That purple thing you’re referring to is likely an ethernet cable, which serves an important function in networking and connecting devices. Ethernet cables are used to create wired internet connections between computers, routers, switches, and other networked devices. The purple color is commonly used for Cat5e and Cat6 ethernet cables which can transmit data at faster speeds compared to older cable types.
Common Uses of Ethernet Cables
Here are some of the most common uses and applications of ethernet cables like the purple one you have:
- Connecting a computer directly to a modem or router for internet access
- Connecting multiple computers and devices together in a Local Area Network (LAN)
- Connecting network switches and routers to expand a wired network
- Connecting networked printers, NAS devices, and other peripherals
- Transmitting data and networking bandwidth up to 1 Gigabit per second (Cat5e) or up to 10 Gigabits per second (Cat6)
- Providing a more reliable and faster alternative to WiFi networking
- Connecting devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, and streaming media players for internet and LAN access
Ethernet cables use twisted pairs of copper wiring to transmit data signals and minimize interference. The purple color helps differentiate these faster cable types from older, slower ethernet cables like Cat3 which use similar RJ45 connectors.
Advantages of Ethernet Cables
There are a number of benefits to using wired ethernet connections instead of, or in addition to, WiFi:
- Faster speeds – Ethernet cables provide dedicated bandwidth not shared with other devices. This allows gigabit speeds not possible over WiFi.
- Lower latency – Wired networks offer very low latency for time sensitive applications like online gaming, live video, and voice calls.
- Reliability – Ethernet cables have less susceptibility to interference compared to WiFi signals.
- Security – Wired networks are inherently more secure than wireless transmissions.
- No interference – Ethernet cables don’t transmit data over radio frequencies so there’s no interference from other devices.
For networking bandwidth-intensive devices like gaming PCs and media servers, or implementing networks in challenging environments, ethernet cables are preferred over wireless options. The downside is that they do require running cables between devices which may not be feasible in all home and office layouts.
Types of Ethernet Cables
There are a few different categories of ethernet cable which provide different data speeds:
| Type | Speed | Max Length |
|---|---|---|
| Cat3 | 10 Mbps | 100 meters |
| Cat5 | 100 Mbps | 100 meters |
| Cat5e | 1 Gbps | 100 meters |
| Cat6 | 10 Gbps | 55 meters |
| Cat6a | 10 Gbps | 100 meters |
| Cat7 | 10 Gbps | 100 meters |
| Cat8 | 40 Gbps | 30 meters |
The purple cables most commonly used today are Cat5e and Cat6 which provide gigabit ethernet speeds. Cat5e is cheaper and good for up to 1 gigabit per second (Gbps) connections while Cat6 supports faster 10Gbps networks.
Connectors and Wiring
Ethernet cables use RJ45 connectors that plug into RJ45 ports on devices. Under the plastic connector, there are 8 copper wires that must be properly terminated and connected.
The wires are arranged in four twisted pairs, color coded as follows:
- Pair 1: Solid orange and solid green
- Pair 2: Solid blue and solid blue-white
- Pair 3: Solid brown and solid brown-white
- Pair 4: Solid gray and solid gray-white
Each wire needs to be connected to the correct pin in the RJ45 connector. The specific pinouts standards like T568A and T568B determine which wire connects to each pin number. As long as both ends follow the same pinout standard, the cable will work properly.
Cable Quality and Performance
In addition to Categories indicating the performance level, ethernet cables are also classified by quality grades such as CAT5e vs CAT6 cables:
- Unshielded vs Shielded – Shielded cables have extra shielding to protect from interference.
- Solid vs Stranded – Stranded wires are more flexible while solid are cheaper.
- Plenum vs Non-Plenum – Plenum cables use fire-resistant insulation for running cables in ceilings and walls.
- UV Resistant – For outdoor runs in direct sunlight.
While Cat5e, Cat6 or Cat6a cables may look similar on the outside, quality in terms of the copper conductor, twists per inch, insulation, and shielding all impact the performance and life of the cable. Going with high-quality cables from reputable brands is recommended, especially for long cable runs or critical network uses.
Installation Tips
Properly installing ethernet cables is important for getting maximum speeds and network stability. Here are a few tips:
- Test cables and terminations to ensure the wires are properly connected.
- Use solid conductors for permanent runs inside walls.
- Keep cables away from potential sources of EMI like power lines.
- Don’t bend cables tightly or expose them to extreme temperatures.
- Use grommets when running cables through holes to avoid sheath damage.
- Label both ends of the cable for easy identification.
- Install cables away from direct sunlight if possible.
- Use cable management to neatly route and organize longer cable runs.
Taking care during installation helps ethernet cables provide optimal performance and greater longevity. Testing cables with a network cable tester is highly recommended to validate the wiring before deploying.
Conclusion
In summary, that purple cable in your hand is likely a Cat5e or Cat6 ethernet cable that allows high-speed data networking and internet connectivity. Ethernet cables transmit data through twisted pairs of copper wires terminated with RJ45 connectors. They provide dedicated bandwidth, high speeds, low latency, reliability and security – advantages over relying solely on WiFi. With proper installation and care, ethernet cables can serve as the backbone of local area networks for many years.
