Cat5e CMP Plenum Bulk Ethernet Cable 1000ft - True Plenum Safety

In this review the ICC Cat5e CMP Plenum 1000ft bulk Ethernet cable is evaluated for installers and IT managers who need code-compliant, plenum-rated network runs. The bottom line: this cable is best for indoor, air-handling spaces because it combines UL listed plenum safety with 100% solid bare copper conductors and a tangle-free REELEX pull box, making long runs safer and faster to deploy. It is not a novelty cable; it is built to meet NEC requirements and handle PoE++ loads for powered devices.

Key Features

• UL listed plenum-rated: The low-smoke PVC jacket self-extinguishes and prevents re-ignition so runs in ducts and plenums meet fire-safety codes.
• NEC compliant copper conductors: 100% annealed solid bare copper conductors satisfy NEC Section 800.179 for reliable signal and reduced failure risk.
• PoE++ capable: Four twisted pairs support up to 100W Power over Ethernet, suitable for cameras and other powered network devices.
• REELEX tangle-free pull box: The 1000ft reel packaging eliminates unwinding hassles and speeds installation in ceilings and raceways.
• High frequency performance: Rated to 350MHz and ETL/UL listed for consistent support of Fast Ethernet and Gigabit Ethernet applications.
• Made in USA and compliant: Meets TAA, Section 889, RoHS, and TIA/IEEE standards for government and commercial installs.

Who It's For

This cable is aimed at professional installers, builders, and facility IT teams running network infrastructure through plenum spaces, raised floors, or air-handling areas where safety-rated plenum cable is required. The 1000ft bulk length and sequential footage markings make it practical for long backbone runs or multi-drop deployments.

Home users or installers who do not need plenum-rated cable and want a cheaper non-plenum option should look elsewhere, since the specialized low-smoke jacket and compliance features add cost and are unnecessary outside regulated spaces.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• True plenum UL listing and low-smoke jacket for compliant in-duct installations.
• Solid 24AWG annealed copper conductors for stable signal and NEC compliance.
• REELEX no-tangle 1000ft pull box with footage markings simplifies long installs.
• Supports PoE++ and 350MHz performance for modern network devices.

Cons

• Plenum-rated cable usually costs more than non-plenum alternatives, so it may be overkill for casual home installs.
• Solid conductor cable is less flexible than stranded types for frequent movement or patch cord use.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The ICC Cat5e CMP plenum 1000ft cable is a practical choice for professional installations that require code compliance and reliable power delivery over Ethernet. Its UL plenum rating, solid copper conductors, and REELEX packaging deliver safe, efficient runs in air-handling spaces, making it good value for contractors and IT teams despite a higher price than non-plenum alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for plenum spaces?
Yes. It is CMP plenum-rated and UL listed for use in air-handling ducts, raised floors, and similar plenum areas.

Can it carry PoE for cameras and access points?
Yes. The Cat5e cable supports PoE++ and is rated to handle up to 100W for powered devices.

Is the cable easy to deploy from the box?
Yes. The REELEX II tangle-free pull box and sequential footage markings make long runs and measurement straightforward.