


Some of the most common applications that fall into that category are data centers. It isn’t until network applications demand the performance of Cat6A that you can justify the increased cable cost. These points are particularly important when comparing the best applications for each cable.Īs you already read, Cat6 is the global standard. In fact, Cat6A is fat enough that its packaging is fundamentally different from traditional Ethernet. The increased cable bulk is enough that switches, cabinets and other tightly-packed network stations might not be able to utilize it. This makes the cable thicker and heavier, but it also eliminates alien crosstalk. Cat6A has additional shielding built into the cable structure. That’s further augmented by the final key design difference. This makes the cable more robust and resistant to most forms of crosstalk. The extra bandwidth doubles the effective distance at which the cable can maintain 10 Gbps - up to 100 meters. First, Cat6A can operate at up to 500 MHz. Cat6A is fully compatible with Cat6, but it escalates performance in three key areas. Unless a network has special needs, it runs on Cat6. In short, Cat6 handles modern demands with ease and affordability. That yields the 10 Gbps at workable distances of up to 55 meters. These features enable Cat6 to dramatically reduce most forms of crosstalk. It features more twists and better shielding than its predecessors. That makes it more than sufficient for standard voice and data applications, and it’s why you see it everywhere.Ĭat6 runs at a maximum bandwidth of 250 MHz. It’s compatible with older standards, and it’s the lowest cost Ethernet that can achieve 10 Gbps speeds. Cat6 is the de facto standard Ethernet cable for new installations.
