Plenum Cables: Types, Uses, and Specifications

  • Last modified: July 14, 2023
plenum-cable-types-uses

We also know a plenum cable as we use Ethernet networking cable in the plenum spaces of a building. Before we go further, let me tell you about the plenum spaces. Usually, plenum spaces are those spaces that lie between the floors of any building. As we use these spaces for the ventilation, that is why there is always continues air circulation between these spaces. Continues presence of oxygen makes these places highly sensitive to fire incidents. For these places, our plenum cables are a perfect choice.  We manufacture plenum cables with innovative technology. Special fire-retardant material use in the coating of these cables which increases their resistant against fire, hence making them a perfect fit for plenum places. Plenum cables have a Teflon jacket that does not burn off with dangerous smoke and flames.

Different Types of Plenum Cables:

There are numerous types available of these cables, because “Plenum Cable” is a generic term and it means cables which have Teflon jacket and coated with fire-retardant material. There are different cables available in the market like Cat5e, Cat6, and Cat6a. These cables are sold in the bulk of 1000ft. 

Cat6 Plenum Cable:

Category 6 planum cable or Cat6 Plenum Cable is communication multipurpose cable. Its jacket restricts it from fire hazards. As safety is a serious concern, cat6 plenum is observing safety fire standards. This cable is designed in such a way that it restricts flames advancement to only five feet. Unlike plastic, cat6 plenum does not burn with fumes and smoke.

What are the uses of Cat6 Plenum Cables?

Cat6 plenum provides better speed so we can use it for many networks like Ethernet, Fast Ethernet, and Gigabit Ethernet. To use this cable in your network, the first thing you need to determine is whether your building has plenum spaces. Most of the building has plenum spaces, but you can take two services of an expert in this matter. They also use Cat6 plenum in computer rooms and big IT centers because these places have cooling systems and raised floor, which is suitable for cat6 plenum.

What are the Advantages of Cat6 Plenum?

We use these cables in high-speed computer networks. It is also compatible with previous categories. Here are some of its advantages:

High-speed & Performance:

We know Cat6 plenum to handle high speed up to 250 MHZ. Due to fast performance, cat6 can handle fast ethernet networks like Gigabit Ethernet and 10-Gigabit Ethernet. The whole idea to develop the cat6 was to compliment fast networks.

Compatibility:

Cat6 has a similar plug and port as of cat5 and cat5e. That is why it plugs into any port or connection. Its backward compatibility makes is more user-friendly.

Upgradable:

Cat6 is gaining popularity in the networking industry. If you want to upgrade your network, this cable will work fine with your upgraded network just fine. Many small businesses are considering cat6 plenum for their networks.

Specification Cat5e Cat6 Cat6a
Cable Jacket Plenum, Riser & PVC Plenum, Riser & PVC Plenum & Riser
Wire Gauge 24-AWG 23-AWG 23-AWG Highly Twisted
Frequencies 350 MHZ 550 MHZ 750 MHZ
Installation Temp 0°C to 60°C 0°C to 60°C 0°C to 60°C
Pairs 4 Twisted Pairs 4 Twisted Pairs 4 Twisted Pairs
Package Easy Pull Box Easy Pull Box Wood Spool
Colors Black, Blue, White, Red, Green, Yellow Black, Blue, White, Red, Green, Yellow Black, Blue, White, Red, Green, Yellow
Standard Compliance ETL, FCC, CE, CSA, ISO/IES, RoHS FCC, CE, CSA, ISO/IES, RoHS ETL, FCC, CE, CSA, ISO/IES, RoHS
Written By:
Ryan

Ryan, a seasoned networking professional with over a decade of experience. He is passionate about all-things tech and avidly reads IT journals.


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