A computer enthusiast has probably wondered, " What is UTP cable ?" or twisted pair cable? Here we'll describe its definition, characteristics, categories, and functions, helping you better understand connections, telecommunications, and the operation of everyday computer devices.
What is UTP cable?
UTP cable is a type of cable made up of pairs of conductors or electrical wires; however, the one used in LAN network connections has 4 pairs of conductors that are linked together in a helical shape and with different colors that signify particular codes for each one.
It allows for simple networking of devices and minimizes interference that causes communication problems. These are essential for signals to travel properly from the source device to the destination device, ensuring optimal communication.
This is one of the demands in communications, because without adequate signal reception, quality communication is impossible. This element is susceptible to this, so it's essential to acquire one that fulfills this basic function.
The UTP or twisted pair cable is made up of electrical conductors or wires that are linked together and covered with a plastic sheath or jacket, which were developed by Alexander Graham.
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What is the UTP cable for?
This type of cable is used for data or audio transfer, and can also be used as a network mechanism to transmit images, videos, and audio. The cable and its components are used in network construction and applications.
The linked pairs are very easy to manage due to their small size and flexibility, simplifying installation. UTP cable is lightweight, and extensive technical support and documentation are readily available.
How is it used?
It is used for LAN network connections, and between receiving devices such as a computer with target devices such as modem or printers.
It is not advisable to use them in places where there is great interference because, although their shape and size mitigates them, their lack of additional shielding forces them to avoid their use, however, for domestic use, buildings or offices, it works correctly.
The cable system can be handled as lengths of up to 150 meters, it is also very inexpensive and is easily found in different stores, especially in computer stores.
To use it, you only have to make connection of two network devices using it and make the proper configurations of both devices.
Features
Among the main characteristics we can mention:
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It has the particularity of being twisted and not shielded, made up of wires or conductors of copper material that are insulated by cellulose and plastic linked in pairs. They are known as such, because they are twisted in pairs to mitigate crosstalk, interference or noise, the average braid has 3 loops per inch.
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It facilitates the connection between external devices and components in local networks based on a LAN-type cable.
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The cable has different maximum transfer speeds, however, doing the combination of different speeds causes the network not to provide the maximum benefit.
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It facilitates the power of audio transfer that comes from classic analog telephony, based on a copper material wiring.
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It is used for the transfer of analog video signals in security and surveillance systems based on DVR, NVR and HVR components.
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The maximum recommended cable length is 100 meters, this to ensure that the entire cabling system has an optimal signal transfer.
Categories
There are different categories , which are better known as CATs. Each one is detailed below:
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Category 1 UTP cable : It is used in telephone systems, but it does not transmit digital audio signals directly, only analog signals. It is not recognized by the TIA (Telecommunications Industry Association) or the EIA (Electronic Industries Association).
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Category 2 UTP cable : is a type of cable that cannot transfer data signals higher than 4 Mb and is not recognized by either the TIA or the EIA.
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Category 3 UTP cable : used in Ethernet networks.
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Category 4 UTP cable : has a transmission speed of 16 Mb, but it is not recognized by either the TIA or the EIA.
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Category 5 UTP cable : Not recognized by either the TIA or the EIA.
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Category 5e UTP cable : is the most used in network connections, used in Fast and Gigabit Ethernet.
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Category 6 HP UTP cable: It is a type of cable that has high transmission speeds.
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Category 7 UTP cable : this cable has lengths greater than 100 meters, and is high speed transmission.
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Some of these categories are no longer used for different reasons, among which it can be mentioned that they are not fast or have peculiarities that are not currently useful.
This is the case, of categories 2, 3 and 4, they are no longer used because they are slow, and this benefits a network connection.
It is important to note that this type of cable is essential in telecommunications because it allows data and information to be shared about all areas of knowledge.
Many people manage to take jobs from their homes to meetings or conferences anywhere in the world, thanks to telecommunications and all the components that make it possible.
