Patch cables are created with the single aim of allowing systems to deliver intended data transfer rates and bandwidth. Patch cables Bulk performs this task by connecting two optical or electronic devices with each other for signal routing. Network applications “patch” signals from one switch, hub, or router to another. Patch cables are used to carry a wide array of signals including:
- Digital Signals for networked & non-networked applications
- Audio
- Telephone
- Video
It has been observed that the terms “patch cord” and “patch cables” are used interchangeably. This should be avoided as patch cords usually refer to the cables that are used for non-networked applications.
To manage and connect outgoing and incoming cables in LAN, patch panels or routers are used. If you want to arrange a circuit, you can unplug the already plugged wire or plug a new patch cable into the port.
Must Read: Important Things You Should Know About Patch Panel
STP Ethernet Cable and UTP Ethernet Cable
STP ethernet cables, UTP ethernet cables, Coaxial cables, and fiber optic cables are used to make patch cables. Likewise, pigtails (patch cables) are types of cables that have terminated wires at one end whereas exposed bare wires are on the other end. A pigtail cable allows you to customize the patch cord for a permanent and direct connection.
Speaking of ethernet patch cables, they come in both pure copper conductors and CCA conductors; however, the former is preferred because of
- Ductility
- Tensile Strenght
- Pliability
- Thermal Expansion
- & Corrosion Resistance
When it comes to overall composition and construction, patch cables and ethernet cables are exactly the same; the only thing that sets them apart is the length. Patch cables are usually very shorter in length and do not exceed the 2-meter threshold. There are some exceptions though as there are applications that may need a longer patch cord for looping purposes (such as for future movement or to reduce the risk of kinking and damage).
In local area networks (LAN), experts usually deploy Cat6a or Cat6 patch cables.
The second most common types of patch cables are jumper cables commonly known as fiber optic patch cables. The pre-terminated connectors of fiber optic patch cables allow you to conveniently connect the cables to CATV, telecommunication equipment, or optical switch. The fiber optic patch cables are characterized as Single Mode or Multimode types.
Single Mode Vs Multimode Fiber Optics
The difference between Single Mode and Multimode fiber optic cables is that the former has a smaller core that is used for long-haul installations and is much more expensive than the latter. A Single-Mode Fiber Optic Cable is further categorized into two categories: OS1 and OS2. The diameter of glass fiber for this type of cable varies between 8.3 to 10 microns.
On the other hand, Multimode fiber optic cables have larger cores and are used in runs less than 1300 feet or 400 meters. These cables are generally cheaper. Multimode Fiber Optic Cables are further classified into these 4 categories: OM1, OM2, OM3, and OM4. The diameter of glass fiber for this type of cable varies between 50 to 100 microns.
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