Top 10 Types of External Network Cables and Their Uses
External network cables are essential for connecting devices to each other and to the internet. There are many different types of external network cables available, each with its own unique purpose. Here are the top 10 types of external network cables and their uses:
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
UTP cables are the most common type of external network cable. They are made of four pairs of twisted copper wires, and they are typically used for connecting devices to each other and to the internet. UTP cables are available in different categories, with each category indicating the maximum speed that the cable can support.
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP)
STP cables are similar to UTP cables, but they have an additional layer of shielding that helps to protect the wires from interference. STP cables are more expensive than UTP cables, but they offer better performance, especially in noisy environments.
Coaxial Cable
Coaxial cable is a type of cable that is used to transmit high-frequency signals. It is made of a central conductor surrounded by a layer of insulation and a metal shield. Coaxial cable is used for a variety of applications, including cable TV, satellite TV, and high-speed internet.
Fiber Optic Cable
Fiber optic cables are the fastest and most reliable type of external network cable. They are made of glass or plastic fibers that transmit light signals. Fiber optic cables are used for a variety of applications, including telecommunications, data centers, and medical imaging.
HDMI Cable
HDMI cables are used to connect digital devices, such as TVs, Blu-ray players, and game consoles. They transmit video and audio signals, and they are capable of supporting the latest high-definition formats.
DisplayPort Cable
DisplayPort cables are similar to HDMI cables, but they are designed for use with computers. They transmit video and audio signals, and they are capable of supporting the latest high-resolution displays.
USB Cable
USB cables are used to connect computers to peripheral devices, such as printers, scanners, and external hard drives. They are also used to charge devices, such as smartphones and tablets.
FireWire Cable
FireWire cables are used to connect computers to high-speed external devices, such as video cameras and external hard drives. They are faster than USB cables, but they are also more expensive.
Thunderbolt Cable
Thunderbolt cables are the fastest type of external network cable. They are used to connect computers to high-speed external devices, such as video cards and external storage arrays. Thunderbolt cables are more expensive than other types of external network cables, but they offer the best performance.
Conclusion
There are many different types of external network cables available, each with its own unique purpose. By understanding the different types of external network cables and their uses, you can choose the right cable for your needs.