Velleman UTP05 - Manual (Page 6)

Atlas IT User Guide October 2012 – Rev 6
Page 5
Background Information
Cat 5 (short for Category 5) network cables are typically used for 10 Base-T
Networks and 100 Base-T Networks operating at 10Mbps and 100Mbps
respectively. Many new networks are now being specified to operate at even
higher data rates, these are sometimes referred to as Cat 5e (e for enhanced)
and Cat 6 networks.
The cables themselves usually consist of 4 twisted pairs, a total of 8 lines. The
actual connection pattern from one end of the cable to the other end depends on
the network type and also the equipment type. Often, only 2 twisted pairs (4
wires) are actually used for data communication for many networks, however,
for universal compatibility all 8 connections are normally wired.
Straight-Through Patch Cables
The simplest network cables are
simply called Patch Cables or
Straight-Through Cables. These are
normally wired with each of the 8
wires
connected to the same
corresponding contact at each end of
the cable, 1 to 1, 2 to 2 and so on.
These are generally used for
connecting
computers to
hubs (routers or switches) or
simply between a PC and a
wall
socket (which
eventually connects to a
hub).
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8 1. Orange/White
2. Orange
3. Green/White
4. Blue
5. Blue/White
6. Green
7. Brown/White
8. Brown
PC
PC
Server
Hub/Router
Straight-Through
Patch Cable
Straight-Through
Patch Cable
Straight-Through
Patch Cable
Printer
Typical Use for Straight-Through Patch Cables
Straight-Through
Patch Cable