Difference between cat6 and cat6a

With the increasing demand for network speed, the Category 5e network cable that supports 1Gbps transmission can no longer meet all requirements. Cat6 and Cat6a network cables have gradually become the mainstream. This article will explain how to choose these two types of network cables, especially in the professional applications Field.

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●  Definition of Cat6 and Cat6a Ethernet Cable

● The difference between Cat6 and Cat6a network cables

● Application of Cat6 and Cat6a Network Cable

● How to distinguish the difference between Cat6 and Cat6a network cables

● Cat6 and Cat6a network cable suitable for professional fields

Definition of Cat6 and Cat6a Ethernet Cable

Cat6 network cable conforms to Category 6 standards of ISO/IEC 11801: 2002 and EIA/TIA 568B. Its bandwidth is twice that of Category 5 network cables, and is suitable for gigabit network transmission applications.

Cat 6 Thin Ethernet jumper, unshielded

Category 6 cables are in line with ISO/IEC 11801:2002 and EIA/TIA 568-B.2-1 standards, and have better performance than Category 6 cables in terms of alien crosstalk. Compared with CAT6 cables, CAT6 cables have a larger outer diameter, heavier weight, and a larger minimum bending radius. The maximum transmission distance of CAT6 cables is 100m, and it can be used with CAT6 and CAT5 cables at the same time. compatible.

Cat 6a cable

The difference between Cat6 and Cat6a network cables

(1) Speed and bandwidth

Category 6 network cables are mainly used for 1Gbps network connections, while Cat6a network cables are used for 10Gbps network connections. The Category 6 network cable bandwidth is 250M, and the bandwidth of the Cat6a network cable is 500M.

(2) Internal structure

Both have added an insulated cross-frame design, but the Cat6a network cable uses a gear-like cable groove shape.

(3) Overall design

Cat6a network cable has a denser core twist, thicker conductor, and a larger outer diameter than Category 6 network cable. Because of the higher transmission frequency, the external crosstalk problem will be more serious. Therefore, some cat6a network cables have added a more stringent shielding design.

Application of Cat6 and Cat6a Network Cable

In terms of application, all types of network cables are similar, mainly depending on the transmission speed. One thing to mention here, some users will also use Category 6 network cables in 10G networks. Of course, some users have determined through experiments that Category 6 network cables can reach a transmission distance of 37-55m at a transmission rate of 10Gbps. Still, in practical applications, It may be challenging to implement.

So, in general, if the environment is a gigabit network, you can choose either Category 6 or Cat6a cable. If it is a 10-Gigabit network, a Cat6a network cable is preferred.

How to distinguish the difference between Cat6 and Cat6a network cables

(1) Look at the appearance

The outer skins of Category 6 cables are marked with “CAT6”, and the outer skins of Cat6a cables are marked with “CAT6a”.

(2) Look at the price

Due to the internal material and structure, the price of the Cat6a network cable is generally higher than that of the Category 6 network cable.

Cat 6 or Cat6a network cable suitable for professional fields

Cat 6 Jumper cables（45 degree Angle）

This type of cable has a dedicated channel separator and load bar, achieving six types of performance while maintaining a smooth bend. These cables are ideal for data center or high-density wiring applications. Add a professional appearance to the distribution frame, with neatly arranged cable outlets on the side of the distribution frame.

Cat6 SFTP

When the conventional shielding is not enough, this unique dual-shielded SF/UTP patch cable improves the shielding effect. The use of 100% foil and a 65% braided shielding layer dramatically reduces EMI/RFI interference. The low-smoke halogen-free sheath meets today’s environmental and safety requirements. The cable uses 26 AWG stranded wire, which is easy to install even in a small space.

Cat6a cable thin Ethernet components，CMP Antiflaming，FT

The thin and light design saves extra space on the patch panel and makes the patch panel look neat and orderly. These CMP (flame retardant) rated cables meet strict building fire and smoke regulations. The twisted design is more flexible than standard solid conductor horizontal cables and has a longer bending life. Finally, in the stable temperature range of -20° to +105°C, it can be used for high temperature applications in professional fields.

Cat6a high flexibility industrial outdoor cable

Outdoor-grade FR-TPE (flame-retardant thermoplastic elastomer) sheath is adopted, which can resist the damage of industrial oil and ultraviolet rays and has CMX flame-retardant grade. The RJ45 connector with a shield and IP67 waterproof is used. The number of rated bending times is not less than 1 million times.