What is a CAT-6 Cable?
CAT-6 cable is a type of Ethernet cable made of twisted wires designed to deliver much faster, more secure connections then previous incarnations of Ethernet cables. Many modern building codes require the installation of CAT-6 cable for standardization today, while others are just upgrading for the sake of better speed. CAT-6 cables can perform at up to 250 MHz, while previous CAT-5 and CAT-5e could only handle up to 100 MHZ. Various types of CAT-6 cabling may provide additional shielding or better connectivity. Although CAT-7 and 8 are available, they are often cost-prohibitive due to being so new, which is why CAT-6 has become the standard for many.
CAT-6 Cost per Foot
The average cost per foot of a CAT-6 cable is $0.35 to $0.45, depending on the quality and brand of the cable and other factors. While cables can be run up to 300 feet, you typically do not want to run single drops longer than this because the copper wires used in these Ethernet cables are not rated for reliability beyond 300 feet.
Cost per Drop for CAT-6
The average price per data drop for a CAT-6 cabling is $150 to $200, including materials and labor. Another way that CAT-6 installation is charged is on a “per-drop” basis. This means a cable is run to each connection point or “drop” on the network where a component or components will be installed. A router for a computer, printer, and wireless scanner, for example, could be one drop. A connection in the next room for two other computers could be a second drop, and so forth. When getting a consultation for your installation, be sure to discuss the number of drops you need with your technician to get an accurate price quote and to make sure you get all the connections you need.
CAT 6 cables are a type of Ethernet cable used to provide a fast, secure Internet and network connections for home and business owners.
All cables go from each workstation wall plate to a patch panel. When networking between floors a backbone or riser cable is often necessary.
Before we begin a project, it is important to know a few things.
- Is it a modern office structure?
- Does it have hollow office walls?
- Does it have a drop ceiling?
- Is the drop ceiling also serving as a (plenum) air return?
- How many total drops?
- How are they disturbed to wall plates as single, double, triple and quad drops?
We ensure all of our installations meet or exceed all city codes, and the manufacturer’s specifications.