Do you know about the Cat6 Ethernet Cable? The traits of Cat6 shielded cable? If you are not aware of the term then do not get confused as this guide will make sure you choose the best cable for your networking applications.
Cat6 ethernet cable is the next advanced LAN cable after the successful demonstration of Cat5e cable. The Cat6 cable comes in a shielded and unshielded variant to use for special types of environmental conditions to break the path of signal interference.
When choosing network cable the main need to look for is the core part of the cable — conductor. Copper Cat6 ethernet cable is the best to support the best transfer rates and high bandwidth. This guide covers the buyer’s perspective on looking for the best ethernet cable for their use. Continue reading the blog.
What Is Cat6 Ethernet Cable?
Ethernet cables are commonly used for transmitting data over Ethernet networks showing an improvement over the older Cat5 and Cat5e cables, offering faster data transfer speeds and better resistance to electromagnetic interference (EMI), due to its TPI (Twist Per Inch).
Cat6 cables come in two main types: Cat6 shielded twisted pair (STP) and cat6 unshielded twisted pair (UTP). Cat6 shielded cables have a layer of shielding around the wires, providing additional protection against EMI. However, this shielding can also make the cables thicker and less flexible.
Shielded Cat6 cables are typically used in environments where there is a high risk of EMI, such as near electrical equipment or in areas with high levels of radio frequency interference (RFI)is present in the field.
Unshielded CAT6 cables, on the other hand, do not have any shielding and are therefore thinner and more flexible than STP cables. Compared with augmented cat6 cable cat6 ethernet cable is typically less expensive and is suitable for most Ethernet applications that do not require a high level of EMI protection.
Speed And Applications Supported
Cat6 along with its salient features is quite ideal for its high-speed transfer and bandwidth frequency.
Cat6 can transfer speeds up to 10 Gbps over 50 meters (164 ft) and 1 Gbps over 100 meters (328 ft) along with a tested bandwidth frequency of 550 MHz with such attributes you can find intact signal quality and optimum speed without any connectivity loss.
This cable is also capable of supporting high ethernet applications which include, 100BASE-T, 10BASE-T, Gigabit Ethernet, PoE, PoE+/++, Audio/Video, and network security.
Besides the speed ratings, the Cat6 unshielded cables are more suitable for longer lengths to attain gigabit speed ratings. More often when there is a need to install cables in our garage or to the lawn for the proper active internet connection. We do need bulk cat6 cable for bulk installation within our house or in the business centers. Wireless technology is still taking steps to improve the standards but wired cables are the best for proper transformation speed.
Where To Use Cat6 Cable
Mostly cat6 cable is used to connect the computer or acts as a medium to connect the router, modem, hub, or switch to allow the sharing of data across a network accessing the same internet.
- Commercial, Residential, and Industrial
- For gaming purposes
- Business hubs
- Data centers data closets
- In patch panels
- Healthcare centers, Education sectors, and IT centers
It can also be used for connecting other devices like printers, scanners, or LAN connections
| Category Type | Frequency | Maximum Length/Speed |
| Standard Cat6 Cable | 550 MHz | 50 meters 10 Gbps |
| Augmented Cat6 | 750 MHz | 50 meters 10 Gbps, 100 meters 10 Gbps |
STP Vs. UTP: What is the Difference
As there is clear evidence for an ethernet cable there are some shielded and unshielded cables for specific usage and to avoid signal interference and crosstalk for seamless performance.
The main difference between shielded and unshielded cable is its inner composition which is further coated with an additional foil to avoid external influence which might cause signals to degrade.
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP) Cat6 Cable
Standard twisted pair ethernet cable is not good for some environments instead, shielded cat6 cables are needed to combat the external influence for the proper working of cable.
This cable comes in the form of foil wrapped around the twisted pairs, which is further wrapped by LSZH or PVC material jacket sheat.
STP cable is a bit expensive and stiffer due to its double wrapping making it hard to install. Jacks and couplers used for this cable also need to be shielded, increasing the cost.
Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cat6 Cable
UTP cables lack foil wrapping hence making them vulnerable to EMI and crosstalk. The cable avoids the EMI on its own but is not as effective as STP cables. This is also known as a standard ethernet cable.
Factors Before Buying Cat6 Ethernet Cable
Cable length
Ethernet cables come in a variety of lengths, from a few inches to hundreds of feet. Make sure to measure the distance between your devices and choose a cable that is long enough to reach them.
Connector type
Ethernet cables typically come with RJ45 connectors, which are compatible with most Ethernet devices. However, make sure to check the connector type on your devices to ensure compatibility.
Cable type
As mentioned, there are two main types of Cat6 Ethernet cables: STP and UTP. Choose the appropriate type based on the level of EMI protection required for your application.
Cable quality
The quality of the cable can affect its performance and durability. Look for cables that are made from high-quality materials and have good reviews from other buyers.
Overall, choosing the right Cat6 Ethernet cable will depend on your specific needs and requirements. Whether you need an STP or UTP cable, make sure to choose a high-quality cable that is compatible with your devices and is the appropriate length for your application.
Buy Cat6 Ethernet Cable
Multiple online stores might sell high-quality ethernet cable but the question comes to mind to whom should you believe? If you want to use cable for longer-term go for pure copper cable as it is the finest ethernet cable for meeting all the standards.
After selecting the factors before buying choose either Pure copper (STP/UTP) cable or CCA cables for your work but they are the only remedy for a short time.
Final Findings
Cat6 cable featuring STP/UTP has an additional advantage in terms of reducing the external influence of EMI which might reduce your networking speed and connectivity.
The cable is supported for high-speed ethernet applications with a higher frequency that is needed for larger enterprises for sending large files.
Cat6 is the ultimate solution for ethernet cabling and provides the desired results you want your network will have for longer terms.
