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Network Cables

Pre-assembled network cables are essential for fast and stable data transmission in professional audio and IT environments. These cables, equipped with high-quality RJ45 connectors, guarantee a reliable connection for Ethernet networks, audio-over-IP and other digital applications. Our network cable assemblies offer high robustness combined with flexibility and are available in different lengths and categories such as Cat5e, Cat6 and Cat7 to meet the requirements of any installation.

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What are network cables?

Network cables are physical cables used to connect and transmit data between computers, routers, switches and other network devices. They play a crucial role in the IT infrastructure by enabling reliable and fast communication in local area networks (LAN).

Network cables are increasingly used in the audio sector, especially for the transmission of audio signals in professional and semi-professional environments. Here are some of the most important technologies and standards that network cables use in the audio sector:

  • Dante
  • AVB
  • RAVENNA
  • Cobranet
  • AES67
Typical network cables for audio areas:
  • Cat5e: Good for many applications, offers support for Dante and similar protocols.
  • Cat6: Provides better performance and higher bandwidths, recommended for higher requirements.
  • Cat6a and higher: For environments that require very high data rates and low latency times.
Advantages of using network cables in the audio sector:
  • Costs: Ethernet infrastructure is often cheaper and widespread.
  • Flexibility: Network cables enable simple changes and extensions to the setup.
  • Scalability: Easy expansion of the number of audio channels.
  • Combined use: Network infrastructure can be used simultaneously for audio, video and data.

Dante is a network-based audio transmission technology developed by Audinate.

  • Transmission: Transmits audio over standard Ethernet networks (Cat5e, Cat6 or higher).
  • Advantages:
    • Supports a large number of audio channels with low latency.
    • Enables easy routing and management of audio signals via software.
    • Very scalable and flexible.
  • Uses: Common in professional audio installations, broadcast stations, live sound environments and recording studios.

AVB is a network protocol developed by the IEEE to enable synchronous audio and video transmission via Ethernet.

  • Transmission: Uses special AVB-capable Ethernet switches and network cables (Cat5e, Cat6 or higher).
  • Advantages:
    • Ensures synchronous transmission of audio and video signals.
    • Low latency and high reliability.
  • Use: In professional audio and video installations, especially in networks that transport both audio and video.

RAVENNA is a network-based audio technology focused on professional and broadcast applications.

  • Transmission: Uses standard Ethernet networks (Cat5e, Cat6 or higher).
  • Advantages:
    • High audio quality and low latency.
    • Flexible and scalable.
  • Use: Primarily in broadcasting and professional audio installations.

Cobranet is an older technology for the transmission of digital audio via Ethernet.

  • Transmission: Uses standard Ethernet cables and infrastructure.
  • Advantages:
    • Proven technology for audio networks.
  • Use: In installations that were implemented before the introduction of newer technologies such as Dante and AVB.

AES67 is a standard that enables interoperability between different network audio protocols such as Dante, RAVENNA and Livewire.

  • Transmission: Via standard Ethernet cable (Cat5e, Cat6 or higher).
  • Advantages:
    • Enables different audio-over-IP systems to work together.
    • Flexibility in the integration of different systems.
  • Usage: In professional audio environments that require seamless integration of various network audio protocols.

Network cables differ in several important aspects:

  • Category (Cat): The category of a cable (e.g. Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, Cat8) determines the data transmission rate and frequency that the cable can support. Higher categories offer higher speeds and better performance.
  • Shielding: Some network cables are shielded (e.g. S/FTP) to reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI). Others are unshielded (UTP), which makes them more flexible and lighter.
  • Plug type: Most network cables use RJ45 plugs, which are standardized for Ethernet connections.

The category of a network cable influences the maximum supported data transmission rate and frequency:

  • Cat5e: Supports up to 1 Gbps at 100 MHz.
  • Cat6: Provides up to 10 Gbps at 250 MHz, but over shorter distances.
  • Cat6a: Increased performance with up to 10 Gbps at 500 MHz, even over longer distances.
  • Cat7 and Cat8: Higher categories offer even higher bandwidths and speeds, making them suitable for demanding applications and future network technologies.

Network cables can have different types of shielding to improve protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and other interference. Here are the most common types of shielding for network cables:

1. UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair)

No shielding, only twisted wire pairs.

  • Usage: Often used in less interference-prone environments, e.g. offices and home networks.
  • Advantages: Flexible and cost-effective.
  • Disadvantages: Less protection against electromagnetic interference.
2. STP (Shielded Twisted Pair)

Each pair of wires is individually wrapped with shielding (foil).

  • Use: In environments with high electromagnetic noise.
  • Advantages: Better protection against interference than UTP.
  • Disadvantages: Less flexible and more expensive than UTP.
3. FTP (Foiled Twisted Pair)

A general foil shield around all twisted pairs.

