Maximum lengths of CAT5

[Elbonio]

Is there a maximum length of CAT5 before you start to get slower speeds/data loss?

[w2k]

dont they recommend 100metres between switches/repeaters etc?


Im sure i read that somewhere

[TimmyNoShoes]

Originally posted by w2k
dont they recommend 100metres between switches/repeaters etc?


Im sure i read that somewhere

They do indeed.

[Zenith]

The actual measurement is given as about 110m, so saying it is 100m maximum length is fine. You can extend that length by putting a bridge, hub or switch in between two lengths of 100m.

[KingDaveRa]

Remembering the 5-4-3 rule of course :)

[w2k]

i got something right :D

see im not as stupid as i look:rolleyes:

[Er00]

tbh though, you don't look stupid :p:

[w2k]

lol thx Er00

[Cheez]

Originally posted by KingDaveRa
Remembering the 5-4-3 rule of course :) For all but large scale networks, the 5-4-3 rule rarely applies. :)

[KingDaveRa]

It actually only applies to 'old school' networks, i.e. non-switched. Those with a large broadcast domain.

Uh huh :)

[WhiteKnight]

Actually it still applies in a switched network.

Only routers allow you to get around it.

[Mouce]

Depends what standard your CAT5 or CAT5e is certified to. Some are certified to larger lengths then others.

Effective length for 100% cable usage is around 64-72 meters. Backbone/hard at full capasity are around 103-104, but, if the usage goes down, so does the el.

But, in practise, you could get 100mbps out of a 90m cable. And I've sometimes run 115m blocks without too much problems.

I am unable to get you the current CAT5/e details, because, well, it's no longer a recognised standard in corperate network building. CAT6 was accepted this year by the American Association of Engineers.