- Twisted Pair
- Types: Shielded (STP) or Unshielded (UTP).
- Categories:
- Cat 3: Used for 10BaseT networks.
- Cat 5: Used for 100BaseT networks.
- Characteristics: Commonly used in Ethernet networks, twisted pairs of wires reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI).
- Coaxial
- Characteristics: More resistant to EMI compared to twisted pair cables.
- Usage:
- Baseband: Carries only one single channel, typically used for simple data transmission.
- Broadband: Capable of carrying multiple signal types, such as data, video, and audio, over a single cable.
- Fiber Optic
- Characteristics: The most expensive LAN cable type but offers high security and is resistant to EMI.
- Benefits: Difficult to tap, making it ideal for secure communications, and capable of high-speed data transmission over long distances.
These LAN cable types are crucial for setting up and maintaining network infrastructure, with each offering different levels of performance, security, and resistance to interference.