Shielding Cat 5 cable (sometimes referred to as Cat5 or Category 5 cable) is designed for high speed applications (100 MHz), has near end crosstalk and is guaranteed for life.  It often comes with free serialization and is individually bagged for care-free handling.  It is a product that is used routinely and successfully for computer networks and for telephone wiring.  It works extremely well for long runs and for environments where noise is a problem.  Cat5 is extremely durable and the shielding helps prevent electromagnetic interference from outside sources. 

A shielded electrical cable is composed of one or more insulated conductors that are enclosed by a common conductive layer.  The shielding is generally composed of braided copper strands, non-braided spiral copper tape or a layer of conducting polymer.  And, the shielding is usually covered with some type of “jacket”.  Its purpose is to reduce interference and noise from affecting electromagnetic signals.  The shield may be a return path for the signal or may just screen out interfering signals.  Shielding is used in high voltage power cables to protect the cable insulation, equipment and even people from outside negative interference.

Cat 5 shielded cable contains many outstanding features.  Cat5 follows the industry standard of 100Base-TX networks for 100 megabit Fast Ethernet extended over copper wiring.  The enhanced version (Cat 5e cable) performs better than standard Cat5.  Data integrity is improved because crosstalk (interference from external sources) is reduced using Cat5 cable.  If the cable is “stranded”, it can be used for lengths up to 25 feet.  If it is “solid”, it can be used for lengths greater than 25 feet.  Cat5e cable is backward compatible with Cat3 and Cat5.   

Most manufacturers of network cabling have a wide assortment of colors, lengths and other options to choose from.  Most companies are able to supply cabling cut from a spool to any desired length or can configure custom cabling solutions in unique circumstances.  Manufactures ordinarily are able to ship their orders within 24 hours unless it is a difficult custom order.   There are numerous manufacturers of Shielding Cat 5 cable and the cable itself can be ordered online or purchased at electrical supply stores.