The selection of Ethernet cable is becoming a tricky task for the network engineers day by day. This is because of the enhancement of technologies in developing Ethernet cables. The new variants are out in the market that have replaced the old variants efficiently. Cat6 Plenum Pure Copper Cable is the best example of it.
This cable has replaced its previous variant that was Cat5e. The older variants are still in use according to their need and demand. Cat6 pure copper cable is not the latest of all variants available in Ethernet cable. Its newer variants are also available but still the most demanding one from the customers is the Cat6 due to its modest price and enhanced performance levels.
Cat6 cable is available in the market in different versions and types. It depends on the user needs and its usage that which version will suit him the best. Cat6 cable comes with better data transfer performance and higher bandwidths in comparison to its older versions.
Types of Cat6 Pure Copper Ethernet Cable: –
There are generally three types of Cat6 pure copper Ethernet cable is manufactured by the makers according to their jacket type.
- Plenum pure copper cable – CMP
- Riser pure copper cable – CMR
- PVC pure copper cable – CM
Differences between Cat6a and Cat6 Pure Copper Versions:-
Every network comes with different networking needs and demands. Therefore, a single variant of Ethernet cable do not suit to every network. You need to understand the requirements of the network properly before making a purchase.
Data Transfer Speed: –
The data transfer speeds are the main concerns of most of the networks whether they are home networks or commercial business networks. The older versions of Ethernet cable like Cat5 and Cat5e were not able to deliver very high data transfer speeds.
Therefore, new versions of Ethernet cables become the need of modern-day customers such as Cat6 and Cat6a. These Ethernet cable variants able to transfer data at much faster speeds. Cat6 and Cat6a has same capability of data transfer but at different distances.
Both the variants can deliver up to 10Gbps data. Cat6 can deliver this speed up to 50 meters whereas Cat6a can deliver this speed up to 100 meters. Therefore, the networks designed in small locations can go with Cat6 cables whereas for networks expand at wider spaces can go for Cat6a variant to maintain this 10Gbps data transfer speed.
Bandwidth Difference: –
The Cat6 plenum cable comes with a bandwidth of 250MHz. In some cases, it is also extend up to 350MHz. Whereas, Cat6a Plenum 1000ft Cable comes with a bandwidth of 550MHz and it is extended up to 750MHz in some cases. The enhancement in the bandwidth supports data transfer speeds of the cable.
Shielded Cables: –
Cat6 plenum cable comes with 4 twisted pair of wires. These wires are twisted together tightly to improve their performance against interference factors. In Cat6a variant, you will find an extra shielding on these twisted pair of wires. This extra shielding makes them even better against interference factors like crosstalk and EMI.
