It’s not just about cable: The benefits of a complete structured cabling system
A cable spec for a data centre or commercial office may say Cat 6a and not much else. So, as fast and reliable data transmission becomes increasing vital, how do you turn a one-line spec into a network that performs efficiently? The answer lies not just in the cable you choose, but in the complete system behind it.
The role of Cat 6a cable
Both Category 6 and Category 6a copper cable provide a robust solution for network connectivity. Cat 6a, however, is widely considered as the gold standard for copper structured cabling in commercial and data centre environments. The cable handles the high demands of modern networks and is commonly used in Wi-Fi 7 access points, multi-gig ethernet switches, and Power over Ethernet for IP cameras and building management systems.
Cat 6a offers significantly improved performance with 500 MHz bandwidth making it capable of supporting data transfer rates of up 10GBs in applications including:
Networks with long cable runs
Commercial fit outs
Corporate offices
Data centres
Futureproofing for growing data requirements
The spec rarely goes beyond the cable, which means the responsibility of choosing additional elements such as connectivity, patch panels and system components fall with the contractor. This can lead to performance risks in the cabling system.
Why it’s not just about cable
The performance of a structured cabling system is based on the whole channel, meaning that everything (the cable, connectors, patch panels and outlets) needs to work together.
Specifying different cable and products from different manufacturers creates potential weak points in the channel. Warranty and performance certification also becomes complicated or invalid when products from different suppliers are combined, as each product may be designed to meet different standards.
In data centre environments, a network that underperforms can be a costly issue to fix. This is the accountability gap that many contractors don’t consider until something goes wrong.
Copper, fibre or both?
Although fibre makes the headlines, copper remains to be the foundational backbone, connecting devices to workstations of most structured data cabling installations. Copper is cost-effective and fully capable at Cat 6a speeds for horizontal runs that make up the majority of any commercial or data centre project.
Optical fibre is best suited for vertical (or core) runs connecting server rooms over longer distances, and in future-proofing applications.
A complete structured cabling solution gives you the flexibility to choose copper and fibre where needed all under one manufacturer and one supply chain.
The Prysmian UC Connect offer
Prysmian offers a complete, premium solution comprising copper structured cabling, optical fibre and connectivity products for commercial enterprise, telecommunication networks and data centres.
The UC Connect offer has several benefits. Firstly, because every component is designed to work together, the system performance is consistent across the full channel. The system is also covered by the 25-year Application Assurance Warranty, which is not possible when products from multiple suppliers are combined.
Additionally, Cat 6a U/FTP B2ca meets the latest fire performance requirements for commercial installations, making it fully CPR compliant.
UC Connect also has several benefits on site. A single system simplifies installation and reduces job time, thanks to its REELEX tangle-free packaging and metre-marking to reduce waste and speed up runs. Its short-profile connectors are designed for high-density and hard-to-reach environments, which also contributes to faster, cleaner installs.
Prysmian UC Connect products are readily available across the UK. This ensures a local, efficient supply chain, helping to reduce lead times. Our fibre and cable products are manufactured in Europe to the highest standards, ensuring quality and reliability.
What does it mean for you?
A complete cabling solution from one supplier irons out the complexities often experienced when dealing with multiple parties.
For M&E contractors, a complete system means one warranty and one point of accountability. For data cable installers, a system designed with installation in mind reduces time on site. They can also benefit from the Prysmian UC installer partner programme, which gives accredited installers access to technical documentation, installation guidelines and warranty support.
Providing peace of mind
Specifying a complete system; cable, connectivity products and fibre capability, all from one manufacturer is a safe, efficient and reliable choice. It not only simplifies procurement but also gives you the confidence that your network will perform consistently well throughout its life service.
Discover more about the UC Connect product range or join the Prysmian UC Installer Partner Programme.