|
Cat6 cable (Category 6) is the
standard for today's high speed gigabit Ethernet
networks and is expected to support 10 gigabit
networks in the future while remaining
completely
backwards compatible with previous network
standards. Primarily available in 3 different types, each
Cat 6 cable type has specific pros and cons in addition to
specific applications. Solid ( most
commonly used) is comprised of a PVC jacket and
solid core conductors. Solid core conductors
allow the Cat 6 cable to run long distances while
maintaining performance, but reducing its
flexibility and the number of times it can be
flexed before breaking. This makes solid Cat6 cable
perfect for permanent installation applications
(your long runs from the patch panel to wall
plate) where the cable will not move much once
installed. Stranded Cat 6 cable is comprised of a PVC jacket
and stranded core conductors making it very
flexible. This flexibility allows it to be
flexed many times with no negative effects on
performance making it perfect for building patch
cables. Plenum also has solid core conductors,
but is built with a Low Smoke, fire retardant
jacket that make it safe for use in Plenum Air
Spaces (check your local building codes to see
if it is required) but drastically increases the
cost. In our "How-To" section you will find step-by-step instructions on how to terminate Cat6 cables. |