The interference of network cables mainly comes from two types: internal crosstalk (mutual interference of signals among the four pairs of cables within the network cable itself) and external electromagnetic interference (interference of electromagnetic signals from surrounding electrical appliances/equipment). To address these two types of interference, Category 6 network cables have made four core optimizations compared to Category 5e network cables
A tighter and more differentiated wire pair pitch design
The twist pitch of the cable pairs in Category 5e network cables is generally between 12 and 20mm, and the twist pitch differences among the four pairs are relatively small. The twist pitch of Category 6 network cables is shorter (generally 8-15mm), and the twist pitches of the four pairs are different, resulting in a higher stranding density
Principle: The twisting structure of twisted-pair cables is designed to counteract crosstalk between pairs. The denser the twist pitch and the greater the difference in twist pitch between each pair of wires, the better the effect of eliminating crosstalk - just like arranging four groups of speakers at greater distances and more scattered positions, mutual interference will be significantly reduced
Customer value: Even in scenarios with dense wiring such as office building weak current shafts and e-commerce live-streaming rooms, there will be no problems of network packet loss or live-streaming lag due to internal crosstalk
Exclusive cross-shaped partition frame for non-shielded models (not available in Category 5e)
The four pairs of Super Category 5 unshielded network cables are directly squeezed inside the sheath. Category 6 unshielded network cables are equipped with a cross-shaped insulating skeleton, which fixes the four pairs of wires in four independent grooves respectively, completely separating them physically
Principle: To prevent wire pairs from adhering to each other during wiring and bending, reducing signal interference between wire pairs from the root, it is equivalent to creating an "independent compartment" for each group of wire pairs.
Customer value: Especially in scenarios where the wiring space is limited, such as small processing plants run by fellow townspeople in Xunwu and small companies in Shenzhen, even if the network cables need to be bent and organized, there will be no increased interference due to the compression of wire pairs, making the network more stable
Thicker transmission line cores enhance the basic ability of signal anti-interference
Category 5e network cables generally use 24AWG (American wire gauge) copper cores, while Category 6 network cables mainstream use 23AWG oxygen-free copper cores (thicker than 24AWG).
Principle: Thicker oxygen-free copper cores have lower resistance, resulting in less signal loss and higher signal "strength" during transmission. When facing interference, they are less likely to be "overwhelmed" by interfering signals. At the same time, oxygen-free copper has stronger oxidation resistance, and its anti-interference ability will not decline due to the oxidation of the copper core even after long-term use
Customer value: It can be used normally for 10 to 15 years without a significant decline in anti-interference ability. There is no need to frequently replace the network cable. It is suitable for growing enterprises in Shenzhen and entrepreneurial partners from the same hometown. Once wired, it can be used for a long time
The shielding structure of the shielding model has been upgraded
Category 5e shielded network cables (FTP/STP) usually have only one overall shielding layer, and their coverage and thickness are relatively average. The shielding layer coverage of Category 6 shielded network cables is higher (generally over 95%), and some STP models will also add an independent shielding layer for each pair of cables
Principle: A better shielding layer can more thoroughly isolate external electromagnetic interference (such as large-scale mechanical and electrical equipment in factories, central air conditioning in office buildings, and signal interference from signal base stations)
Customer value: Suitable for scenarios with strong electromagnetic interference such as industrial plants and data centers in Shenzhen, or processing workshops of fellow villagers in Xunwu, it will not cause frame drops in monitoring or disconnections in office networks due to equipment interference
