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2.5.1. Wired Media and Standards
Ethernet Cable Categories:
| Standard | Speed | Cable | Max Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 100BASE-TX | 100 Mbps | Cat5 | 100m |
| 1000BASE-T | 1 Gbps | Cat5e/6 | 100m |
| 10GBASE-T | 10 Gbps | Cat6a/7 | 100m |
Fiber Optic Standards:
| Standard | Speed | Fiber Type | Max Distance |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1000BASE-SX | 1 Gbps | Multimode | 550m |
| 1000BASE-LX | 1 Gbps | Single-mode | 5km |
| 10GBASE-SR | 10 Gbps | Multimode | 400m |
| 10GBASE-LR | 10 Gbps | Single-mode | 10km |
Fiber Types:
| Type | Core Size | Light Source | Distance | Cost | Memory Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single-mode | 8-10 µm | Laser | Long (km) | Higher | Single = Small core, Long distance |
| Multimode | 50-62.5 µm | LED | Short (m) | Lower | Multi = Multiple paths, shorter |
Copper Cabling Types:
| Type | Shielding | Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| UTP | None | Standard LAN installations |
| STP | Foil/braid shield | High-interference environments (factory floors) |
| Coaxial | Braided shield | Cable TV, legacy networks |
| DAC (Twinax) | Direct attach copper | Short datacenter connections (<10m) |
Plenum vs. Non-plenum: Plenum-rated cables have fire-resistant jackets required in air handling spaces (HVAC plenums). They produce less toxic smoke when burned. Code requires them above drop ceilings and in air ducts.
Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder•15 professional certifications