Cat5 vs. Cat6 Ethernet cables are perfect for applications with substantial data transfer needs, including Internet of Things (IoT) setups. Regarding Cat6a Ethernet cables, they have a thicker, heavier construction than Cat6 cables. Here, “a” means augmented. The individual pairs of the wire have metal shielding to reduce interference further. They support 10 Gbps internet up to 328 feet at a maximum bandwidth of 500 MHz, which is double the bandwidth of Cat6. Most importantly, the Cat6a cables are compatible with Cat6 and Cat6e cables because of their shared RJ-45 jack.
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Cat6a cables suit applications beyond data and telephony, such as automation and physical security systems like access control and CCTV. Additionally, these cables work well in networks with heavy data use without requiring expensive fiber optic cables.
Why should you use Cat6 Ethernet cables?
Have stricter performance specifications.
The speed of data transfer is significantly high at greater distances
More tightly twisted than Cat5 cables
Cable conductors and cable sheaths are thicker
Interior and exterior signal/ EMI interference is reduced to a greater extent.
Why shouldn’t you use Cat6 Ethernet cables?
More expensive than Cat5 cables
Tend to be more than what an organization needs today
Not possible to use it in a limited space
Cat5 vs. Cat6 Ethernet Cables: What’s Best for You?
Additional thickness/stiffness makes the cable less flexible and harder to work with
Cat6a is around 40-50% thicker and heavier than Cat6.
As already stated, both Cat5 and Cat6 Ethernet cables are perfect in their ways. So, you should determine the needs of your organization before deciding on the best option. For example, if you have money and want higher data transfer, you should choose Cat6 Ethernet cables. On the other hand, if 100 Mbps speed transfer is enough, you should opt for Cat5 Ethernet cables. They will fulfill your requirements at a low cost.
Try to determine the requirements based on different factors such as industry, operations, flexibility, and others.
Author: TechBlonHub
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