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Cat6a Riser Ethernet Cables

Description

Cat6a Riser Cable for High-Bandwidth Networks

Cat6a riser cable is engineered for demanding networks that require higher bandwidth and improved shielding in vertical installations. These cables meet strict CMR safety ratings. This is what makes them suitable for:

  • Shafts
  • Conduits
  • Multi-floor buildings

Technical Specifications of Cat6a Riser Cable

Cat6a riser-rated cables are built to handle frequencies of up to 750 MHz and data rates of 10 Gbps over 100 meters. This makes them a strong choice for high-density and mission-critical installations.

Conductor and Gauge

Most bulk Cat6a riser cable is made from 23 AWG solid bare copper conductors. Solid copper ensures excellent conductivity and reduced attenuation. It also offers full support for PoE, PoE+, and PoE++.

Bandwidth and Data Transmission

Cat6a doubles the bandwidth compared to Cat6 riser cable. This plays a major role in supporting advanced applications such as:

  • Data centers
  • 4K/8K video
  • Enterprise-level VoIP

Its higher performance is ideal for long-term infrastructure investments.

Shielding Options

Many Cat6a riser cables are shielded (F/UTP or S/FTP) to limit alien crosstalk. This makes the vertical cable Cat6a riser an excellent solution for EMI-heavy environments like hospitals or industrial facilities.

Flame Rating and Safety Standards

CMR-rated PVC jackets comply with UL 1666 flame tests. This can prevent vertical flame spread. While not as strict as plenum, riser jackets ensure compliance with NEC building codes for vertical pathways.

Benefits of Using Cat6a Riser Cables

These cables are purpose-built for performance and safety. They deliver reliable transmission while meeting installation requirements for riser spaces in commercial and residential buildings.

High-Speed Stability

Best Cat6a riser cable options support 10 Gigabit Ethernet across full channel lengths. This can ensure no loss of performance even in busy enterprise setups.

Backward Compatibility

Fully backward compatible with Cat6 and Cat5e. It allows seamless integration into existing infrastructures without the need for a full system replacement.

Versatility of Applications

Used in office complexes, data centers, schools, and hospitals where reliable vertical networking is essential. Also compatible with modern patch panels and RJ45 connectors.

Long-Term Investment

Cat6a riser-rated cabling comes with higher bandwidth and stronger shielding. It is a future-proof choice for organizations scaling their network capacity.

Buying Guide for Cat6a Riser Cable

Keep these considerations in mind when selecting your Cat6a riser cable:

  • Conductor Material: Go for 100% bare copper to ensure conductivity and lower attenuation with full PoE support.
  • Cable Lengths: Available in 500 ft and 1000 ft boxes or reels for larger projects. Foot markers simplify cutting and pulling.
  • Shielding Needs: Choose shielded Cat6a for high-interference environments. UTP suffices for low-EMI conditions.
  • Compliance: Ensure the cable is UL-listed, ETL-tested, and NEC CMR-rated.
  • Application Type: Match with riser-rated spaces. For air-handling areas, use a plenum instead.
  • Color Choices: Options like blue, white, or yellow for better cable management in complex wiring systems.

FAQs About Cat6a Riser Cable

What is Cat6a riser cable?

Cat6a riser cable is a CMR-rated Ethernet cable designed for vertical runs in buildings. It offers 10 Gbps performance with fire-resistant jackets that comply with building codes.

What is Cat6a riser cable used for?

It’s used in riser shafts, conduits, and vertical installations in commercial and residential settings. You can use it in areas where high-speed networking and fire safety compliance are both required.

What is Cat6a riser cable vs non-riser?

Riser-rated Cat6a includes CMR jackets tested for flame resistance in vertical spaces. Non-riser Cat6a does not meet fire code standards and is unsafe for riser installations.