CAT-6 Network Cable
Solid core or stranded: choosing CAT 6 for a camera run
The difference between the cable in the wall and the cable on your desk, and why swapping them fails on site.
Published 02 Sept 2026
Solid core or stranded?
They are not interchangeable, and using the wrong one is the most common cause of a run that "works on the bench" and fails on site.
- Solid core for anything inside a wall, conduit or tray. Better signal over distance, and it holds its shape in a punch-down block.
- Stranded for the last metre — patch cords, anything that moves or bends.
How far can a run go?
| Length | Verdict |
|---|---|
| Under 90 m | Fine |
| 90–100 m | Works, but leave no margin for error |
| Over 100 m | Use a switch or fibre |
Buy the CAT 6 network cable in 305 m boxes.