
Cat 6A cable with reduced diameter
The new Category 6A Supra 10G-RD cable from Proterial Cable America (PCA) features an outer diameter reduced from 0.27″ to only 0.24″. This reduction allows 26 percent more cables to be installed in the same amount of space, making it suitable for locations such as data centers, universities and hospitals where space optimization is vital.
The outer diameter reduction is mainly due to materials science advancements. Using the same noise control barrier from the previous Cat 6A design optimized alien crosstalk performance and led to the opportunity for a smaller cable size. Eduardo Garza, director of product development and engineering at PCA, said, The cable is UL verified and supports PoE applications, ensuring reliability and compliance with industry standards. Since the Cat 6A standard was released in 2009, customer requests for a smaller, more efficient cable have been consistent. A key objective for PCA over the next few years will be to minimize product size and weight while maintaining cable performance. The Cat 6A-RD is the first example of this goal being achieved. In addition to the smaller size, the Cat 6A-RD is a more sustainable option — smaller cables use less material. Twenty Cat 6A-RD reels fit on each pallet, representing a 66.67 percent increase, leading to a reduced carbon footprint. In addition to the increased shipping density, Cat 6A-RD is available in a Reelex box.This technology will make for more sustainable cable while maintaining performance,
said Joe Barry, chief operating officer of the Proterial Cable America performance cable division. The Cat 6A-RD is a major accomplishment that we're excited to share with our customers.
Years ago, we started with a diameter of 0.35″, and the idea of reaching 0.24″ would have been unheard of. From a process perspective, the ability to operate with tighter tolerances has opened the window to formulating a design this size.