SYSTON 18/2 Plenum Shielded Control Cable CMP/CL3P - UV Resistant

In this review of the SYSTON 18/2 plenum shielded control cable, the reviewer finds it best suited for installers and facilities managers who need a reliable, flame retardant cable for low-voltage, power-limited systems. The single biggest reason to buy is its CMP plenum rating combined with full aluminum foil shielding, which makes it a practical choice where air-handling spaces and EMI protection are required. The review covers real-world handling, shielding effectiveness and typical applications based on product details and user feedback.

Key Features

• Plenum-rated CMP/CL3P: Provides the highest flame retardant protection for installation in ceiling and air-handling plenums, improving safety where ventilation spaces are used for air distribution.
• 100% Pure Copper Stranded Conductors: Stranded bare copper conductors deliver reliable conductivity and flexibility for frequent routing and termination in control panels and junction boxes.
• Aluminum Foil Shielding: Full foil shielding helps block electromagnetic interference, keeping signals clear for sensitive communications and alarm circuits.
• 300V CL3 Rating: The 300V rating and Class 3 power-limited design make the cable suitable for thermostats, access control, and other low-voltage circuits with a safety margin.
• UV Resistant Jacket: A UV resistant outer jacket allows the cable to be used in some exposed runs outdoors or in sunlit enclosures without rapid degradation.

Who It's For

This cable is aimed at electricians, security system installers, and building maintenance teams who need a single cable that meets plenum fire codes while also offering shielding for sensitive systems such as fire alarms, burglar stations, intercoms, and public address wiring. It is practical for projects where routing through ceiling plenums is required and EMI could interfere with performance.

It is less appropriate for heavy power distribution or high-voltage applications, and users needing thicker gauge power conductors should look for a cable specified for higher current capacity. Those who require unshielded simple bell wire for very low-cost, noncritical runs may find this cable over-specified.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Excellent flame retardant rating for plenum use, reducing fire risk in air-handling spaces.
• Good shielding performance noted by users, keeping LED lighting and communication lines free from interference.
• Stranded copper gives flexibility and dependable conductivity for control and alarm terminations.
• UV resistant jacket and 300V rating increase versatility for indoor/outdoor low-voltage installations.

Cons

• Some users report the cable feels thin for certain mechanical routing tasks, so extra care is needed when pulling through conduit.

Specifications

Conductor	Stranded bare copper
Pair count	18/2
Shielding	Aluminum foil shield
Plenum rating	CMP / CL3P / FT6
Voltage rating	300V (CL3)
Use cases	Fire alarm, security, intercom, PA, access control

Our Verdict

The SYSTON 18/2 plenum shielded control cable is a solid, code-compliant choice for installers who need plenum-rated, EMI-protected wiring for low-voltage, power-limited systems. It pairs reliable copper conductors with effective shielding and a 300V rating, offering good value for projects that run through ceilings or require noise rejection. Buy it when plenum rating and shielding matter; choose a heavier gauge if you need greater mechanical robustness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can this cable be used in ceiling plenums?
Yes. The cable is CMP plenum-rated, making it suitable for installation in ceiling and air-handling spaces where plenum ratings are required.

Is the shielding effective for noisy environments?
The aluminum foil shielding provides good protection against EMI and has been reported by customers to keep signals clear for LED lighting and communication circuits.

Is this cable suitable for outdoor runs?
The jacket is UV resistant so it can be used in some exposed outdoor runs, but installations requiring burial or direct exposure to harsh weather should consider additional protection or specially rated outdoor cable.