PDS Cables? What is PDS? - Get the best explanation here!

There are different designations for network cables such as internet cable, patch cable, ethernet cable and RJ45 cable. But what exactly is a PDS cable and how does it differ from the other types of network cables?

What are PDS cables? PDS stands for Premises Distribution System and refers to network cables that are sold without fitted connectors and in lengths so that you can cut the required lengths yourself. These cables usually come on cable drums or in boxes, and you have to buy the connectors separately and install them yourself.

In this post, I will give you an in-depth explanation of what PDS cables are and how they differ from regular network cables.

What is a PDS cable?

PDS cable is the term for network cables sold without pre-assembled connectors and in cutable lengths, allowing you to adapt the cable lengths as needed.

These cables are typically supplied on cable drums or in boxes and are primarily aimed at professional users and installers who need to measure and cut precise cable lengths for their installations. The plugs must be purchased separately and installed by the user themselves.

PDS cables are often available in long lengths, e.g. 100 or 300 meters, which enables users to either create several smaller cables or to lay a long cable run over large distances.

We have previously described in detail how to mount an RJ45 connector. In this post, we will not repeat this information, but instead refer to our previous article on the subject. 

If you prefer visual guidance, my colleague has made a video demonstrating how to install the connectors. You can watch the video below.

What does PDS mean?

PDS, which stands for Premises Distribution System, refers to twisted pair network cables that are designed to be installed in a structured cabling system in larger buildings such as condominiums. This ensures uniform cable connections throughout the building.

When we talk about these cables, we are basically referring to the type of network cable used to connect devices such as a router and a computer.

The most common terms you will come across are network cable, Ethernet cable or internet cable, as general terms for cables for internet connection. In addition, you may also come across the terms patch cable and RJ45 cable.

However, these designations are typically used for cables with pre-assembled RJ45 connectors.

A patch cable is typically a short cable that is used in a patch panel where many different cables are assembled. These cables are available in different colors to help organize your network installation.

PDS cables are network cables in their simplest form, where you can determine the length yourself and choose the type of plug to be fitted.

PDS cables are also available in outdoor versions, so you can connect long distances, e.g. between two apartment buildings.

Are PDS cables better than regular network cables?

PDS cables are ordinary network cables - just without pre-assembled connectors. All the features you look for when buying a network cable also apply to PDS cables.

PDS cables are usually available in Cat 5e, Cat 6 or Cat 6a categories, but you can also find Cat 7 PDS cables that have high performance even over long distances.

PDS cables can be shielded or unshielded, and you can read the shielding in the same way as with ordinary network cables.

An unshielded PDS cable is marked "U" for Unshielded, a PDS cable with foil shielding is marked "F" for Foiled, and a PDS cable with braided shielding is marked "S" for Shielded.

PDS cables are available in two types of conductors: one with a stranded conductor, which consists of several thin wires, and one with one solid conductor, which is a little stiffer to work with.

Here you get a quick overview of categories, speed differences and bandwidth.