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By Prysmian North America | February 18, 2026
Read Time: 4 Minutes
Digital transformation is moving from core data centers to every floor, fixture and asset. Contractors are being asked to connect more powered devices – from cameras and access control to sensors, kiosks and intelligent lighting – while minimizing energy use, space and maintenance. Power over Ethernet (PoE) and smart‑building platforms have matured, but a legacy design constraint remains. The 100‑meter limit of traditional Ethernet runs now makes extended reach solutions that don’t include proliferating intermediate switches or power in hard‑to‑service locations a decisive advantage for project timelines and total cost of ownership (TCO).
Inserting additional switches or other measures to leapfrog 100 meters introduces complexity. It creates more points of failure, more PoE power budgeting, added UPS coverage, more heat and more surfaces to secure. In outdoor or plenum spaces, that also means more rated enclosures, permits and labor. For businesses evaluating the options, the most sustainable and scalable path is often fewer active electronics and longer passive reach.
At a high level, extended‑distance Ethernet cabling pairs lower attenuation with improved thermal and current‑carrying capacity so that both data integrity and PoE power delivery are maintained beyond 100 meters, and often up to 200–274 meters (depending on bandwidth requirements, environmental factors and the active equipment on each end).
In practice, this means that a variety of applications, use cases and environments benefit from real improvements to business operations and the bottom line.
Security: Surveillance across lots, garages and perimeters without mid‑span power/switch points.
ICT and A/V: Wireless APs, conference A/V, IP phones, thin clients in large or distributed sites.
Building automation: Parking guidance, lighting controls, BMS sensors throughout facilities.
IoT at scale: Temperature/humidity, presence detection, retail endpoints and industrial telemetry where devices outnumber closets.
Fewer electronics: Fewer components to buy, power, cool, harden and maintain.
Simpler pathways: Fewer terminations and consolidation points means faster install and more straightforward maintenance.
Improved reliability: With fewer active failure points and easier lifecycle planning.
Prysmian’s GenSPEED® copper category datacom cables were developed nearly a decade ago to meet essential networking needs. Today, Prysmian's latest product, GenSPEED® 6 MAX Category 6 (22 AWG), continues this legacy by providing industry solutions that address the growing demand for power and data transmission over category cables. Specifically, it is designed to support applications that require improved attenuation and reduced signal loss, particularly in extended-distance scenarios.
The main improvement to this system is the increased size of the copper conductors to 22 AWG. This change reduces voltage drop, increases carrying capacity and offers better protection against higher temperatures. These enhancements provide many additional benefits and ensure performance that surpasses other Category 6 specifications.
GenSPEED® 6 MAX cables offer maximum versatility for challenging installations, including plenum and outside plant options. Prysmian’s cables meet all Category 6 requirements for distances up to 100 meters and have a certified LP listing of 0.7 amps (140 watts)* for MAX plenum.
MAX surpasses the IEEE 802.3bt Type 4 standard of 100 watts, supporting applications that require up to 140 W, providing enhanced coverage for high-wattage equipment. It is the first cable in the industry to receive UL listing for CMP-LP at 0.7 amps and is made with 100% fluoropolymer insulation, offering superior protection.
MAX achieves 1 Gbps at 200 meters** and 10 Mbps at 274 meters** to meet the growing demand for Power over Ethernet (PoE) applications that require longer distances beyond 100 meters.
MAX is available in plenum and outside plant construction for longer distances, providing cost savings through reduced terminations and lower costs for connectivity, power equipment and labor.
MAX can help earn two LEED® points through environmental product declarations (EPDs) and health product declarations (HPDs).
Extended-distance Ethernet cables are essential for anyone looking to enhance their networking capabilities. By choosing GenSPEED® 6 MAX for your extended-distance cabling needs, you maximize the value of your investment.
Wesco’s strategic partnership with Prysmian helps ensure contractors can source industry‑leading connectivity that aligns with modern, converged designs that is backed by supply chain strength, technical guidance and field‑ready training resources. This partnership focuses on practical outcomes for customers, offering longer Ethernet reach, higher PoE power and simplified infrastructure to meet today’s connected business needs, and empower tomorrow’s operational demands.
* 0.7 A is the ampacity rating of the cable, which equates to 140 watts using 50 volts over four pairs. Results may vary based on temperature and other external impacts.
** Maximum distance is subject to change based on manufacturer’s equipment and other environmental conditions.
ABOUT THE SPONSOR
This article was brought to you in partnership with Prysmian North America.
Prysmian North America is a global leader in cable solutions for the energy transition and digital transformation sectors. Its wire and cable portfolio supports low- to extra-high-voltage systems, and offers cutting-edge optical fiber and copper connectivity for voice, video and data transmission.
