RFThicknet vs. Thinnet: Ethernet Cable Differences
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Thicknet (10BASE5) and Thinnet (10BASE2) are early coaxial cabling standards, each with its own characteristics that influenced installation, cost, and performance. Ethernet-based LANs using thick cable for interconnection are known as Thicknet, while those using thinner coaxial cable are called Thinnet. Understanding the distinctions between these two is vital for comprehending the evolution of Ethernet networks.
Thicknet (10BASE5)
Thicknet, also known as 10BASE5, gets its name from its specifications: 10 Mbps speed, baseband signaling, and a maximum segment length of 500 meters. It utilized RG-8/U cable as the “thick” cable in LAN networks.
Here’s a breakdown of its key features:
- Standard: 10BASE5
- Cable Diameter: Approximately 0.5 inches
- Maximum Segment Length: 500 meters
- Bandwidth: 10 Mbps
- Characteristic: Rigid and difficult to handle due to its thickness. Requires external transceivers (AUI - Attachment Unit Interface) and vampire taps for device connections.
- Usage: Commonly used in early Ethernet installations (1970s-1980s).
Thinnet (10BASE2)
Thinnet, or 10BASE2, also derives its name from its specifications: 10 Mbps speed, baseband signaling, and a maximum segment length of approximately 200 meters (actually, 185 meters). RG-58/U cable was the “thin” cable used in Thinnet LANs.
Key features of Thinnet include:
- Standard: 10BASE2
- Cable Diameter: Approximately 0.2 inches
- Maximum Segment Length: 185 meters
- Bandwidth: 10 Mbps
- Characteristic: More flexible and easier to install compared to Thicknet. Devices connect using BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors and T-connectors.
- Usage: Gained popularity in the 1980s as a more convenient alternative to Thicknet for smaller networks and office environments.
Thicknet vs. Thinnet: A Comparison
| Feature | Thicknet | Thinnet |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 10Base5 | 10Base2 |
| Cable Diameter | About 0.5 inches (12.7 mm) | About 0.2 inches (5 mm) |
| Maximum Segment Length | 500 meters | 185 meters |
| Bandwidth | 10 Mbps | 10 Mbps |
| Characteristic | Rigid, thick, difficult to work with | Flexible, easier to handle |
| Connection Method | External transceivers, vampire taps | BNC connectors, T-connectors |
| Installation Complexity | More complex, requires specialized tools | Easier, more straightforward |
| Cost | Generally more expensive | Generally less expensive |
| Usage Era | Common in 1970s-1980s | Popular in 1980s |
| Replacement | Largely replaced by twisted pair and fiber optic cabling | Largely replaced by twisted pair and fiber optic cabling |
Conclusion
As technology has progressed, Thicknet and Thinnet have largely been replaced by faster and more versatile solutions like twisted pair and fiber optic cabling. However, understanding these early networking standards provides valuable insight for IT professionals and network enthusiasts.
By grasping the differences between Thicknet and Thinnet, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the evolution of Ethernet networks and the innovations that have shaped modern connectivity. Whether you’re dealing with legacy systems or studying the history of network technology, this knowledge is crucial for making informed decisions in today’s digital landscape.
The successors to Thicknet (10BASE5) and Thinnet (10BASE2) coaxial cables in Ethernet networking are typically twisted pair cables (Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7) and fiber optic cables (Single Mode Fiber-SMF, Multi-Mode Fiber-MMF).
