Shielded Cat6A solutions for high speed data networks

Shielded Cat6A solutions for high speed data networks

Cat6A shielded solutions are becoming more widely used in data centre and enterprise network applications all around the world.

Shielded solutions have been a popular choice for data networking since the early 1980’s and continue to be the preferred ICT infrastructure choice in many countries, predominately in Europe. While other countries, particularly the USA, continue to opt for unshielded varieties.

While both systems are effective at 1 Gigabit ethernet data transfer rates, shielded systems provide improved performance at higher data rates (10G), due to their reliability when transmitting at higher frequencies.  

Selecting a shielded solution will help to protect the transmission signal from EMI, resulting in faster transmission speeds with less data errors. It also acts to stop these signals from exiting the component and causing interference with nearby electrical and electronic systems.

What is Electromagnetic Interference (EMI)?

Electromagnetic interference (EMI) is an electronic emission caused by powered equipment that can produce harmful effects on network equipment. The effects linked to EMI can often be overlooked or ignored when designing data centre and enterprise networks, but data centres themselves are often a source of vast electromagnetic frequencies.

If a device or component isn’t adequately shielded from EMI, this can cause immense challenges to the network and could prove to be counter-productive in the long run. Shielding is an effective method to help reduce the effects of EMI, protecting cables and components from signal interference and ensuring the performance quality of structured cabling systems isn’t affected.

A structured cabling system that consists of shielded cabling and connecting hardware is recommended for Cat6A (Class EA) installations, in order to provide increased flexibility in cabling installations, as well as ensuring data rates of up to 10Gbps.

Warren & Brown has a great range of innovative structured cabling products.

Shielded Cables

cable drum

With many variations to the shielding method used for shielded cables, which can impact on its suitability for particular applications, it can be hard to determine the correct method to select. There are 3 fundamental shield construction types: braided wires, foil wrapping and a combination of both. Each solution has its place, as well as its own set of benefits.

The main types of shielded cables used in today’s systems are:

shielded cables

Patch Cordspatch cords

Patch cords allow for data transmission between patch panels, outlets and/or IT equipment. Warren & Brown Cat6A shielded patch cords are available in both U/FTP and S/FTP shielded methods, providing optimum protection against EMI.

However, cabling is just one element of the structured cabling network. When using a shielded Cat6A cable in an installation, compatible shielded connecting hardware should also be utilised. It’s critical to use a quality product that meets the latest standards.

Modular Jacks

modular jacks

Warren & Brown’s HY series Cat6A STP modular jacks have been designed to surpass connectivity standards, as well as being quick and easy to install. These fully shielded modular jacks include a number of features intended to simplify and accelerate network deployment, and easily exceed the permanent link testing requirements (NEXT, RL, etc.), providing great headroom for Class EA, 10Gbps networks.

 

Before deciding on the best approach, all factors need to be considered so that the installed system is capable of supporting all required applications and doesn’t require frequent upgrades.

Have questions? Contact us for more information or assistance in designing or choosing the right cabling infrastructure.