
Ethernet cables are physical cables that are used to connect devices in a wired local area network (LAN). These network cables are commonly used to establish a wired connection between computers, routers, switches, and other networked devices. Ethernet cables are essential for transmitting data, such as internet traffic, between devices within a network.

## **Types of Ethernet Cables**

Ethernet cables are used as internet, network or lan cables in various environments across NZ. The most common categories of ethernet cables include:

- Cat 5e (Category 5e): Cat 5e cables are among the most used Ethernet cables. They support data transfer speeds of up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) and are suitable for most home and small office network applications.
- Cat 6 (Category 6): Cat 6 cables are an improvement over Cat 5e and can handle higher data transfer speeds, up to 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) over shorter distances.
- Cat 6a (Category 6a): Cat 6a cables, also known as Cat 6 Augmented, offer even higher data transfer speeds, up to 10 Gbps over longer distances than Cat 6 cables.
- Cat 7 (Category 7): Cat 7 cables are designed for high-speed networking and offer data transfer speeds of up to 10 Gbps.
- Cat 8 (Category 8): Cat 8 cables are the latest addition to Ethernet cable categories and are designed for extremely high-speed data transfer.
- Cat 8.1 (Category 8.1): Cat 8.1 is a variant of Cat 8 cables designed for use in residential and commercial applications. It supports data transfer speeds of up to 25 Gbps

## **Features and Benefits of Ethernet Cables**

Ethernet cables are integral to the performance and reliability of wired networks, offering numerous features that enhance connectivity and data transmission. 

- **Physical Design:** Ethernet cables typically consist of twisted pairs of copper wires encased in a protective outer sheath. The most common type of Ethernet cable is known as "Category 5e" (Cat 5e) or "Category 6" (Cat 6). Cat 5e cables can handle speeds up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps), while Cat 6 cables can support speeds up to 10 Gbps.
- **Connectors:** Ethernet cables use connectors called "[RJ-45 connectors](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/c/connectors/network-telecom-connectors/ethernet-connectors/)" at each end. These connectors have eight pins that make contact with the eight wires inside the cable. They are designed to snap into Ethernet ports on devices.
- **Ethernet Standards:** Ethernet cables adhere to various standards, such as 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and 1000BASE-T, which specify the maximum data transfer speeds they can support. Newer standards like 10GBASE-T support even faster data rates.
- **Cable Length:** Ethernet cables have a maximum recommended length, which depends on the specific standard and cable quality. For example, Cat 5e cables should not exceed 100 meters (about 328 feet) in length for optimal performance.
- **PoE (Power over Ethernet):** Some Ethernet cables support Power over Ethernet, allowing both data and electrical power to be transmitted over the same cable. This is often used to power devices like IP cameras and VoIP phones.
- **Colour Coding:** Ethernet cables often follow a colour-coding scheme for the wires inside. The most common colour code is TIA/EIA-568-B, which specifies the order of wire pairs within the cable.

## **Applications of Ethernet Cables**

Ethernet cables are fundamental to a wide range of industries, ensuring reliable and fast connectivity across various applications. Their versatility makes them essential in sectors such as telecommunications, education, retail, hospitality, and healthcare in NZ.

- **Telecommunications**: In the telecommunications industry, Ethernet cables are used to connect network devices, enabling high-speed data transmission and stable communication systems. Cat 6 cables are often deployed in data centers and network hubs to handle large volumes of internet traffic efficiently.
- **Educational Institutes**: Schools, universities, and other educational institutions rely on Ethernet cables to provide wired internet access in classrooms, labs, and libraries. Cat 5 Ethernet cables are commonly used to create robust local area networks (LAN**s**) that support online learning, research, and administrative functions.
- **Retail and Hospitality**: In the retail and hospitality sectors, Ethernet cables are crucial for powering point-of-sale systems, security cameras, and guest internet access points. LAN cables ensure seamless operations by connecting these devices to central servers and the internet.
- **Healthcare**: Ethernet cables play a critical role in the healthcare industry by connecting medical devices, patient monitoring systems, and electronic health record databases. PoE (Power over Ethernet) technology, often supported by Ethernet cables, allows for the efficient powering and networking of these devices, enhancing patient care and operational efficiency.

## **Discover Top-Quality Ethernet Cables Now!**

RS is your trusted supplier of ethernet cables in NZ, offering a wide selection from leading brands like [Belden](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/c/cables-wires/networking-coaxial-cables/ethernet-cable/?applied-dimensions=4294967065), [HARTING](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/c/cables-wires/networking-coaxial-cables/ethernet-cable/?applied-dimensions=4291919492), [Phoenix Contact](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/c/cables-wires/networking-coaxial-cables/ethernet-cable/?applied-dimensions=4294965813), and more. Whether you need a Cat 6 cable for high-speed data transfer or a durable LAN cable for your network setup, RS has the right solution to meet your requirements. Don’t compromise on connectivity — explore our range of Ethernet cables today and ensure your network operates at peak performance.

## **Ordering & Delivery Information for NZ**

RS provides reliable and timely delivery of ethernet cables and other networking products such as [fibre optic cables](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/c/cables-wires/networking-coaxial-cables/fibre-optic-cable/?searchTerm=networking) or [network switches](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/c/computing-peripherals/networking-wifi/network-switches/). To learn more about our delivery services, estimated time frames, and costs, please visit our [Delivery Information page](https://nz.rs-online.com/web/content/support/all-articles/delivery).



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