For maximum single transfer, should I be using shielded CAT5e for100 foot runs, or is unshielded OK? The CAT5e cables won't be next to any other computer cables or electrical wiring in the house. Or, should I skip CAT5 and go directly to CAT6?

Support Center » Knowledgebase » For maximum single transfer, should I be using shielded CAT5e for100 foot runs, or is unshielded OK? The CAT5e cables won't be next to any other computer cables or electrical wiring in the house. Or, should I skip CAT5 and go directly to CAT6?

	For maximum single transfer, should I be using shielded CAT5e for100 foot runs, or is unshielded OK? The CAT5e cables won't be next to any other computer cables or electrical wiring in the house. Or, should I skip CAT5 and go directly to CAT6?

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Shielding will make no difference in maximum transfer rates. Shielding only protects a cable from outside interference. Given that you do not have any EMI to worry about, then unshielded (UTP) should be fine. Cat 5e and Cat 6 both support up to 1 Gigabit (1000 Mbps) speeds, with Cat 6 capable of 10 Gigabit. Cat6 is better at mitigating crosstalk & errors, and may be a good choice for future-ready applications. The overall scope of the project would make the decision between Cat 5e or Cat 6. Since most networking scenarios operate at or below 1 Gigabit speeds, Cat 5e will typically be an appropriate choice.

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Apr 17 2009 9:57 AM