How to Select Data Cabling Patch Cables

Patch cables play a crucial role of connecting networked devices to the ports supplying data signals. It is therefore important for you to select the right patch cables for your DIY data cabling project. This article discusses some of the considerations you should have in mind as you narrow down your options.

Compliance to Standards

Data cabling components are made by manufacturers from different parts of the world. The cables may therefore vary in terms of the standards to which they were manufactured. Your task is to identify patch cables that comply with the same standards as the other components that you will be using during your project. Using products that conform to the same performance standards will ensure that no compatibility issues will arise between those different components.

Cable Flexibility

It is also advisable for you to select the most flexible patch cables that you can find. Cable flexibility is important because it can influence cable memory. Cable memory refers to the tendency of a cable to fail to become straight after it was kinked or rolled. Cables with minimal cable memory are better because signal transmission will not be inhibited by the remnants of any folding or kinks in that cable.

Colour Availability

You should also consider the colours in which the patch cables are available. One should be consistent in the colours of the cables that are used for different purposes so that the entire system is structured in a way that will make it easy for you to trace or fix a defect. For example, you can use only green cables to connect all the servers to the network. Another colour can be selected for the patch cables that connect user devices, such as computers, to the network. Select the kind of cable that is available in the colours that you wish to use during the installation project.

Cable Thickness

Thicker patch cables are usually better than thinner ones. This is particularly true for copper patch cables. Thick cables can carry more data signals without heating up. They are also less susceptible to accidental damage. Compare different brands and select the one that has the thickest patch cables. Patch cable selection isn't the only determinant of cabling success. Other factors, such as correct terminations, play a role in the integrity of the system. It may therefore be advisable to get expert help during your project in case you aren't familiar with all the important details of that task.  

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