CAT5E Plenum Ethernet Cable 165ft Red - High Speed, CMP Rated

In this review of the CAT5E Plenum Ethernet Cable 165ft Red, the bottom line is simple: this cable is for installers and IT pros who need a long, code-compliant run through plenum spaces while keeping reliable gigabit-capable performance. The reviewer found the solid 24 AWG copper conductors and CMP plenum jacket combine to deliver consistent connectivity up to 350MHz and a safer fire-resistant jacket for commercial air-handling spaces. This cable is built and assembled in the USA to a clear engineering checklist, making it a practical choice where standards and durability matter most.

Key Features

• Plenum CMP Rated: The fire-resistant, low-smoke jacket meets commercial plenum requirements so runs through air handling spaces comply with code.
• Solid 24 AWG Copper: Solid bare copper 24 AWG conductors preserve signal integrity for consistent gigabit networking and PoE delivery.
• Performance up to 350MHz: Category 5e enhanced design supports high-speed LAN traffic and common gigabit applications with headroom for stable throughput.
• RJ45 EZ Pass Through Connectors: Gold-plated contacts and strain relief boots provide durable, low-resistance terminations and easier installation.
• Made and Assembled in USA: Cable assemblies are put together in the USA from foreign and domestic parts, offering local quality control across multiple facilities.

Who It's For

This cable is aimed at network installers, building IT managers, and AV professionals who must run long Ethernet drops through ceilings or plenum airspaces and need a CMP-rated, UL ETL listed solution. The 165ft length and solid core design make it especially useful for fixed in-wall or ceiling runs where flexibility is less important than signal stability.

Home users who need short, flexible patch cables or those who prefer stranded cable for frequent movement should look elsewhere; this solid conductor cable is optimized for permanent installations rather than repeated flexing.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Plenum-rated jacket reduces smoke and flame risk for commercial air handling spaces.
• Solid 24 AWG copper ensures reliable signal performance for long runs and PoE devices.
• EZ pass-through RJ45 connectors with gold plating and strain relief provide durable terminations.
• Assembled in the USA for consistent build quality across production facilities.

Cons

• Solid core construction is not ideal for frequent flexing or portable use, so it is best for permanent installations.

Specifications

Cable Type	CAT5E 4-Pair UTP
Conductor	24 AWG Solid Copper
Cable Rating	CMP Plenum Rated
Connector Type	RJ45 EZ Pass Through with Strain Relief Boots
Performance	Up to 350 MHz
Compliance	UL ETL Listed, EIA/TIA-568 Compliant
Length and Color	165 ft, Red

Our Verdict

The CAT5E Plenum Ethernet Cable 165ft Red is a solid, code-conscious choice for commercial and structured cabling projects that require plenum-rated materials and reliable performance. Installers will appreciate the solid copper conductors and durable RJ45 terminations, while its assembly in the USA offers consistent build quality. It represents good value when a long, permanent run through plenum spaces is required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable safe for plenum air spaces?
Yes. The cable is CMP plenum rated with a fire-resistant, low-smoke jacket intended for plenum and air handling spaces.

Will this support gigabit Ethernet and PoE?
Yes. The CAT5e design with 24 AWG solid copper conductors supports gigabit networking and common PoE devices.

Is this cable suitable for patch panels and in-wall installations?
Yes. The solid conductor and RJ45 EZ pass through connectors are intended for permanent installations and in-wall or ceiling runs rather than frequent movement.