scope:

This standards publication primarily defines minimum electrical performance and allowable conductor sizes, stranding, and shielding for premise wiring cables for voice and data applications for 100 ohm shielded and unshielded twisted pair cables.

The cables included are intended to conform with the cabling system architecture and design, as specified in ANSI/TIA/EIA 568A, and to harmonize with international standards such as ISO/IEC 11801. These cables have improved return loss (RL) and crosstalk loss performance requirements beyond the Category 5e values in NEMA WC 63.1. These cables may be used for voice, data, and video applications whose spectral bandwidth extends up to 200 MHz for Category 6 and 600 MHz for Category 7. These cables are tested at a frequency 25% greater than the spectral bandwidth specified above: 250 MHz for Category 6 and 750 MHz for Category 7. Applicable definitions, test methods, and performance requirements are included. The material, mechanical, and physical characteristics for these cables are covered under UL 444/CSA 22.2 No. 214.

Unless otherwise specified, the constructions defined herein are 2 through 25 pair cables and 22 through 26 AWG including patch cables.

This document complements other specifications by including, for the first time, a part numbering system to assist in procurement of these types of cables.

The products covered in this standard shall conform to the requirements of Part 68 of the FCC rules and regulations as well as the applicable article(s) of the National Electrical Code and/or other national and local codes and safety standards.

The performance requirements contained in this document are for cables as manufactured. Link and channel requirements are beyond the scope of this document.