For network installation, you will need CAT5e or CAT6 Ethernet cables. However, you are in a dilemma situation to choose which one is better for you or your clients. There are 2 different network cables type in the market, Copper Clad Aluminium (CCA) and Pure Copper. If you compare visually, it won’t have any difference between CCA cable and pure copper cable. Even when you strip down the cable jacket to reveal the twisted pairs, you can't spot the difference. So, how can you compare these two types of cables?
Copper Clad Aluminium (CCA) Cable
CCA uses a cheap material. The CCA wire is basically an aluminium with a copper coating. These cables suit usage up to 50 metres in length. It's best used for short-term remedies.
Manufacturers began using aluminium wire soaked in a thin layer of copper to save cost. This method resulted in an aluminium core cable with a thin covering of copper surrounding it. If you've ever bought coax cable, you've probably bought copper covered cable. The gold copper on the central conductor will flake off and reveal the silver metal core if scraped. Copper covered aluminium patch cables have grown more widespread in the marketplace due to consumer ignorance, clever marketing, and a similar appearance.
Copper-clad aluminium cables are lighter than pure copper conductor cables in terms of total weight, which can help with cable transportation and racking. Furthermore, copper-clad aluminium is softer than pure copper, therefore copper-clad aluminium conductor cables are more flexible than pure copper conductor wires.
Pure Copper Cable
As you can tell from the name, a pure copper cable consists of a wire with a full copper material. This type of cable is the most suitable for a longer distance of up to 100 meters in length. It is also the most preferred over CCA cabling due to several reasons.
Copper is a more stable and long-lasting option. Because of its ductile properties, it can be utilised to manufacture fine wires. Copper wires become more versatile and valuable as a result. Because of their excellent tensile strength, copper wires are almost maintenance-free. They are put under a lot of strain, but show very little wear and tear. As a result, we may conclude that copper wiring is cost-effective.
Copper Clad Aluminium (CCA) vs Pure Copper Cable: Which One to Choose?
According to durability experiment done by some electricians, pure copper take the lead in this situation. Aluminium (CCA) cable will become bridle and break when it gets heat and burn. Although it's not straight away, but in overtime it could happen.
Meanwhile, pure copper responds totally different. Pure copper cable retains its shape when it’s applied to a heat.
In conclusion, pure copper cable provides the best performance and safety for you. We recommend to not risk your data and safety by choosing CCA cable, even though it’s cheaper. Pure copper cost more expensive. However, it can guarantee you a durability, strength, and safety for your network wiring.
