Difficulties switching from Gigabit Ethernet to 10GBase-T - Network cables

Difficulties switching from Gigabit Ethernet to 10GBase-T - Network cables Data centres are increasingly moving their twisted pair Cat5e and Cat6 network cables from server links using Gigabit Ethernet to 10G Ethernet (10GBase-T) in pursuit of extra bandwidth.

But according to one technology expert, this migration is being slowed by the fact that the 10GBase-T uses standards that are not entirely backwards-compatible with Gigabit Ethernet.

Sanjay Kasturia, chief technology officer for PLX Technology, wrote for Network World that even though both use RJ45 connectors and twisted-pair wiring, the higher data rate presents server managers with new challenges.

He also noted that the higher symbol rate and increased signalling levels of 10GBase-T mean that it is potentially more vulnerable to electromagnetic interference. This is something that could make cable shielding more important.

"The 6.4x increase in symbol rate causes the 10GBase-T transmit signal spectrum to extend up beyond 400MHz, so the receiver has to allow an input bandwidth close to 500MHz. The bandwidth for a Gigabit Ethernet receiver was 75MHz," Mr Kasturia explained.

For those using Cat6 cables with their 10GBase-T systems, the maximum length of cables is 55 metres (180ft) in optimal conditions. However, Cat6a is capable of running up to 100 metres for 10GBase-T.

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Last Updated: 10/08/2011 18:02

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