Chapter 15: Appendix
[3] 10BASE-T Specifications
10BASE-T is a connection method for creating an Ethernet network using twisted pair cables. The "10" in "10BASE-T" refers to the data transfer speed of 10Mbps. The word "BASE" means that the data transfer system is a "base band system." The "-T" refers to the twisted pair cable that is used to carry the data. On a 10BASE-T network, devices such as personal computers are connected using hubs. Between devices, hubs must be routed and cannot be connected to each other. (However, a cross cable (special cable) can be used to make a direct connection, but this is not common.) The maximum length from a hub to any device is 100 m.
A 10BASE-T system can be constructed easily, since its cables are thin. Each device can be connected or disconnected without affecting the network. Therefore, 10BASE-T is well suited for use in office networks. The figure below shows a configuration example of a 10BASE-T Ethernet system.
Hub
Twisted pair cable [UTP: Category 5]
(Maximum cable length: 100 m)
RJ-45 connector
Configuration example of a 10BASE-T Ethernet system
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