Cat 6 Electrical Cable | McMaster-Carr

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Single-Pair Ethernet

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63 Products

About Wire and Cable

Unshielded

Shielded

Use For:
Unshielded: Data; Category 3 can also be used for Telephones
Shielded, Double Shielded: Data, Interference Shielding
Flexible
Insulation:
Outer: PVC Plastic
Inner: See table

Send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches. Ethernet category standards describe the cable’s performance capabilities. Higher category numbers mean faster speeds, superior data transfer, and better signal strength. Category cables are backward compatible, so you can mix and match, but your speed will only be as fast as the lowest-rated cable.

Unshielded cable is the choice for day-to-day wiring, such as connecting your desktop computer to an ethernet port.

Shielded cable has a layer of foil that blocks signal interference from nearby equipment, such as variable frequency drives or small motors. It has an uninsulated ground wire that is not counted in the number of wires.

CM and CMR cable prevent the spread of flames down the length of the cable. CMR is more flame resistant than CM cable.

								Inner Insulation					Per Ft.
Ethernet Cable Category	Transmission Frequency	Wire Ga.	No. of Wires	Cable AWG	Max. Temp., °F	OD	Industry Designation	Material	Color	Choose an Outer Insulation Color	Length, ft.		1-499	500-Up
Unshielded Solid Wire
6	100 MHz	23	8	23/8	165°	0.22"	CMR	Polyolefin Plastic	Blue Blue/White Brown Brown/White Green Green/White Orange Orange/White	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, White, Yellow	25, 50, 100, 500, 1,000	0000000	00000	00000
Shielded Solid Wire with Uninsulated Ground Wire
6	250 MHz	23	8	23/8	140°	0.29"	CMR	Polyolefin Plastic	Blue Blue/White Brown Brown/White Green Green/White Orange Orange/White	Blue, Gray	25, 50, 100, 500, 1,000	000000	000	000

Continuous-Flex Ethernet Cable

Use For: Automation, Continuous Motion, Data, Interference Shielding
Continuous Flex
Outer Insulation: TPE Rubber, except Category 6A is Polyurethane Plastic
Inner Insulation: TPE Rubber, except Category 6A is Polyolefin Plastic

Often used in automated applications that require continuous motion such as robotics, this cable sends data between computers, servers, and switches without degrading data transmission. This Ethernet cable is backward compatible so it works in networks that meet the same or a lower category. It is double shielded, which means it has a layer of braid and foil shielding for better protection against signal interference than braid alone. Use it in environments with high signal distortion, such as near transformers, generators, and heavy duty motors. Bend radius is the point to which the cable will bend without being damaged. It is measured from the center of the bend to the edge of the cable. The smaller the measurement, the tighter the bend.

Flame rated cable meets requirements for preventing the spread of flames based on a timed test. FT1 cable is suspended vertically during testing.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.

													Per Ft.
Ethernet Cable Category	Transmission Frequency	Wire Ga.	No. of Wires	Cable AWG	Temp. Range, °F	OD	Bend Radius	Outer Insulation Color	Inner Insulation Color	Specifications Met	Length, ft.		1-99	100-Up
Double-Shielded Stranded Wire
6	250 MHz	26	8	26/8	-30° to 155°	0.33"	3.3"	Purple	Blue, Blue/White, Brown, Brown/White, Green, Green/White, Orange, Orange/White	UL Recognized Component, C-UL Recognized Component, UL 2556 FT1	10, 25, 50, 100, 150	0000000	000000	000000

Duct-Rated Ethernet Cable

Unshielded

Shielded

Use For:
Unshielded: Data
Shielded: Data, Interference Shielding
Flexible
Insulation:
Outer: PVC Plastic
Inner: See table

Also known as plenum cable, this CMP cable has flame-resistant, low-smoke insulation and can be used without conduit in duct work and above a drop ceiling. Use it to send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches in an office. It’s backward compatible so it works in networks that meet the same or a lower category. Choose cable with a higher ethernet cable category for a clearer signal.

Use unshielded cable in applications where signal interference is not a concern.

