Plenum Cat 5 Cable
In discussing what a Plenum CAT 5 cable is, let’s break it down to make it easier to understand. First, we’ll look at what a cable is. Next, we’ll discuss CAT 5 cables. Finally, we’ll turn our eyes to Plenum CAT 5 cables. What is a cable? A cable, as its being used here, is referring to a computer networking cable. This type of cable is used for the transmission of data across a network. There are different kinds of cables that can be used. Ethernet cables, coaxial cables, and fiber optic cables are a few examples of network cable. While ethernet and coaxial cables used electricity to transmit information, fiber optic cables use light. Each type of cable has different subcategories. Next, let’s discuss CAT 5 cables. What is a CAT 5 cable? CAT 5 is an abbreviated form of Category 5. It typically refers to one of the subcategories of the Ethernet cable category. While there are now seven or eight categories, CAT 5 is still the most popular one used. A CAT 5 cable has eight wires inside, each wrapped around each other in pairs. This is commonly known as twisted pair cable. The four twisted pairs are inside a sheath (or outside layer). Sheaths can be made of different material and come in two “flavors”—standard or Plenum. What is a Plenum CAT 5 cable? A Plenum CAT 5 cable has an outer sheath that complies with ANSI standards with regards to low smoke production and flame retardance. Standard cables can put off hazardous fumes should the house or building catch on fire. In areas where the network cable will pass through the actual living or working space, fire codes may require that you use a Plenum cable. In order for cable to meet the standards of most fire codes, it must be difficult for the cable to catch fire. Also, if it were to catch fire, it must not produce hazardous fumes. Plenum cable is made of a flourinated ethylene polymer (FEP) or a low-smoke polyvinyl chloride (PVC). In terms of data transmission, plenum and standard are the same. Do I need Plenum CAT 5 cable? This all depends. If you are working for a company and were required to comply with HIPPA regulations, you probably will have to use Plenum cabling. The average office or home does not require it, however. It should also be pointed out that Plenum rated cable costs considerably more than standard cabling. It is roughly three times as expensive. It is also more rigid, making it more complicated to work with. If it turns out you do need Plenum CAT 5 cable wires, you can purchase them any many retail computer outlets. Of course, you can buy nearly anything online, including these cables.
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