Network cables have become an integral part of these days, and people welcome them without having any second thought. The rapid development of network applications contributes to the increasing demand for bandwidth which leads to its requirement.
Whenever there is a technology change, there is a requirement for higher-level patch cables too. Nowadays, the cat7 patch cable is in trend, and people utilize it for most commercial applications.
If you have no idea about this cable and you wish to know whether you need it or not, you are in the right place. Here we will discuss the Cat7 Patch cable in detail so that at the end, there will be a clear answer available with you and no hustle-bustle surrounds you.
What Is the Cat7 Cable?
Cat7 or category-7 cable is highly in demand these days. It is a cable used for high-end data transfer and delivering core infrastructure of wired gigabit Ethernet setup.
One can easily conclude that these are suitable as a cabling infrastructure for different networks. However, understanding its performance is also crucial.
This cable delivers the standard performance by supporting up to 600 MHz frequencies. And the rest will depend on the length of the wire. Its length can be 100 meters or more.
Now, there is diversification in commercial and industrial sectors. Thus, it has a direct impact on the demand for faster internet and data transfer speed.
The cat7 patch cables are sufficient for catering to these needs. Moreover, if we focus on the internet of things era, users can easily utilize it and get the desired results.
The category-7 cable represents a valuable setup, and the efficiency and optimal speed are up to the mark, which also acts as a major advantage of having them.
Specifications
Understanding the specifications of cat7 cables is essential, especially when you plan to have them into your network setup.
- These are sufficient for data transfer over a specific range of distances. The data transfer rate is up to the mark.
- These patch cables are reliable ones to choose from with a guaranteed maximum lifespan in the long run.
- These are highly sufficient for adjusting to potentially problematic environmental uncertainties.
- These cables have unique features to meet the stringent criteria of preventing crosstalk and noise blocking.
Speed
Speed is also a major factor of consideration, and there is no doubt that the cat7 cables are the ultimate example of cables having first-class speed.
Cat7 patch cable can support 10gbps Ethernet. With 50 meters of length, the speed noticed is 40 Gbps, and with 15 meters, it has been up to 100 Gbps. However, the speed also depends on the setup.
To achieve the desired speed, ensure your cable supports frequencies of up to 600 MHz over 100 meters.
Quality
Apart from specifications, it is also essential to know about the quality of the cat7 patch cable. By this, one can easily conclude whether it will fulfill their requirement or not.
You will see 4 shielded twisted copper pairs in cat7 patch cables. So, this cable can cover up the signal loss over distances. Besides, it can protect the cable from potential degradation due to EMI (electromagnetic interference) and crosstalk.
Compared to the cat5 and cat6 cables, the Cat 7 cables are highly efficient. Therefore, cat7 cables to be superior in terms of performance.
Cat5e vs. Cat6 vs. Cat6a vs. Cat7
We all know that one can find different qualities of cat5e, cat6, cat6a, and cat7 cables in the market. But it is essential to understand their uses and compare their work so that making a choice will be easy for an individual.
Let’s discuss all these options in detail. In the end, you can make up your mind about which patch cable you can consider for a network setup.
Cat5e
Cat5e falls in the category of old copper data cables. These cables are in existence since 1995. Moreover, it allows 10/100 MBPS Ethernet capabilities within the distance range of 100 meters.
These are suitable in small offices. Nevertheless, you can use these cables in a home setup too.
These are the standard cables that offer a speed of 1 GB. Besides, you can upgrade these cables with ease. The transmission speed is the only thing that sometimes lets users think about upgrading from cat5e to cat6.
Cat6
Cat6 cables came into existence right after the introduction of cat5e cable. Users upgraded the cat5e cables lately. It was launched in 2002 and is tightly bound as compared to cat5 cable.
It is one of the most popular choices among users who work in the audio and visual industries.
These are the future-proof cables considered from the past five to 10 years. Besides, these are backward compatible with cat5 cabling and highly considered when integrating with the existing network.
So, you can upgrade to cat6 cables without dismantling your existing setup. In the end, it helps you maintain your current hardware.
Cat6a
Cat6a is a modified version. And due to the high demand for 10 gigabit Ethernet speeds at the workplace, this cable came into consideration.
It is the most preferred option these days because of its up-to-the-mark performance. In addition, its 500 MHz bandwidth is higher than cat6, which is almost double.
It is suitable in an era where there is an increasing demand for 10-gigabit Ethernet networks. Thus, many small offices prefer this cable for maintaining their data transmission at a sufficient speed.
Cat7
As compared to all the above options, cat 7 is one of the best choices. Also, it comes up with a thick layer of shielding. Besides, this cable is sufficient for covering longer-distance data transfer. These cables are perfect for home installation.
Cat7 patch cables are highly in use. Also, one can integrate them with the existing network.
Is Cat 7 Better Than Cat 6 and Cat6a?
Yes, the Cat7 patch cable is better than Cat6 and Cat6a cables because of the following points.
It Works
Cat7 patch cables are highly efficient and have passed all the tests. So you can invest in Cat7 cables if you want to change your existing house into a smart home.
Future-Proof
A person needs to prepare for the future. Cat7 cables are almost future-proof and one step ahead. A flexible yet expandable cabling system is the need of today’s world.
Greater Copper Cross Section
The copper cross-section in Cat7 is larger than Cat5. As a result, it gives more power with less voltage drop.
Dual Shielding
Each pair in the Cat7 cable has its separate shielding. Thus, the Cat7 cable comes up with double shielding. As a result, these are considered more resilient than other options available.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Your Patch Cable
You may need to keep in mind different factors when placing an order for patch cables.
Function
Analyze the condition in which you require the patch cable and then check out the function of the respective cable. If you choose a cable that is not as per the requirement, it might create trouble.
Speed
Pay attention to the speed. These must be capable of completing the task in less time. Right now, these come up with efficient speed, so you will not face any trouble at all. However, speed has a major impact.
Distance
Get an idea about the distance as well. There is a distance limitation of 100 meters, which turns into 328 feet. Therefore, in case your requirement is beyond that, then fiber optic cabling is required. So, do check it out and then place an order for the same.
Flexibility
Flexibility is also an integral factor to know. The patch cable you are choosing must suit the surroundings in which you are installing them.
Test Results
Finally, pay attention to the official lab results as well. For example, many companies perform tests over Ethernet cables. These tests help us get to the conclusion of whether the selected cable is highly sufficient or not. Such tests are highly important when buying patch cables in bulk quantities.
Final Thoughts!
Now you know all the essential things related to the cat7 patch cable. All the important factors which are sufficient to make the best purchase are already available above.
So place your order by considering all these factors. Or, contact us for any inquiries related to cat-7 or any other patch cable.