How
to Avoid Crosstalk in CAT6 |
| |
| Twisted pair cable is the standard for data communication
because of its greater bandwidth and “cross-talk”
minimization capabilities. Cross-talk is electrical interference
from an outside source that disrupts the normal flow of
data in a cable. Category 6 cable can use high frequencies
that enable it to reach up to 10 Gb/s transfer rate. With
the use of higher frequencies, careful planning is required
to avoid cross talk through intelligent cable design and
implementation. |
| |
| If you strip back a twisted pair cable you will notice
that each pair has a different twist rate. These twists
help reduce the rate of interference between each pair
of wires. When multiple cables are ran parallel to each
other, all pairs of the same color will have identical
twist rates. When the cables are energized to 10 GB/s
frequencies, the pairs might interfere with each other
and produce cross-talk. At this time, there is no software
remedy for this situation and we must therefore rely solely
on the cable design and implementation. |
| |
| If you run multiple cables parallel to each other,
there are a few measures you can take to minimize cross
talk. When punching down to a patch panel, use shielded
patch cords. Staggering cables on the patch panel by punching
down only to odd or even can also help reduce interference. |
| |
| Using proper cabling practices and techniques will
decrease the chance of interference however the type of
cable being used is also important. Augmented Category
6 UTP, also referred to as CAT6A, enlarges the overall
diameter of the cable to increase the distances between
the twisted pairs. This technique decreases the amount
of cross talk and also increases the overall length capability
to 100m. When using CAT6A, be sure to take into consideration
the increased diameter when large amounts of cable are
being installed in one location. |
| |
| With the today’s technology-driven market, the
demand for higher data transmission rates will always
be present. Manufacturers will design cable to reduce
cross talk and data interference but cable installers
must also design their networks intelligently as well.
With the correct cable and implementation, your client’s
business network will provide the stable and high performing
environment required to grow successfully. |
