Choose between duplex and simplex cables based on your needs.
Choose between duplex and simplex cables based on your needs.
Hi! You're planning to install multiple network cables in your upcoming apartment. You'll need access points, cameras, a Synology NAS, and possibly a Unifi switch and Dream Machine. For cabling, you're considering HB Digital cat cables—8 in total, either duplex or simplex. Since you're unsure whether to use duplex or simplex, just go with what fits your setup best; simplex works fine if you don’t need both directions at the same time.
Simplex is true, I haven't encountered a dual CAT cable before. It seems there might be a need for dual cables in standard Ethernet setups, though they function similarly to separate wires.
Ensure proper setup by following manufacturer guidelines and checking connections carefully.
No point going higher than CAT 6a, its highly unlikely the capabilities of these higher CAT cables will ever be used in the real world. The power consumption to push 10Gbit down copper is already unreasonable high, why fibre is generally recommended for those speed. I'm only using CAT 5e for most of mine, even the 10Gbit ones, as they are short runs under 10m. Other than trying to avoid running parallel to mains cabling (if you have to cross mains cabling do it at a 90 degree angle if possible), there's not really much to worry about.
Avoid spending on Cat8 wires. Cat6a cables work well for speeds over 10gbps. For future upgrades, consider fiber optics. Switching transceivers lets you move between 10g, 25g, 50g, and 100g transfer rates. Duplex LC connectors are more affordable, reaching up to 25 gbps (often found on eBay). Prices range from $20 for 10g SFP+ Duplex LC to $269 for 25g SFP28 Duplex LC. For higher capacities, MTP/MPO transceivers drop in cost, though few fit 10g or 25g on the market.
haven't worked with fiber optics before, i'm worried it might be too complicated for me
you can purchase pre-assembled cables with connectors already installed and simply conceal them behind the wall if you don’t need built-in sockets or plates... it’s straightforward. just run the cables along the ethernet line, through the same conduit, etc. For instance, lc duplex ready-made cable (choose length): https://www.fs.com/products/40257.html?a...3&id=18486 and lc duplex keystone connectors (compatible with wall plates and keystone jacks): https://www.amazon.com/VANDESAIL-Coupler...0CZ8QJY15/ cat6a keystone connectors for wall plates / sockets: https://www.amazon.com/Cable-Matters-Shi...0BT8GQ9DV/ or https://www.amazon.com/ZOERAX-Shielded-K...0D3LHYSCG/
I'm planning to set up the home with a Ubiquiti switch and a Dream Machine, but I'm unsure how to replace Ethernet cables with fiber optic ones.
It's likely you don't need fiber unless you're aiming for speeds over 10 gigabits or running a very long distance. Many of your gadgets use gigabit connections. A few premium boards now support 2.5 gigabits.