CAT5e (CMP) Plenum Cable 1000FT - Solid 24AWG 4Pair, 350MHz

In this review the CAT5e (CMP) Plenum Cable 1000FT is evaluated as a budget-friendly, installer-focused network cable for indoor plenum spaces. The bottom line: it is best for network installers and small businesses that need a long run of plenum-rated cable with consistent performance up to 350MHz and straightforward box dispensing. The reviewer found the cable meets Cat5e performance expectations, is easy to identify by color, and delivers Gigabit-capable connectivity while coming in a practical easy-pull box for long runs.

Key Features

• Plenum rated jacket: Designed for use in air plenum spaces above ceilings or below raised floors for safer indoor installations.
• 350MHz tested: Offers bandwidth beyond basic Cat5e so it supports stable Fast and Gigabit Ethernet in most environments.
• 24AWG solid conductor: Solid core construction provides consistent signal integrity for fixed runs and wall terminations.
• Easy pull box packaging: The 1000 ft reel in box reduces tangling and makes long cable pulls smoother with sequential foot markings.
• Standards compliance: Constructed to meet or exceed TIA/EIA 568-C.2 and is RoHS compliant for material safety.

Who It's For

The cable is aimed at IT technicians, small business network installs, and homeowners running structured Ethernet through ceilings or under raised floors where a plenum-rated jacket is required. Its solid 24AWG conductor and Cat5e classification make it appropriate for patch panel to wall jack runs and other permanent in-wall wiring.

It is less suited for installers who need extreme flexibility for constant re-routing or for temporary patching that subjects the cable to repeated bending; customers looking for stranded leads for frequent moves should look for a patch cable alternative.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable Cat5e performance with testing to 350MHz for stable Fast and Gigabit Ethernet.
• Plenum-rated jacket suitable for installations in air handling spaces.
• Easy pull box with sequential markings reduces waste and speeds installation.
• Clear color options make tracing and organization straightforward.

Cons

• Some installers reported kinking and occasional snagging during pulls, which can complicate tight runs.
• A few users noted spool durability issues when the plastic reel is stressed during transport.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The CAT5e (CMP) Plenum Cable 1000FT is a practical choice for in-wall and ceiling runs where plenum rating matters and cost per foot is important. It delivers dependable Cat5e performance, clear color coding, and an installer-friendly box, making it a good value for businesses and residential structured wiring. Installers who need highly flexible temporary cables should consider stranded alternatives.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable safe for plenum spaces?
Yes; the cable features a CMP plenum rated jacket intended for use above suspended ceilings and below raised floors.

Can it handle Gigabit Ethernet?
Yes; with 24 AWG solid conductors and testing to 350 MHz, it supports Fast and Gigabit Ethernet for typical installations.

Does the box reduce tangles during pulls?
The easy pull box with sequential foot markings is designed to reduce tangling and help manage long runs, though careful handling is still recommended to avoid kinks.