Plenum vs Riser Cable: Which Cat6a to Choose?


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When it comes to choosing the right type of Cat6a cable 1000ft, two popular options are plenum and riser cables. But what’s the difference between the two, and which one is the best choice for your needs? 

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at Bulk Cat6a plenum and riser cables, their differences, and their similarities. We will also walk you through the key considerations you should take into account when making your decision.

What is a Plenum Cable?

Plenum cables, also known as “CMP” cables, are for use in the spaces within the building’s structure known as “plenums.” These are the spaces above the ceiling tiles and below the floorboards that are used for ventilation. Building codes in many jurisdictions require the use of these cables. Because they are made of flame-retardant materials and produce less non-toxic smoke in the event of a fire.

CMP Cables are typically made of a solid or stranded copper conductor. The outer jacket is typically coated with flame-retardant insulation material.

One of the main advantages of Cat6a plenum cable bare copper is that they offer improved airflow compared to riser cables. This is because the cables are designed to be more flexible and have a lower profile. This allows for better air circulation in the plenum space. 

Additionally, Bulk Cat6a plenum cables are more resistant to the spread of fire, making them a safer choice in the event of a fire.

What is a Riser Cable?

Riser cables such as the Bulk Cat6a Riser are designed for use in vertical shafts or risers within a building. Such as those found in walls, floors, and ceilings. They connect different floors or levels of a building. But they are not for use in air-handling spaces because they may pose a fire hazard.

Riser cables are typically made of stranded copper conductors and have a premium-quality PVC jacket. They are not required to meet the same flame-retardant standards as bulk Cat6a plenum cables. Because cables such as Cat6a riser cable are for use in enclosed spaces, their jackets can emit toxic smoke should they catch fire. 

One of the main advantages of riser cables is their cost-effectiveness compared to plenum cables. They are generally less expensive to produce and a more budget-friendly option for some applications. 

Choosing Between Plenum and Riser Cables

When deciding between plenum and riser cables, keep the following considerations in mind. 

Building codes and regulations

As mentioned, plenum cables are required by building codes in many jurisdictions. Because they are made of flame-retardant materials and produce less smoke and toxic fumes in the event of a fire. 

If you are installing cables in a building, be sure to check with local building codes to determine what type of cable is required.

Application

Cat6a Plenum bare copper cables are designed for use in air handling spaces, while riser cables are designed for use in vertical shafts. Be sure to choose the right type of cable for your specific application to ensure it meets the necessary requirements and performs optimally.

Cost

Plenum cables are generally more expensive than riser cables due to their flame-retardant materials and construction. If cost is a major concern, riser cables may be a more budget-friendly option. 

However, it’s important to keep in mind that plenum cables offer improved safety in the event of a fire. And most preferably, you should not compromise the safety of your network. 

Compatibility with networking equipment 

Both plenum and riser cables are available in various lengths and with different connectors, such as standard Ethernet connectors or shielded connectors. 

Be sure to choose a cable that is compatible with your networking equipment and meets your specific needs.

Future Proof

If you plan to expand your network in the future, it’s important to choose a cable that can accommodate this growth. Bulk Cat6a plenum 1000ft Cables are generally more flexible and have a lower profile. Therefore a good choice for situations where there may be a need for future expansion.

Bulk Cat6a Cables

If you are planning to install a large network, you may be interested in purchasing bulk Cat6a cables. These cables come in spools of 1000 feet or more. And can be a more cost-effective option compared to buying individual cables.

Bulk Cat6a plenum and riser cables are available in both solid and stranded copper conductor options. Cat6a Plenum Solid Copper cables are more durable and have lower resistance. That is why they are a good choice for long-distance runs or high-bandwidth applications. Stranded copper conductor cables, on the other hand, are more flexible. And better suited for situations where cables will be moved or flexed frequently.

Cat6a Plenum Solid Copper vs. Cat6a Plenum Bare Copper

When it comes to plenum cables, you have the option to choose between solid copper and bare copper conductor options. Solid copper conductor cables are made of a single, solid piece of copper wire. Bare copper conductor cables are made of multiple strands of copper wire that are not coated with any additional insulation.

Cat6a Plenum Solid Copper cables are generally more durable and have a lower resistance. Hence, these cables are a good choice for long-distance runs or high-bandwidth applications. They are also less prone to damage and less likely to suffer from signal degradation over time.

Stranded copper conductor cables are also generally less expensive than solid copper conductor cables.

Conclusion

When it comes to choosing between Cat6a plenum and bulk Cat6a riser cables, there are a few key factors to consider. These factors include building codes and regulations, the specific application, cost, compatibility with networking equipment, and future expansion. Both plenum and 1000ft Cat6a riser cables are available in bulk quantities and in solid and stranded copper conductor options.


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