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What is CAT (category) cable?
CAT cable, short for Category cable, is a type of multi conductor cable that contains twisted pairs of wires that are used for carrying signals. Most often, you will find these cables are used in data transmission or computer networks. If you have ever looked at the back of a modem or handled an ethernet cable, then you know what CAT cable is. CAT cable is the most ubiquitous networking cable on the entire planet. It is known for its ease of installation and long-term durability. One question we often hear from our customers is about the differences between CAT5, CAT5e, and CAT6.
"CAT cable is the most ubiquitous networking cable on the entire planet."
How do I strip CAT (category) cable without damaging the internal conductors?
To correctly strip CAT cable, you need to use the a ring slit tool and a compact wire stripper. Measure the CAT cable to the correct length adding an extra inch or so. Use the compact wire stripper to cleanly slice through the cat cable. Next, use the ring slit tool to safely remove the outer insulation by working it around the cable several times. With the outer jacket removed, we need to turn our attention to the internal conductors. Once you know the correct amount of insulation to strip from each twisted pair, use the wire stripper to cut into the insulation. After closing the tool, pull it away from the main section to reveal the internal conductor. All that is left is to repeat the process on the remaining wire.
Where are these products implemented?
CAT cable is implemented in signal-carrying applications where multiple conductors are needed. Although ideal for new wire installations, CAT cable is perfect for replacing older cables as well. How do you know if your CAT cable needs to be replaced? Is the insulation on the CAT cable faded? Is the CAT cable cracked? If so, then it may be time to replace those cables with new ones. All you will need are the proper telephony tools and the proper connectors. Now let us take a look at whether you should use CAT5, CAT5E, or CAT6.
Should I use 5, 5E, or 6 CAT cables?
When considering using CAT5, 5E, or 6, the biggest consideration is the application where the cable will be installed. CAT5 cable plays many roles. It's used on computer networks such as ethernet connections. This cable provides performance up to 10/100 Mbps speeds at up to 100 MHz. This makes it suitable for 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, 1000BASE-T, and 2.5GBASE-T. It is also used to carry telephony and video signals. If you're looking for something a little more powerful, check out CAT5E (E = enhanced) cable which is the next step up from CAT5. CAT5e can handle 1000Mbps speeds (gigabit ethernet) at 100 MHz. For the highest performance available, CAT6 is the right choice. This cable can handle up to 10-gigabit ethernet at 250 MHz. CAT6 is also specifically designed to reduce "crosstalk" better than CAT5 or CAT5E.
CAT5
CAT5e
CAT6
What is crosstalk and how does CAT cable handle it?
Crosstalk is the term to describe any phenomenon that disrupts the normal flow of data in a cable due to electrical interference. That is to say that when different current-carrying cables are in close proximity to one another, they can have an effect on each other. CAT cable handles crosstalk through several factors including the rate of twist in the twisted pairs of wires and the higher frequencies that are used. This may seem confusing, but all you need to know is that CAT cable is specifically designed to help reduce or even eliminate crosstalk.
What connectors can I use with CAT cable?
CAT cables are connected using modular connectors and even punch-down blocks. We currently offer two types of modular connectors, the RJ45 8-position modular plug, and the RJ25 6-position modular plug. We have a free handy installation guide on their product pages to make the installation process easier for you. Both the RJ45 and the RJ25 modular plugs are available to be used with CAT5, 5E, and 6 cables. It is important to note that in order to properly install either the RJ45 or the RJ25 modular plug, you will need to use the proper tool.
RJ45
RJ25
What tools work with CAT cable?
To get the most out of your CAT cable, they must be installed properly and that requires the Ideal Telemaster Crimp Tool. This tool is specifically designed to be used with the RJ45 8-position modular plugs. This multi-function tool allows the operator to cut and strip the CAT cable before crimping which makes this tool the ideal choice for field service. Having an all-in-one tool not only makes the installation process simpler but also reduces the number of tools required which saves time and money. This is one of the many reasons that you will find CAT cable in so many different industries.
What industries use CAT cable?
CAT cable can be found in a wide range of industries such as the automation industry, the communication industry, the database industry, and even the solar power industry. It is trusted for its consistent data transmission in tough environments which is why this type of multiconductor cable is so common. With its durability, flexibility, and longevity, it is a smart choice for long-term installations where quality data transmission, and cross-talk prevention is required. Choosing the correct type of CAT cable is not always an easy task. Contact a Pacer expert with any questions that you may have.
Automation
Communication
Database
Solar Power
Why choose Pacer?
Pacer has over 40 years’ experience designing, manufacturing, and selling wire and cable products all across the world. Our processes have been refined, tweaked, and perfected, which lead to manufacture the highest quality wire and cable available. We have partnered with trusted distributors and vendors to cultivate a catalog of over 9,000 high quality parts. When we sell a product on this site, it is because it passed our stringent tests and standards. If we do not put a product in our private boats, we will not sell it to you. When you see Pacer on your new Cat cable, you know you've got quality.
*This page was updated on 1/16/2025*