3 Network Cabling and Physical Media Free Online FlashCards

Why are the copper pairs in twisted-pair cable twisted?

Twisting helps reduce electromagnetic interference and crosstalk between the wire pairs.

What does a cable category specify?

A category specifies transmission performance; actual speed and distance depend on the complete channel, installation quality, and equipment at both ends.

What is the typical maximum length of a structured copper channel?

A conventional structured copper channel is generally limited to 100 m: up to 90 m of installed horizontal cable plus up to 10 m of patch cords.

How do riser and plenum cable uses differ?

Riser cable is intended for vertical runs between floors; plenum cable is intended for certain air-handling spaces.

What carries signals through fiber-optic media?

Fiber carries information as light through glass or plastic. It does not conduct electricity and is inherently resistant to electromagnetic interference.

What must be checked when matching fiber to optical transceivers?

Verify that the transceiver supports the fiber type, wavelength, speed, and distance, and that the link's total optical loss stays within its budget.

How do T568A and T568B differ?

T568A and T568B differ only in the positions of the orange and green pairs.

Name four common fiber connector styles and one characteristic of each.

Common styles include LC, often used in duplex pairs; SC, which is push-pull; ST, which is bayonet; and MPO, which is multi-fiber.

What compatibility checks matter when connecting fiber ends?

A duplex fiber link needs correct transmit-to-receive polarity. Connector type and finish must also be compatible; UPC/PC and APC finishes should not be mated.

What should you consider when a copper Ethernet route exceeds 100 m?

If a standard copper Ethernet channel would exceed 100 m, consider fiber or a suitable intermediate network device rather than relying on a higher cable category to extend it.

What must a shielded twisted-pair installation include?

Shielded variants add foil or braid to reduce interference, but require compatible shielded components and correct bonding and grounding.

Which copper category is commonly used for 10 Gb/s over 100 m?

Cat 6A is rated at 500 MHz and is a common choice for 10 Gb/s copper links that need to reach 100 m.