Network Cables

Cat6 is fine for Gigabit connections and short 10G runs of around 55 metres. Cat6a supports 10G across the full 100 metres and copes better with the heat of high-power PoE in large bundles. For new cabling expected to last many years, Cat6a is the safer choice.

100 metres for the full channel between the switch and the device. That is usually made up of up to 90 metres of fixed cable in the walls and shorter patch leads at each end. Beyond that distance you need another switch or a fibre link.

Yes. Cat5e supports PoE, PoE+ and PoE++, and many existing buildings already run it. For higher-power devices in large cable bundles, heat builds up in the cable, so Cat6 or Cat6a is a better choice for new installations, particularly where cables run through warm ceilings.

OM3 and OM4 are multimode fibres for shorter distances within a building, with OM4 reaching further at 10G and above. OS2 is single-mode fibre for long runs, including links between buildings. The fibre type must match the optics at each end of the link.

A DAC is a copper cable with transceiver modules permanently fitted to each end, suited to links of a few metres. A fibre patch lead has only connectors, so it needs a separate optic in each port but can run much further. DACs are cheaper for short links within a rack.

Yes. Cabling is available as a service, along with installation, racking and base configuration of the equipment it connects. Describe the site, number of points and rack layout when you ask for a quote, and the team will scope it.