Ethernet over twisted pair

Ethernet physical layers using twisted-pair cables

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Experience the history, technical specifications, and benefits of Ethernet technologies that operate over twisted-pair cables, which remain pivotal in modern networking.

Standard twisted-pair cable usable for most common types of Ethernet

Ethernet over twisted-pair technologies utilize twisted-pair cables to enable the physical layer of Ethernet networks, standing as a crucial subset within the broad spectrum of Ethernet physical layers.

History

The original designs for twisted-pair Ethernet, including StarLAN and LattisNet, were developed in the mid-1980s and paved the way for the standardized Ethernet over twisted-pair solutions we rely on today, such as 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, and beyond.

Naming

Ethernet standards are commonly identified by the speed (in Mbit/s), transmission method (baseband), and cable type (twisted pair). For instance, 10BASE-T signifies a 10 Mbit/s, baseband, twisted-pair standard.

Cabling

Pin Assignments

Ethernet cables are typically wired straight-through (pin 1 to pin 1) but may also use crossover wiring in certain setups. Standards like ANSI/TIA-568 specify the wiring schemes for these cables.

Shared Cable

10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX require only two pairs, leaving spare pairs for other uses, such as power over Ethernet (PoE) or secondary connections. However, higher speed Ethernet, like 1000BASE-T, utilizes all four pairs.

Connectors

• 8P8C modular connectors: Dominant for indoor use, they support a variety of bandwidth needs.
• M12X: Ideal for harsh environments, standardized for industrial Ethernet.
• ix Industrial: Compact and robust, fitting high-frequency requirements up to Cat 6A.

Autonegotiation and Duplex

Ethernet technologies support both full- and half-duplex communication modes, with autonegotiation ensuring optimal mode selection. Modern equipment predominantly supports full-duplex for higher speeds.

Variants

Various Ethernet standards over twisted-pair have emerged, including 10BASE-T1S and 10BASE-T1L, introduced in IEEE Std 802.3cg-2019, catering to specific applications like automotive and IoT.

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