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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.
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Written byAlvin Varughese
Founder•18 professional certifications