Round vs. Flat: Which One to Choose?
Ningbo Excellence Communicated Connector Co., Ltd.
When selecting network cables, many people wonder about the differences between round and flat cables. Recently, flat cables have gained popularity due to their slim design, often less than 3mm thick, which may make some skeptical about their performance. So, what exactly are the differences between round and flat cables? Let's explore the key aspects.
?
1. Size and Portability
Flat cables have a clear advantage in terms of size and portability. Due to their flat design, they are compact, easy to fold, and carry. When stored with other cables, they are less likely to tangle, making them easier to separate. In contrast, round cables are bulkier and less flexible, making them harder to store and manage.
?
2. Shielding Capability
The shielding capability of a cable depends more on whether it has a shielding layer rather than its shape. Both round and flat cables can have single or double shielding to enhance their interference resistance. Therefore, the difference in shielding between the two largely depends on the specific shielding design, not the shape of the cable.
?
3. Transmission Speed and Performance
There is little difference in transmission speed between round and flat cables of the same category. For instance, both round and flat cables in the Cat6 category offer similar data transfer rates. While some may worry that the thinner core of flat cables might affect speed, the primary factors influencing speed are the broadband speed and the cable category, not the shape.
?
4. Wiring and Application Scenarios
Flat cables, due to their compact size, are suitable for scenarios where hidden wiring is needed, such as running under doors, around corners, under carpets, or in places where discrete cabling is desired. Their flexibility allows them to be used in tight spaces around the home.
领英推荐
?On the other hand, round cables are more suitable for structured cabling and long-distance transmission. Their thicker design and internal structure, such as the cross-frame in Cat6 round cables, help reduce signal crosstalk and echo loss, providing stronger anti-interference capabilities. Additionally, round cables are ideal for use in environments like surveillance setups, and if a round cable gets damaged, it is easier to re-crimp a new connector.
?
5. Cost
In terms of cost, flat cables are typically more affordable than round cables.
?
6. Conclusion: How to Choose the Right Cable?
Both round and flat cables have their own advantages and are suitable for different scenarios. The choice depends on the specific application environment and usage needs:
?-Home Environment: If you need to set up wiring within a home, flat cables might be more suitable.
-Structured Cabling or Long-Distance Transmission: Round cables may be more appropriate, especially in scenarios requiring long-distance transmission and strong anti-interference capabilities.
No matter which type of cable you choose, it’s crucial to select a high-quality product to ensure stable and reliable data transmission.
EXW has nearly 40 years of experience in cable manufacturing. The biggest advantage of our patch cords is that we conduct 100% component testing and provide the original test report to our customers. Our patch cords are made with 50μ plugs, allowing up to 1500 mating cycles. They are certified by UL, DELTA, ETL, GHMT, CE, and 4PPoE. We also have reliable quality systems, including ISO9001, ISO14001, and ISO45001 certificates. We provide ODM/OEM services for the top 10 branded customers. Whether round or flat, EXW will be your best choice！