Communication cables go by many names and there are different kinds of the terminology involved. Due to the new inventions every day, it is hard to keep track of all the latest technology. In this article, our prime focus will be on what is a plenum cable and why do you need them? So, let’s start, shall we?
The Connection between Plenum & Cabling:
Plenum-rated cables got their name from an old HVAC term referring to “Plenum Spaces”. Plenum is a type of jacket in Ethernet cables. Plenum spaces in any building are those spaces that have regular air circulation. These spaces are for air-conditioning and heating in any infrastructure. Generally, spaces between the structural floor or a dropped ceiling are plenum spaces.
The major difference between plenum cables and other cables are jacket material. In the plenum-rated cables use a fire-retardant material which burns slowly and emits less intoxicated fumes as compared to the non-plenum-rated cables. Why is this important? When running cable in areas with airflow the spread of flames increases because of that. This is where Plenum cable comes in to play. Plenum CMP is the only permitted networking cables that can be installed in areas with airflow (Plenum spaces). By installing plenum rated cable, you help ensure that your building code is met along with safety standards.
Why do you need Plenum Cables in your Home?
The main aspect of installing these cables is safety. This point should be your prime focus when you are looking into the networking cables. Plenum cables go through the intensive flame testing to obey all the National Fire Protection Association standards. Plenum cables are less hazardous and emit the lowest number of fumes should there be a fire.
These cables perform well in areas with high temperatures. In plenum areas, you can expect the temperature to rise from time to time. This can be from outside conditions or equipment and working conditions. So aside from its safety benefit, you get the plus of operating at higher temperatures more efficiently than other insulation materials such as PVC.
There are many types of plenum cables such as Cat6 Plenum, Cat6a Plenum, and Cat5e Plenum. You can choose to accord to your networking requirements. If you are looking to buy premium-quality plenum cables, you can order them from NewYork Cables.
