What is cat 3 cable?

Category 3 (Cat 3) cable is a type of twisted pair cable that is commonly used for telephone and Ethernet networks. It is an older type of cable that is no longer used in new installations, as it has been largely replaced by faster and more reliable cables such as Cat 5e and Cat 6.

Cat 3 cable is capable of supporting data transmission speeds of up to 10 Mbps, making it suitable for older Ethernet networks. It typically consists of four twisted pairs of copper wire, with each pair encased in a foil shield to reduce electromagnetic interference.

Cat 3 cable has a maximum length limit of 100 meters, beyond which signal quality may degrade. It is also limited in terms of bandwidth, with a frequency range of up to 16 MHz. This means it is not suitable for high-speed internet connections or data-intensive applications.

Overall, Cat 3 cable is a reliable and affordable option for basic telephone and networking needs, but it is not recommended for modern high-speed networks.