CAT5 Shielded Cable

Category 5 shielded network cable is a type of cable that adds a shielding layer to Category 5 unshielded network cable (UTP). Its core is divided into FTP single-shielded type (Category 5 network cables rarely have SFTP double-shielded type). It mainly features anti-electromagnetic interference and supports a transmission rate of 100Mbps and an operating frequency of 100MHz. It is suitable for the 100-megabit networking requirements in strong electromagnetic environments and is the preferred cable for industrial, monitoring, and computer room scenarios.
I. Core Classification and Structural Characteristics
The core difference of Category 5 shielded network cables lies in the design of the shielding layer. Unlike the multi-shielding type of super Category 5, Category 5 shielding mainly uses single shielding.
Type structure features core advantages
The FTP Category 5 single-shielded network cable is wrapped with an aluminum foil shielding layer on the outside and has no independent ground wire (some simple models). It has a moderate cost and can effectively resist external electromagnetic interference, making it suitable for small and medium-sized projects
Note: There are almost no SFTP double-layer shielded versions for Category 5 network cables - Double-layer shielding is more commonly used for CAT5e/CAT6, and the cost-effectiveness of double-layer shielding for Category 5 is extremely low
Ii. Core Advantages (Compared with Category 5 Unshielded Network Cables)
Strong anti-interference ability
The aluminum foil shielding layer can block external electromagnetic signals (such as interference from factory motors, base stations, and distribution boxes), preventing packet loss and lag during data transmission. It is particularly suitable for the stable networking of surveillance cameras and office computers.
The signal stability is stronger
The shielding layer reduces crosstalk between pairs of wires. When wiring over long distances (80-100m), the signal attenuation is 10%-15% lower than that of the unshielded type, ensuring stable transmission at a rate of 100 megabits.
It has a wider range of environmental adaptability
When outdoor FTP Category 5 shielded network cables are equipped with waterproof sheaths, they can resist the dual effects of sun exposure, rain and electromagnetic interference, and their service life is extended by 2 to 3 years compared with unshielded models.
Iii. Core Uses and Compatible Scenarios
Category 5 shielded network cables are specifically designed to address the pain points of 100-megabit networking in strong electromagnetic environments. Their specific uses are as follows
Industrial plant monitoring wiring
Connect the 100-megabit cameras and scanning devices in the workshop to resist electromagnetic interference from machine tools, welding machines and other equipment, and avoid lagging monitoring images and data transmission errors.
Recommended specifications: FTP Category 5 + 24AWG oxygen-free copper + outdoor waterproof sheath
Office networking around the computer room
The wiring of offices and workstations near the computer room isolates the electromagnetic radiation from servers and switches to ensure the stable network connection of computers and printers.
Recommended specifications: FTP Category 5 + 24AWG pure copper + indoor PVC sheath
Surveillance of main roads in residential areas/parks
The wiring for the surveillance cameras on the outdoor main roads can resist direct sunlight, rain erosion and electromagnetic interference from the roadside distribution boxes, making it suitable for long-term use.
Peripheral networking of strong electromagnetic equipment
The temporary office points and duty rooms near substations and base stations are networked to meet the basic Internet access and file transmission requirements, and to prevent signal interruption due to strong electromagnetic influence.
Data transmission for access control/barrier gate systems
Connect the access control controller, barrier gate card reader and the main unit to shield external interference, ensure the real-time transmission of card swiping data and switch signals, and prevent access control failure.