What is the maximum distance for a standard Ethernet installation using twisted pair cabling?

For standard Ethernet installations using twisted pair cabling, the maximum distance is indeed 100 meters. This limitation is primarily due to the physical properties of the twisted pair cables and the requirements of signal integrity. Ethernet standards, such as 100BASE-TX and 1000BASE-T (Gigabit Ethernet), specify this maximum length to ensure optimal performance and reliable data transmission.

The 100-meter distance includes up to 90 meters of structured cabling (horizontal cable) from the patch panel to the work area outlet, along with an additional 10 meters for the patch cords connecting the device to the outlet. This specification helps to minimize the potential for signal degradation, interference, and delays, which can occur over longer distances, resulting in reduced network performance.

Choosing any distance shorter than 100 meters can lead to unnecessary limitations on network design and expansion. While the other distance options might sound feasible, they exceed the established standards for Ethernet transmission over twisted pair cabling, which is why they are not valid answers for maximum lengths defined by the relevant Ethernet standards.