Shielded cable has a layer of foil that blocks signal interference from nearby equipment and devices. It has an uninsulated ground wire that is not counted in the number of wires.

													Per Ft.
Ethernet Cable Category	Transmission Frequency	Wire Ga.	No. of Wires	Cable AWG	Max. Temp., °F	OD	Inner Insulation Material	Inner Insulation Color	Features	Choose an Outer Insulation Color	Length, ft.		1-499	500-Up
Unshielded Solid Wire
6	350 MHz	23	8	23/8	165°	0.23"	FEP/Polyolefin Plastic Blend	Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, White/Blue, White/Brown, White/Green, White/Orange	__	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, White, Yellow	25, 50, 100, 500, 1,000	0000000	00000	00000
Shielded Solid Wire
6	250 MHz	23	8	23/8	140°	0.29"	FEP Plastic	Blue, Brown, Green, Orange, White/Blue, White/Brown, White/Green, White/Orange	Uninsulated Ground Wire	Gray	25, 50, 100, 500, 1,000	000000	0000	0000

Oil-Resistant Ethernet Cable

Unshielded

Shielded

Use For:
Unshielded: Data
Shielded: Data, Interference Shielding
Flexible
Max. Temperature: 165° F
Insulation:
Inner Insulation: See table
Outer Insulation: PVC Plastic

From mines and factories to robotics, this rugged Ethernet cable sends data between sensors and switches in the grimiest places. The PVC outer insulation is treated to stand up to oil and coolants where typical PVC insulation would become brittle and crack. To make sure it doesn't kink and snap, this cable was tested under repeated bending and rubbing with little signs of wear. Higher numbers for the Ethernet category standard mean faster speeds, superior data transfer, and better signal strength. Category cables are backward compatible, so you can mix and match. However, your speed will only be as fast as the lowest-rated cable.

Choose unshielded cable for most applications. When working with variable frequency drives or small motors, choose shielded cable, which has a layer of foil that protects from signal interference. It has an uninsulated ground wire that is not counted in the number of wires.

						Inner Insulation						Per Ft.
Ethernet Cable Category	Transmission Frequency	Wire Ga.	No. of Wires	Cable AWG	OD	Material	Color	Outer Insulation Color	Features	Length, ft.		1-99	100-Up
Unshielded Solid Wire
6	600 MHz	23	8	23/8	0.34"	Polyolefin Plastic	Blue Blue/White Brown Brown/White Green Green/White Orange Orange/White	Black	__	25, 50, 100, 300, 500	000000	00000	00000
Shielded Solid Wire
6	250 MHz	23	8	23/8	0.27"	Polypropylene Plastic	Blue Blue/White Brown Brown/White Green Green/White Orange Orange/White	Black	Uninsulated Ground Wire	25, 50, 100, 300, 500	00000000	0000	0000

Duct-Rated Oil-Resistant Ethernet Cable

Unshielded

Use For: Data
Flexible
Max. Temperature: 300° F
Insulation: FEP Plastic

Also known as plenum cable, this cable is designated CMP, so it has low-smoke insulation and can be used without conduit in duct work and above a drop ceiling. The oil-resistant FEP insulation protects wires as the cable moves from duct to equipment or machinery. It also resists UV light. It’s backward compatible so it works in networks that meet the same or a lower category.

										Per Ft.
Ethernet Cable Category	Transmission Frequency	Wire Ga.	No. of Wires	Cable AWG	OD	Outer Insulation Color	Inner Insulation Color	Length, ft.		1-99	100-Up
Solid Wire
6	350 MHz	23	8	23/8	0.21"	Black	Blue, Blue/White, Brown, Brown/White, Green, Green/White, Orange, Orange/White	25, 50, 100, 300, 500	000000	00000	00000

Shielded Ethernet Cords

The shielding on these cords blocks signal interference from nearby equipment and devices. They send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches. For faster data transmission speeds, choose a cord with a higher ethernet cable category. They’re backward compatible, so they work in networks that meet the same or a lower category.

90° elbow plugs fit flush against equipment, so they fit behind machinery or in areas where space is tight.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.

