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What are the differences between CAT6A shielded U/FTP, S/UTP, F/UTP and SFTP cable?

Published by Cablesys on Aug 29th 2018

Reaching transmission speeds of up to 10Gbps Category 6A (CAT6) is becoming the preferred cable for structured cabling systems. Understanding the differences between the various cable types can help with choosing the cable type best suited for your network needs, whether VoIP, CCTV, or data. The chart below outlines the differences between each CAT6A shielded cable type.

U/FTP U/FTP (Unshielded Foiled Twisted Pair) provide an extra safety barrier around each individual wire using shielding, or screening. This helps to prevent crosstalk and EMI/FRI. Unshielded Foiled Twisted Pair) includes conductor, insulation, sheath, and pair shield.
S/UTP & F/UTP S/UTP (Shielded/Screened) Unshielded Twisted Pair and F/UTP (Foiled Unshielded Twisted Pair) have either a complete foil or complete braid screen encasement around all 4 unshielded twisted pairs. CAT6A Shielded/Screened Unshielded Twisted Pair and Foiled Unshielded Twisted Pair includes conductor, insulation, cable shield, and sheath.
SFTP SFTP, or Shielded and Foiled Twisted Pair, is a mix between S/UTP and F/UTP. Each twisted wire is encased in foil and a screen, or occasionally a loose braid. This allows for the highest level of security against interference. In addition, this structure is found in top-tier performance cables. CAT6A Shielded and Foiled Twisted Pair includes conductor, insulation, cable shield, pair shield, and sheath.