Rj45 vs. Cat5 – Are their functions the same?
It is possible to get very confused when dealing with technical language, especially in topics we are not conversant with. These two accessories are confused a lot. Are they the same?
The Rj45 and Cat5 are accessories used in Ethernet connections. They are terms that are very commonly mentioned, and the confusing bit is that they are mentioned alongside one another. But are they the same thing? Are they comparable?
The answer is no. The Cat5 is an Ethernet cable that transmits data in the form of electromagnetic impulses from a router to a device such as a computer. It may measure anything between 30 meters to 220 meters.
On the other hand, the Rj45 is a small device that acts as a connector. It is used to connect the Ethernet cable to a source of network. It is actually quite small, measuring approximately 11.6 mm in diameter.
Here is a brief breakdown of the Rj45 connector and Cat5 Ethernet cable’s characteristics.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Rj45 and Cat5 Ethernet Cable?
Device |
Rj45 |
Cat5 |
Physical Characteristics |
Rectangular plastic block with 11.6 mm diameter |
Long cable that measures 30-220 meters |
Functionality |
Connecting Ethernet cables to network sources |
Transmitting data from network source to computer device |
The Rj45 vs. Cat5 Ethernet Cable – How do they compare?
Physical Characteristics
The Rj45 is a device that has a long rectangular shape. It usually has a diameter of 11.6mm. It comes with slots through which Ethernet cables wires go through so that they are connected to the source of internet.
This connector is usually transparent, allowing you to see the pattern followed by the wires.
The Cat5 is a long cable that has copper wires inside. They are normally 8 in number. These wires are covered in pvc coating to prevent them from coming into direct contact. They are then twisted in twos and covered with a flexible pvc shield. It can measure anything between 30 and 220 meters.
Functionality
The Rj45 is actually a connector. This small device connects the Ethernet cable to the source of network. It comes with a configuration which is ideally the pattern followed by the wires. It has an 8P8C configuration, meaning that it has 8 positions and 8 connection points.
The Cat5 Ethernet cable transmits data from network sources such as routers to computers. It has a maximum transmission speed of 10/100Mbps and a bandwidth of 100Mhz. It uses copper wires for the transmission.
Rj45 vs. Cat5 Overview
Rj45 Connector
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This is a small device that acts as the link between Ethernet cables and network sources such as modems. It has a diameter of 11.6mm. It is a rectangular piece of plastic that has an 8P8C configuration, meaning that it has the capacity to hold 8 copper wires at a go. It has 8 copper pins that are gold coated to prevent them from rusting. The crimps are responsible for data transmission.
Pros
- It can handle 8 wires at a go
- Its pinsare gold coated to prevent rusting
Cons
- It cannot handle modem and telephone connections
The Cat5 Ethernet Cable
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This cable is used to transmit data in the form of electromagnetic impulses from network sources to the computer. It uses copper wires for this function, and they are usually 8 in number. It has a maximum transmission speed of 10/100Mbps and a maximum bandwidth of 100MHz. It is old technology that is now considered obsolete.
Pros
- It is quite flexible
- It is affordable
Cons
- It is quite slow
Conclusion
These two devices have different functions when it comes to data transmission. There is, however, no doubt that they are both equally important.
FAQ
-
Can the Rj45 connector be used in place of the RJ11?
No, it cannot. The Rj11 is much smaller and can only support a maximum of 4 wires at a time.
-
What is the maximum transmission speed of an Rj45 connector?
It has a maximum transmission speed of 10Gbps.
