Cables and Connectors (SS3 WK3)
Cables and Connectors (SS3 WK3)
Cables and Connectors (SS3 WK3)
Week 3
Network cables are used to connect one device or node to another. They are physical
mediums used to transmit data between electronic devices in a computer network. The
following are types of network cables:
1.) Twisted pair cables: Twisted pair cables consist of pairs of insulated copper wires
twisted together for the purpose of cancelling out electromagnetic interference (EMI)
from external sources. They are widely used for Ethernet connections and come in
various categories, with each offering different data transmission speeds and
capabilities. Examples: Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, Cat8.
2.) Coaxial Cables: Coaxial cables have a central conductor surrounded by an insulating
layer, a metallic shield, and an outer insulating layer. They are used as transmission lines
for radio frequency signals. There applications include feed-lines connecting radio
transmitter and receivers with their antennas, broadband Internet connections, and
distributing cable television signals.
3.) Fibre Optic Cables: Fibre optic cables consists of a centre glass core surrounded by
several layers of protective materials. They transmit data as light pulses rather than
electrical signals. They offer high data transfer rates, are immune to electromagnetic
interference, and are commonly used in long-distance and high-speed networks.
4.) USB Cables: USB (Universal Serial Bus) cables are versatile and used for connecting
various peripherals like printers, external hard drives, and smartphones to computers.
Examples: USB-A, USB-B, USB-C and Micro-USB. USB-C is becoming a standard for many
modern devices due to its reversible connector design.
5.) HDMI Cables: HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) cables are used for
transmitting high-definition audio and video signals between devices like TVs, monitors,
gaming consoles, and computers. Examples: HDMI Standard, HDMI Mini, HDMI Micro.
6.) VGA Cables: VGA (Video Graphics Array) cables were once common for connecting
computer monitors to PCs but have become less popular with the rise of digital
interfaces. They use a 15-pin VGA connector. Example: VGA (HD-15) cables.
Connectors
Connectors are the physical interfaces at the ends of network cables that allow for the
attachment and disconnection of cables to devices.
T-connector
Optical connectors
USB connectors
HDMI connectors
1.) Registered Jack (RJ): is a standardized connector used in networking. The connector
has different types which are: RJ 44, RJ 11, RJ 25, RJ 14.
a.) RJ 45 Connectors
This is the standard connector for twisted pair cabling. Modern Ethernet networks use
twisted pair cabling containing eight wires in pairs of four. These wires are arranged in
special order and the connector is crimped onto the end of the cable. RJ 45 is the most
common type of connector used for network data.
These are standard connectors used for telephone systems. RJ 11 is the most commonly
used connector used for telephone lines. It is similar to the RJ45 connector but smaller.
When found on a computer, the RJ11 is generally meant for a modem. The RJ11
standard dictates a 2-wire connection, while RJ14 uses a 4-wire configuration, and RJ25
uses all six wires.
2.) T (TEE)-CONNECTOR
A T-connector is a type of electric connector that connects three cables together. It has
a T-shape.
ST (straight Tip)
SC (subscriber connector)
LC (Local connector)
USB connectors come in various shapes and sizes. USB-C is becoming more prevalent
due to its reversible design and high data transfer speeds.
HDMI connectors match the cable types, and their design depends on the device they
connect. Type A is standard, Type C is mini, and Type D is micro.
Note: Connectors are classified as either male of female:
A male connector is one that the pins are pointed out.
A female connector has it pins in form of hole that the male connector plugs
into.
Power cable
Power cable is an assembly of two or more electrical conductors that is held together
with an outside sheath. A power cable is used to connect computers or any electrical or
electronic devices to a power supply socket.
Examples of power cables are : AC power cord, Laptop charger cable, Extension cord,
Power adapter cables.
Data cable
A data cable is any media that allows data transmissions from one device to another.
e.g., from a computer to a printer. Data transmission is usually baseband.
Examples/types of data cables include: Printer cable, USB cable, VGA cable, HDMI cable,
Firewire, etc.