In today’s connected world, Power over Ethernet (PoE) is the driving force behind many of our most powerful systems: IP cameras, access control devices, wireless access points, and IoT sensors. And while most integrators and facility managers understand they need Cat6 cabling for high performance, what many overlook is this: not all Cat6 is created equal—especially when you’re running power and data on the same line.
Let’s break it down.
🔌 Power Meets Data: A Delicate Balance
PoE transmits both data and electrical power through a single Ethernet cable. That’s convenient, efficient, and cost-effective. But it also introduces a real technical challenge: electrical power generates heat and can create electromagnetic interference (EMI) that disrupts the data signal. Over time, this interference can reduce system performance, cause data packet loss, or even damage sensitive equipment.
So, how do you prevent it? It starts with using the right type of Cat6 cable.
⚡ Why Foiled Twisted Pair (FTP) Makes the Difference
Most people are familiar with UTP (Unshielded Twisted Pair) Cat6 cabling, which is common in office and residential environments. But when you’re dealing with PoE—especially PoE+ and PoE++—you want to seriously consider upgrading to Cat6 FTP (Foiled Twisted Pair).
Here’s why FTP matters:
- 🛡️ Shielding Against Interference: FTP cable includes an overall foil shield that helps block external EMI and prevents crosstalk between pairs.
- 🔥 Heat Dissipation: Shielded cable structures help reduce internal heat buildup, improving long-term cable integrity under power load.
- 📶 Cleaner Signal Transmission: With less electrical noise, your data signal stays clean and consistent—even when running multiple PoE devices.
- 🏗️ Future-Proofing: With more devices drawing higher wattage, using shielded Cat6 ensures your infrastructure can handle the demand.
📍 Real-World Example
At Xsphera, we recently serviced a commercial space where a previous installer ran PoE cameras using unshielded Cat6 in high-electrical environments—right next to lighting ballasts and HVAC units. The result? Unreliable video feeds and failing cameras. After replacing it with properly grounded Cat6 FTP, the system ran flawlessly.
🛠️ Installation Matters, Too
Just using FTP isn’t enough—it must be properly grounded and terminated to actually deliver on its performance promise. Poor shielding termination is like having an umbrella in a storm with holes in it. We always install according to industry best practices and test every run before sign-off.
🧩 Summary: Not All Cat6 is Equal
If you’re deploying PoE in your business, it’s time to move beyond generic cable specs. The wrong type of Cat6 can undercut your entire system. The right type—like FTP Cat6—gives your PoE network the stability, clarity, and safety it needs to operate at peak performance.
Let’s make sure your cabling is built not just for speed—but for power, too.
📞 Contact Xsphera Technologies and Consulting today and let’s talk about getting your next PoE installation done right.