Telecommunications Wire and Cable Key Terms

Get connected with these telecommunications wire and cable key terms
By Kristan Hart An increase in the demand for high quality video, data, and phone service means an increase in demand for high quality telecommunications wire and cable. These cables are what bring Internet and phone services to businesses around the globe. As part of the industry, it's important to know the different types of telecommunications wire and cable, as well as resources, where you can go for information. Consider these telecommunications wire and cable key terms to help you.

Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA)

The Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) is a telecommunications association. By focusing on government affairs, standards development, market intelligence, business opportunities, worldwide environmental regulatory compliance and certification, TIA represents the global information and communications technology industries (ICT).
Try:  Read about the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) on its website.

Wire Journal International (WJI)

Wire Journal International (WJI) is a technical publication designed specifically for the wire and cable industry. This monthly publication focuses on electrical wire and cable, formed and fabricated wire products, fiber optic cable, and ferrous and nonferrous wire and cable.
Try:  Read about Wire Journal International (WJI) on The Wire Association International website.

Ethernet cables

Ethernet cables carry data, voice, video and audio signals from one source to the other. Ethernet cables are commonly used with Broadband Internet. There are different categories of Ethernet cables, ranging from Cat 3 to Cat 7. The higher the Cat number is, the higher the quality of the Ethernet cable.
Try:  Petri IT Knowledgebase details the different types of Ethernet cables and their uses. CableWholesale.com explains the Cat 5 and Cat 6 types of Ethernet cables.

Fiber optic cable

A fiber optic cable is a long cable made of glass. The glass helps to reflect the information sent through the cable like mirrors, meaning the speed in which the information travels is much faster. Fiber optic cabling is a cheaper alternative than other types of cabling, and it dramatically improves quality.
Try:  HowStuffWorks explains how a fiber optic cable works.

Copper cable

When you run a copper cable as part of your network, it means that there is copper inside the cable. Copper cable carries all types of audio, video and data signals and is very cost effective.
Try:  Read about a comparison between copper cable and fiber optics at Timbercon.

Coaxial cables, coax cables

Coaxial cables carry video signals, radio signals, data signals and measurement signals. The characteristic impedance 75 OHMS is most frequently the type of coax cable used in telecommunications applications.
Try:  Read about Coaxial cables on ePanorama.net.