First of all, I want to say that we are not talking about home internet here. Category 5e network is perfectly sufficient in this case (when using standard components and copper cables, of course).
Two of the most important points when deciding what LAN to install in your office are SPEED and POWER (as more and more modern devices are IP-based and powered over the network cable – Power Over Ethernet - PoE). Some devices, such as wireless access points (WAPs), require both high speed and high power, while others do not require speed but need high power (such as locking systems). Some computers, for example, use a broadband connection but have low current and voltage consumption.
Therefore, when renovating an office or designing it from scratch, you need to consider what speed and power the devices need now and in the future. The modern office provides its users with fast enough Internet, but in addition, a large number of PoE devices are connected to it. The main ones are VoIP phones, WAPs and cameras, which need power through the network cables. Building automation and lighting are powered by the mains, but many sensors and control devices require PoE.
The data network is essential for such smart buildings. It connects smart devices through software that requires control data from sensors (IoT). Nowadays, more and more systems use Ethernet network for their operation. But this network supports many applications, each with its own need for speed and power.
That's why choosing the right cabling infrastructure is crucial!
Yes, use CAT6A for new offices or office renovations! This wired network provides up to 10Gbps, a speed sufficient not only for new wireless access points, but also for all current and future smart office applications. In addition, the need for wired power (PoE) for all IoT devices determines the need for category 6A cablesThey are shielded and thus reduce the effect of temperature rise in the cable bundles and the risk of fire. That is, on the cable system CAT6A both data with high speed and sufficient power can be easily transmitted.
Plamen Hubanov
