Cables and systems specialist Draka, part of the Prysmian Group, has launched a small diameter Category 6a patch cable. The cable’s reduced diameter gives it flexibility and saves space in high density patching areas.

Called Slimflex, the 30AWG (American Wire Gauge) stranded copper cable occupies just 60% of the space required by standard 24AWG patch cords, which makes for easier system changes and additions. The cable’s smaller 4.5mm diameter saves space in racks and cabinets when compared to standard 6mm diameter patch cables.

Slimflex’s tighter bend radius also makes for easier cable routing and simplified cable management. It can also improve airflow to help maintain equipment performance and reliability.

The Slimflex patch cables have a white outer sheath and are available in lengths of 1m, 1.5m, 2m, 3m, 4m and 5m to suit the majority of patch applications. The low smoke zero halogen cables are flame retardant and comply with IEC 60332-1.

The cables are fitted with RJ45 connectors which feature Draka’s unique tangle-free boot design and 1.27micron gold plated phosphor bronze plug pins to ensure the best connection over multiple mating cycles.

Slimflex is suitable for a variety of applications including 10GBase-T Ethernet, data centre input/output consolidation and server virtualization, backbone aggregation, high density greenfield network racks and brownfield cable managers running out of space.

Lee Stokes, Product Manager for UC Connect, said: “Draka’s Slimflex, small diameter UC Connect patch cables deliver Category 6a performance, with a significantly tighter bend radius, for easier routing and enhanced cable management to facilitate moves, adds and changes in tight spaces”.

Source: Technical MMS UK