The Hidden Dangers of CCA Cable: Why You Should Avoid It

In today’s highly connected world, having a reliable and efficient network is crucial. When it comes to setting up a network, choosing the right cables is essential. Copper Clad Aluminum (CCA) cables have gained popularity due to their lower cost compared to solid copper cables. However, it is important to understand the potential risks and drawbacks associated with CCA cables. In this blog post, we will delve into the hidden dangers of CCA cables and explain why you should avoid using them for your network.

1. Understanding CCA Cable

Copper Clad Aluminum cables are constructed using an aluminum core that is coated with a layer of copper. This manufacturing process significantly reduces costs for manufacturers, making CCA cables an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers. However, the use of CCA cables poses several problems and risks that can compromise the performance and safety of your network.

2. Performance Issues with CCA Cable

One of the major drawbacks of CCA cables is their inferior performance compared to solid copper cables. Aluminum and steel, which make up the core of CCA cables, have higher electrical resistance than copper. As a result, CCA cables experience greater data loss and slower data speeds. The attenuation qualities of CCA cables are also significantly higher, leading to more packet loss and data retransmission. This can have a detrimental effect on the overall connection and performance of your network, especially on longer cable runs.

3. Safety Concerns with CCA Cable

In addition to performance issues, CCA cables also pose safety concerns. The National Electric Code (NEC) does not approve the use of CCA cables in commercial structures due to these safety risks. CCA cables are prone to breaking easily, especially during installation, due to their low tensile strength and brittleness. This can result in costly troubleshooting and repair efforts. Moreover, the exposed aluminum in CCA cables oxidizes quickly, leading to termination failures over time. This can compromise the integrity and reliability of your network.

4. Incompatibility with PoE

Another critical drawback of CCA cables is their incompatibility with Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications. CCA cables have higher DC resistance, which means they are unable to supply enough current for PoE devices. This can lead to overheating of the conductors, potentially causing fire hazards. Additionally, the inability of CCA cables to carry Ethernet data signals effectively over long distances makes them unsuitable for PoE applications.

5. Identifying CCA Cable and Avoiding It

To ensure you are not using CCA cables, it is important to know how to identify them. CCA cables may appear similar to solid copper cables from the outside, but the difference lies in the construction of the conductor wire. CCA cables have copper-coated aluminum conductors. To avoid purchasing CCA cables, it is crucial to buy from reputable sources that provide genuine copper cables. Checking the weight of the cables can also be an indicator, as CCA cables are lighter due to the aluminum core.

Conclusion

While CCA cables may seem like an attractive cost-saving option, the hidden dangers and drawbacks associated with them make them unsuitable for reliable and efficient network setups. The inferior performance, safety concerns, and incompatibility with PoE applications should be enough to deter anyone from using CCA cables. To ensure the longevity and reliability of your network, it is essential to invest in genuine copper cables that meet industry standards. By choosing high-quality cables, you can avoid the potential risks and enjoy a seamless network experience.