Cat5e or 6 for gigabit ethernet?

[IndyJaws]

Quick question for everyone...I'm tired of the time it takes for videos to transfer from both my PC and TiVo to other machines, so I'm going to hardwire. Fortunately, it shouldn't be too difficult to run the lines. I have a gigabit router, will pick up a gigabit switch, but am not sure whether I need to pick up Cat5e or Cat6 bulk cable. Granted, it's not that big a difference in price, but I want to save wherever possible. Can I get away with Cat5e?

Also, any other suggestions for hardwiring a home? I have a fish tape. Obviously I need to get a crimper, but should I get a continuity tester as well? I'm assuming monoprice.com is the best place to pick up bulk cable.

Finally, any recommendations for a cheap but reliable gigabit switch? It's going into an attic, and there is power available, but can I find one than runs without the need for AC? Assuming not, but have to ask.

Thanks in advance!
Indy

 

[Rifter]

Cat5e is rated for gigabit speeds. And i have not seen a non-powered switch and even if i did find one i would not use it. I use the netgear prosafe switches as they have metal frames and seem very durable and dont get too hot, i had a 5 port 10/100 that lasted over 10 years and was always on 24/7 with constant traffic, and my 8 port 10/100/1000 has been going strong for 2 years.

 

[Jamsan]

Cisco makes a switch that is powered by PoE, but I'm sure it's a little out of your price range. I think it's only 10/100 with a single 10/100/1000 uplink. I'm not sure who else makes these, but atleast you have something to go on now.

 

[boomhower]

I went with CAT6. From my research CAT6 should handle the next speed increase coming down the line. Spend a few more bucks now and save yourself from re-running the cable later.

 

[spidey07]

Yeah, if you're going to be running it get cat 6 or cat 6a. Terminate the cable into keystone jacks and use store bought patch cables and you'll get the performance you need and be just fine for 10 gigabit ethernet.

 

[Modelworks]

Originally posted by: IndyJaws


Finally, any recommendations for a cheap but reliable gigabit switch? It's going into an attic, and there is power available, but can I find one than runs without the need for AC? Assuming not, but have to ask.

Thanks in advance!
Indy

You can use a poe adapter to get the power to the switch.
http://www.tigerdirect.com/app...f%20mwzygtCjCVRqCjCVRq

Most switches either run off 5v or 12 volt. The one above is 12 volt.

 

[ScottMac]

You can run anything, and use any equipment you want. If the Tivo only runs at 10/100 speeds, that's all you're gonna get.

 

[DisgruntledVirus]

Originally posted by: ScottMac
You can run anything, and use any equipment you want. If the Tivo only runs at 10/100 speeds, that's all you're gonna get.

True, but it sounds like it's currently setup on wireless which if thats the case then going to hardwired would provide an obvious increase in speeds.

Go with Cat 6/Cat 6a (quick question on a side note: is cat 6a the same as cat 6e spec wise? At work we have cables labeled cat 6e, and was just wondering if it's just the manufacturer put "e" instead of "a" but the same specs). It will be useable for gigabit speeds, and should be able to be used for 10gig stuff with just an upgrade of the switches and such. Spend the $ now so you don't have to deal with it a second time.

Also, listen to what Spidey said.

As for powering the switch, it will be difficult to do with power over ethernet cheaply. It can be done I'm sure, but I would just use a normal power cable personally.

 

[imagoon]

I can't seem to find that item on the home depot site, but they sell these little plastic rings for mounting things like face plates on drywall. The are great for holding a face plate full of keystones. They have little arms that swing out and hold the drywall and then the face plate screws in to that. I used a 6 foot in wall auger to drill a hole inside the wall in to the basement, pulled 2 cat5e and 2 quad shields up and then terminated them on the plate for my house years ago. I need to redo the basement side as I out grew my original panel though. I picked up a 3U swing gate, 48 port 110 patch and a 48 port F-panel. Now I just need to motivate myself to tear it all out and start over.