In June 2016, the IEEE adopted the 40GBase-T standard, defining transmission via four-pair symmetrical copper cabling. Maintaining the wiring provided backward compatibility of essential Ethernet functions such as auto-negotiation to negotiate the maximum transmission rate. This was possible because ISO/IEC was simultaneously working on the technical parameters of the cabling.

The cables support bandwidths up to 2 GHz. The maximum cable length was reduced to 30 m in order to limit the power consumption of the 40GBase-T chipsets. This should be sufficient for 80 percent of the cable lengths used in data centres. For end-of-row (EoR) connections, the standard permits a maximum distance of 30 m and a maximum of two plug connections.

Double-shielded, twisted copper cables are used, with each pair of wires having its own shielding in addition to the shielding of the cable.

The development of category 8.1 components is based on Cat 6, thus they are plug-compatible with RJ45. However, Cat 8.1 connectors are much more complex than classic RJ45 connectors, as a built-in circuit controls connection parameters such as crosstalk and attenuation.

Our premium patch cables Cat 8.1 of the quality brand econ connect are tested. They comply with the 40GBASE-T standard and achieve transfer rates of up to 40 Gbit/s.

The cables will be available in various lengths. The standard colour is blue, other colours are available on request.

Detailed information can be found here.