Any experiences of using OCUK 'value' CAT5e cable? Or what else should I consider?

Spudgun · 10 May 2014 at 11:36

Dear all,

I need to run 25m of network cable internally around my house, so I am thinking of getting the 30m OCUK value CAT5e cable (http://www.overclockers.co.uk/showproduct.php?prodid=CB-038-OK&tool=3). I've done some reading around the quality of network cabling that is sold in various places and am a little concerned about some of the quality issues that are being reported on reviews of other cables.

Therefore, has anyone got any first hand experience of using the 'value' branded cables and has any extra info about them (e.g. are they twisted/shielded etc.) before I pull the trigger and order one as I am a little concerned about the 'value' tag as I don't mid paying more to ensure that I get a quality product that will do the job.

The cable will be used to connect two switches in my home that are, in turn, connected to GB ports and will be used for data transfers, so speed + reliability are my primary concerns.

If these aren't the cables I should go for, what are the key features that I should look for when buying?

Thanks for the help

Yamahahahahaha · 10 May 2014 at 14:03

Any cable is fine as long so it's certified for the rated speed. Looking at the reviews it'll be absolutely fine for your needs (if a bit long).

Luke_Bowman · 10 May 2014 at 14:59

Cat5 are a lot like hdmi cables, they really don't matter until a long distance is reached.

Cheap and cheerful will see you fine

jh30uk · 10 May 2014 at 18:10

Cat6 can be just as cheap today so if fitting now I would use it.

doggo · 11 May 2014 at 15:32

jh30uk said:
Cat6 can be just as cheap today so if fitting now I would use it.

I'd second that.
I've just changed all my network cables to cat6 and have noticed an improvement, so you might just as well go for cat6 to begin with.

Steveocee · 11 May 2014 at 20:08

Just echoing the above really, Cat6 is only marginally more now and although you probably won't get much if any faster, the additional shielding may give you a little more piece of mind.

The last thing you want to do is run 5e all around then have it niggle you that you didn't use 6. I have about a 15m run out to my shed and it pains me every time I look at it that it's 5e and not 6.

bremen1874 · 12 May 2014 at 02:31

The OP is asking about buying a patch cable. As it isn't something you'd expect to be buried within the structure of the building the category isn't really an issue. It can easily be changed in the future, and Cat5e is easier to route.

If they are thinking of installing it within the structure they need to take advice.