What Applications Run On Cat5e Ethernet Cables

Author: Jennifer Truong

Long gone are those days when slow internet used to frustrate everyone. Thanks to advancements in technology today people enjoy faster internet speeds and reliable connectivity. And when it comes to transmitting data between devices, ethernet cables are the most reliable option.

However, there are many types of ethernet cables such as CAT5e ethernet cables, CAT6, and CAT6a. Each has its own functions and uses. Wondering what applications can run on CAT5e ethernet cables? Here are the applications that can run on it.

Some of the AppliCATions That Can Run On CAT5e Ethernet Cables
  1. Home Networking

This cable is a great choice when it comes to typical home internet usage. It is best for daily activities such as streaming HD videos, online gaming and other activities on the internet. It is the best option for connecting LAN cables in both residential and commercial areas. The major reason why it is suitable for business areas is because it can work with hardware setups.

  1. Office Networking

CAT5e ethernet cable is also very useful when it comes to office networking. Because it provides sufficient bandwidth, standard office tasks like web browsing, email and file sharing happen easily and without any hassle.

  1. Business Kiosks

Even though the term kiosks varies throughout organizations, it typically refers to your business’s point of sale system. However, these days interactive touch screen kiosks are becoming more common in retail environments where clients place orders or receive product information. Similar to LAN cables, you can rely on CAT5e ethernet cables to make all this happen smoothly without any hassle.

  1. Security Cameras

CAT5e ethernet cables are also helpful for security cameras. It ensures the smooth and flawless functioning of the security camera system. It also allows transmitting video signals for monitoring.

  1. Gaming Setups

If you're an online game enthusiast, then CAT5e Ethernet cable is the right choice for you. It ensures no lagging, interruption, or slow video game connection. In other words, you can rely on this cable for your connectivity needs.

  1. VoIP

Another use of this cable is that it supports VoIP- voice-over-internet protocol. It makes sure phone systems work properly over the Internet by offering clear and uninterrupted voice calls.

Is CAT5e a Good Choice?

Yes, CAT5e ethernet cables are the enhanced version of CAT5 and have a bandwidth of up to 100 MHz. It supports 1 Gbps to a distance of 100 meters. It is useful for a variety of applications, such as standard data transfer, in-home networks, audio, wireless systems, security systems, home stereo speakers, etc. And the best part is that it is a cost-effective solution.

Tips on Selecting the Best CAT5e Ethernet Cable

Be it LAN cables or CAT5e ethernet cables, choosing the right one isn't easy. Even though the network cables look the same, all of them have their own specifications. Furthermore, to help you, here are some best tips on choosing the best CAT5e ethernet cable:

  1. Know your Need

Before purchasing CAT5e ethernet cable it is important to understand your needs. For instance:

  • Outdoor-rated CAT5e Ethernet cable is designed for outdoor deployment, thanks to a PE jacket that offers UV protection from water and harsh weather. However, it has no fire resistance.

  • If you want the cable to use between the floors of buildings then riser-rated CAT5e ethernet cable is a good choice as it has fire resistance and comes both shielded and unshielded.

  • Besides, if you want plenum spaces in the building, then plenum-rated CAT5e ethernet cable is great as it is more fire resistant and if it burns, the cable emits low smoke.

  1. Speed

The first and foremost thing to consider when it comes to choosing a CAT5e Ethernet cable is its speed. Before purchasing, know the specs and the internet speed you require. For instance, purchasing a 10Gbps CAT6a cable isn't necessary if you'll be using the 10Gbps speed of the internet. Talking about CAT5e, it offers 100MHz standard bandwidth, 1000Base-T, and a maximum of 10GBase-T data rate support.

  1. Quality

The next thing to consider when purchasing CAT5e Ethernet cable is its quality and material. The different materials available on the market are copper-clad aluminium wires, copper wires, pure copper wire, bare copper wire, and oxygen-free copper wire. Therefore, what you need to check is the purity of the copper. To ensure there is less signal loss, opt for copper with more purity.

  1. Price

Another thing to consider is price, and the price of CAT5e Ethernet cable depends on many factors. For instance, if you decide to purchase at an expensive range, then you'll get shielding. However, to save cost, you can also opt to purchase in bulk quantities. There are also different options available, such as outdoor-rated CAT5e ethernet cable, which is more affordable compared to riser-rated CAT5e ethernet cable and plenum-rated CAT5e ethernet cable.

Because technology is becoming more and more advanced, it is highly recommended to choose the best cable and keep important factors in mind. also read the Differences Between CAT 5, CAT6, CAT 6A and LAN Cables