For businesses that demand the very best from their network infrastructure, CAT6A cabling is the go-to structured cabling standard for modern, high-performance environments. Supporting 10 Gigabit Ethernet across the full 100-metre channel, CAT6A ethernet cable is the preferred specification for new data centres, high-density office builds and any environment where network performance is business-critical.
At FlexNet, CAT6A cabling installation is part of our day-to-day. Our engineers are experienced in the design, installation and certification of CAT6A structured cabling across a wide range of commercial and industrial environments. We bring the same technical depth to every project, whether it’s a single comms room or a full-building deployment.
CAT6A (Augmented Category 6) is an enhanced version of CAT6, operating at a bandwidth of 500MHz and fully supporting 10 Gigabit Ethernet over runs of up to 100 metres. CAT6A cable types are available in both unshielded and shielded variants. Shielded options offer additional protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and cross-talk, particularly important in high-density cabling environments.
When selecting between CAT6A cable types, the choice between shielded and unshielded will depend on factors including your building’s existing infrastructure, the density of your cabling runs and the performance requirements of your network. Our engineers will help you make the right decision from the outset.
What to Expect from FlexNet CAT6A Installation
CAT6A cable installation requires more careful planning and installation practice than lower category cabling, especially with shielded variants. FlexNet’s engineers are trained and experienced in CAT6A installation techniques and every project is delivered to the exacting standards the specification demands.
Our CAT6A cabling installation service includes:
Pre-installation survey and design – We assess your environment and design a cabling solution that meets the CAT6A specification requirements from day one
Structured cabling installation – Full end-to-end installation including containment, patch panels, cabinet infrastructure and cable management
Shielding and earthing – Where shielded CAT6A is specified, correct installation and earthing is carried out to protect performance
Fluke DSX testing and certification – All installed channels are tested and certified to ISO/IEC 11801 standards using Fluke DSX equipment
Handover documentation – Complete test reports, as-built drawings and manufacturer warranty documentation
“To earn the trust of our clients by achieving their objectives and exceeding their expectations … however hard that may be.”
When Should You Specify CAT6A Structured Cabling?
CAT6A is the right choice when:
Your network requires reliable 10 Gigabit Ethernet performance across the full 100-metre channel
You’re deploying PoE++ (Power over Ethernet) devices such as wireless access points, IP cameras or digital signage
You’re building out a new data centre, server room or high-density comms environment
You’re future-proofing a new build or major refurbishment and want a cabling infrastructure that won’t need replacing in five years
You’re operating in environments where alien crosstalk is a concern, such as high-density open-plan offices or industrial facilities
If you’re unsure whether CAT6 or CAT6A is the right specification for your project, speak to our team who are happy to advise.
If you require a warrantied data cabling solution or a comprehensive network, security or AV deployment installed proficiently and managed professionally….let us show you how we do it.
The difference between CAT6 and CAT6A cabling is that CAT6A cable offers a higher bandwidth (500MHz vs 250MHz for CAT6) and is capable of supporting 10 Gigabit Ethernet reliably over the full 100-metre channel.
CAT6 can support 10GbE, but only over shorter distances (typically up to 55 metres). For environments where 10GbE performance over standard channel lengths is required, CAT6A is the correct specification.
For many standard office environments, CAT6 cabling is perfectly adequate. However, if you’re planning a new build, major refurbishment or expect significant growth in network demands, specifying CAT6A from the outset is often the more cost-effective decision in the long run, avoiding the need to re-cable in a few years as requirements increase.
We install both unshielded (U/UTP) and shielded (F/UTP and S/FTP) CAT6A cable types. The choice of cable type will depend on your environment and performance requirements, which we’ll discuss with you during the survey stage.
To arrange your CAT6A cabling survey and quote, contact FlexNet directly by phone, email or through our website. We’ll arrange a site survey at a time that suits you and provide a detailed quotation covering all aspects of your CAT6A cable installation.
FlexNet UK
Please get in touch if you have any questions about any of our data cabling services in Birmingham or want to find out how we can help your business.