Are you planning to run a network cable at your home? While it is easy to get the cables that you need, it is also important to understand the different aspects of the cables when you are purchasing them. This blog will talk about the different aspects of Cat6a cables and how to choose the right one for your network.
Cat6a unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable caters to the need for high-speed data transfer over the network. It is used to connect network devices such as networking equipment, computers, game consoles, and other similar devices. The Cat6a cable is the next version of the Cat6 cable, which has stricter specifications. Bulk Cat6a Cables are made for high-end applications and provide faster speed and longer distances. This is achieved by having greater bandwidth.
What are the Differences between Cat6a and Cat6?
Cat6a cables are capable of speeds up to 10 gigabits per second (Gbps) while Cat6 cables are only capable of speeds up to 1 Gbps. Cat6a cable 1000ft also exhibits lower crosstalk and noise which will ensure higher data transfer speeds. Bulk Cat6a cables are also backward compatible with Cat5e cables. Cat6a cables have tighter specifications when it comes to the number of twists per foot. The specifications for Cat6a cables state that the number of twists must be at least 7. The specifications for Cat6 cables state that the number of twists must be at least 5.
Does Cat6a Really Provide Faster Speeds?
Cat6a is a category of cabling designed to support much higher data transmission rates than Cat6, providing four times more bandwidth than Cat6. So yes, it does provide faster speeds. It was designed primarily for high-end corporate networks and is required for 10-gigabit Ethernet (10GbE) applications. With High-Quality Cat6a cables you can run 10GbE over a 100-meter distance. So if you have a long-distance connection between your networking devices, then it is best to stick with Cat6a cables because you will get faster speeds and more stability.
What does Cat6a do for my Network?
Cat6a is the latest iteration in the Cat6 cable standard. It is twice as fast as Cat6 and can be used for 1000base-T gigabit ethernet links. In short, it is better than Cat6 but only when used for gigabit ethernet. It is backward compatible with Cat6 but will operate at Cat5 speed when used with Cat6 equipment. Cat6a also has better shielding than Cat6. If used for 1000base-T gigabit ethernet, Cat6a is a must.
How do you install Cat6a Cables?
The Cat6a cables are mainly used in the Data Centers, telecom, and server rooms where fiber optic cables are used. The Cat6a cabling system has higher specifications than the Cat6 and Cat6a patch cords. Â The differentiating factor becomes clear when you examine the key characteristics of the cable. The enhanced Category 6a cable, for instance, offers a more stringent requirement for bend radius, temperature, jacket materials, and voice frequency (CATV) performance.
Conclusion
Choosing the best cable for your network can be a difficult process. You want to get a cable that is reliable, affordable, and that provides excellent performance. Choosing the Best Cable can be a difficult choice and it is something that you don’t want to rush through. We’ve put together a blog that can help you decide on which cable to buy for your network.