RJ45 Plug × 90° Elbow Plug

Plug × 90° Elbow Plug

Ethernet Cable Category 6 with Foil Shielding
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Temperature Range, °F	Choose a Color		Each
1	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	000000
3	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000
5	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000
7	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000
10	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000
15	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000
20	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000
30	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000

90° Elbow Plug × 90° Elbow Plug

Ethernet Cable Category 6 with Foil Shielding
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Temperature Range, °F	Choose a Color		Each
1	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	000000
3	250 MHz	26	0.2"	15° to 140°	Black, Blue	00000000	00000

Ethernet Cords

These Ethernet cords are backward compatible, so they work in networks that meet the same or a lower category. They send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches.

90° elbow plugs fit flush against equipment, so they fit behind machinery or in areas where space is tight.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.

RJ45 Plug × RJ45 Plug

Plug × Plug

Ethernet Cable Category 6
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Temperature Range, °F	Choose a Color		Each
1	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	00000
3	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	0000
5	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	0000
7	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	00000
10	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	00000
14	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	00000
25	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	00000
50	500 MHz	24	0.23"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue, Gray, Green, Red, White, Yellow	000000	00000
75	550 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue	0000000	00000
100	550 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 140°	Black, Blue	0000000	00000

RJ45 Plug × 90° Elbow Plug

Plug × 90° Elbow Plug

Ethernet Cable Category 6
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Temperature Range, °F	Color		Each
3	250 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 120°	Blue	00000000	000000
10	250 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 120°	Blue	00000000	00000
15	250 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 120°	Blue	00000000	00000

90° Elbow Plug × 90° Elbow Plug

Ethernet Cable Category 6
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Temperature Range, °F	Color		Each
3	250 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 140°	Black	00000000	000000
10	250 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 140°	Black	00000000	00000
15	250 MHz	24	0.24"	35° to 140°	Black	00000000	00000

Duct-Rated Ethernet Cords

Also known as plenum-rated cords, these CMP ethernet cords have flame-resistant, low-smoke insulation and can be used without conduit in ductwork and above a drop ceiling. The RJ45 plugs on each end connect to Ethernet equipment, such as computers, IO modules, and programmable logic controllers (PLCs). Not only do these cords transmit data, but they also power devices that are Power over Ethernet (PoE) compatible. They’re often used with EtherNet/IP, Profinet, and EtherCAT systems.

RJ45 Plug × RJ45 Plug
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Industry Designation	Temperature Range, °F	Color		Each
Ethernet Cable Category 6
15	550 MHz	23	0.28"	CMP	35° to 140°	Black	0000000	000000
25	550 MHz	23	0.28"	CMP	35° to 140°	Black	0000000	00000

Shielded Panel-Mount Ethernet Cords

Often used in labs, storage facilities, and offices, the shielding blocks low to moderate signal interference from nearby equipment and devices. These cords have a flange on the socket end to mount them in a panel cutout. They send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches. For faster data transmission speeds, choose a cord with a higher ethernet cable category. All are backward compatible, so they work in networks that meet the same or a lower category.

Screw-on cords require you to drill mounting holes and use fasteners to mount them in a panel cutout.

Screw-in cords simply thread into panel cutouts. Use them on panels that are 1.5 mm to 5 mm thick.

Add an optional cap to protect the end of screw-in cords when not in use. Hinged caps open and shut quickly at a fixed angle, so they’re more convenient for frequent access than tethered caps. Tethered caps can open in any direction, letting you access the end of the cord from any angle.

Label holders (sold separately) snap onto the end of the cords.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.

