Advantages, Benefits And Use Of FFTP CAT6A Cable

FFTP CAT6A Cable is capable of supporting data transfer rates up to 10Gbps with a maximum bandwidth of 500MHz. CAT6A has an extra and tighter twist with extra insulation to reduce crosstalk. CAT6A is also backward compatible with CAT6 and CAT5E, however, the speed is always limited and will work with the lowest category cable or connector installed in the link. CAT6A is fast becoming the most cost-effective solution as it is seen as a future-proof cable system. CAT6A components are used for Class EA networks as defined in ISO/IEC 11801 and TIA/EIA 568.

One of the obvious disadvantages of CAT6A is the physical size and weight of the cable. The CAT6A was 50% larger when it first appeared in 2008. Since then, the cable size has been reduced and 10% thinner. The extra weight gain also reduces the number of cables that can fit into the cable tray and where they are placed. This results in larger cable trays and conduits and smaller bundle sizes. Additional space is also required for cable bend radii in cable trays, patch panels, and rear wall receptacles.

Termination method and timing are also considered negative for CAT6A installations, however, new modular jacks and receptacles that can be terminated in around 2-3 minutes reduce installation time and cost.

One of the main arguments in favor of installing a CAT6A infrastructure today is to future-proof the network. Therefore, if the planned life of a new cabling system is five years or more, CAT6A should be considered. If the planned lifetime of the network is ten years or more, CAT6A is clearly the preferred solution.