Optimize your network infrastructure with expert RJ45 cable selection. From cable anatomy to key certifications , this guide covers everything you need to know.
1. Anatomy of the RJ45 cable
- 8P8C connector: modular standard for Ethernet.
- Twisted pairs: four copper pairs that reduce crosstalk and EMI interference.
- Outer jacket: PVC (standard) or LSZH for sensitive environments.
- Shielding: UTP (unshielded), FTP (global foil) or S/FTP (pair shielding + global).
2. Types of wiring
- UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair)
- More economical and flexible; ideal for offices and home networks with low EMI.
- FTP (Foiled Twisted Pair)
- Global foil shield; protects against moderate interference—perfect for telecom rooms.
- S/FTP (Shielded/Foiled Twisted Pair)
- Individual and global shielding; mandatory in data centers and high-density industrial environments.
3. Comparison of categories
| Category | Bandwidth | Speed | Max. length | Armor |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cat5e | 100 MHz | 1 Gbps | 100 m | UTP |
| Cat6 | 250 MHz | 1 Gbps at 100 m 10 Gbps at ≤ 55 m |
100 m / 55 m* | UTP/FTP |
| Cat6a | 500 MHz | 10 Gbps | 100 m | FTP/S/FTP |
| Cat7 | 600 MHz | 10 Gbps | 100 m | S/FTP |
| Cat8 | 2000 MHz | 25–40 Gbps | 30 m | S/FTP |
*100 m for 1 Gbps; ≤ 55 m for 10 Gbps on Cat6.
4. Applications and ROI
- Cat5e: For SMEs and residential networks. Excellent cost-benefit ratio for 1 Gbps.
- Cat6/Cat6a: Enterprise backbones, PoE+ (up to 30W) and IP video surveillance. Ready for 10 Gbps with Cat6a.
- Cat7: High-density data centers and environments with intense EMI.
- Cat8: Interconnection of high-performance switches, HFT trading, and low-latency applications.
5. Certifications and standards
- TIA/EIA-568 A/B/C: Electrical and transmission specifications.
- ISO/IEC 11801: International standard for cabling.
- UL Listed: Fire safety.
- ETL Verified: Performance validation according to TIA/ISO.
- RoHS & CE: Environmental and EMC compliance.
6. How to choose the optimal cable
- Bandwidth demand: plan for 1 Gbps vs 10 Gbps+.
- Installation environment: UTP in offices, S/FTP in data centers/industry.
- Link length: adjusts category and shielding to the distance.
- PoE compatibility: verifies PoE/PoE+ certifications.
- Mandatory regulations: requires UL, ETL, RoHS and CE.
7. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to choose between Cat5e and Cat6?
Cat5e covers 1 Gbps at 100 m and is more economical. If you anticipate 10 Gbps or heavy PoE+, Cat6/6a is the optimal choice.
Which cable to use in a high EMI environment?
In industrial environments or data centers, select FTP or S/FTP (Cat6a or higher) for maximum immunity.
Can categories be mixed?
It's possible, but the link will adopt the speed of the lowest category. Homogeneity is recommended.
When to use LSZH?
In enclosed spaces and public areas, LSZH minimizes the emission of smoke and toxic gases in case of fire.
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