Screw-On Cords

Screw-On Mount

						For Panel		Mounting Holes
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Shield Type	Temperature Range, °F	Cutout Ht.	Cutout Wd.	No. of	Dia.	Mounting Fasteners Included	Color		Each
RJ45 Plug × RJ45 Socket
Ethernet Cable Category 6
3	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	15° to 165°	0.76"	0.59"	2	0.14"	Yes	Gray	0000000	000000
7	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	15° to 165°	0.76"	0.59"	2	0.14"	Yes	Gray	0000000	00000
10	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	15° to 165°	0.76"	0.59"	2	0.14"	Yes	Gray	0000000	00000

Screw-In Cords

Shown with Cap

Shown with Label and Label Holder

Screw-In Mount

Ethernet Cords
							Mounting						Labels		Label Holders
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Shield Type	Temperature Range, °F	For Panel Cutout Dia.	Thread Size	Thread Pitch, mm	Color	Connection End Color		Each		Each		Each
RJ45 Plug × RJ45 Socket
Ethernet Cable Category 6
1/2	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	-10° to 155°	0.88"	M22	1.5	Yellow	Black	0000000	000000	000000	00000	000000	00000
1/2	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	-10° to 155°	0.88"	M22	1.5	Yellow	Silver	0000000	00000	000000	0000	000000	0000
1 1/2	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	-10° to 155°	0.88"	M22	1.5	Yellow	Black	0000000	00000	000000	0000	000000	0000
1 1/2	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	-10° to 155°	0.88"	M22	1.5	Yellow	Silver	0000000	00000	000000	0000	000000	0000
3 1/4	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	-10° to 155°	0.88"	M22	1.5	Yellow	Black	0000000	00000	000000	0000	000000	0000
3 1/4	250 MHz	26	0.24"	Foil	-10° to 155°	0.88"	M22	1.5	Yellow	Silver	0000000	00000	000000	0000	000000	0000

Caps for Screw-In Cords

Hinged
For Panel Cutout Diameter	Environment	Environmental Rating	Cap Type	Material	Color		Each
0.88"	__	IP40	Snap On	Plastic	Clear	0000000	000000
0.88"	Submersible	IP65, IP67	Snap On	Plastic	Black	0000000	00000
0.88"	Submersible	IP65, IP67	Snap On	Plastic	Clear	0000000	00000
Tethered
0.88"	Submersible	IP65, IP67	Snap On	Rubber	Black	000000	0000

Panel-Mount Ethernet Cords

The socket end on these cords has a flange to mount in a panel cutout. They send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches. For faster data transmission speeds, choose a cord with a higher ethernet cable category. All are backward compatible, so they work in networks that meet the same or a lower category.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.

					For Panel		Mounting Holes
Lg., ft.	Transmission Frequency	Wire Gauge	Cord OD	Temperature Range, °F	Cutout Ht.	Cutout Wd.	No. of	Dia.	Mounting Fasteners Included	Color		Each
RJ45 Plug × RJ45 Socket
Ethernet Cable Category 6
3	250 MHz	24	0.24"	15° to 175°	0.76"	0.59"	2	0.14"	Yes	Gray	0000000	000000
7	250 MHz	24	0.24"	15° to 175°	0.76"	0.59"	2	0.14"	Yes	Gray	0000000	00000
10	250 MHz	24	0.24"	15° to 175°	0.76"	0.59"	2	0.14"	Yes	Gray	0000000	00000

Ethernet Cord Reels

Keep an ethernet cord on hand but out of the way. These reels mount where you need them and include a cord to send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches. The category 6 ethernet cord is backwards compatible, so it works in networks that meet the same or a lower category. A ratchet holds the extended cord in place at any length. A quick pull releases the cord to retract it. Control how much cord retracts into the reel with the adjustable ball lock.

For technical drawings and 3-D models, click on a part number.

Cord
Lg., ft.	Ethernet Cable Category	Color	Housing Material	Lg.	Wd.	Ht.	Features	Specifications Met	Color		Each
Ethernet Cord with RJ45 Plug
20	6	Gray	Powder-Coated Steel	9"	2 1/4"	6 1/2"	Adjustable Ball Lock, Mounting Bracket, Ratchet	UL Listed	Black	0000000	0000000

Micro M12 Screw-Together Ethernet Connectors

Unlike traditional RJ45 connectors found in data centers, these connectors stand up to rugged industrial environments since they tightly thread to devices with M12 connections, sealing out contaminants and resisting shaking loose from vibration. Use them to transfer high-speed data between sensors, switches, computers, IO modules, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), and other equipment. They can also power devices as they send data, so you don’t need a separate power cord. But, the device must be Power over Ethernet (PoE) compatible. These connectors are often used with EtherNet/IP, Profinet, and EtherCAT systems. Since they’re shielded, they block signal interference from nearby devices, maintaining their speed and data integrity. Poles and keyways on the face adhere to standard coding layouts to reduce the chance you’ll mismatch connections.

