Belden 1585A Cat5e UTP Solid Plenum is a CMP rated cable. The cable is designed to be used in plenum air-return spaces, such as drop ceilings. Plenum cable is commonly used for structured cabling projects such as vertical, horizontal, or backbone systems. Belden 1585A features a Flamarrest low smoke PVC jacket. Internally the cable consisted of 4 pair 24 AWG bare copper conductors. This bulk cable is in an easy-pull box and can be measured and cut to exact distances, then terminated to a connector, jack, or patch panel.
'Plenum' refers to the highest fire-resistance standard of the National Electrical Code (NEC). Many local building codes specify that plenum-rated cables must be used in plenum air-return spaces, such as drop ceilings. These cables have special fire-retardant jackets, but there is no performance difference between plenum and non-plenum cables. Because plenum cables meet the highest standard, they can be used in any application, but due to price differences it makes sense only to use plenum cables when necessary.
