Benefits of cat 7 cable

With so many types of Ethernet cables available on the market, it can be confusing to choose which one is most suitable. Here, we shall review the benefits of a Cat 7 cable.

Regardless of the popularity of wireless networks, wired connections are still the backbone of any network. Not only do they provide faster data transmission rates, but they also offer a higher and more consistent throughput with less interference, making them ideal for online streaming as well as online gaming.

Ethernet cables come in a variety of lengths, sizes, and shapes. Some popular types include Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat7. Cat, standing for category, denotes the optimum speed the cable can handle comfortably. The type of cable you need depends on its intended use. Cat7 is the latest Ethernet cable technology used in Gigabit Ethernet infrastructure. It offers excellent transfer speeds as well as minimal interference. Let us have a look at some of its benefits.

Benefits of cat 7 cable

Backward compatibility

Backward compatibility refers to next-generation cabling that satisfies all the specifications of its category and the specifications of the existing categories. Cat7 cables are backward compatible with Cat5, Cat5e, and Cat6 categories. If you connect a Cat7 cable to an old router, everything will work fine. As a result, Cat7 wires are flexible and expandable, meaning you save on rewiring costs in the future.

Strict crosstalk specifications

Crosstalk coupling refers to the resultant contact from connecting the untwisted wires at the back of the plug and the blades at the plug’s front.  Depending on the quality and the amount of untwisting and position of the cables at the back, the plug’s termination varies, leading to distinct variability of crosstalk.

Generally, the jack in a cable should optimally compensate for a plug that contributes an average amount of crosstalk (mid-range plug). When a jack connects with a plug that produces more than the average amount of crosstalk (low-end plug), the jack under compensates to achieve marginal near-end crosstalk.

Similarly, if a jack connects to a plug that contributes less than the average amount of crosstalk (high-end plug), it tends to overcompensate, resulting in a minimal marginal next performance. As a result, an Ethernet cable must feature a well-controlled plug construction to ensure optimum crosstalk performance for any mated connection.

Cat7 cables feature a stricter crosstalk specification and minimal noise than any other category cable. It is also vital to note that Cat7 wires do not have the stamp of approval from the Electronics Industries Alliance (EIA) or the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). However, the cable does meet the International Organization for Standardization’s (ISO) Class F requirements in categories like line noise and frequency.

Performance

Being the newest category of Ethernet cables, Cat7 offers a relatively fast performance and increased bandwidth compared to its predecessors. With a maximum transmission frequency of 600MHz and optimal speeds of 10Gbps for over 100 meters of copper wiring, this cable is ideal for smart homes or in a business environment demanding high-performing internet connectivity.

Cable standard	Maximum transmission speed	Maximum frequency
Cat5e	1000Mbps/1Gbps	100MHz
Cat6	1000Mbps/1Gbps	250MHz
Cat6a	10,000Mbps/10Gbps	500MHz
Cat7	10,000Mbps/10Gbps	600MHz

 

Better shielding

Cat7 cables feature better insulation than the earlier categories. Its extensive shielding is relatively stiffer than that of other categories, significantly reducing the signal’s attenuation. These wires have both individually shielded pairs and an additional layer of shielding over the entire cable. As a result, the cable meets the strict criteria to prevent signal loss over long distances. However, users have to use the special GigaGate45 connectors and ground the shielding to enjoy the full performance features of this cable.

Durability

As a shielded and twisted pair cable, Cat7 cables are incredibly durable, making them ideal for environments that require fast data transfer and internet speeds. Unlike a Cat6 cable that lasts for about ten years, Cat7 cables are designed to last for nearly 15 years with the continual operation.

Conclusion

If you have smart home technology or are in an environment that requires a fast internet connection, Cat7 cables are the perfect match. Under 100 Gigabit Ethernet, the cables will run up to 15 meters and up to 50 meters under 40 Gigabit Ethernet. However, if you are on a tight budget, you may opt for Cat6 or Cat5e cables.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a Cat7 cable ideal for online gaming?

With a maximum bandwidth of 600MHz and an optimum supported speed of 10Gbps, Cat7 cables are perfect for online gaming applications.

Is Cat7 better than Cat6a cables?

Cat6a cables support frequencies of up to 500MHz and transmit signals at a maximum of 10Gbps over 100m. Alternatively, Cat7 cables are designed to transmit signals at a maximum speed of 10Gbps, but they feature a maximum frequency of 600MHz.