Cat6 vs. Cat6A Ethernet Cable: What's the Difference?

Our computer systems are not only the big parts we see. There’s so much else going on with them. We have loads of different wires for loads of different connections. We have cables that connect the main monitor to the wall socket; we used to have cables that connected speakers to the CPU, cables that connected the keyboard and mouse to the monitor, and perhaps, most importantly, network ethernet cables that let us into the world of the interconnected web.

Some of these cables may have become old news, but network ethernet cables have stuck around. They give you a faster and stronger connection. You may think them clunky and tiresome to figure out, but they get the work done. There are a lot of different categories of these ethernet cables out there, starting from Cat1 all the way to Cat8. They serve different purposes, offer different speeds, and are progressively used as times and technologies roll by.

From these, let’s talk about the two most famous ones - famous because there is an invisible competition to see which one is better: Cat6 ethernet cable and Cat6A ethernet cable. Cat6A is an upgraded version of the Cat6 cable. But that doesn’t mean that Cat6 cables are not used. Both are used in equal measure and are valued at their respective places.

What is Cat6?

An Ethernet cable type used for networking is called Category 6 (Cat6). With improved performance and reduced interference, it is an improvement over Cat5e. 

Cat6 cables can manage data rates of up to 10 Gbps over short distances and support gigabit Ethernet speeds. To lessen crosstalk, they feature better shielding and employ twisted pairs of copper wires. 

Because of their dependability and effectiveness, these cables are frequently seen in contemporary networking configurations.

Common Use Cases

Small companies and household networks frequently employ Cat6 connections. They offer dependable connections for video conferences, gaming, and streaming. They are used for wired internet setups in small offices, guaranteeing reliable and quick data delivery. 

In local networks, they are also utilized to link PCs, switches, and routers. They are a well-liked option for regular networking requirements because to their performance and price.

What is Cat6A?

An improved variant of Cat6 Ethernet cables is called Category 6A (Cat6A). The "A" represents "augmented," which denotes improved performance. 10 Gbps speeds are supported by Cat6A over a 100-meter range. 

Its enhanced shielding preserves signal quality and lower interference. It is, therefore, a dependable choice for fast networking.

Common Use Cases

Data centers and enterprise networks frequently employ Cat6A. It is perfect for settings where low latency and large bandwidth are necessary. Enterprises utilize it for cloud apps, VoIP, and extensive networking. 

Additionally, it enables cutting-edge systems like industrial automation and security cameras. Cat6A is a popular choice for enterprises looking to future-proof their networks.

Similarities of Cat 6 & 6A Cable:

Both cables are made with eight copper conductors that are twisted into four pairs. Both cables have jackets that are made for various installation needs.

Both cables are available in shielded and unshielded versions; you can learn the difference between Cat6A Shielded vs non-shielded.

Both cables support 10/100/1000 Mbps/s speed up to 328 feet.

Both cables have a spline, an internal plastic cross skeleton that keeps the pairs separated.

Both cables terminate to TIA 568A or B color code specifications.

Now, we get into the differences between the two cables.

Differences Between Cat 6 & 6A Cable

Let’s talk about maximum speed: the max speed of Cat6A is 500 MHz, which gives you 10 Gbp/s (gigabits per second) up to 328 feet, whereas that of Cat6 is half that, 250 MHz. As a result, it only provides support for 10 Gbp/s up to 165 feet under optimal conditions. Less so in heavy cross-talk environments.

Cat6A cables are made and closed to tighter resilience than Cat6. This is another way of saying that the copper conductors in Cat6A cables are twisted tighter than in Cat6 cables. This means Cat6A cables require higher specification wall jacks, patch panels, and RJ45 connectors.

The installation of Cat6A cables is difficult and expensive as they use thicker copper conductors and jackets.

Points to Keep in Mind

Here, note that Cat6 speed cables support 10 Gbp/s. The only limitation is that Cat6 cables will only support it up to 165 feet, maximum. This is cut down to 110 feet if there is heavy cross-talk potential. Whatever the case, short high-speed runs are possible as long as the switches and servers support it. Oftentimes, this is enough to relieve any network congestion and keep the cost down. For any more information regarding networking cables, please contact us. SF Cable stocks all cables for your networking needs.

Original Source: https://www.sfcable.com/blog/cat6-vs-cat6a-ethernet-cable