How can I detect CAT5 cable

Cabling-Design.com FREE cabling and networking Helpdesk
icon
 Question by Frank Merkel posted 06 Jul 2000
 How can I detect CAT5 cable
How can I see if my LAN-Cable is CAT5 ?
Is it a must that "CAT5" is written on the cable, or could it be that it is a Cat5 Cable and something else is written on it ?
icon
 Answer by Dmitri Abaimov posted 07 Jul 2000
Dear Frank,

It is at least reasonable to put a label like 'Category 5' or 'Cat 5' or 'CAT V' on a cable that's made up to Category 5 specs.

Sometimes they put "Class D" (as per international standard ISO/IEC 11801) if they want to emphasize that they target international markets. But the cable is essentially the same.

However, that's not it. I would advise you to look for some other marks like 'UL Verified' or 'ETL Verified' to be sure you have a good product in hands.

There are also other labels that matter.
For example 'CM' means Communications Multipurpose so you know you cannot run this cable in plenums. Run 'CMP' instead.

There are also some vendor-specific labels that can tell you bits of interesting information, but they usually have nothing to do with Categories.

If you can send me the label to rcdd@cabling-design.com, I'll be able to tell you more.

With best regards,
Dmitri Abaimov, RCDD

Click here to see the expert's profile
Back to Cabling-Design.com HELPDESK | Ask your question
Residential Cabling Guide

Home Cabling Guide

Finally, an instantly downloadable book that saves you thousands in home improvement dollars! Enjoy living in 21st century technology-advanced home while increasing its selling value and competitive advantage on the real estate market. Whether your cabling is for home office or high-tech leisure, you can wire your home yourself or learn "wirish" to speak with your cabling contractors in their language!

Learn more ...