Network cable definition

Cable types

CAT-5

This was the original Ethernet cable,

• This is typically classed as an obsolete cable and not currently available
• Speeds 10/100Mbps up to 100M

CAT-5e (LAN & EXAKT LINK)

This is similar to CAT-5 cable but tested to a higher specification and high bandwidth compared to CAT-5

• speeds 10/100/1,000Mbps up to 100M, short runs may have >10,000Mbps

CAT-6

Similar to CAT-5e but each twisted pair is separated by a divider, this will reduce any signal cross-talk between each cable.

• speed 100/1,000Mbps up to 100M, short runs may have >10,000Mbps
• This is also an obsolete cable.

CAT-6a

Similar to CAT-6 but this is tested to a higher specification to reduce any signal cross-talk between each cable.

• Speed 100/1,000/10,000Mbps up to 100M

CAT-7

Again similar to CAT-5e but with shielding on each pair of cables and the full overall cable.

• This can be a very bulky cable due to the cabling and mass of screening. Mainly used to eliminate any crosstalk between cable pairs & between other CAT* cables. This additional screening can reduce the working cable length sue to signal attenuation.
• Speed 100/1,000/10,000Mbps up to 100M

Screening

For each CAT5/5e/6/6a cable you have the option of

UTP

Unshielded Twisted Pair. This as it says is no screening in the cable, only the four twisted pairs and insulation.

FTP/STP/ScTP

Foil/Shielded/Screened Twisted Pair has the addition of shielding of the full cable. This will reduce cross-talk and noise from external source or other CAT cables. This may reduce any RF broadcasts from the cable that may be picked by analogue audio leads.

Cable usage

All cables are available in:

Patch

This is a multi-strand cable that can be flexed and patch from a plug-plug. E.g. a flying lead that will link from wall socket to the back of DS.

Single core

This is fixed cables on cable trays/conduit that after installation is never moved, connecting socket to socket. E.g. fixed cable in wall conduit linking the Living room wall socket to the patch panel socket.

This cable should NEVER be used as patch cable as it is prone to micro fracture of the single core due to continuous flexing.

Recommendation

We recommend CAT-5e or CAT-6a cable, (UTP/FTP to your choice) with Linn DS/DSM & Exakt-Link

This is designed to work at a minimum of 100Mbps used in the Exakt-link and Linn DS Ethernet link.

Using higher spec cables will make no difference in the sound quality, but may be useful if the local network cable installation is going to be used with high bandwidth video streaming devices.

CAT-7 patch cable is not required and classed as OTT for Linn DS or Exakt Link operation.

Qualification

Any cables used with the Linn DS / Exakt-link should be tested to the required Qualification levels (100Mbps)