Collection: GRID Cabling — 23-AWG Links & Slim Patch

Cabling for GRID & POE-Jack® — 23-AWG Permanent Links & Slim Patch

Right-sizing cable is key to PoE performance. Use 23-AWG CMP for long, high-power runs to POE-Jack® nodes and APs, and keep slim 28-AWG patch for short rack/desk connections where density matters.

  • Lower resistance: 23-AWG reduces voltage drop and heat rise in PoE++ bundles.
  • Serviceable racks: Slim patch improves airflow and density when runs are short.
  • Canada-ready: Confirm CMP plenum rating and device/environment temperature ratings.

Quick answer: how should I cable for POE-Jack®?

For GRID & POE-Jack® designs in Canada, treat cabling as two layers: 23-AWG Cat6e CMP permanent links for long/high-power PoE runs, and slim Cat6A patch leads only where runs are short and visible (racks, desks, media cabinets).

23-AWG solid copper gives lower resistance, less heat rise and more voltage headroom for PoE++ and cascaded POE-Jack® nodes. Slim 28-AWG patch simplifies dense racks and improves airflow — but it’s not meant to replace proper permanent links in plenums or long pathways.

For the detailed math, see 23-AWG Cat6e vs Cat6 for PoE in Canada and the Slim Cat6A patching for dense PoE racks guide.

Shop by cable type

23-AWG bulk for permanent links

CMP-rated 23-AWG solid copper Cat6e for in-wall/ceiling runs to POE-Jack® plates, APs and cameras. Designed for PoE++ and DC microgrid layouts.

Slim Cat6A patch for dense racks

Flexible 28-AWG patch leads keep racks tidy, reduce airflow blockage and make moves/adds/changes easier, as long as runs stay short.

  • POEJK6A SlimPatch Cat6A — short PoE-friendly patch cords for GRID racks
  • GRP6A SlimPatch series — high-visibility jacket colours for quick tracing

Termination & test accessories

LED keystone jacks and MPTL ends make it easier to terminate, label and service PoE links in busy Canadian telecom rooms and ceilings.

  • POEJK6A-VI — Cat6A/e RJ45 MPTL staggered sled ends
  • POEJK-VI — Port-trace LED keystone jacks

Slim patch & terminations for PoE

Use slim Cat6A patch cords and purpose-built terminations to keep PoE racks and consolidation points easy to work on — especially when you’re running many POE-Jack® zones from a single core switch.

  • Short & visible: Keep 28-AWG patch under a few metres and out of plenums or long pathways.
  • MPTL-friendly: Use POEJK6A-VI for reliable jack-to-device terminations.
  • Traceable: Combine POEJK-VI LED jacks with port maps and testers for fast service.

Best practices for PoE cabling (Canada)

  • Use 23-AWG CMP for in-wall/ceiling permanent links to POE-Jack® plates, APs and cameras.
  • Reserve slim 28-AWG patch for short rack/desk jumps to improve airflow and density.
  • Respect bundle sizes and pathway fill to manage heat in high-draw PoE++ scenarios; follow TSB-184-A guidance where applicable.
  • Label both ends and maintain a port map — faster service when combined with POE-Jack® LED trace jacks.
  • Confirm CEC, CMP/CMR and temperature ratings with your electrician or low-voltage contractor for each project.

Compare cable choices for PoE

Type Typical gauge Best use PoE behaviour Notes for Canadian projects
23-AWG Cat6e CMP bulk 23-AWG solid copper Permanent links to POE-Jack®, APs, cameras & touch panels Lowest resistance, better voltage at distance, cooler bundles for PoE++ Preferred for PoE++ and cascades; aligns well with TSB-184-A bundle guidance.
Standard Cat6 patch 24–26-AWG stranded Short equipment cords where density is moderate Acceptable for PoE/PoE+ if runs are short and device draw is modest Check temperature rating and avoid very long stranded patch runs in hot plenums.
Slim Cat6A patch ~28-AWG stranded High-density racks & patch panels More heat and voltage drop per metre than 23-AWG; keep runs short Excellent for tidy racks; not a substitute for 23-AWG permanent links in ceilings or risers.

FAQs

Is Cat6e CMP required for all runs?

Not always. Use 23-AWG CMP for long or higher-power links (PoE++ to POE-Jack®, APs and cameras), and wherever plenum rating is required. Short, low-draw paths can often reuse existing Cat cabling if it tests clean, meets code and supports the PoE class you need.

Does slim 28-AWG patch work with PoE++?

Yes — for short patching. Slim Cat6A cords are designed for high-density racks and visible patching. For permanent links, longer pathways or higher wattage, choose 23-AWG solid copper to minimise heat and voltage drop.

How long can my PoE runs be with 23-AWG Cat6e?

For data, standard Ethernet limits still apply (up to 100 m for permanent link + patching). For PoE power, 23-AWG gives more voltage headroom at a given distance than thinner cable. If you’re pushing cascades or long runs, check the 23-AWG vs Cat6 PoE guide or ask for a quick design review.

Can I mix existing Cat6 with new GRID cabling?

Often yes. Many projects keep existing drops where runs are short and loads are light, then specify 23-AWG CMP for new high-power or longer runs. A quick cable test and PoE class review will show where upgrades are needed.

Technical guides & calculators

Not sure which cable mix is right? Share your run lengths, PoE loads and building type and we’ll help validate a Canada-ready cabling plan for GRID & POE-Jack®.

Request a quick cabling review

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