fast ethernet uses utp cable, as specified in the ieee 802.3u standard for 100base-tx. the specification requires category 5 utp cable consisting of either two-pair or fourpair twisted insulated copper conductors bound in a single plastic sheath. category 5 cable is certified up to 100 mhz bandwidth. 100base-tx operation uses one pair of wires for transmission and the other pair for receiving and for collision detection.

    when installing category 5 utp cabling, use the following guidelines to ensure that your cables perform to the following specifications:

    · certification

    make sure that your category 5 utp cable has completed the underwriters’ laboratories (ul) or electronic testing laboratories (etl) certification process.

    · termination method

    to minimize crosstalk noise, maintain the twist ratio of the cable up to the point of termination; untwist at any rj-45 plug or patch panel should not exceed 0.5 inch (1.5 cm).