What Cat-6 cable do you recommend?

[MacFun]

I'm about to order some network goodies from Graybar, and I need more network cable. I have a box of 5E that will do gigabit but I wanted all new purchases to be Cat-6 or better. So, is there a certain brand or certain model of UTP Cat-6 cable that you prefer? Yes I will run POE: access points, switches, cameras and maybe a Sangoma phone, one day... I seem to remember a certain model of Belden was preferred for one reason or another. Also, I plan to start using a server with 10GB ethernet ability so I'll need to support 3-4 drops of 10G, less than 100' in length.

So, what Cat-6 cable do you recommend?

Also, if you have opinions about a particular Commscope jack (like MGS400 vs SL), I'd like to hear your thoughts.

Thanks,

Robert

 

[jd415]

Monoprice and make sure its not copper clad aluminum! Also recommend getting a lower gauge wire that is also STP. 24 AWG is what I use.

Belden is great but too expensive.

 

[MacFun]

No benefit to having a premium brand that you might see at a university or large business install? Yes, I knew to avoid CCA, thanks! Much of my other components are Commscope. I'll take a look at the Monprice products,

R

 

[MacFun]

Do you know where the Monoprice UTP Cat6 bulk cable is manufactured? I know that Hubbell and Commscope are all made in the USA!

 

[MacFun]

I was just taking inventory, and I see that I have this Cat-5E available with about 500' left on the spool....

https://static.graybar.com/content-resource/pdf/5eswp-pv4p24-wh-p-gcc-general-cable-25265000-spec-sheet-sku-spec-sheet/a85cd1be253f24e6c143391f24d7cd16-373458.pdf

I suppose I could use that for all gigabit and POE stuff. I hate that it's white but I suppose I should use it up!

 

[Arjun]

Monoprice all the way. I would recommend 1000ft, but go with 500ft because I've noticed that the bigger bulk sizes always seems to have a few kinks here and there throughout its length