What is CAT 6A Ethernet Cable? A Complete Guide for 10-Gigabit CAT 6A-capable Ethernet cabling.

The CAT 6A Ethernet cable standard, also known as Category 6A, is a category of high-quality network cables that allow for 10 Gigabit Ethernet and longer distances with the lowest amount of loss. With the network infrastructure's constant fashion towards affordable high-data transfer rates, CAT 6A offers optimal EMI protection as well and is a very appropriate cable to be used in both the commercial and industrial fields.

This guide will cover the fundamentals of CAT 6A Ethernet cable, within you will learn what it is, its distinct features, how it compares to the rest, its main applications, and much more.

■ What Can CAT 6A Improve Upon? 

Cables with CAT 6A technology can be utilized in the frequency range up to 500 MHz, which is two times more than CAT 6 – 250 MHz. It permits the data transfer rate of nearly 10 Gbps over distances of 100 meters, and so it is commonly used for fast and quality networks with high performance under tension.

Besides this, the increased alien crosstalk resistance is another great one due to the enhancement of signal shielding against interference caused by other adjacent cables—this is essential in data center or any area that has multiple cables like data centers. 

■ What Are the Applications for CAT 6A Cable？ 

CAT 6A Ethernet cables have the capability of working in different need-intensive environments: 

• Data Centers – Advised for places with high density of equipment, where not only the 10G Ethernet but also the EMI protection are requirements. 

• Office & Campus Networks – Accommodating medium-range networks for schools, hospitals, and enterprises. 

• High-Speed Workstations – Guaranteed to work with 4K video, cloud applications, and large data transfers. 

• PoE Applications – Accommodating Power over Ethernet (PoE), ideal for feeding IP cameras, access points, and VoIP phones. 

• Industrial & Automation Systems – Sturdy for smart building and automation application. 

• Fiber Network Extension – An inexpensive addition to fiber for long-distance users. 

■ High-speed and Performance of the CAT 6A Cable 

• Specification CAT 6A 

• Max Data Speed 10 Gbps 

• Frequency Bandwidth Up to 500 MHz 

• Max Cable Length 100 meters (328 feet) 

• Crosstalk Protection Excellent (Alien Crosstalk Rated)

■ What are the Types and Construction for the CAT 6A Cables

The CAT 6A shielded and unshielded cables are available in a number of types and constructions to be utilized in different space: 

U/UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) 

The shield is absent; nevertheless, crosstalk is in low level. 

Usually found indoors for networking 

The cheapest option 

U/UTP CAT 6A Common Models: 

7112303 – UL/ETL certified, PVC CM-rated 

7112305 – CMP rated for plenum environments 

7112306 – LSZH for fire-safe indoor use

F/UTP (Foil Shielded with Unshielded Pairs) 

In the middle, there is foil shielding for EMI Protection. 

Appropriate for use in locations with respect to internal use with high-level interference 

F/UTP CAT 6A Common Models: 

7112312 – Basic EMI protection 

7112315 – CMP plenum-rated, EMI-resistant 

U/FTP (Unshielded Cable with Foil Shielded Pairs)

Pairs are separately guarded. 

With better EMI Protection, safer and flexibility also. 

U/FTP CAT 6A  Common Models: 

7112321 – PE jacket for outdoor ducts 

7112326 – LSZH jacket, EMI/fire-safe

F/FTP (Foil Shielded with Individually Shielded Pairs) 

The best for high EMI areas. 

Extra Layers shielding for optimum protection. 

F/FTP CAT 6A Common Models: 

7112331 – PE jacket, outdoor & EMI protection 

7112336 – LSZH, dual shield for fire-safe, high-EMI zones

Armored CAT 6A Cable 

With corrugated steel tube for mechanical protection. 

Used in tough locations, storage return pipes or direct burial. 

PVC, PE, LSZH, CM, CMR, CMP Cable jackets are available.

■ Reference Standards and Certifications 

Zion Communication's production of CAT 6A cables meets universal standards of ISO/IEC 11801, ANSI/TIA-568.2-D, and EN50399, as well asInternational certifications of UL, ETL, CE, CPR, RoHS, REACH, DELTA, ISO9001. 

■ Compatible Connectors

RJ45 Connectors are appropriate for CAT6A cable assemblies as well as over 99% devices that are network-based.

Support both shielded as well as unshielded connection types.

■ Testing and Quality Assurance 

The CAT 6A cables manufactured with attention to detail are thoroughly tested in the following methods: 

Fluke Networks Devices: DSX2-8000, DSX2-5000 

Channel vs. Link Testing: Making sure both independent and dependent cable system work fine. 

Network Analyzers are used for real-length checking methods, i.e. 100M, 305M long cables.

■ How to Place a Custom Order? 

In case you need OEM or tailored CAT 6A cables? 

Send email to info@zion-communication.com with your purchasing request. 

Our sales team has the responsibility of confirming specifications and details. 

You will be emailed the contract or PI statement. The order starts when you deposit half of the total amoun. 

We will be giving you notices in advance of shipping to avoid surprises.

Michael is a Product manager and Chief Executive Officer at Zion Communication. 

Specializes in copper communications, security systems, and network cabling.

michael@zion-communication.com

+86 13757188184