1.5 Copper Cabling Flashcards
N10-009 Obj. 1.5 Compare and contrast transmission media and transceivers (11 cards)
Why is selecting the right cabling important in networking infrastructure?
Once installed, cabling is difficult to replace; choosing the right type ensures reliable performance and throughput.
Transcript: “Once the cabling is installed… make sure you’re using the right cabling for the right infrastructure.” (0:14–0:24)
What type of cable is most commonly used in Ethernet networks?
Twisted pair copper cabling.
Transcript: “One of the most common cable types is the twisted pair copper cable.” (0:42–0:46)
Why are twisted pairs used in Ethernet cabling?
Twisting reduces interference by allowing comparison of transmit/receive signals and minimizing noise.
Transcript: “This twist… means at least one of these wires will always be moving away from interference.” (1:22–1:29)
Do cables have a specific “speed”?
No, the speed is defined by the Ethernet standard and signal used—not the cable itself.
Transcript: “Cable doesn’t have any speed… the signal allows data to be sent over the cable.” (1:56–2:10)
What determines the minimum cable category needed for a network?
The 802.3 Ethernet standard specifies the required cable category and expected throughput.
Transcript: “You should go back to the 802.3 standards… specify the minimum cable type…” (2:20–2:34)
What is an example of a cable category requirement for Gigabit Ethernet?
1000BASE-T requires at least Category 5 cable.
Transcript: “1000BASE-T… minimum cable category… is Category 5.” (3:04–3:13)
What is coaxial cable and where is it commonly used?
A type of cable with a single conductor and shielding; used in cable modems and broadband connections.
RG-6 used in television/digital cable
* high-speed Internet over cable
Transcript: “Coaxial cable… single wire conductor… commonly used is an RG-6 cable.” (3:33–4:01)
What is Twinax cable and what is it used for?
A twin conductor coaxial cable often used with 10 Gbps Ethernet and SFP+ connections over short distances (~5 meters).
- Full duplex
- Five meters
- Low cost
- Low latency compared to twisted pair
Transcript: “Twinax… associated with 10 gigabit… allows full duplex… about 5 meters.” (4:12–4:29)
What is a plenum space in a building?
The space between a drop ceiling and the structural ceiling, often used for air circulation and cable routing.
Transcript: “You’re seeing a drop ceiling… referred to as the plenum.” (4:43–5:02)
Why are plenum-rated cables important in shared air spaces?
They emit less smoke and fewer toxic fumes in fires, reducing the spread of harmful substances through HVAC systems.
Fire-rated cable jacket
* Fluorinated ethylene polymer (FEP) or low-smoke polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Transcript: “Plenum-rated cable… manufactured with FEP or low-smoke PVC… safer in a fire…” (6:27–6:45)
What is one downside to using plenum-rated cable?
It is often less flexible and more difficult to install around bends and corners.
Transcript: “May not be quite as flexible… a bit more of a challenge to install…” (6:45–6:56)
