Since project initiation in September of 1997, the key performance goals for category 6 and class E have remained firm. Standards groups are actively working to finalize the development of field and laboratory test measurement criteria at this time. Evidence of the progressing standard is the fact that a variety of manufacturers are now actively promoting category 6 solutions. Minimizing Risk Customers can sort through marketing claims and minimize risk in their cabling system selection process by following a few simple steps. Selecting a system that has additional performance margins beyond the proposed standard will help to ensure performance compliance in the unlikely event that standards requirements do change.
Customers can cut through the marketing hype by asking for detailed independent test lab results.
Finally, customers should ask for a manufacturer s warranty of system performance and applications support. System performance should be warranted to exceed the current draft specifications. Support of future applications developed over category 6 should also be warranted. Purchasing a true category 6 cabling system, with performance margin beyond the proposed specifications and backed by a performance and applications support warranty, poses little risk. The Siemon Company has developed the following guidelines to help customers educate themselves about category 6 products and maximize their investment in their cabling infrastructure.