Not long ago, it was thought that only fiber optics could handle big bandwidths. Not so. Communication between computers can now achieve data speeds up to 10 gigabits per second on twisted pairs of copper wire called structured wiring.
Copper Fact 2HDSL (High-Speed Digital Subscriber Line) and ADSL (Asymmetrical Digital Subscriber Line) technologies enable telephone companies to capitalize on existing copper lines and for businesses to accommodate lower-cost communications and networking options - without having to switch to high-cost fiber optics. The technology also allows for voice and data transmissions to be conducted simultane-ously on the copper phone wires which exist in most of the nation's housing.
Copper Fact 3Category 6 (or better) structured wiring allows users to take maximum advantage of computer-based technologies. The most common jacketed cable consists of four tightly twisted pairs of #24 gauge insulated copper conductors. It is extensively used in commercial applications and in new homes to meet consumer demand. It can accom-modate bandwidths of 100 megahertz. Categories 6 and 6a, can achieve even greater capacities - delivering data streams up to 10 gigabit per second.