When choosing an Ethernet connector, make sure you match or exceed your network’s category industry designation. These connectors are backward compatible—for example, a Category 6 connector will work in a Category 5 network, but it’ll only run at the Category 5 speed.

A-coded and X-coded connectors send data faster than D-coded connectors, so they’re best for robotics and other systems that run multi-step programs.

90° elbow connectors run your cord along the side of equipment, so they fit behind machines and in tight spaces.

Connectors with polyurethane or TPE insulation resist chemicals, oil, and sunlight for outdoor use. Because they’re flexible, they’re good for jobs with continuous motion, such as robotics.

IP rated connectors keep out dust and can be used in wet areas when mated or capped. IP67 connectors can be submerged temporarily.

Add caps to protect connectors and maintain their IP ratings when not in use.

Plugs with Wire Leads—External Thread

X-Code

X-Code Male

							Housing Thread
Number of Poles	Shielding	Wire Lead Gauge (No. of Wires)	Cable Outer Insulation Material	For Cable Industry Designation	Transmission Speed	Housing Material	Size	Pitch, mm	Temperature Range, °F	Environmental Rating		Each
3 ft. Lg. Cable Leads
X-Code
8	Shielded	26 (8)	Polyurethane Rubber	Category 5E, Category 6, Category 6A	10 Gb/s	Tin-Plated Copper	M12	1	-20° to 190°	IP67	0000000	000000
16 ft. Lg. Cable Leads
X-Code
8	Shielded	26 (8)	Polyurethane Rubber	Category 5E, Category 6, Category 6A	10 Gb/s	Tin-Plated Copper	M12	1	-20° to 190°	IP67	0000000	00000

90° Elbow Plugs with Wire Leads—External Thread

X-Code

X-Code Male

							Housing Thread
Number of Poles	Shielding	Wire Lead Gauge (No. of Wires)	Cable Outer Insulation Material	For Cable Industry Designation	Transmission Speed	Housing Material	Size	Pitch, mm	Temperature Range, °F	Environmental Rating		Each
3 ft. Lg. Cable Leads
X-Code
8	Shielded	26 (8)	Polyurethane Rubber	Category 5E, Category 6, Category 6A	10 Gb/s	Tin-Plated Copper	M12	1	-20° to 190°	IP67	0000000	000000
16 ft. Lg. Cable Leads
X-Code
8	Shielded	26 (8)	Polyurethane Rubber	Category 5E, Category 6, Category 6A	10 Gb/s	Tin-Plated Copper	M12	1	-20° to 190°	IP67	0000000	00000

Sockets with Wire Leads—Internal Thread

X-Code

X-Code Female

							Housing Thread
Number of Poles	Shielding	Wire Lead Gauge (No. of Wires)	Cable Outer Insulation Material	For Cable Industry Designation	Transmission Speed	Housing Material	Size	Pitch, mm	Temperature Range, °F	Environmental Rating		Each
3 ft. Lg. Cable Leads
X-Code
8	Shielded	26 (8)	Polyurethane Rubber	Category 5E, Category 6, Category 6A	10 Gb/s	Tin-Plated Copper	M12	1	-20° to 190°	IP67	0000000	000000
16 ft. Lg. Cable Leads
X-Code
8	Shielded	26 (8)	Polyurethane Rubber	Category 5E, Category 6, Category 6A	10 Gb/s	Tin-Plated Copper	M12	1	-20° to 190°	IP67	0000000	000000

Caps

For Plugs

For Sockets

For Plugs and Receptacles with External Threads
For Thread Size	Material	Includes		Each
M12	Anodized Aluminum	Lanyard	0000000	000000
For Sockets, Receptacles, and Adapters with Internal Threads
M12	Anodized Aluminum	__	0000000	00000