Augmented CAT-6 or CAT-6A as it is referred is capable of supporting data transfer rates of up to 10Gbps at a maximum bandwidth of 500MHz. CAT-6A has additional and tighter twists, with additional insulation to reduce cross talk. CAT-6A components are used in Class EA networks as defined in ISO/IEC 11801 and TIA/EIA 568.
One of the perceived disadvantages of CAT-6A is the actual size and weight of the cable. CAT-6A was 50% larger when it originally appeared in 2008. Since then, cable sizes have been reduced and slimmed down by 10% to 20%.
One of the main arguments in favor of installing CAT-6A infrastructure now, is to future proof the network. If the planned lifetime of the network is ten years or more, CAT-6A definitely appears to be the favored solution.
In fact, when considering the use of CAT6A components in a 10Gbps, Class EA network, consider the following factors:
- CAT-6A is recommended for new Installations in Healthcare
- CAT-6A is recommended for new installations in Education
- CAT-6A provides enhanced performance for Power over Ethernet (PoE)
- CAT-6A supports wireless systems that rely on 10Gig
CAT-6A is available in either a shielded or unshielded solution and each option has its own place. CAT-6A is also backwards compatible with CAT-6 and CAT-5e due to the continued use of the RJ45 connector. CAT-6A is proving to be a cost effective solution for current and emerging applications as it supports higher bandwidths and 10Gbps network speeds up to 100 meters.
In addition, CAT-6A and structured cabling products can be used for applications other than voice and data, such as Building Automation, CCTV, Access Control and many others. Therefore, the potential to integrate all of these applications on to a single cabling infrastructure provides another advantage. (source: taylored.com)