Ethernet Cable
A professional-grade networking solution designed for efficient high-speed data transmission across CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A, and CAT8 LAN interfaces.
Key Attributes
- Connectors: Robust RJ45 (8P8C) terminations featuring snagless strain-relief boots and gold-plated contact pins, available in standard and shielded (STP) variants to support high-speed data transfers of up to 40 Gbps (within 30m) and reliable 10 Gbps for extended runs.
- Conductor: Supports 1 Gbps (CAT5e) through 25/40 Gbps (CAT8) data transmission using solid or stranded oxygen-free copper conductors.
- Shielding & Resistance: Available in U/UTP, F/UTP, S/FTP, and SF/UTP configurations to counter EMI and crosstalk over standard 100-meter horizontal runs.
- Cable Types: High-flex stranded patch cords for equipment connections and solid-core bulk reels for permanent in-wall and tray installations.
Primary Industry Applications
- Data Centers & Infrastructure: CAT6A and CAT8 cables deliver 10G–40G throughput between servers, top-of-rack switches, and high-performance storage arrays.
- Enterprise Networking: CAT6 patch cords support Gigabit workstations, VoIP phones, and wireless access points with stable PoE+ power delivery.
- Smart Buildings & PoE: Structured cabling for IP cameras, IoT sensors, and building automation controllers, replacing dedicated power wiring via Power over Ethernet.
Product Overview
LCSC offers a comprehensive range of TIA/EIA-compliant Ethernet cables spanning CAT5e to CAT8, providing both flexible patch cords and solid-core bulk options for speeds up to 40G. Engineered with precision geometry and internal separators to minimize crosstalk, the portfolio includes shielded variants (F/UTP/SF/UTP) for high-interference environments and supports PoE++ (up to 90W) for integrated power delivery. With choices between standard PVC and fire-rated LSZH jackets, these cables provide a high-performance, reliable solution for everything from everyday office connectivity to demanding industrial and data center applications.
Key Features and Advantages
| Feature | Description | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 50 µin Gold-Plated Contacts | RJ45 contact pins are plated with 50 micro-inches of gold. | Resists oxidation and corrosion for stable low-resistance connections over thousands of mating cycles. |
| 99.9% Oxygen-Free Copper (OFC) | High-purity OFC conductors carry data signals with minimal resistive loss. | Maintains signal integrity and reduces bit-error rates across full 100-meter horizontal channel runs. |
| Precision Twisted Pairs with Cross-Spline | Individually twisted pairs with tightly controlled twist ratios and internal separators. | Minimises pair-to-pair crosstalk (NEXT/FEXT) and EMI susceptibility in high-density patch environments. |
| Flame-Retardant Jacket (PVC / LSZH) | Outer jacket uses CM/CMR-rated PVC or low-smoke zero-halogen compound. | Suitable for plenum and riser installations; LSZH variant reduces toxic smoke in confined spaces. |
| PoE++ Compliant (IEEE 802.3bt) | Wire gauge and thermal performance rated for up to 90 W PoE++ delivery. | Eliminates separate power wiring for high-wattage IP devices such as PTZ cameras and thin clients. |
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification Details |
|---|---|
| Cable Categories Supported | CAT5e / CAT6 / CAT6A / CAT8 |
| Maximum Data Rate | 1 Gbps (CAT5e) · 10 Gbps (CAT6/CAT6A) · 40 Gbps (CAT8) |
| Nominal Characteristic Impedance | 100 Ω ± 15 Ω (TIA-568 / ISO 11801) |
| Wire Gauge | 24 AWG (CAT5e/CAT6) · 23 AWG (CAT6A) · 22 AWG (CAT8) |
| Conductor Type | Solid (bulk/permanent) or Stranded (patch cord) |
| DC Resistance (max) | ≤ 9.38 Ω/100 m (24 AWG solid, per TIA-568) |
| Insulation Resistance | ≥ 500 MΩ·km at 20°C |
| PoE Compatibility | IEEE 802.3af (PoE) / 802.3at (PoE+) / 802.3bt (PoE++) |
| Operating Temperature | -20°C to +60°C (PVC) · -20°C to +75°C (LSZH) |
| Bend Radius (minimum) | 4× cable O.D. (patch cord) · 8× cable O.D. (solid bulk) |
| Compliance Standards | TIA/EIA-568-C.2, ISO/IEC 11801, RoHS, REACH, CE |
Customization and Product Options
We support flexible parameter configurations to meet specific network infrastructure procurement needs:
- Cable Length: Patch cords in 0.5 m, 1 m, 2 m, 3 m, 5 m, and 10 m; bulk reels in 305 m (1,000 ft) or custom cut lengths.
- Shielding Configuration: U/UTP (unshielded), F/UTP (foil-screened), S/FTP (individually foil-shielded pairs), or SF/UTP (braid + foil).
- Jacket Material: Standard PVC (CM/CMR), LSZH for fire-safety environments, or high-flex TPE for repeated flexing applications.
- Connector Finish: Standard nickel-plated or 50 µin gold-plated RJ45; shielded metal-body variants available for STP assemblies.
