SYSTON 18/6 Fire Security Burglar Station Control Cable - Plenum Rated

In this review the SYSTON 18/6 control cable is assessed for installers and facilities managers who need a reliable plenum-rated wire for fire alarm, security and low-voltage control circuits. The single biggest reason to buy is its CMP plenum rating combined with stranded pure copper conductors, which make it a safe choice for plenum spaces while delivering consistent conductivity for sensitive systems. The reviewer tested handling, shielding and suitability for typical building low-voltage runs and found it practical for both new installations and retrofit work.

Key Features

• Plenum Rated CMP: The CMP/CL3P/FT6 flame retardant jacket lets the cable run through ceiling plenums and air handling spaces where higher fire performance is required.
• Pure Copper Conductors: Stranded bare copper cores provide flexible handling and reliable conductivity for alarms, intercoms and other power-limited circuits.
• Aluminum Foil Shielding: The foil shield reduces electromagnetic interference for clearer signal transmission in communication and control applications.
• 300V CL3 Rating: A 300V insulation rating fits Class 3 power-limited uses like thermostats, access control and nurse call systems with an added safety margin.
• UV Resistant Jacket: The outer jacket offers UV resistance suitable for exposed indoor/outdoor low-voltage runs where sunlight effect may be a concern.

Who It's For

The cable is aimed at electrical contractors, security integrators and building maintenance teams who need a plenum-rated, shielded control cable for fire alarm, security burglar stations, public address and intercom systems. It is especially useful where runs pass through ceilings and return-air plenum spaces and where EMI mitigation is important.

Home hobbyists doing low-voltage LED lighting or simple speaker wiring may find the cable more robust and costly than necessary; those projects that do not require plenum rating can consider non-CMP alternatives. Also, if heavier gauge solid conductors are required for long power runs, this stranded control cable may not be ideal.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• High flame-retardant CMP jacket allows safe use in plenum spaces, meeting stricter building code needs.
• Stranded bare copper conductors are flexible and provide dependable conductivity for control and communication signals.
• Aluminum foil shielding helps maintain signal integrity in noisy electrical environments.
• Customers report good value and easy handling, with the cable dispensing without tangling during installation.

Cons

• Some users describe the cable as relatively thin for certain applications, so confirm gauge suitability for your load and run length.

Specifications

Conductor	Stranded bare copper
Pair/Count	18/6 control configuration
Shielding	Aluminum foil shield
Jacket Rating	CMP / CL3P / FT6 (Plenum Rated)
Voltage Rating	300V (CL3)
UV Resistance	UV resistant jacket for indoor/outdoor low-voltage use

Our Verdict

The SYSTON 18/6 control cable is a pragmatic choice for professional installers who need a plenum-rated, shielded solution for fire alarm, security and other power-limited circuits. Its combination of stranded copper conductors and foil shielding delivers reliable signal performance, and the CMP rating justifies the price for installs that pass through air plenums. For those needing lighter, non-plenum cable or larger power conductors, a different option may be more economical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for plenum spaces?
Yes, it carries a CMP/CL3P/FT6 plenum rating, which makes it suitable for use in building plenum and air handling spaces.

Can this cable be used outdoors?
The jacket is UV resistant, so it can be used for exposed low-voltage runs, but it is primarily intended for indoor and protected outdoor applications rather than direct burial.

Will the shielding prevent interference?
The aluminum foil shield reduces EMI and helps keep signals clear for sensitive communications and alarm lines, improving reliability in noisy environments.