CAT5e Plenum (CMP) Cable 1000FT - High Performance 24AWG Network Cable

In this review of the CAT5e Plenum (CMP) Cable 1000FT, the bottom line is straightforward: this is a workhorse network cable for installers and small to medium commercial projects that need a fire-safe, easy-to-deploy Ethernet run. The reviewer found the cable meets the main technical needs-24 AWG, 4-pair construction with a plenum rated jacket and Fluke passed performance up to 350MHz-while the easy pull box makes long runs less painful. It is best for those who prioritize compliance and installation speed over premium flexibility or specialty shielding.

Key Features

• Plenum rated jacket: The CMP jacket is fire safety rated for use in air plenum spaces above ceilings or below raised floors, making it suitable for commercial installations that require plenum compliance.
• High bandwidth: Tested to 350MHz and Fluke passed, the cable supports Fast and Gigabit Ethernet for reliable data transfer across typical LAN and office deployments.
• 4 pair 24 AWG conductor: The 24 AWG 4-pair construction delivers consistent signal performance and is compatible with most networking gear, from switches to VoIP phones and IP cameras.
• Center separator/spline: The spline keeps pairs separated to reduce crosstalk and maintains cable geometry for more stable signal performance over distance.
• Easy pull box packaging: The 1000 ft box provides sequential foot marking and a tangle-free feed, which speeds installation and reduces handling frustration on long runs.

Who It's For

This cable is aimed at IT contractors, systems integrators, and facility managers who need a plenum-rated, code-compliant Ethernet cable for office buildings, schools, or commercial spaces. The combination of CMP jacketing and Fluke tested performance makes it a pragmatic choice for structured cabling where safety and predictable Gigabit operation are important.

DIY home users who do not need plenum rating or who require ultra-flexible or shielded cable for electrically noisy environments should consider alternatives. Also, if jacket durability during rough handling is a top concern, testers reported some issues with the pull box plastic and tougher handling scenarios may warrant a different packaging choice.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Plenum rated jacket for code-compliant installation in air handling spaces.
• Fluke passed and tested to 350MHz, supporting reliable Fast and Gigabit Ethernet.
• Easy pull 1000 ft box with sequential foot marking reduces installation time.
• Center separator reduces crosstalk and helps maintain consistent signal geometry.

Cons

• Some customers reported durability issues with the box opening plastic and that the cable can be stiff to work with during termination.
• No shielding (UTP) means it is not ideal for environments with heavy electromagnetic interference.

Specifications

Length	1000 ft
Conductor	24 AWG, 4 pair (8C)
Bandwidth	Up to 350MHz
Rating	Plenum (CMP) fire rated jacket
Type	Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP)
Standards	Meets or exceeds ANSI TIA/EIA 568-C.2; RoHS compliant

Our Verdict

The CAT5e Plenum 1000 ft cable is a practical, cost-conscious choice for commercial and structured cabling projects that require plenum compliance and dependable Gigabit-capable performance. It offers good installation convenience with the easy pull box and solid electrical characteristics, though installers who need softer jacket flexibility or shielding should look elsewhere.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for use above a suspended ceiling?
The CMP plenum rated jacket is designed for air plenum spaces, so it is appropriate for runs above suspended ceilings when local codes require plenum rated cable.

Can this cable handle Gigabit Ethernet?
Yes. The cable is tested to 350MHz and is suitable for Fast and Gigabit Ethernet connections in typical LAN deployments.

Does the product include sequential length markings?
Yes. The 1000 ft easy pull box includes sequential foot marking to help with measurement and installation.