The "6 Around 1" Testing Framework: Evaluating Multi-G Network Performance

OCTOBER, 2024

As network demands continue to grow, maintaining high-speed data transmission and ensuring stable performance in increasingly complex environments has become a significant challenge. In the realm of Multi-G network products, one of the most critical aspects is the ability to handle interference while operating in real-world conditions. The "6 Around 1" testing framework is a method developed to evaluate the anti-interference capabilities and operational efficiency of these products, particularly in environments like data centers and commercial buildings where cable management is a key concern.

When managing a large number of cables in data centers or commercial buildings, bundling the cables is inevitable. This bundling increases the risk of interference between the cables, especially in high-bandwidth environments where multiple cables are running side by side. According to the TIA/EIA 568.2-D standard, Category 6A cables are rated for frequencies up to 500 MHz and are required to support 10G Base-T transmission speeds. However, as bandwidth increases, so does the likelihood of alien crosstalk (AXT) between the cables, which can lead to signal degradation and reduced transmission quality.

The "6 Around 1" framework simulates a real-world wired network environment where interference between bundled cables can affect overall performance. In many office and residential buildings, multiple network cables are often bundled together, creating conditions where cables interfere with each other as they simultaneously transmit data. This can lead to a decrease in data transmission speeds and an overall reduction in network efficiency.

Older buildings or cost-sensitive projects often rely on Category 5e cables, which are more susceptible to interference due to their lower shielding capabilities, making it essential to test network products in these conditions. The "6 Around 1" test simulates a scenario where a core network cable is surrounded by six others, all transmitting data concurrently, to evaluate the product's resistance to interference and overall performance with various cable types, including Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6A. This testing framework provides valuable insights into the optimal cable selection and deployment strategies for Multi-G networks, enabling users to make informed decisions when designing wired infrastructures and ensuring the best possible performance in diverse environments, whether in high-traffic data centers or commercial buildings.

At Emplus, the "6 Around 1" testing framework is integral to the evaluation of Multi-G network products. By running full-traffic tests on all cables and observing performance under realistic conditions, Emplus ensures that their products are optimized for environments where bundled cables and AXT interference are common. Although IEEE standards do not officially support Category 5e and Category 6 for certain high-speed applications, Emplus still conducts performance testing with both types of cables. This allows them to evaluate how products perform in real-world conditions where these cables are still widely used, ensuring compatibility and reliability across various network environments. Their commitment to rigorous testing ensures that Emplus delivers high-performance, reliable networking solutions capable of withstanding the challenges of diverse real-world scenarios.