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StarTech.com CAT8 Ethernet Cable - 2m White

StarTech.com CAT8 Ethernet Cable - 2m White

Upgrade your network with this Cat8 LSOH SFTP Snagless Ethernet Patch Lead. Capable of up to four ...

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Startech.com White 50Cm Cat8 Ethernet Cable. Snagless Rj45. 25G/40G. 2

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PCHUB.UKStartech.com White 50Cm Cat8 Ethernet Cable. Snagless Rj45. 25G/40G. 2
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GamingKitStartech.com White 50Cm Cat8 Ethernet Cable. Snagless Rj45. 25G/40G. 2
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eBayStartech 50 Cm Category 8 Network Cable 1 Cable for Network Device Switch Access
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OnBuy.comCat8 Ethernet Cable White 065030898539
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Product Information

Full details

This StarTech.com CAT8 Ethernet Cable is designed for network professionals and enthusiasts seeking to future-proof their infrastructure with significantly increased throughput. Its primary benefit is enabling up to four times the performance of Cat6a, supporting speeds of 25Gb/s and 40Gb/s, ideal for high-density enterprise environments and demanding applications. A key consideration is the need for compatible Cat8 network devices to fully leverage its capabilities.

All features

SeriesCAT8
Model Part NumberNLWH-2M-CAT8-PATCH
BrandStarTech.com

Extended Product Information

FAQs

What is the main advantage of using a Cat8 cable over a Cat6a cable?

The primary advantage of Cat8 is its significantly higher bandwidth and speed. Cat8 supports up to 2000MHz and speeds of 25Gbps or 40Gbps, while Cat6a is limited to 500MHz and 10Gbps. This makes Cat8 ideal for future-proofing networks and handling more demanding applications.

Does this cable require specific network hardware to work?

To achieve the maximum 25Gbps or 40Gbps speeds, both the connected devices (e.g., network card, switch) must support the Cat8 standard. However, the cable is backward compatible and will function with older Cat6a, Cat6, or Cat5e hardware, but at the slower speeds supported by those standards.

What does 'LSZH' mean and why is it important?

LSZH stands for Low Smoke Zero Halogen. Cables with an LSZH jacket are designed to emit minimal smoke and no toxic halogens (like bromine or chlorine) when exposed to extreme heat or fire. This is crucial for safety in enclosed or poorly ventilated environments, such as data centers, public buildings, and transportation.

Can this cable power devices using Power over Ethernet (PoE)?

Yes, this Cat8 cable supports Power over Ethernet (PoE++) and can deliver up to 100W of power to compatible devices. This allows for simultaneous data and power transmission to devices like wireless access points, IP cameras, and VoIP phones.

What does 'S/FTP' shielding mean?

S/FTP stands for Shielded/Foiled Twisted Pair. It means that each pair of wires within the cable is individually shielded with foil, and the entire bundle of pairs is also surrounded by a braided shield. This provides excellent protection against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and crosstalk, ensuring a cleaner signal.

How durable are the gold-plated connectors?

The connectors are 50-micron gold-plated and rated beyond 750 mating cycles. Gold plating offers excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance, while the rating indicates a high level of durability for frequent connections and disconnections.

Is this cable suitable for home use?

While Cat8 is designed for enterprise and data center environments, it can be used in home networks if you have devices that can take advantage of the higher speeds (e.g., high-end NAS, advanced gaming routers, 10GbE capable computers). For most standard home uses, a Cat6a or Cat6 cable may be sufficient.

Troubleshooting

No network connection

Ensure both ends of the cable are securely plugged into the correct ports. Check that the connected devices are powered on and configured correctly. Test with a different known-good cable to rule out the cable as the issue.

Slow network speeds or intermittent connection

Verify that the connected devices and network infrastructure support Cat8 speeds (25/40Gbps). Check for physical damage to the cable or connectors. Ensure the cable is not excessively bent or kinked. Minimize the length of the cable run if possible, as longer runs can sometimes introduce signal degradation.

PoE device not receiving sufficient power

Confirm that both the power source (PoE switch/injector) and the powered device support the PoE++ (4PPoE) standard and the 100W power budget. Ensure the cable is functioning correctly and not damaged, as cable quality can impact power delivery.

Connector clip is broken or stuck

The snagless boot is designed to protect the clip. If the clip is damaged, the cable may not stay securely connected. Handle the connector by the boot and cable to avoid stressing the clip. Replacement may be necessary if the clip is broken.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Significantly higher throughput (up to 4x Cat6a) for future-proofing networks.
  • Robust shielding (S/FTP) minimizes interference in high-density environments.
  • LSZH jacket enhances safety in professional installations.
  • Supports high-power PoE++ devices, reducing the need for separate power supplies.
  • High-quality construction with gold-plated connectors ensures reliability and longevity.
  • Fluke channel tested for guaranteed Cat8 performance.

Cons

  • Requires Cat8 compatible hardware to achieve maximum speeds.
  • Can be more expensive than lower category cables.
  • Thicker and less flexible than Cat5e or Cat6 cables, potentially making installation in very tight spaces more challenging.
  • The white color might show dirt more easily in some environments.
  • The full benefit is only realized in networks specifically designed for 25/40Gbps.

Setup, Compatibility & Care

Setup:

  1. Connect one end of the Cat8 cable to your network device (e.g., switch, router, server, NAS) and the other end to your endpoint device (e.g., computer, server, IP camera).
  2. Ensure the RJ45 connectors click securely into place.
  3. Verify that both connected devices support Cat8 or compatible Ethernet standards.

Compatibility:

  • Backward Compatible: Fully compatible with older Ethernet standards including Cat6a, Cat6, Cat5e, and Cat5.
  • Device Compatibility: Requires network interfaces and switches that support 25GbE or 40GbE for maximum performance. Supports PoE++ (4PPoE) up to 100W.

Care:

  • Cleaning: Wipe the cable jacket with a dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.
  • Storage: Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Avoid sharp bends or kinks.
  • Handling: The snagless boot protects the RJ45 clip; handle connectors with care to avoid damage. Do not pull the cable by the connector; pull by the cable itself.

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