Plenum vs Non Plenum PVC Network Ethernet Cables.

Summary

This video explains the distinctions between PVC-rated network cables: Plenum, Riser, and General Purpose. Plenum cables, also known as CMP, are essential for open air spaces like plenums, where they must be highly fire-resistant and non-toxic. Riser cables, or CMR, are for vertical runs between floors, with moderate fire safety. General Purpose cables, the cheapest, are for minimal fire hazard areas. The video emphasizes the importance of selecting the right cable for specific environments to ensure safety.

Takeaways

• 🔌 The primary difference between PVC-rated network cables is the outer jacket material and its fire resistance, not the internal wiring or category (Cat 5, Cat 6, Cat 7).
• 🏢 'Plenum' cables are designed for use in spaces with open air flow circulation, such as between drop ceilings and structural ceilings, and must be more fire-resistant and non-toxic when burned.
• 🔥 Plenum cables, also known as CMP (Communications Multi-Purpose Plenum), are certified by Underwriters Laboratories for use in open air environments and are designed to meet stringent fire safety standards.
• 💸 Plenum cables are more expensive than non-plenum cables due to their specialized materials like Teflon FEP, which is a flame retardant.
• 🚫 Non-plenum PVC cables are cheaper but not recommended for plenum areas as they are less fire retardant and can release toxic gases like hydrochloric acid and dioxin when burned.
• 🏢 CMR (Communications Multi-Purpose Riser) cables are used vertically between floors in buildings and are designed to prevent fire spread, with less strict fire ratings than plenum cables.
• 🏠 CM (Communications Multi-Purpose) cables are general-use network cables with minimal fire restrictions, suitable for connecting devices to wall jacks.
• 💰 CM cables are the most cost-effective option among the three types of PVC-rated cables.
• 📈 The safety standards for plenum, riser, and CM cables decrease in that order, with plenum having the highest and CM the lowest.

Q & A

What is the primary difference between PVC rated network cables?

The primary difference between PVC rated network cables is the type of outer jacket material and its fire resistance rating, which can be Plenum, Riser, or General Purpose.

Why are Plenum cables necessary in certain building environments?

Plenum cables are necessary in plenum areas, which are spaces with open air flow circulation like the area between a drop ceiling and the structural ceiling. These cables are more fire-resistant and do not produce toxic fumes when burned, which is crucial for preventing harm to humans through air conditioning systems.

What does the term 'plenum' refer to in the context of network cables?

In the context of network cables, 'plenum' refers to a space in a building where there is open air flow circulation, typically between the drop ceiling and the structural ceiling.

What is the abbreviation CMP and how does it relate to Plenum cables?

CMP stands for Communications Multi-Purpose Plenum and relates to Plenum cables as it is a type of cable approved by Underwriters Laboratories for use in open air environments with high fire safety standards.

What material is used for the outer jacket of Plenum cables and why?

The outer jacket of Plenum cables is made with special plastics and coated with Teflon FEP, a flame retardant made by DuPont, to ensure they are fire-resistant and do not release toxic gases when burned.

Why are non-plenum PVC cables not recommended for use in plenum areas?

Non-plenum PVC cables are not recommended for use in plenum areas because they are not as fire retardant and can release toxic gases such as hydrochloric acid and dioxin when burned, posing a risk to human health.

What is the purpose of CMR rated cables and where are they typically installed?

CMR rated cables, or Communications Multi-Purpose Cable Riser, are designed for vertical installation between floors in a building. They are used in risers or vertical shafts to prevent fires from spreading between floors.

How do the fire safety standards of CMR cables compare to Plenum cables?

CMR cables have lower fire safety standards compared to Plenum cables and are not recommended for use in plenum areas due to their less stringent fire ratings.

What is the difference between CM and Plenum rated cables in terms of safety standards?

CM, or Communications Multi-Purpose, cables have minimal fire restrictions and are used for general purposes, while Plenum rated cables have the highest safety standards, making them suitable for hazardous open air spaces.

Why are Plenum cables more expensive than non-plenum cables?

Plenum cables are more expensive because they are made with special flame-retardant materials and must meet stringent fire safety test standards, ensuring they are more fire-resistant and do not produce toxic fumes when burned.

In what type of environment are CM cables typically used and why?

CM cables are used in rooms and have minimal safety standards. They are typically used to connect computers or network devices to a wall jack for network access and are the cheapest option among the three types of PVC rated cables.