If you want to connect multiple computer hardware or system peripherals, you may have encountered patch cables. These usually short cables make connecting components simple without losing data quality. Here you’ll find answers to “What is a patch cable?”
What Is a Patch Cable?
Patch cables connect hardware components, usually within server cases or similar configurations, to transmit data over short distances. A basic patch cable is similar to an ethernet cable and uses copper wire. Fiber patch cables are also available.
Types of Patch Cables
There are two main categories of patch cables based on their construction materials. Each category has several different types. Data capacity and transfer speeds vary between subtypes.
Copper Patch Cables
Copper patch cables are the backbone of many systems. They provide reliable connections with high tensile strength, flexibility, and corrosion resistance. Copper patch cables come in variations ranging from CAT5 to CAT8.
Fiber Patch Cables
These use optical fibers to transmit data as light signals. Fiber patch cables have fiber optic terminals at each end and come in two main forms: single mode and multimode. Multimode cables can transmit more data at higher speeds, although single-mode cables are usually better suited for long distances. Fiber patch cables typically come in multimode variations ranging from OM1 through OM5 or as OS2 single-mode cables.
What Is a Patch Cable Used for?
There are wide-ranging applications for patch cables. The number of configurations and size flexibility make them ideal for building home or office computer networks. They can also be used for telecommunications networks. Because they are generally short, patch cables typically connect devices within the same room or building. However, you can use certain versions to connect hardware in separate buildings located near each other.
Patch cables create local area networks by connecting network devices, including computers, routers, and switches. They can also connect peripherals and IoT devices to a central network.
In telecommunications applications, they may connect multiple units to a single phone system. Depending on the terminal connections, they can quickly attach to CATV, switch, or other telecommunications equipment.
How Long Can Patch Cables Be?
Patch cable length varies with the materials and configuration, but most are for relatively short distances. You can use copper patch cables for distances of about 100 meters without compromising transfer speeds. At Equal Optics, we carry CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A, CAT7, and CAT8 copper patch cables in lengths from one to 100 meters.
Fiber patch cables are usually up to 100 meters long, with typical sizes ranging from one to 30 meters. Single-mode fiber patch cables can transmit data over even longer distances. However, because they usually connect hardware within cases, patch cables tend to be relatively short.
Shop Equal Optics for Premium Patch Cables
You don’t have to wonder What is a patch cable any longer. Now that you know the answer to what are patch cables, shop Equal Optics for both copper and fiber patch cables. We manufacture premium equipment for a range of IT applications. Contact us for a consultation to establish the ideal type and size of patch cables for your system.
