Unshielded twisted-pair cable has many advantages. It is easy to install and is less expensive than other types of networking media. Although UTP costs less per meter than any other type of,LAN cabling, its real advantage is its size. This can be an extremely important factor to consider, particularly when installing a network in an older building. When UTP cable is installed using a RJ-45 connector, potential sources of network noise are also greatly reduced, and a good solid connection is practically guaranteed. There are disadvantages in using twisted pair cabling. UTP cable is more prone to electrical noise and interference than other types of networking media, and the distance between signal boosts is shorter for UTP than it is for coaxial and fiber optic cables. UTP was once considered slower at transmitting data than other types of cable. UTP is now considered the fastest copper-based media.
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Figure 2.13: Connecting the LAN by UTP Cable CAT5 Cable The standard I OBASE-T cable is CAT 5 twisted pair cable. It is composed of four twisted pairs that reduce noise problems. CAT 5 is thin, inexpensive, and easy to install. The function of CAT 5 cable is to carry the bits; therefore, it is a Layer 1 component.
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