Cat6 & Cat6A Network Cable

Cat6 and Cat6A cable carries Ethernet data for office networks, CCTV and IP camera systems, access control, VoIP and structured cabling. This collection brings together Category 6 and Category 6A network cable on reels and in boxes, plus Cat6 and Cat6A patch cables for connecting equipment to wall outlets and patch panels.

Choosing between Cat6 and Cat6A. Cat6 is rated to 250 MHz and supports Gigabit Ethernet over a full 100 m channel, with 10 Gigabit over shorter runs. Cat6A is rated to 500 MHz and is designed for 10 Gigabit Ethernet over the full 100 m, making it a common choice where a network needs room to grow.

Key specifications to compare.

• Screening: U/UTP is unshielded, while F/UTP, U/FTP, F/FTP and S/FTP add foil or braid to reduce interference in electrically noisy areas.
• Jacket: LSZH (low smoke zero halogen) is widely specified for indoor buildings; PVC and polyethylene jackets are used in other locations, including external and industrial runs.
• Conductor: solid copper is intended for fixed installation, while stranded cable suits flexible patch leads.
• Fire performance: check the CPR class (such as Eca, Dca or Cca) required for the building.
• Length: reels are available in lengths such as 100 m, 305 m and 500 m, and patch cables in short lengths.

Brands in this range include Belden, Connectix and Quality Connectivity. For other cabling and networking products, see our Cable & Networking range, or browse the full Belden collection. For Cat6A reels only, see Cat6A network cable.