CAT6 cable - is this stuff ok?

champ222 · 2026-03-02T11:56:56+0000

Hi All

Running some CAT6, looking for a quick spec check, want to confirm its a good brand. Is Copper and not CCA and low smoke stuff is probably a good idea: (since OCUK dont sell boxed cables, i assume these links are ok) 305M boxes

https://www.cablemonkey.co.uk/cat6-cable/13839-ccs-cat6-utp-cable.html

or

https://www.kenable.co.uk/networkin...w-smoke-lsoh-euroclass-dca-305m-violet-011610

It would be handy if it was a colour other that Violet, but i'll manage if need be. Ive got to run it all alongside some existing cabling, which is violet, then remove the old stuff once this is in place so it would be easier to see the new stuff against the existing Violet stuff. so maybe this?

https://www.broadbandbuyer.com/products/36407-excel-100-075/specifications/#content

Thanks guys

brendy · 2026-03-02T12:22:02+0000

I've used cable monkey a good few times in the past and never received bad quality cables so would have no problem using the Connectix stuff, its pure copper cored rather than cheaper coated alu stuff which doesnt age well.

Armageus · 2026-03-02T12:29:12+0000

I've use Cablemonkey's Connectix Cable, Kenable's own brand and Excel - all are absolutely fine.

Depending on your use case have you considered Cat5e, as Excel offer it in different Colours?

Excel Copper Cat5e Network Cable U/UTP Low Smoke LSOH Euroclass Dca 305m Yellow

Kenable | Trusted since 2002 | UKs biggest selection of computer cables, network, audio, video & power products | Buy Online

www.kenable.co.uk

kaku · 2026-03-02T14:27:50+0000

The Kenable one I used to do the ethernet runs in my house. Have had no problems and seems good quality. I'd expect both you've linked are solid choices.

pepp77 · 2026-03-02T14:52:08+0000

I work for a telecoms company and this is the cable we use - https://documents.excel-networking.com/datasheets/100-080 - we get it from Mayflex

champ222 · 2026-03-02T15:16:45+0000

pepp77 said:
I work for a telecoms company and this is the cable we use - https://documents.excel-networking.com/datasheets/100-080 - we get it from Mayflex

Hi, does the 24AWG cause any issues with CAT6 punchdowns which presumably are expecting 23AWG cable, which is a bit thicker?

pepp77 · 2026-03-02T15:17:58+0000

champ222 said:
Hi, does the 24AWG cause any issues with CAT6 punchdowns which presumably are expecting 23AWG cable, which is a bit thicker?

I'm a PM rather than a site engineer, but no issues have been reported with its use. I know that the cabling contractors at my old place also favoured Excel cable.

champ222 · 2026-03-02T15:18:28+0000

this looks pretty good to me:

Orange Connectix Cat6 UTP LSZH B2ca-s1a,d0,a1 Solid Cable 305m (001-003-005-68)

This Cat6 unshielded cable from Connectix features an orange low smoke zero halogen outer sheath and conforms to CPR B2ca-s1a,d0,a1 standards. This makes it a great choice for installs in public buildings such as schools and hospitals. This cable meets all standards for Category 6 cable and is...

cableintelligence.co.uk

b2ca seems to be a pretty good fire spread rating, which while overkill in our office i'm sure, cant be a bad thing

Glanza · 2026-03-02T15:21:08+0000

Excel is our go to for cabling jobs, not had any complaints of issues from installers.