On Friday, 20 June 2003 at 21:25:19 UTC+8, L. M. Rappaport wrote:
On 16 Jun 2003 15:56:34 -0700, denbi...@boltblue.com (Denbigh)
wrote (with possible editing):
I shall soon be re-wiring my house for power, computer networking,
security and AV.
An "expert" has recommended future-proofing the installation by using
CAT8 cable instead of CAT5. Obviously it is more expensive, but he
tells me that it will provide the greater bandwidth that I might need
if I ever want to transmit digital TV signals around the house.
Does anyone have any experience with CAT8, or offer any comments
regarding its value?
No experience with Cat8 nor do I expect I ever will. Reason: Cat 5 is
used everywhere. Where more bandwidth is needed, the logical
progression is fiber which provides almost infinite bandwidth. Fiber
is cheap, but terminations are ungodly expensive. You need to spend
close to US$ 1000 for the tools to terminate it properly, and that
doesn't count the training to use them. That said, there are folks
saying that new tools are currently being developed which will cut the
cost dramatically. When you think about it, fiber is a far better
replacement then any kind of copper.
I think category 8 would be a waste of money. If you really want to "future-proof" your house, run piping (thin wall or pvc) in vertical
runs from each room to the basement and/or attic, and perhaps a few
from basement to attic, leave a pull string in them and then seal the
ends (fire protection).
My .02
--
Larry
ra...@lmr.com
you would be surprised what the future holds
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