Whats the difference between PVC and PLENUM Cable?
The reason for these two types of cable are for fire code safety standards of different types of buildings. Both cable types have the same speed performance. PVC stands for Poly Vinyl Chloride, which is the outer insulation jacket used around the copper wires. When it burns, it emits a poisonous smoke (think burning plastic). While, Plenum Rated jackets, a TEFLON product, burns at a much higher temperature and is not nearly as toxic. So, When should I use PVC and when should I use Plenum Rated Cable? PVC cable is about 1/3 the price of Plenum Rated cable. PVC can be used in almost all inside wall or floor applications in home or business/commercial settings. PVC is used in well over 90% of all cabling applications. Plenum rated cable is used in commercial building air Plenum ceilings where the return air is forced through the ceiling (may include drop down ceilings), rather than being ducted through air conditioning tubes. Thus Plenum cable must be used in this situation to prevent tox
