CAT 5 Patch Cable :: CAT 5 Crossover Cable :: Cat 5e Patch Cable :: CAT 5e Crossover Cable
CAT 6 Patch Cable :: CAT 6 Crossover Cable :: Shipping :: About Us :: Contact Us :: Help :: Home

FAQ Section

CAT 5 Cable Length Limitations

[Q] Why is there a length limitation for CAT 5 Cable? [A] In order to establish cabling standards that will be reliable in a variety of circumstances, it was necessary to perform rigorous testing of networks under a multitude of different conditions. During this testing process, it was found that it was possible to successfully transmit data over a CAT 5 Cable connection well in excess of the established limit of 328 feet, given ideal conditions and properly matched networking equipment. Other connection scenarios revealed that using poor quality CAT 5 Cable, switches, or other components resulted in a much slower network with less signal power to reach other devices. This created a wide gap between what was thought to be "possible", and was was considered "realistic. As a result, the poor performing models were considered by many to be more of a worst case situation, and therefore the standard was set on the low side to ensure successful installation under a variety of installation conditions. As technology of cabling products continues to improve, the data cabling standards are always being reviewed. It is always possible that changes may be introduced at a later date that will provide more flexibility. Until then, stay on the safe side. CAT 5 Cable Company sells CAT 6, CAT 5E, and CAT 5 Patch and Crossover cables in 9 colors, custom fit to any length up to 328 feet. RELATED FAQ QUESTION: What is the difference between patch and crossover cable? Keywords: CAT 5E Patch Cable, CAT 6 Patch Cable