The Rj45 vs. Cat6 – Can one be used in place of the other?
Both of these terms are very commonly passed around when it comes to devices and connections. It is possible to get confused. But they are actually very different things.
When dealing with network connections, it is possible to be unable to distinguish between terms, especially when you are trying to make a purchase. The Rj45 and Cat6 are devices used within the same environment and are actually used together, but are they the same?
The Rj45 is actually a connector. It has slots through which copper wire from an Ethernet cable go so that it is attached to a network source. The Cat6 is the actual cable that transmits the data from the network source to the computer.
This article is a breakdown of each device’s characteristic and functions. This information will help you tell them apart.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Rj45 and Cat6 Ethernet Cable?
Device |
Rj45 |
Cat6 |
Physical Characteristics |
Rectangular plastic device that measures 11.6mm across |
Long cable that measures up to 220 meters |
Functionality |
Connects Ethernet Cables to internet sources |
Transmits data from network source to device |
The Rj45 vs. Cat6 Ethernet Cable – How do they compare?
Physical Characteristics
The Rj45 is a small rectangular device that is usually fully transparent. It measures 11.69mm across. It comes with a specific 8P8C configuration. This configuration is the pattern followed by the copper wires through the connector.
The Cat6 is a long cable that has a length of up to 220 meters. It has copper wires inside which are used for the transmission of electromagnetic impulses. The wires are usually 8 in number. They are coated in pvc to prevent them from coming into direct contact. The cable is covered in a pvc jacket on the outside.
Functionality
The Rj45 is a connector that links Ethernet cables to network sources. It has a special 8P8C configuration which means it can handle 8 wires at the same time. This device is the most ideal for Ethernet cable connections.
The Cat6 is a cable that mainly acts as a conduit for data transfer in the form of electromagnetic impulses. It has 8 copper wires inside that are twisted in pairs to reduce the chances of crosstalk.
Rj45 vs. Cat6 Overview
The Rj45 Connector
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This connector has a long rectangular shape and is transparent. It measures 11.6 mm across. It acts as a link between Ethernet cables and network sources such as routers. This device has 8 copper pins. Since they are prone to rusting, they are coated in gold to give them durability and resistance to damage by rust.
It has an 8P8C configuration meaning that it has 8 positions and 8 connection points. It can accommodate up to 8 wires at a go.
Pros
- It can handle 8 wires at a go
- It is has gold coated pins to prevent them from rusting
- It can handle heavy data transmission
Cons
- It cannot be used for telephone lines and modems
The Cat6 Ethernet Cable
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This is one of the fastest and most reliable Ethernet cables. It has a maximum transmission speed of 10Gbps and maximum bandwidth of 250 MHz. It can sustain this speed for a distance of up to 55 meters. It has 8 copper wires inside that are coated in pvc to prevent interference.
Pros
- It has a high transmission speed and broad bandwidth
- It is quite durable
- It can handle heavy transmission
Cons
- It can be hard to bend
Conclusion
Each of these devices plays an important role in the transmission of data. The connector ensures that the cable is well linked while the cable ensures the sufficient transmission of data.
FAQs
-
Can the Rj45 be used for telephone line connection?
No, there would be no need for it as there are designate connectors for phone lines such as the Rj11.
-
Can the Cat6 be used for home connection?
Yes, it can. But its speed is best for office settings.