  • Application: Frequently used in building cabling and industrial applications.
  • Advantages: Provides good protection against external interference.
  • Disadvantages: Less flexible than UTP.
4. S/FTP (Shielded Foiled Twisted Pair)

Combination of foil shielding around each pair of wires and an additional overall shield (braiding).

  • Application: In environments that are highly susceptible to interference.
  • Advantages: Maximum protection against electromagnetic interference.
  • Disadvantages: More expensive and less flexible than other cable types.
5 F/UTP (Foiled Unshielded Twisted Pair)

A general foil shield around all twisted pairs, but no shielding around the individual pairs.

  • Use: In environments with medium interference potential.
  • Advantages: Provides protection from external interference at a lower cost than S/FTP.
  • Disadvantages: Less effective than S/FTP at high interference levels.
6. SF/UTP (Shielded and Foiled Unshielded Twisted Pair)

A foil shield plus a braided shield around all twisted pairs.

  • Use: In environments with high electromagnetic interference.
  • Advantages: Good protection against electromagnetic interference.
  • Disadvantages: More expensive and less flexible than UTP and FTP.
7 S/UTP (Shielded Unshielded Twisted Pair)

A general braided shield around all twisted pairs, no shielding around the individual pairs.

  • Use: In environments with medium to high interference potential.
  • Advantages: Good shielding from electromagnetic interference.
  • Disadvantages: More expensive than UTP and FTP, but more flexible than S/FTP.

For network cables, the quality of the materials used is crucial for signal quality and durability:

  • Conductors: High-quality copper conductors, preferably made of oxygen-free copper (OFC), offer the best conductivity and lowest signal loss.
  • Insulation and sheath: PVC and LSZH (Low Smoke Zero Halogen) are common materials. LSZH sheaths are particularly useful in environments with high safety requirements, as they release fewer toxic fumes in the event of a fire.

The most common connector types for network cables are

  • RJ45 connector: The standard for Ethernet connections in LANs, compatible with most network devices.
  • EtherCon: This plug is a special type of RJ45 plug and was developed by Neutrik. Thanks to its special plug connection, it is particularly robust and ideal for use in live applications.

To select the right network cable for your setup, you should consider the following factors:

  • Cable category: There are different categories of Ethernet cables (e.g. Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7) that support different speeds and bandwidths.
  • Cable length: Choose a length that is suitable for your environment.
  • Plug type: Most Ethernet cables use RJ45 plugs, but make sure that the plugs are compatible with your devices.
  • Cable quality: Look for high-quality materials and workmanship to ensure long-lasting and reliable signal transmission.
  • Shielding: Good shielding is important to minimize electromagnetic interference and ensure clean signal transmission.
  • Flexibility and robustness: The cable should be flexible enough to be easy to move, but also robust enough to withstand the stresses of use and transportation, especially in live situations.

Shielded network cables (e.g. S/FTP, STP) offer several advantages:

  • Interference suppression: Reduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and radio frequency interference (RFI), which is particularly useful in environments with high electrical activity.
  • Better signal quality: Improve signal integrity and reduce signal loss, which is particularly important for longer cable runs.

The advantages of using network cables include:

  • High transmission speeds: Network cables offer stable and fast data transfer rates.
  • Reliability: Cable connections are less susceptible to interference and failures compared to wireless connections.
  • Security: Wired networks are less susceptible to hacking and unauthorized access.
  • Simple installation: Network cables are easy to install and provide stable connections.
  • Compatibility: Network cables are compatible with most modern network devices and offer a wide range of applications.

To install network cables correctly, the following steps should be observed:

  • Cable routing: Avoid sharp bends and do not pull the cables too tightly to prevent damage.
  • Cable management: Use cable ducts or cable ties to lay cables neatly and avoid tripping hazards.
  • Check the connections: Make sure that the plugs are firmly seated in the connections to ensure a stable connection.

The most common errors when using network cables are

  • Incorrect connection: plugging the cable into the wrong sockets or not plugging it in firmly enough.
  • Excess cable length: Use of excessively long cables that can cause signal loss.
  • Insufficient shielding: Use of poorly shielded cables that are susceptible to electromagnetic interference.
  • Damaged cables: Use of cables with visible damage that may impair the signal quality.
  • Neglecting maintenance: not regularly cleaning and checking the cables and plugs, which can lead to long-term problems.

To maximize the effectiveness of your network cables, you should:

  • Use high-quality cables: Invest in high-quality cables that are well made and well shielded.
  • Choose the right length: Use cables that are only as long as necessary to minimize signal loss.
  • Regular inspection: Check the cables regularly for damage and replace them if necessary.
  • Tidy cable management: Keep the cables tidy and free of knots to avoid signal interference.
  • Protection from interference: Avoid laying the cables near devices that can cause electromagnetic interference.
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