Linking TV to Router

[old john]

Got my eye on a Panasonic TV with ethernet port. Can anyone explain why the manual specifies a shielded straight cable for linking to the router? Is there a good reason why I should not use FTP cable or the UTP supplied with my Netgear DG834? Most Cat5 and Cat6 RJ45 cables available appear to be twisted pair rather than flat.

[Rik]

Perhaps they mean straight as distinct from crossover, John. I can't think of any other reason.

[pctech]

I'm with Rik on that one.

Crossover is for connecting two like devices such as PCs.

[Ray]

I've got a Samsung TV, I just use standard Cat5 ethernet cable to connect the TV to my router.

[old john]

Thanks folks. Looks like I've been using the wrong sort of cable to link my PC to my router!

[Rik]

Most routers auto-sense, John, so you did no harm if it worked.