Data & Voice Network Cabling Installation, Layout, Design
Serving ID, OR, NV, CA, UT, CO, WA & ND Since 1991
Serving Boise & SW Idaho Since 1991
Copper Cabling
The wired connections for all of your workstations, VoIP phones, IP cameras, wireless access points, printers, time clocks, etc. are all going to be connected with copper cabling. The most common types are Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a, which one you choose, depends on what your areas of concern are.
If cost is the overriding factor, then Cat5e or Cat6 would be your best option. Both can run 1Gb speeds on lengths up to 100 meters, though Cat6 is rated to a higher frequency, has a slightly thicker gauge, and is generally considered to be more future-proof than Cat5e. Considering the minimal cost difference, Cat6 would typically still be the best option. (see graphic below for a comparison on speeds and typical cost)
Speeds and Cost Comparison
per run (non-plenum cable)
If future-proofing and faster bandwidth is a priority, then Cat6a would be the recommended grade of cabling to use. Cat6a can run speeds up to 10Gb for 100 meters (10x faster than Cat5e and Cat6). One thing to keep in mind, Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a cabling are only rated to go up to 100 meters (328 feet). For distances greater than 100 meters or speeds greater than 10Gb, Fiber Optic Cabling will be the answer.
Copper cabling should be professionally installed to ensure building codes are met, cabling is properly certified with a tester, and is accurately labeled.
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