
Category 6 cable, commonly referred to as CAT6, is a cable standard for Gigabit Ethernet and other network protocols that are backward compatible with the Category 5/5e and Category 3 cable standards. Compared with CAT5 and CAT5e, CAT6 features more stringent specifications for crosstalk and system noise. The cable standard provides performance of up to 250 MHz and is suitable for 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX (Fast Ethernet), 1000BASE-T / 1000BASE-TX (Gigabit Ethernet) and 10GBASE-T (10-Gigabit Ethernet).
To maintain transmission characteristics and network integrity, it's essential to use the correct type of patch-cord to match the installation. A network port will perform only at the level of the LOWEST-rated component in the chain.
If a CAT5 or CAT5e patch-cord is used in a CAT6 system, only CAT5 or CAT5e specifications will be achieved for that circuit. Furthermore many manufacturers have cables that do not meet the strict requirements set out in the CAT6 certification. Pro2 cables are batch tested to maintain the high quality required to meet CAT6 certification across all lengths available.
Category 6 Cable Standard:
To distinguish a CAT6 plug from a CAT5 or a CAT5e plug, just simply look at the way the cable's wires have been terminated at the end of the plug:
Available in the following colours: