Look for a Cat 6 or higher cable designed for shielded runs behind walls.
Look for a Cat 6 or higher cable designed for shielded runs behind walls.
Cat7 is genuine, it follows an ISO standard rather than a TIA/EIA specification, though that detail isn't crucial. The key standard in question requires TERA connectors, not the 8P8C found on conventional cables. Cat8 adheres to an ISO and TIA/EIA standard, supporting either TERA or 8P8C connectors.
Other retailers besides Amazon offer options for purchasing shorter spools. With some effort and searching, you might discover specialized online shops focused on telecommunications and networking equipment, providing a range of networking cables. FS.com is a reliable choice in this area. For example, their Cat6 bulk cables can be found here: https://www.fs.com/c/cat6-bulk-ethernet-cables-1133. However, they don’t appear to carry smaller spools, though custom patch cables are available for tailored lengths (stranded wires). You can create your desired lengths at https://www.fs.com/products/64194.html. Wall plates and jacks are also listed here: https://www.fs.com/c/ethernet-wall-plates-jacks-24. Keystone jacks are tool-free options that don’t require a punch-down tool, though they typically need solid core copper wires—see this link: https://www.fs.com/products/72285.html. Coupler connectors that skip the punch-down tool are available at https://www.fs.com/products/41312.html. These products are often designed for patch panels; you can purchase a panel separately and attach these connectors, which helps protect switch jacks from cable weight and prevents long-term wear. For routing, consider placing cables behind the panel and securing them with zip ties to avoid damaging the jacks.
Thanks! I noticed two nearby shops offering slightly different cables with varying prices. The first shop sells CAT6 UTP, 23AWG, solid copper, 100ft for $38. The second shop has CAT6 FTP, same specs and material, but 150ft for $26. It’s curious that the FTP is cheaper despite being longer. Maybe it reflects a different quality or just pricing strategy.
It might be CCA and pure copper, with descriptions copied from a previous purchase. They could have bought many FTP cables when copper was cheaper and are still available at old prices. It’s possible they’re on clearance, maybe only a few large spools remain, and they want to remove the item from stock if you can inspect it. If you see the cable up close, trim a few inches or strip the insulation, then use a knife to cut through the copper coating or heat the wire with a flame. Burning it will cause aluminum to coil, while cutting through copper will expose the aluminum core.
You're absolutely correct, I mentioned the crimper in my previous post. The cheaper FTP options are actually CCA! I mistakenly believed CCA was unavailable, but now I see it can be found. It seems they didn't mention it until I inquired. What a scam!