Please explain CAT5 / CAT 6 cable types

Virdi

Virdi

Virdi

Soldato
Joined
11 Jun 2004
Posts
4,222
Location
Middlesex, London
Hi all,

I understand the difference in CAT5e and CAT6 etc..

What I'd like clarification on is the actual different types of cable available.

i.e. - the physical wires inside. What's the difference between solid core and mulch-stranded cables?

I take it they have different uses? what are those uses please?

Patch leads are usually made from a flexible cable - Which makes sense.

Finally - are there different RJ45 Connectors available for these different cable types?

Thanks
 
Solid core is designed for installation, stranded core is designed for patch leads. Yes, the connectors are different, you should not use stranded core in punch down connectors on patch panels either.
 
Solid core is more infrastructure cabling because of the density of the cable, the plastic core in side which protects it more, its suited to being run through buildings as it is tougher, doesn't damage as easy and can with stand being pulled about without getting damaged easier.

It not suited to be used for small patch cables, really suited to being patched in to CAT6 RJ45 wall socket/terminals and in to patch panels.
 
Thanks guys!

Ok - So if I want to run some CAT5e or CAT6 throughout my house for CCTV etc...

...and run some cable from upstairs to downstairs (possibly through the loft)

...Which cable should I be using? and which connectors please?

Thanks
 
Having said that, I'm a very naughty boy and have all of my installed cable punched down into faceplates at the client end, but in the loft space where the switch lives I just have a big bundle of solid core cat5e that I've crimped RJ45 plugs onto, and then straight into the switch. I know it's not right but it does work just fine :D
 
Some RJ45 connectors are perfectly happy being crimped onto solid core cable as well as stranded core. In reality you can get away with using anything on the end of a solid cable, but wall socket -> patch panel -> device makes life a lot easier when someone mashes up the cable.
 
A pedantic difference that doesn't really help to clarify anything.

Almost everyone refers the them as RJ45s, even the people who are fully aware that strictly speaking it isn't completely accurate. On a forum such as this calling them anything else is just asking for confusion.
 
Last edited:
Do you correct people who use the phrase "mains plug" instead of BS 1363 AC power plug? The OP called it an RJ45 so it made sense to use the same terminology.
 
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