Ethernet cable demand is on the rise and the cause for the rise is the need for faster internet data transfer. There are many options in ethernet cables available for users but Cat 8 became prominent because of its two imminent features: copper cables and having bandwidth for transfer of 2000 mbps. Here in this blog, we try to cover all that you need to know about Cat 8 ethernet cables.
What is a Cat 8 Ethernet cable?
Category 8 or simply Cat 8 ethernet cable is the newest addition to the family of ethernet cables and the latest IEEE standard copper cable. It has a very significant difference from the transmission speeds rendered by Cat 7 and Cat 6a cables. It uses the standard connector: RJ45 and hence is an adaptable solution with previously laid out standards.
The standout feature of a Cat 8 cable is its shielding. Along with the normal cable jacket, there is an additional feature of shielded or shielded twisted pair cable. Thus cable helps in giving a layer of conductive material that protects the internal parts from electromagnetic interference. This is the reason why Cat 8 cables are able to provide a higher bandwidth of transmission speeds with very limited errors. It also has the feature to eliminate cross talks and higher transmission speeds because of the foil that wraps the twisted cable. The added foil makes the cable thick and forms a heavier gauge which makes it less friendly for spaces with limited access and tougher to install in tight spaces.
Specifications of Cat 8 cable
Basic specifications of Cat 8 ethernet cable is as follows:
- Connector: RJ45
- Bandwidth up to 2GHz
- Maximum Transfer rate 40 gbps
- Connector material is copper.
- Shielded with pair foil
- Jacketed with PVC
- It is backward compatible.
What is the transmission speed of Cat 8 Ethernet cable?
Cat 8 is the fastest Ethernet cable that is currently available on the market. It has a speed of 40 gbps, which is four times faster than the current version of Ethernet cable, which is Cat 6a.
Let us look at the comparison between the transmission speed of Cat 8 Ethernet cable and Cat 6A Ethernet cable:
|
Cat 6A |
Cat 8 |
|
|
Frequency |
500 MHz |
2000 MHz |
|
Maximum Speed |
10 Gbps |
40 Gbps |
|
Maximum Length |
328 ft. / 100 m |
98 ft. / 100 m |
Comparison between Cat 7 and Cat 8:
|
Cat 7 |
Cat 8 |
|
|
Frequency |
600 MHz |
2000 MHz |
|
Maximum Speed |
10 Gbps |
40 Gbps |
|
Maximum Length |
328 ft. / 100 m |
98 ft. / 100 m |
Cat 8 Ethernet cable applications include:
Cat 8 Ethernet cable greatly expands the possibilities for amplifying the previous requirements. With their high transmission power, their usage can be ideally promoted for switch to switch communication in data centers and server rooms. The server and data networks are usually 25GBase‑T and 40GBase‑T networks. As it has the standard RJ45 connector, it can be connected to standard equipment and easily update the existing network without the need for an equipment change. They are best used for transitioning needs in areas with higher transmission loads. In order to reduce near-end crosstalk (NEXT) and EMI/RFI line noise in densely populated network installations, shielded foil twisted pair (S/FTP) cables are constructed with shielding around each pair of wires within the cable.
As Cat 8 becomes a more affordable option in Ethernet cable, make sure that you are choosing it wisely and that you are certainly benefiting from the extra bandwidth offered by the cable.
Power over Ethernet on Cat 8
Cat 8 cable supports Power over Ethernet, or PoE. The technology is used to provide power and deliver data over a single cable. It can help save space in crowded computer server rooms. The convenient length of 98 feet, or 30 meters, can help connect easily to security cameras and other wireless devices when they are not close to the AC adapters.
Limitations of Cat 8 cable
The length of the Cat 8 cable can be considered its biggest disadvantage. It is only 98 feet. This is shorter than that of the previous variants. It might be a fitting length for home applications, but Cat 8 is suited for higher transmission requirements in control centers and server rooms. The Cat 8 cable also does not have the option of an unshielded variant. The rigidity of the cable also makes it difficult to install and terminate.
Is Cat 8 good for gaming needs or home applications?
Cat 8 is a good choice for game applications, but the extent to which one can use Cat 8 effectively is where there is an insane need for higher transmission speeds, like in data centers or server rooms. The heavier gauge also makes it more difficult to fit as well as install and terminate. The same ideology applies to home applications as well, and chances are that most of the home applications may not even use Cat 8 Ethernet cable. For both of the above requirements, Cat 6A cable is far more sufficient for data transmission.
The question now is whether Cat 8 is necessary. Installing Cat 8 will not necessarily boost your capacity, because the chances are that most of the legacy applications may not even be compatible with Cat 8 cable. The transmission capacity can be elevated only if the components in the system are able to cope with higher speeds. So, if this is the case, then it will be fitting to stick with the affordable choice of Ethernet cable.
Choosing an Ethernet cable because it has a favorable transfer speed does not necessarily make it the right choice for your needs. Cat 8 ethernet cable has to be out into use where it can be able to deliver to its maximum potential.
We discussed category 8 Ethernet cables in this article. Here's everything you need to know
