VOIP/SIP Cabling Recommendations – Brief Update

June 5, 2008
The National Electrical Code (NEC) has published by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), details advisory safety considerations for electrical wiring. NEC Article 800 Communications Cables describes the process of these different cable types. Most network cables have some sort of basic UL rating. The most common is PVC-PolyVinyl Chloride cable which is designed to not burn but will produce smoke and heat. To be sure, all cabling has printed on the outer jacket details about the product. The basic types of CAT-category TP-twisted pair cable are CAT-5/5e up to 100 MHZ (remember megahertz is not necessarily equivalent to MBS-mega bits per second), CAT-6 to 250 MHZ (used in up to 622 MBPS installations and CAT-7 (600 MHZ).
 
Aside from the speed rating, application rating is more critical. Here are the key types:
CMP (R-733, R-753) - The 'P' in CMP is for Plenum. Cables meeting type CMP requirements are suitable for installation in ducts, raceways and plenums without the use of conduit. These cables are designed for fire resistance and low-smoke and toxin producing characteristics. NOTE: Some sources indicate that CMR is not suitable for hot (above 104F) and high UV-Ultra Violet light plenum situations, however, there are manufacturers of UV-rated CMR (Beldon 1300A) of CAT5. 
CMR (R-731, R-751, R-756) - The 'R' in CRM is for 'Riser'. Riser type cables are engineered to prevent the spread of fire from floor to floor and are designed for vertical shaft applications. However, avoid more than 25 lbs (pounds) of pulling-tension in either CMP or CMR.
CM (R-732, R-752, R-757) - These are cables for general building wiring. CM cables are used in areas other than plenums and risers. These cables are resistant spreading fire and pass the UL 1581 Vertical Tray Flame Test.
 
Recommendation: check with your professional cabling provider, review their plan in detail prior to installation and then audit as once the cable is installed, ceiling/office disruption may not be possible or timely. That is, in order to achieve full Category 5e performance and 100TX compliance, all components must be Category 5e compliant and terminated properly according to EIA/TIA-568 TSB-36 and TSB-40 guidelines and tested with proper cable-certifying equipment. 
Some of the most common problems in VoIP installations is poor grounding, improper cable fastening, excessive bending and stretching, inadequate proximity to electrical power cables, fluorescent lighting (minimum one foot) and three feet for HVAC-heating ventilating air conditioners, water fountains, soda machines, space heaters, desk fans and similar devices.


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