Top Considerations Before Buying CAT 7 Shielded Ethernet Cables
CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cables have become the go-to choice for high-speed data transfer in various applications, including data centers, commercial buildings, and home networks. These cables offer significantly improved performance compared to their predecessors, with a theoretical maximum speed of 10 Gbps and a bandwidth of 600 MHz.
However, choosing the right CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cable can be daunting, given the wide range of options available. To make an informed decision, it’s crucial to consider the following factors:
Cable Shielding Type
Shielded Twisted Pair (STP)
STP cables have individual pairs of wires wrapped in their own metallic foil shield. This provides excellent protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk, making them ideal for demanding environments.
Partially Shielded Twisted Pair (S/FTP)
S/FTP cables have an overall foil shield covering the entire cable, in addition to individual wire pair shields. This provides even greater shielding compared to STP cables, making them suitable for environments with extreme levels of EMI or crosstalk.
Conductor Material
The conductor material determines the electrical properties of the cable.
Copper
Copper cables offer excellent conductivity and are the most common type used in CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cables. They provide reliable performance at high speeds and are cost-effective.
CCA (Copper-Clad Aluminum)
CCA cables use aluminum conductors coated with a thin layer of copper. While they are less expensive than pure copper cables, they have slightly lower conductivity and may experience signal loss over longer distances.
Cable Length
The length of the cable affects its performance. Longer cables are more susceptible to signal loss and attenuation.
Standard Lengths
Pre-made CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cables are typically available in standard lengths such as 1, 5, 10, and 25 feet.
Custom Lengths
For specific requirements, custom-length cables can be ordered from manufacturers or distributors. However, custom cables may have longer lead times and higher costs.
Price and Availability
CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cables vary in price depending on factors such as shielding type, conductor material, and length. It’s important to consider the budget and availability when making a purchase.
Cost-Effective Options
STP cables are generally more cost-effective than S/FTP cables, while copper cables are typically more expensive than CCA cables.
Market Availability
The availability of specific cables may vary depending on region and supplier. It’s advisable to check with local distributors or online retailers for product availability.
Compatibility and Warranty
Before purchasing CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cables, ensure they are compatible with your equipment and meet industry standards:
Standards Compliance
CAT 7 shielded Ethernet cables must meet the specifications set by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) for Category 7 cabling.
Device Compatibility
The cables should be compatible with your network devices, such as switches, routers, and network interface cards.
Warranty
A warranty provides protection against manufacturing defects or malfunction. Longer warranties typically indicate higher quality and reliability.