tandards Category 3 UTP cabling-often referred to as simply "CAT 3"-is rated as suitable for voice transmission, but it is only suited for older type phone systems. It is rarely used in new installations. Categories 5, 5e, 6, and 6a, are the commonly deployed cabling system standards for UTP. Organizations often use Category 6a to support 10Gbps speeds in their data centers, and Category 6 for the rest of their facility. New cabling infrastructure is installed using categories 7 or 7a. Moreover, this same cabling plant is generally used for both voice and data. Category 7 and 7a cabling are based on a standard ratified by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). The following is a synopsis of the major UTP categories. Category 8 was approved by the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA) in May 2017. Category 5 Supports speeds of up to 100Mbps for 100 meters (328 feet) over UTP. It was the first ratified standard for megabit Ethernet transmissions. It consists of four pairs of eight unshielded copper wires. Category 5 has been superseded by Category 5e. Category 5e Supports 1Gbps speeds at distances of 100 meters (328 feet). Higher speeds are attainable because the cabling and connectors are manufactured to higher standards. There are more twists per inch in the cabling than that specified for Category 5. Category 6 Supports 1Gbps speeds at 100 meters (328 feet). At shorter distances, it handles 10Gbps speeds. A higher twist rate, heavier cabling, and a metallic screen around the entire cable protect it from ambient noise. Insulation material (usually plastic strips) is placed between each of the four pairs to reduce crosstalk between the wires. www.TechnicalPDF.com Category 6a (augmented) Supports 10Gbps Ethernet transmissions of up to 55 meters (180 feet). This is possible because the stricter standards result in less cross talk between adjacent cables. Lower speeds are supported for up to 100 meters (330 feet). Category 7 Supports 10Gbps speeds up to 100 meters feet). High performance at