Networking – Cat5e network that runs longer than 30′ (10 Meters) will not connect at Gigabit speed

gigabit-ethernetlannetworking

I have three network switches, all gigabit, from DLink and TPLink:

  • 1x 4-port
  • 2x 8-port

Connecting to these are 5 laptops and 2 desktops, all with gigabit NICs:

  • 4 Realtek
  • 1 Intel
  • 1 AMD
  • 1 unknown

The network has 4 45' runs and 4 60' runs.

All computers will only connect at gigabit speed when the runs are less than 30'.

I've tried 4 different cable brands, all riser-rated Cat 5e from Hitachi, Frisby, Webtrack, and one unknown brand. I have re-tipped the cables several times. I've used keystone jakcs at both ends with pre-made cables. I have used a 24-port patch panel with pre-made cables at the ends. I have tried PC-to-PC. I've played with the hardware settings.

I have not yet tried Cat 6. I've ordered it but the shipment is delayed currently.

I was able nail down 30' as the success point by starting with a 75' cable, testing it, and then cutting 5' off the end until the the systems connected at gigabit.

The problem is that none of my runs are shorter than 45' and so obviously 30' won't work in the environment.

Does anybody have any ideas as to what may be causing this issue?

Best Answer

What is the frequency rating on your Cat5e? There are two different types 100MHz and 350MHz. You may also want to check where the wires are running because there could be interference in the lines. Also try a different Ethernet port on your switch.

Cat5 = If you plan on running at most 100 Mbps
Cat5e = If you plan on running at 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps)
Cat6 = If you plan on running at 1000 Mbps (1 Gbps) or more. Cat6 is better if you are in areas that have lots of interference like near power lines, lights, manufacturing equipment, or a long distance 1000 Mbps (Gigabit) run.
We advise that you run at least Cat5e or Cat6 cable in the walls
Cat5e are great for patch cables from the patch panel to the switch or from the computer to the wall jack
We very rarely use Cat5 cable anymore.
For most applications the CAT5E 350MHz network cables are best. They will run up to 1 Gig and are not as expensive as CAT 6 cables.
CAT 6 cables are great for "future proofing" your installation. They are rated to carry network speeds above 1000 Mbps (Gigabit).
CAT5E 100MHz are rated to only run up to 100Mbps networks but are inexpensive.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/322715

Related Question