Not all Ethernet cable is created equally. What's the difference, and how do you know which you should use? Let's look at the technical and physical differences in Ethernet cable categories to help us decide.
Ethernet cables are grouped into sequentially numbered categories (“ cat ”) based on different specifications; sometimes the category is updated with further clarification or testing standards (eg 5e, 6a). These categories are how we can easily know what type of cable we need for a specific application. Manufacturers are required to adhere to the standards, which makes our lives easier.
What are the differences between the categories and how can you know when to use unshielded, shielded, stranded, or solid cable? Keep reading f or “cat”-like enlightenment.
* Cat6 UTP unshielded Twisted Pair Data Communication Cable
* Pass Fluke Test High Performance Computer Networking Cable
* Supports Data Applications of up to 350MHz Bandwidth
* Exceeds TIA/EIA 568-C.2 , ISO/IEC 11801 Standards
* Tangle Free Reelex and Easy Pull Box Packing or Reel-In-Box Packing
| Cat6 network cable |
| Category | Cat6, Cat6e |
| Specifications | 4 pairs |
| Conductor | 0.57mm(23AWG), 0.51mm(24AWG), 0.4mm(26AWG) |
| Material | Bare copper, Standard copper, CCA, CCS |
| Shield | UTP(Unshielded Twisted Pair), FTP(Shielded Foil Twisted Pair), SFTP(Shielded Foil Twisted Pair) |
| Jacket | PVC, LSZH |
| Color | Grey, Blue |
| Meters | 305mtr, 1000ft |
| Application | PC, ADSL, network Module Plate, Wall Socket, etc |
Technical differences
As the category number gets higher, so does the speed and Mhz of the wire. This is not a coincidence, because each category brings more stringent testing for eliminating crosstalk (XT) and adding isolation between the wires.
This does not mean your experiences have been the same. Physically you can use Cat-5 cable for 1 Gb speeds, and I have personally used cable longer than 100 meters, but because the standard has not been tested for it, you'll probably have mixed results. Just because you have Cat-6 cable, doesn't mean you have 1 Gb network speeds either. Every connection in your network needs to support the 1 Gb speed and in some cases, the connection will need to be told in software to use the available speed.
Category 5 cable was revised, and mostly replaced with, Category 5 Enhanced (Cat-5e) cable which did not change anything physically in the cable, but instead applied more stringent testing standards for crosstalk.
Category 6 was revised with Augmented Category 6 (Cat-6a) which provided testing for 500 Mhz communication (compared to Cat-6's 250 Mhz). The higher communication frequency eliminated alien crosstalk (AXT) which allows for longer range at 10 Gb/s .
Application
Mainly used in the wiring system betweenwork area correspondence leading-out terminal and distribution wiring frames connection.As well as used in the housing synthesis wiring system between user correspondence leading out terminal and patch pannel.
FAQ Q1: Are you a factory or trading company?
A:We are a factory specializing in manufacturing coaxial cable,lan cable,speaker cable,alarm cable etc,.And as everyone knows,we are faithful and professional.
Q2: Can I get samples to test before I place an order?
A:Yes ,samples are available,and the samples are refundable after you place an order.
Q3: How do you factory think about quality control?
A: Quality is the most important,and that's why the raw material we choose are of high quality.
Q4:Do you accept OEM order and how long will you shipping after place an order?
A:We can manufacture according to customer's request and usually we can deliver goods 15-20 days after we receive your deposit.
Q5:What is your payment terms?
A:Usually ,we accept T/T,and if you have other payment requirements,you can negotiate with us.
