Cheap network cables: are they good or bad?

We can find large reels of network cables (ethernet) at very low prices in Amazon and other network stores. Coils, with very affordable prices, could end up being a big mistake. We will not focus on shielding or cable categories here. We will see the regulation of network cables, which is very necessary to know to choose the right cables.

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Case study

A client a few months ago asked us for a quote to wire one of their facilities. These facilities had a previously installed telecommunications facility. The new facilities add a network of telecommunications tubes so that the client can make a telecommunications installation, if they wish.

The client asked us for the wiring of the facilities with the condition of obtaining a 10Gbps network. The idea is that computers, NAS systems and other devices communicate at the highest possible speed.

For this installation we make a budget according to the requested requirements. The budget of 200 meters of cable, we value it at approximately € 190. That customer requested a second quote from a local computer store. This store made a budget of € 74, just cable. The client finally opted for the cheapest budget.

After two weeks with the cheap installation, the customer contacts us by phone to tell us that something is wrong with his network. It tells us that the network barely reaches 5Gbps in the best of cases. Said client has requested the technician's visit on several occasions, they did not give him a coherent explanation. They simply told him that it is normal that 10Gbps is not reached.

Up to a point the technician is right, but in a 10Gbps network it is normal for us to move between 8.5Gbps and 9.5Gbps. Obviously, due to the resistance of the wiring and other factors, the theoretical maximum speed cannot be reached.

Installation verification

So we go to the client's facilities in order to carry out a series of tests. Using a specific Fluke brand tester, we perform a series of tests and measure the resistance of the cables. This is how we got the source of the problems: the cables.

The installer had run CCA-type cables through the customer's premises, making the speed much lower than required. While it is true that 5Gbps may be fine for most users, there are things for which it is clearly insufficient. In addition, the client had specifically asked to reach 10Gbps (or a near practical speed) and it had not been fulfilled.

We make a temporary mount between one of the systems and the NAS. With this installation of a copper cable according to regulations, speeds of 8.8Gbps and 9.3Gbps were achieved, within normal parameters.

At this point the solution was very obvious: change the wiring.

The client indicates that for the moment they are going to leave this wiring and claim the computer store that has carried out the installation.

Now, why is there so much difference? Well, in this post we will explain the reasons.

Network cable regulations

There are two types of network cable. First of all we have those of copper clad aluminum (CCA) and secondly those of oxygen free copper (OFC). CCA cables are cheaper than OFC cables, but at the same time, they do not comply with European regulations. So the CCA cable will never carry the corresponding CE mark.

In Europe the specific IEC and CENELEC standards must be met. For UTP cables, the use of aluminum is specifically prohibited. Per the specifications for Cat 5e, Cat 6, and Cat 6A cables, the wires must be all copper. The European Union establishes the EN-50288-6-1 standard, which is the equivalent to the international standard IEC-61156-6 for UTP Cat 6 cables.

5.1.1. Distribution and dispersal networks.

a) Networks of twisted pair cables.

The twisted-pair cables used will be, at least, 4 pairs of copper conductive wires with individual insulation without shielding, class E (category 6), they must comply with the specifications of the UNE-EN 50288-6-1 standard (Metallic cables with multiple elements used for the transmission and control of analog and digital signals Part 6-1: Intermediate specification for unscreened cables applicable up to 250 MHz. Cables for horizontal and vertical installations in buildings).

Royal Decree 346/2011, of March 11, which approves the Regulatory Regulation of common telecommunications infrastructures for access to telecommunication services inside buildings.

CPR regulations

To improve the safety of buildings, the European Union has established a classification system for construction products. Specifically, this regulation focuses on behavior against fire. Specifically, it is mentioned that all cables must offer low emission of smoke and non-toxic gases. The advantage they offer is that they are less harmful to people and rescue teams and facilitate the evacuation of the facilities.

This regulation affects manufacturers, distributors, installers and engineering companies and the competent authorities within the member states of the EU. As explained in the Chapter 3 of Regulation (EU) No. 305/2011 of the European Parliament and of the Council, of March 9, 2011, which establishes harmonized conditions for the marketing of construction products

Why CCAs are worse than pure copper

Aluminum (CCA) cables have some significant disadvantages over copper (OFC). These are:

1. Composition: CCA cables are made up of 60-80% copper on the inside of the conductor. This part is covered with between 20-40% copper. Actually, these types of cables are usually 90% aluminum and the remaining 10% copper. This is done because aluminum is much cheaper than copper.
2. Connectors: Another problem point is the rosettes and the RJ45 connectors. Basically at this point the cable is crushed so that the plates make contact with the cable. This causes a slight loss of diameter in the cable, generating a small increase in resistance. In copper it is hardly noticeable, but in aluminum it is much more noticeable.
3. Electric resistance: The electrical resistance of aluminum is more than 30% higher than that of copper. The greater the roll, the greater the impact. See the following table.

Advantages and disadvantages of CCA network cables

Best Network Cables on Amazon

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Conclusion

To finish with this explanation, we are going to make a small summary of what is indicated. We will also leave you a series of tips that you should take into account before buying a network cable.

1. For domestic use with a CAT 5e type network cable we will have enough. If we want a little more quality, we can opt for a Cat 6A
2. CCA cables are out of regulation
3. Saving costs is sometimes not the best solution and before buying something we must be well informed.

That said, if you are looking for a quick and temporary installation, the CCA can do the role for you. If we want a reliable, high-speed and compliant installation, we must go for the CFO. It is true that CFO has a higher cost, but the quality in the end must be paid.

For professionals, technicians or computer stores in general, remember that you are required by law to install only elements that comply with CE regulations, RD 346/2011 and CPR regulations.