Cat6 Plenum vs. Cat6 Non-Plenum: Which One Should You Choose?
If you are planning to install a new network in your office or upgrading the existing one, you may have come across the terms "Cat6 Plenum" and "Cat6 Non-Plenum." These terms refer to the type of cables used for network installations. The choice of cable depends on several factors, including the type of building you have, the safety regulations in your area, and your budget. In this article, we will discuss the differences between Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables and help you decide which one is suitable for your needs.
What are Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum Cables?
Before we dive into the differences between the two types of cables, let's first define what Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are.
Cat6 Plenum Cables
Cat6 Plenum cables are designed for use in plenum spaces, which are the areas in a building used for air circulation. Plenum spaces are often found in commercial buildings, such as offices, schools, and hospitals. The cables used in these areas must meet certain safety regulations to ensure that they do not release toxic fumes in case of fire.
Cat6 Non-Plenum Cables
Cat6 Non-Plenum cables, on the other hand, are designed for use in areas that do not require plenum-rated cables. These cables are suitable for use in residential buildings, small offices, and other areas that do not have plenum spaces.
Differences Between Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum Cables
Now that we know what Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are let's take a look at the differences between the two.
Construction
Cat6 Plenum cables are made of special insulation material that is designed to limit the spread of fire and reduce the release of toxic fumes. This insulation material is typically made of Teflon or other low-smoke, halogen-free (LSZH) materials.
Cat6 Non-Plenum cables, on the other hand, use standard PVC insulation. This material is not suitable for use in plenum spaces as it can release toxic fumes in case of fire.
Safety
The main reason for using Cat6 Plenum cables is safety. These cables are designed to meet safety regulations and prevent the spread of fire and toxic fumes in case of a fire. This makes them ideal for use in commercial buildings, schools, hospitals, and other areas where safety is a top priority.
Cat6 Non-Plenum cables, on the other hand, do not meet safety regulations for use in plenum spaces. Using non-plenum cables in these areas can pose a safety risk and could result in fines or other penalties.
Cost
Cat6 Plenum cables are more expensive than Cat6 Non-Plenum cables. This is due to the special insulation material used in plenum-rated cables. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider using non-plenum cables, but only if you are not installing the network in a plenum.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation and maintenance of Cat6 Plenum cable 1000ft and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are similar. The only difference is that you need to take extra precautions when installing plenum-rated cables to avoid damaging the insulation material.
Compatibility
Both Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are compatible with the same networking equipment. The only difference is the insulation material used in plenum-rated cables.
Environmental Concerns
Another important factor to consider when choosing between Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables is their impact on the environment. Plenum-rated cables are more environmentally friendly as they are made of LSZH materials that are less harmful to the environment. Non-plenum cables, on the other hand, are made of PVC, which is harmful to the environment.
Why Use Cat6 Plenum Cables?
Cat6 Plenum cables are the best choice for use in plenum spaces. They meet safety regulations and prevent the spread of fire and toxic fumes in case of a fire. If you are installing a network in a commercial building, school, or hospital, it is highly recommended to use plenum-rated cables.
Why Use Cat6 Non-Plenum Cables?
Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are suitable for use in residential buildings, small offices, and other areas that do not require plenum-rated cables. They are less expensive than plenum-rated cables and are compatible with the same networking equipment.
Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables depends on several factors, including the type of building you have, the safety regulations in your area, and your budget.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum Cables
When choosing between Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables, you should consider the following factors:
Cost Comparison
Cat6 Plenum cables are more expensive than Cat6 Non-Plenum cables due to the special insulation material used in plenum-rated cables. If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider using non-plenum cables, but only if you are not installing the network in a plenum space.
Installation and Maintenance
Installation and maintenance of Cat6 Plenum 1000ft and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are similar. However, you need to take extra precautions when installing plenum-rated cables to avoid damaging the insulation material.
Safety Regulations
If you are installing a network in a commercial building, school, hospital, or any other area that requires plenum-rated cables, you must use Cat6 Plenum cables. Using non-plenum cables in these areas can pose a safety risk and could result in fines or other penalties.
Environmental Concerns
If you are concerned about the environment, you should consider using Cat6 Plenum cables as they are made of LSZH materials that are less harmful to the environment.
Compatibility
Both Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are compatible with the same networking equipment. The only difference is the insulation material used in plenum-rated cables.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cat6 Plenum and Cat6 Non-Plenum cables are designed for different applications. If you are installing a network in a plenum space, you must use Cat6 Plenum cables to ensure safety and meet regulations. If you are installing a network in a residential building or a small office, you can use Cat6 Non-Plenum cables to save on costs. When choosing between the two types of cables, you should consider factors such as cost, safety regulations, environmental concerns, installation and maintenance, and compatibility.