A straight through cable, also known as a patch cable, is the most common type of network cable used in industry today. They are used in the local area network or LAN to connect different devices together such as computers to hubs or routers. These cables are terminated with an RJ45 connector at each and are wired in accordance with TIA/EIA standards.

RS offer a comprehensive range of high-quality cables from industry-leading brands including Harting, Brand-Rex, Molex, Belden and of course RS PRO. Choose from shielded or unshielded cables with LAN categories Cat5, Cat5e and Cat6a.

What is a straight through cable?

As the name suggests, on a straight through cable the internally wired pins match. They use one of the two wiring standards, either T568A or T568B. So, straight through cables will have the same wiring scheme at either end.

Option 1 RJ45 T568A to RJ45 T568A

Option 2 RJ45 T568B to RJ45 T568B

Where would I use a straight through cable?

These patch cables are used when you need to connect two different devices. Some of the most common scenarios are

Connecting a LAN port to a computer or a switch

Connecting a router to a hub

Connecting a computer to a switch