What’s a Cable Modem Termination System?

A cable modem termination system (CMTS) is a device that acts as a translator between cable modems and the cable provider’s head end. It routes internet traffic and offers other services such as DHCP and security. A cable modem termination system (CMTS) is a device used in a cable network to communicate with cable modems […]

What to consider when buying a serial cable?

When buying a serial cable, check for compatible ports and cable type, distance between devices, and cable structure. RS-232 is a common standard. Maximum working length affects data transfer. Choose the right cable for device type and consider budget. Shielded cables reduce electrical noise. A serial cable is typically used to connect two devices so […]

What’s a Network Adapter Cable?

Network adapter cables connect wired network adapters to other devices. Different connectors, conductors, and shields determine cable length and speed. Category ratings determine maximum data rates and cable length. Fiber optic cables use plastic or glass fibers and transmit data with low power lasers. Gigabit Ethernet interfaces can use both copper wire and fiber optic […]

Types of computer network cable?

Computer network cables come in two types: unshielded twisted pairs (UTP) and shielded twisted pairs (STP). UTP is the most common and is divided into six categories based on data rate. STP is older and used in Token Ring networks. Different cables are optimized for different uses and can come in various sizes and thicknesses. […]

DSL vs cable Internet: what’s the difference?

DSL and cable are two options for high-speed internet. DSL uses a telephone line and is cheaper, but has distance limitations. Cable requires cable TV and is faster, but more expensive. Cable can also offer bundled services. Both require a modem. Today’s online content requires a high-speed Internet connection. The first choice to make is […]

What’s a crossover cable?

A crossover cable is still used today to connect two computers for direct communication or multiplayer gaming. It can also be used to connect two Ethernet devices. Network cards can replace the need for a crossover cable. They can be purchased or made, but signal pins must be connected differently than straight-through cables. A crossover […]

What’s an HDMI® cable?

HDMI® is a digital audio and video connection system that uses specially designed cables to transmit uncompressed signals. It replaces analog cables and supports any TV or PC video format. There are two types of HDMI® cables, category one and category two, with category two being capable of carrying higher quality signals. Cable length is […]

Cable Router: What is it?

A cable router connects a cable modem to home computers, allowing them to share information. Considerations when buying a router include built-in firewalls and whether to use network cables or a wireless network. Ask for recommendations from cable companies or computer stores. If you have high-speed wired internet in your home, chances are you also […]

What’s a Cable Modem Router?

A cable modem router acts as an access point for cable internet and a network router, allowing multiple computers to share internet access. Wired models offer better speeds and security, while wireless models are simpler but slower. Preconfigured options are available, but buying your own allows for customization. Prices range from $35-$75. A cable modem […]

What’s a VGA Cable?

A VGA cable transmits video signals and is commonly used to connect computers to monitors. It features 15 pins and can also be used with some game consoles and HDTVs. Expensive models offer little improvement, and shorter cables prevent signal degradation. VGA may not offer as good picture quality as digital signals, but it’s worth […]

What’s a Ribbon Cable?

Ribbon cables are flat, flexible electronic wiring used in early computers and to connect devices. They consist of smaller insulated wires tied together and color-coded for identification. Ribbon cables simplify installation and repair, but have largely been replaced by smaller, more rounded cables. They use insulation displacement connectors and come in different sizes and connectors. […]

What’s Cat-5 cable?

Cat-5 cable is an industry standard for network and telephone cabling. It contains four pairs of 24-gauge copper twisted pairs and can support data speeds of 100 mbps or more. Cat-5e is an advanced cable that supports 1,000 Mbps or Gigabit Ethernet. There are three different configurations for the pinouts or wiring of RJ-45 connectors. […]

What’s cable TV?

Cablecasting is a form of television broadcasting that uses a cable to transmit signals to paying subscribers. It differs from broadcasting and webcasting, and is used by digital cable companies like Comcast. Cablecasting can also be used in education, such as at Rutgers University. The word cablecasting was created in 1973 by combining the word […]

What’s Network Cable?

Network cables carry data from computers to larger networks. There are different types of cables, including twisted pair, coax, Ethernet, and fiber optics, each suited for specific purposes. They are still important despite the rise of wireless networks as servers still require cables. In general, a network cable is a type of cabling used in […]

What’s Ethernet Crossover Cable?

An Ethernet crossover cable directly connects two computers through their Ethernet ports, allowing data sharing without networking hardware. It’s easy to use, but lacks built-in security and requires the computers to be close together. The cable is wired differently from a standard Ethernet cable and can be purchased or made at home. An Ethernet crossover […]

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