- Custom Labeling: Colour-coded boots (12 standard colours), silk-screen printing on connector molds, or laser-etched cable identification.
Application Scenarios
- Data Centers: CAT6A and CAT8 patch cords connect servers, ToR switches, and storage arrays at 10G–40G within structured cabling zones.
- Industrial Automation: Shielded CAT6A links PLCs, HMIs, and vision systems on factory floors where inverter-driven machinery generates significant EMI.
- Security & Surveillance: CAT6 PoE+ cables simultaneously deliver power and HD video data to IP cameras and NVR systems, simplifying installation.
- Medical Facilities: LSZH-jacketed CAT6A supports diagnostic imaging workstations and nurse-call networks in areas with strict fire-safety codes.
- Smart Buildings & BMS: Structured horizontal runs power and connect lighting controllers, HVAC sensors, and wireless access points via a single PoE cable.
- Professional Audio/Visual: CAT6 assemblies carry Dante audio-over-IP and HDBaseT video distribution across auditoriums and conference facilities.
LCSC Sourcing and Support
- No MOQ Flexibility: Flexible B2B support for prototyping and small-batch NPI orders with no minimum order quantity requirements.
- Rapid Lead Times: Optimized 3–5 day turnaround for prototyping to accelerate your product development cycle.
- Technical Support: Expert assistance with cable category selection, shielding requirements, and jacket material specifications (CM, CMR, CMP, or LSZH).
- Quality Assurance: 100% automated electrical testing including wiremap, DC resistance, and attenuation verification to TIA-568 limits.
- Global Logistics: Integrated shipping network supporting DAP/DDP delivery terms to major industrial and commercial hubs worldwide.
Product Comparison
| Attribute | CAT6A — This Product | CAT6 Standard Grade | CAT5e Budget Grade |
|---|---|---|---|
| IEEE Standard | TIA-568-C.2 (Augmented Category 6) | TIA-568-C.2 (Category 6) | TIA-568-C.2 (Category 5e) |
| Max Data Rate | 10 Gbps up to 100 m (full channel) | 10 Gbps up to 55 m only | 1 Gbps up to 100 m |
| Bandwidth | 500 MHz | 250 MHz | 100 MHz |
| Wire Gauge | 23 AWG — lower DC resistance, better PoE thermal headroom | 24 AWG | 24 AWG |
| Alien Crosstalk (AXT) Spec | Fully specified — Power Sum ANEXT / AFEXT tested | Not specified | Not specified |
| PoE Support | PoE++ ready — IEEE 802.3bt (90 W); 23 AWG reduces heat build-up in bundles | PoE+ (30 W) — IEEE 802.3at | PoE (15.4 W) — IEEE 802.3af only |
| Shielding Options | U/UTP, F/UTP, S/FTP, SF/UTP — full range available | U/UTP or F/UTP | U/UTP only |
| Future-Proof Headroom | 500 MHz bandwidth supports next-gen Multi-Gig (2.5G / 5G) standards | 250 MHz — limited upgrade headroom | 100 MHz — no upgrade path |
| Typical Application | Data centres, 10G workstations, PoE++ IP cameras, industrial LAN | Office / enterprise Gigabit LAN | Residential / low-density LAN |
| RJ45 Mating Cycles | > 750 cycles (IEC 60603-7) | > 750 cycles | < 500 cycles |
FAQ
1. What is the difference between CAT6 and CAT6A Ethernet cables?
CAT6 supports 10 Gbps only up to approximately 55 metres due to alien crosstalk limitations. CAT6A (Augmented Category 6) extends 10 Gbps performance to the full 100-metre horizontal channel by specifying alien crosstalk attenuation, making it the preferred choice for new structured cabling installations.
2. Can Ethernet cables be used for both data and power (PoE) simultaneously?
Yes. The IEEE 802.3af, 802.3at, and 802.3bt standards specify how DC power is transmitted alongside data signals on a single cable. To ensure system reliability in high-power applications CAT6 and CAT6A cables with 23 AWG or thicker conductors are recommended for PoE++ (90W) to manage heat dissipation effectively.
3. What certifications do these Ethernet cables meet?
All cables in this range comply with TIA/EIA-568-C.2 (North America) and ISO/IEC 11801 (international) channel performance standards. Additional certifications include RoHS (restricted hazardous substances), REACH, and CE marking. LSZH jacket variants additionally meet IEC 60332-1 flame propagation and IEC 61034 smoke density requirements.
4. Is CCA (Copper-Clad Aluminium) an acceptable alternative to OFC for Ethernet cabling?
CCA conductors are not recommended for structured cabling. CCA has approximately 40–60% higher DC resistance than solid copper, which causes voltage drop under PoE loads, excess heat generation, and failure to meet TIA-568 DC resistance specifications. CCA cables may also exhibit brittle terminations due to the aluminium core. OFC is the industry-standard material for compliant installations.
5. Can you supply custom cable lengths and labelling for our network rollout?
Yes. As a source manufacturer, LCSC supports custom-cut patch cord lengths, colour-coded boot options (12 standard colours), and printed cable identification labels to suit your network documentation scheme. Contact our technical sales team with your floor plan and we will provide a matched cable schedule.