Differences between Cat 6 UTP Cable and Cat 6 STP Cable

When it comes to installing phone or network wiring, you’ll have to pick between STP and UTP wires. Unshielded twisted-pair cables do not have a concealed metal covering, whereas shielded twisted-pair cables have. The Cat 6 UTP cable is highly in demand from modern-day networkers due to its less cost and high-efficiency values.   

The capabilities and maximum length of these cables are the same. Nonetheless, there are a number of significant variances that influence reliability, setup time, and other costs. The best option is primarily determined by where you plan to run new wires. In most cases, it is been observed that shielded variants are more suitable than unshielded ones but it is not mandatory.

Benefits of Cat 6 UTP Cable: –

1. If you are installing a cable at a location where interference factors are not very high like at residential places or in small commercial setups then you do not need to pay extra on buying an Ethernet cable with extra metal shielding on it. You can utilize Cat 6 UTP cables at these locations that are less expensive and can still get great speed from your network.
2. Another benefit of installing Cat 6 UTP cable is that it is easy to install in comparison to Cat 6 STP cable. You can save a huge amount of money in regard to labour costs and hiring an installation specialist.
3. Grounding isn’t an issue for unshielded Ethernet cables as it is for shielded cabling. This increases their reliability and cuts down on the time it takes to install them. You don’t need to ground each wire at both ends if you are not using STP wiring. If you want to use shielded cabling then be ready to do all the grounding properly. One wrong step in the grounding process worsens the signal transmission process as it increases the crosstalk and electromagnetic interference. You’d get better results using UTP wiring in this circumstance.
4. If you use unshielded cables, you won’t have to spend as much time or money on maintenance. When these cables are mishandled or routed through overly tight places, there are fewer difficulties and lees chances of their damage.

Whereas, metal shielded cables are rather delicate and stiff. When any part of a wire’s shielding is damaged, the wire’s resistance to interference is greatly reduced. Workers will need additional training to use STP cables properly, and repairs may take longer.

5. The unshielded wire is light in comparison to the shielded one. These wires are far more flexible and have a smaller size. Because of these benefits, UTP cables are easier to install, move, and maintain.

They’re adaptable and can fit into even the tiniest of areas. In a tight tunnel, you may run more unshielded cables. Keep in mind, though, that crosstalk may become an issue.

6. Because of their small size and lightweight, Cat 6 UTP cables are less expensive to ship. Suppliers are able to save money on both transportation and packaging materials.

Benefits of Cat 6 STP Cable: –

1. These wires come with an extra metal shielding that protects them from radio and electromagnetic interference. This improves data transfer reliability and speeds in buildings using microwave equipment, HVAC systems, or radio transmitters.

It prevents interference factors in diverse equipment, such as power tools and vacuum cleaners.

2. STP cables dramatically decrease crosstalk when properly installed, grounded, and maintained. This means they prevent impulses from flowing through the outer covering and into neighbouring wires by accident.

UTP wire, on the other hand, only provides rudimentary protection. The value of this feature varies depending on the number of wires in a small area. If your building has a lot of networked devices and/or there are not many places for new wires, you’re more likely to have crosstalk issues.