Cat6 vs Cat7 Data Cables: Key Differences, Benefits, and Which One to Choose!
Channel: NM Cabling Solutions
Date: 03/12/2020

In this video, we dive into the differences between Cat6 and Cat7 data cables, helping you understand which option is best for your needs. We’ll explore the key distinctions, including performance, shielding, and installation requirements. Whether you're upgrading your network or planning for future expansion, knowing the benefits and costs of each cable is crucial.

We'll cover essential factors to consider when choosing between Cat6 and Cat7, such as the outcomes you want to achieve, the technology your cabling will support, and your installation environment. With insights on future-proofing your data cabling infrastructure, this guide will equip you with the knowledge needed to make the best decision for your setup.

Watch now to find out if Cat6 or Cat7 is the right fit for you!

cat7 vs cat6 - What is Cat6?
Cat6 cabling consists of two standards. The Cat6 standard was ratified in 2002 and the Cat6a standard was introduced in 2009.
Cat6 cable is still seen as the basic standard for any new installation in the majority of standard office and building space. It is cost effective and has few limitations on its installation due to its core size. However in many cases people are still choosing to install Cat5e which is even more cost effective and easier to install due to a further reduced core size. The reason for this is Cat5e and Cat6 both transmit 1 gigabit speeds over the standard 90 metre cable distance. However Cat6 does have a bandwidth capability of 250mhz compared to 100Mhz in Cat5e.
Cat6 is also capable of transmitting 10 Gigabit  up to 55m which is a bespoke standard distance rather than the accepted 90m / 100m standard. Therefore when 10 gigabit is requited Cat6 is rarely specified in a new installation
Therefore when 10 Gigabit is the required standard Cat6a is the cable of choice. Cat6a has a bandwidth of 500Mhz and transmits 10 gigabit up to 90m / 100m. Therefore this is specified into most new installations when used as a standard design. However Cat6a cable is larger and less flexible than Cat5e or Cat6 cable. Therefore when installing to an existing premises this needs to be taken into consideration. A large part of this is the additional shielding sometimes used in Cat6a cables
Considerations for installing Cat6a Cabling
• Is the existing containment suitable for the cables
• Can the increased bend radius of the Cat6a cables fit and go around the dado trunking
• Do the floor boxes have enough depth for terminating the Cat6a modules
Each installation is unique. Therefore as mentioned previous you need to start with he outcome in mind and then choose the most suitable and possible cable choice.
What is Cat7?
The evolution from Cat6a to Cat7 involved adding shielding to each of the individual pairs as well as an overall cable shield. Cat7 due to its increased shielding is therefore capable of transmission speeds of 600MHZ. Category 7A performs up to 1000MHZ which shows massive increases in capabilities. In addition it uses a different type of connector. Although Cat6a and below patch leads can be used (which reduces its overall speed) it does require a total solution to include new patch leads and suitable transmitting data switches
It is able to transmit 40Gb at 50 metres and even 100Gb at 15 metres.
Cat7 isn't currently seen often in the commercial environments. It mainly is used in home automation projects for high speed audio visual projects. Firstly due to the increased size and installation problems that come with large installations of Cat7 cabling. Secondly in homes there isn't a large number of cables generally. However in commercial installations where there is a large cable requirements the costs can be off putting for most. Lastly the majority of commercial technology does not require any more than 10 gigabit transmission so Cat6a is more than suitable
Cat6 vs Cat7 Comparison Chart
The chart here shows Cat6 vs Cat7 comparison with the other cabling categories https://www.nmcabling.co.uk/2020/07/cat6-vs-cat7-what-is-the-difference/
 
In summary when designing your installation its best to look with the end in mind and from those requirements the most suitable cabling can be specified.
We offer free surveys and during these surveys we will be able to discuss those requirements and offer you the best solution
For further articles please visit https://www.nmcabling.co.uk/knowledge-centre/
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