Featured image for Types of Communication Cables

Types of Communication Cables

Communication cables are an essential part of connecting various devices and systems. From major telecommunications systems to at-home entertainment steps, they are instrumental in so many ways. There are various types of cables available depending on the unique application needs. Customized cables can be created to meet certain specifications. Factors may include the material, design, size, length, and characteristics specific to the cable’s intended use. Below, you will find a list of the common types of communication cables.

Types of Communication Cables

There are several different commercial wires and cables to choose from. The type that is right for you depends on the environment, application needs, and other unique specifications. Consider the following common types of communication cables to choose from. 

Fiber Optic Cable

Fiber optic cables are highly popular cables used for communication purposes. Common uses include high-speed internet connections, cable television, and long-distance communication networks. They are the fastest and most reliable data transmission cable, and because of this, they are the industry standard in modern telecommunications.

They offer several benefits, which is why they are the top choice for telecommunications. Fiber optic cables are high-speed and offer incredible bandwidth, which allows them to transfer significant amounts of data without delays. They are also able to reach long distances without any signal loss. Fiber optic cables are also immune to interference, making them highly reliable compared to alternative cables. 

Coaxial Cables

Coaxial calves are another standard cable for communications. They are often sued for cable internet, surveillance, and television signals. These are best suited for commercial applications where high-frequency signal transmission is required. While they are highly popular, they are often a secondary choice compared to fiber optic cables because they are bulky and more expensive.

Despite some of the drawbacks compared to fiber optic cables, coaxial cables do offer several benefits. Their bulkiness offers durability and reliability by ensuring good signal quality over long distances. Additionally, they have excellent bandwidth, which makes them a great option for high-speed connections. Lastly, they are shielded, which reduces interference from external sources.

High-Definition Multimedia Interface

High-definition multimedia interface (“HDMI”) cables are often used in home and work settings. They are primarily used to connect high-definition devices. Typical devices include computers, televisions, displays, gaming consoles, and home entertainment systems. They transmit both audio and video signals between these devices.

For home and some professional use, HDMI cables are highly effective. HDMI cables transmit high-quality audio and video signals. They are simple and easy to connect, making them great for those who are not particularly tech-savvy. They also have a broad capability range, which is why they are considered a standard cable for home entertainment. While HDMI cables offer several benefits, they do have some drawbacks. Specifically, HDMI cables have limited effectiveness over longer distances and have a relatively wide price range that depends on the quality of the cable you purchase.

USB Cables

USB cables are another highly common cable used in home and professional settings. They are commonly used to connect smartphones, tablets, computers, printers, external hard drives, and cameras. They are commonly used due to their versatility and transmission capabilities. That said, they are phasing out in many areas because of the availability of wireless Bluetooth communication as a common alternative.

One of the major benefits of USB cables is their versatility. Their ports are found on almost all modern electronics, so they are easy to use and easy to connect to other devices. They are also widely available and offer faster data transfers than alternative cables—a critical feature in home and professional environments.

Commercial Wires and Cables

If you need custom commercial wires and cables for your application, contact the team at Calmont Wire & Cable today! 

The image shows an HDMI cord to represent the types of AV cables.

What Are the Types of AV Cables?

Kanex Pro is your one-stop shop for all types of connectivity cables. From the latest HDMI connectors to incredible AV converters, you have a wealth of technology at your fingertips. Looking for cables is overwhelming when you are not quite sure what you need. For example, AV cables can give you a clear and uninterrupted connection between your audio and visuals. But what are the types of AV cables needed for your specific device? Keep reading to find out everything you should know about your audio-video setup. 

AV Outputs

Audio Visual cables, or AV cables, have been a cornerstone of video and sound connectivity. Most computers, TVs, streaming devices, and gaming consoles come with an AV output. Different types of AV cables are then used to maintain a connection between the output and input devices. 

An AV cable allows both audio and video to show up on your receiving device. However, you need the right type of AV cable, as different connectors and capacity limits must be considered. Keep reading to learn about the types of AV cables, both old and new. 

Types of AV Cables

You can think of audio-visual cables as an umbrella category. There are many different types of AV cables with different sizes of connectors. Each type serves different functions depending on what you need with your setup. Below are a few common types of AV cables: 

DVI Cables

Also called Digital Visual Interface, DVI cables are upgraded VGA cables. DVI cables transfer only digitally and cannot connect to analog devices. However, a digital-to-digital connection allows for far less latency, a smoother image, and better overall performance. 

RCA Cables

Standard AV cables, sometimes also known as RCA cables or composite AV cables, are less widely used today than they were a few decades ago. If you ever had an older television set or a video game console from the early 2000s, you might remember these cables. They came with three connectors, colored red, yellow, and white. 

Satellite Cable

Coaxial cables are special types of AV cables that work for broadcasting devices. If your home has a television that is set up with a satellite connection or you are trying to broadcast to a specific location, you might need this cable. 

HDMI Cables

HDMI cables almost make the other types of AV cables obsolete. This is because modern HDMI cables are flexible and adaptable to almost any device. Most TVs, computers, and consoles nowadays come with HDMI cable connectors, allowing you to easily hook up different devices. 

HDMI cables are efficient and easy to find. However, you need to make sure you are getting the right kind for your machine. Before you complete your AV setup, contact our Kanex Pro experts for some top-of-the-line recommendations. 

Support Your AV Systems with the Best Cables and Devices

The evolution of AV cables over the decades has proven how capable our AV components are. Many old versions of AV cables are still available and useful for certain devices, and newer versions offer a Swiss army knife solution, allowing you to plug almost any two devices together. All you need is the right set of cables, and you are set. 

To learn more about the different types of AV cables available, get in touch with our AV manufacturers online. We can help you assess the state of your current AV setup and make suggestions to ensure your party or event goes off without a hitch. Get your audio-visual components with Kanex Pro today!