How delicate are CAT6 wires? (CAT6 cables struggle to handle 1gbps)
How delicate are CAT6 wires? (CAT6 cables struggle to handle 1gbps)
Hey everyone, I just moved and noticed my network speed isn't reaching the advertised 1gbps. Both my router and PC are capable of that speed, but I'm only getting up to 100mbps. I'm using a 15-meter cat 6 cable, which I previously secured to the wall with tacks. I don’t have another cable to test, but I think this might be the issue. I’ve already ordered a new one, but I’m wondering how durable these cables really are. I haven’t seen a big drop in performance, but it’s dropped about 90% compared to the spec. This worries me because I plan to bury the new cable under a baseboard, and it would be a big hassle if it fails during installation. Is this a situation where spending more on better quality really makes a difference?
I used to damage the Cat5e cable and it functioned well for a long time. I assume Cat6 won't be significantly different. This also relies on whether the cables have solid or stranded copper wires. Stranded ones are more flexible. If a cable is faulty, the problem is likely near the connector on either end. Users often break wires at the ends due to misuse. I'm interested in learning if a new cable resolves your issue. I've heard mixed reports, so I'm cautious. If you have any Cat5e that works, I'd like to know too.
I possess a strong center with pure copper cat6 and encountered several minor issues at the connector. You might discover a 1000' box of cat6 for $50-70 on eBay or Amazon.
for keystone termination you need half an inch of wire sticking out and the cable must be inside the keystone. the method involves patching the four wires nearest the back of the keystone first, then inserting the cable into the connector and connecting the remaining four closer to the plug. this ensures proper length and full protection inside the keystone, reducing crosstalk and fire risk during a short. another approach is to run the cable from above, patching the wires with extra length so they can shift slightly, but still maintain the half-inch specification before inserting. i find this a bit more challenging personally, but whatever works best for you. i use the word 'shove' since they don’t provide much space for cat6 cables. make sure to remove the plastic divider or it won’t fit.
I've noticed 1/2 inch is often mentioned, but I couldn't locate it in the building codes or TIA/EIA standards I reviewed.
I believed a 1/2" size was acceptable for cat 5, but cat5e and higher lowered it to 1/4"