Thicknet vs Thinnet : Key Differences in Ethernet Coaxial Cables

Thicknet (10BASE5) and Thinnet (10BASE2) represent early standards of coaxial cabling, each with unique characteristics that impact installation, cost, and performance. Ethernet based LANs using thick cable for inter-connection is referred as Thicknet. While ethernet systems using thinner coaxial cable is referred as Thinnet. In the world of networking, understanding the differences between Thicknet and Thinnet is crucial for building efficient and reliable Ethernet networks.

Thicknet (10BASE5)

Thicknet is also referred as 10Base5 systems, where 10 means 10Mbps speed. Base means baseband and 5 denotes 500 meter max. distance between nodes/repeaters. RG-8/U cable is used as thick cable in thicknet based LAN network.

The key features of thick ethernet coaxial cable are as follows.
• Standard: 10BASE5
• Cable Diameter: About 0.5 inches
• Maximum Segment Length: 500 meters
• Bandwidth: 10 Mbps
• Characteristic: Rigid and difficult to work with due to its thickness. Requires external transceivers (AUI - Attachment Unit Interface) and vampire taps to connect devices.
• Usage: Common in early Ethernet installations (1970s-1980s).

Thinnet (10BASE2)

Thinnet is also referred as 10Base2, where 2 denotes 200 m max.distance between two nodes or repeaters. RG-58/U is used as thin cable in thinnet based LAN network.

The key features of thin ethernet coaxial cable are as follows.
• Standard: 10BASE2
• Cable Diameter: About 0.2 inches
• Maximum Segment Length: 185 meters
• Bandwidth: 10 Mbps
• Characteristic: More flexible and easier to install than Thicknet. Devices connect using BNC (Bayonet Neill-Concelman) connectors and T-connectors.
• Usage: Became popular in the 1980s as a more convenient alternative to Thicknet for smaller networks and office environments.

Difference between thicknet and thinnet

Conclusion :

As technology advances, the use of Thicknet and Thinnet has diminished, giving way to faster and more flexible solutions like twisted pair and fiber optic cabling. However, understanding the foundational elements of these early networking standards remains essential for IT professionals and network enthusiasts.

By mastering the differences between Thicknet and Thinnet, you gain valuable insights into the development of Ethernet networks and can better appreciate the innovations that have shaped modern connectivity. Whether you're working on legacy systems or exploring the history of network technology, this knowledge is key to 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).

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