When you strive to improve your small business’s networking capability, one of the factors you should consider is which type of cabling you are currently using. Have you been relying on Cat5 or Cat5e cabling? It might be time to consider switching to Cat6 cabling instead. Here you will find more information about Cat6 cabling, and a comparison to its Cat5 and Cat5e counterparts.

Comparing Cat5 and Cat5e Cabling

 

Network support capabilities:  Cat5 cabling supports 10BASE-T and 100BASE-T network capabilities. Cat5e is an improved version of Cat5 that allows for better crosstalk performance.

Crosstalk functionality: Crosstalk describes the transfer of a signal from one cable into the next one. However, this transfer occurs due to a so-called induction bleeding, and is less than desirable.

Bandwidth capacity: The bandwidth is a measurement of how much information a network system can carry. Cat5 is measured at 100mhz while Cat5e is measured at 350mhz.

The takeaway: If you wish to achieve gigabit ethernet speeds or implement a cloud-based phone system solution for your small business, then you should choose Cat5e cabling. Although Cat5e is slightly more expensive, this additional cost will be compensated for when you face the prospect of future upgrades to your network. By using Cat5e, you can make future upgrades easier and more affordable as well.

 

Cat5e and Cat6 Cabling

 

If your company needs new cabling installed – then you have a decision to make. Should it be Cat5e or Cat6? One incorrect assumption many consumers make is that Cat6 cabling will automatically enable them to make use of what is known as a gigabit ethernet. But to achieve true gigabit ethernet functionality, every component of the network has to configured for gigabit. Three of the components that must be rated in this way are the switches, hubs, and network interface cards. So this may lead you to wonder, what are some key differences between Cat5e and Cat6 cabling?

Transmission speed: Cat5e cabling can handle gigabit speeds, but when you use Cat6, you are assured gigabit speeds.

Interference: If power lines, lights, and manufacturing equipment interfere with your current network, then you might find that Cat6 cabling can improve overall performance despite any environmental obstacles.

Suitability: In most cases, choosing Cat5e cabling is a fine decision. After all, it is more affordable while providing similar performance levels. But if all of your components are suited for gigabit speeds, and the amount of data you are working with calls for it, the better choice is to go with Cat6 cabling instead.

 

Choose ACC Telecom for Your Cat6 Cabling Needs!

 

ACC Telecom provides voice communication and cloud-based solutions tailored to the needs of your business. We have over 45 years of experience in the telecommunications industry and pride ourselves on offering customers top-notch service and affordable prices. To get a quote or learn more about how we can help your business grow, give us a call at 410-995-0101 or visit us at acctelecom.com.