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Due to their impeccably fast processing speeds, they are an ideal choice for businesses. Compared to Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables, Cat 6a cables offer less cross talk, less signal loss, and a larger frequency bandwidth of 500 MHz-double that of Cat6 cables. This creates more copper per inch as well as the layer of extra-thick plastic around the wires themselves. However, they are substantially thicker than Cat 6 cables due to the tighter winding of the wires. Like Cat 6 cables, Cat 6a cables are also 23 gauge. Due to their additional capabilities, Cat6 cables typically cost around 30 percent more than Cat5e cables.Ĭat6a is an augmented version of the first generation Cat6 cables and the most advanced Ethernet cable on this list. Additional performance advantages include reduced signal loss, less crosstalk with other cables, and two-way communication on each pair of wires due to a tighter twist in the cables. At a frequency bandwidth of 250MHz, Cat6 cables offer a far greater processing speed than Cat5 cables. However, they have a limited higher standard support (164 feet), after which the ultimate speed distance of Cat6 cables is the same as Cat5e cables. Cat6 cables are the current standard in cabling for high-speed Ethernet networks as they can support the speed required by the 10 Gigabit network. Cat5e cables have suitable capabilities for most networks however, they may not be able to keep your networking setup at high-performance levels as service providers continue to offer higher speeds.Ĭat6 cables offer Gigabit Ethernet up to 100 meters and typically utilize a 23-gauge conductor which equates to around 0.0226 inches in diameter per wire. The MHz of Cat5e cables rates at 100, which means the CPU can process up to 100 million commands in a single second. Typically, Cat5e cables consist of 24 gauge twisted pair wires and offer gigabit ethernet up to 328 feet. Cat5e cables were the first cabling type to deliver 1 Gigabit network speed, which today is the minimum someone should consider for their network. To determine which option is right for your network’s current and future needs, read our guide on the difference between Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a cabling.Ĭat5e cables are an enhanced version of the legacy Cat5 cables and the oldest cabling category on this list. The three main cabling types are Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, which each offer distinct capabilities.
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While your networking gear will ultimately define the speed of your operation, your cabling must be able to keep up. Choosing the right cable option for your network’s infrastructure, you need to know the difference between category cables.
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