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Comparing CAT 5E, CAT 6, CAT 6E and CAT 6A Cables

When selecting cabling for your business’s network infrastructure, it is important to understand the differences between various types of cables. We are here to help you understand the key differences between four popular cable types: CAT 5E, CAT 6, CAT 6E, and CAT6A.

CAT 5E (Category 5 Enhanced) Cable

This type of cable is a popular choice for many businesses due to its low cost and ease of installation. It is suitable for networking applications including Gigabit Ethernet up to 1000 MBps. The maximum length of this type of cable is 100 meters when used with 24 AWG copper wires. This type of cable does not support 10GBASE-T as it lacks the bandwidth capacity required for such a high speed.

CAT 6 (Category 6) Cable

This type of cable provides performance up to 250 MHz which supports 10GBASE-T bandwidth at lengths up to 55 meters when using 23 AWG copper wires. This type of cable also supports Gigabit Ethernet up to 1000 MBps but has less crosstalk than its predecessor, the CAT5E cable. Additionally, this type of cable has higher reliability and transmission quality in comparison to other cables on the market today.

CAT 6E (Enhanced Category 6) Cable

This enhanced version of the standard Cat6 offers higher speeds and bandwidth capacity than its predecessors, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require more powerful networking capabilities. This type of cable supports 10GBASE-T over lengths up to 100 meters when using 23 AWG copper wires. It also supports Gigabit Ethernet up to 1000 Mbps with increased crosstalk protection compared to the Cat5e and Cat6 cables.

CAT6A (Augmented Category 6) Cable

The Augmented version takes performance even further than Cat6e by providing even greater speeds and bandwidth capacity for applications requiring 10GBASE-T networks over longer distances. This type of cable can reach lengths up to 100 meters when using 23 AWG copper wires while still supporting 10GBASE-T at maximum speeds with no signal dropouts or interference from other cables in close proximity. In addition, this type of cable provides improved power savings compared to other cables on the market today due to its low DC resistance value which allows it consume less energy while maintaining optimal performance levels at all times.

When deciding which cabling solution is right for your business’s network infrastructure needs it is important to consider factors like cost, installation complexity, connection distance and performance requirements before making a final purchase decision. Each option has its own advantages so carefully review each one before selecting one that best meets your needs based on your budget and application requirements! With proper research you can be sure that you are investing in the right cabling solution for your business!

Contact Axus Technologies for Your Commercial IT Needs

Axus Technologies, LLC (Axus) is a provider and integrator of first-class technology solutions for organizations of all sizes. We work with the best manufacturers and vendors in the IT industry to deliver top of the line results. We closely partner with our customers through all project cycles to ensure that our work exceeds expectations. Our main office is located in the Tampa Bay area, but we operate from coast to coast with a clientele footprint mainly concentrated in the Northeast, Midwest, and South. For more information about our technology services, call us today at 813-922-2323, fax us at 813-922-2325, or email us at info@axustechnologies.com. For helpful technology tips and company updates, find us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, or Pinterest.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 25th, 2023 at 5:22 pm. Both comments and pings are currently closed.