Question

What is the frequency range of signals that can be transmitted in care of twisted pair of wires ? (A) \(5 \mathrm{MHz}\) to \(20 \mathrm{MHz}\) (B) \(5 \mathrm{MHz}\) to \(10 \mathrm{MHz}\) (C) \(100 \mathrm{~Hz}\) to \(4 \mathrm{MHz}\) (D) \(5 \mathrm{MHz}\) to \(20 \mathrm{MHz}\)

Short answer

The correct frequency range of signals transmitted through a twisted pair of wires is \(100 \mathrm{~Hz}\) to \(4 \mathrm{MHz}\) (Option C).

Step-by-step solution

Option A

The first option is a frequency range of \(5 \mathrm{MHz}\) to \(20 \mathrm{MHz}\). This range is too high for standard twisted pair wires used in most Ethernet connections. This signals us that option A is likely not the correct answer.

Option B

The second option is a frequency range of \(5 \mathrm{MHz}\) to \(10 \mathrm{MHz}\). While this range is lower than option A, it's still not the correct range for standard twisted pair wires used in Ethernet connections. We can eliminate option B as well.

Option C

The third option is a frequency range of \(100 \mathrm{~Hz}\) to \(4 \mathrm{MHz}\). This is indeed the correct frequency range for twisted pair wires used in most Ethernet connections, such as the popular CAT5 and CAT6 cables. Therefore, option C is the correct answer.

Option D

The fourth option is the same as option A, with a frequency range of \(5 \mathrm{MHz}\) to \(20 \mathrm{MHz}\). As discussed earlier, option A is not the correct frequency range for twisted pair wires. Hence, option D is also incorrect. In conclusion, the correct frequency range of signals transmitted through a twisted pair of wires is option C, \(100 \mathrm{~Hz}\) to \(4 \mathrm{MHz}\).

Key concepts

Ethernet Connections

Ethernet is the most widely used local area network (LAN) technology. It connects devices such as computers, printers, and routers, allowing them to communicate within a network. Ethernet is praised for its reliability and speed.

There are different types of Ethernet cables that support various network speeds, commonly referred to as "categories" or simply "CAT." Each type of Ethernet cable comes with its own specifications, particularly concerning data transfer speeds and frequency ranges.

• Technologies such as Fast Ethernet can achieve speeds up to 100 Mbps, while Gigabit Ethernet can reach up to 1000 Mbps.
• The frequency range of the cables used in Ethernet connections often determines the speed and performance of the network.

Understanding the role of these cables is essential for setting up an efficient Ethernet connection. For home and office networks, ensuring the correct cables are used can enhance connectivity and minimize issues related to speed and network reliability.

CAT5 Cable

The CAT5 cable, short for Category 5, is a type of twisted pair cable commonly used in Ethernet networks. It was once the standard for home and office networking before newer technologies emerged.

Some key features of CAT5 cables include:

• The ability to support speeds of up to 100 Mbps over a maximum distance of 100 meters.
• A frequency range of up to 100 MHz, which is suitable for traditional home networking needs.
• Typically includes four twisted pairs of copper wire, helping to reduce electrical interference.

Although newer cables like CAT5e and CAT6 have surpassed them, CAT5 cables are still in use today, especially in applications where network speed requirements are modest. Replacing CAT5 with a more advanced cable may be necessary for those seeking to upgrade to higher internet speeds.

CAT6 Cable

The CAT6 cable, also known as Category 6, is an improvement over the CAT5 cable in terms of speed, performance, and interference resistance. It remains a popular choice for both residential and commercial networking.

Key features of CAT6 cables include:

• Support for speeds up to 1 Gbps over a 100-meter run, making it suitable for high-speed internet requirements.
• A greater frequency range, up to 250 MHz, allowing for faster data transmission.
• Enhanced shielding and more tightly wound pairs to reduce crosstalk and interference.

Cables like CAT6a offer even higher performance, with speeds up to 10 Gbps and a frequency range of up to 500 MHz. These features make CAT6 cables ideal for modern networking environments, offering more capacity and future-proofing for advanced networking needs.