs. The wire will likely be thinner than newer standards, making it easier to run, but offering less surface space for conductivity. The more copper surface available to electrons, the higher the speeds and bandwidth possible, so less is not better.
  • Cat 5e: This standard can be purchased as shielded – STP, or unshielded – UTP. Shielded twisted pair is essential in environments where interference is likely. For instance, if the cable will be laid in a cable trough running perpendicular to other signal and power carrying cables, interference will surely alter an unprotected signal. Other factors are RF, and wireless transmissions. Use shielded when possible, even in a clean environment because interference could become an issue in the future. Cat 5e is rated at 100 MHz, or 350 MHz, but in actuality, there is not much difference between the two. As long as it is good quality wire and shielded, it should work in any current application.
  • Cat 6: This was developed as an upgrade to Cat 5e by using better insulation and typically a 22-24 AWG wire. It is rated at 200 MHz. Installs might be a bit more difficult because the thicker wire and insulation take up more space in the conduit, and don’t bend as easily as the smaller Cat 5, and Cat 5e cable. However, if it’s a new install, don’t let that stop you. The noise cancellation and EMI protection will be well worth the trouble, and as technology advances, Cat 6 will be able to keep your network running fast and smooth.

We Serve the New York City Metro Areas including Long Island for Network Cabling