CompTIA Network+ (N10-009)Network ImplementationMedium
A technician is installing a Cat 6 UTP horizontal cable run from a telecommunications closet to a workstation. The measured cable length is 105 meters. Which issue is MOST likely to occur as a result?
- AThe cable will experience increased bandwidth due to the longer run
- BThe connection will function normally since Cat 6 supports up to 150 meters
- CThe cable will experience excessive attenuation and signal degradation beyond the supported distance
- DThe switch port will automatically negotiate a lower voltage to compensate
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: C. The cable will experience excessive attenuation and signal degradation beyond the supported distance
TIA/EIA standards specify a maximum horizontal UTP cable run of 100 meters (including patch cords) for Ethernet over copper. At 105 meters, the signal will suffer excessive attenuation, leading to degraded performance or link failure. Cat 6 does not extend this fundamental distance limit.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Longer cable runs decrease, not increase, usable bandwidth due to attenuation.
- B. Cat 6 does not raise the standard 100m maximum copper distance limit.
- D. Switches do not adjust voltage to compensate for cable length.
UTP Maximum Cable Length
TIA/EIA standards limit UTP horizontal cabling to 100 meters total (90m permanent link + 10m patch cords) regardless of category rating, due to attenuation.
- 100m max total for copper Ethernet runs
- Beyond this, attenuation causes signal loss
- Solutions: fiber, repeaters, or switches placed closer
Memory trick: 100 meters is the copper ceiling — go further, lose the signal.