How to Run and Install a Plenum Cable

You may find it necessary to run and install a plenum cable. A plenum cable is a cable that is installed into the plenum space of a building. The plenum space in a building is that area or space above a dropped ceiling created to circulate air for the heating and air conditioning system of the building. These plenum spaces are an ideal location for installing and running telephone and network cables throughout a building. Any type of cable, whether it be Ethernet, telephone or cable, that are installed or run through the plenum space is referred to as a plenum cable.

Plenum cables are required to meet specialized fire and safety regulations due to their location. All plenum rated cables must be protected with a specialized type of plastic coating or jacket. The specialized jacket or coating is required because these cables are run through plenum spaces that have little or no fire resistant barriers.

Running and installing a plenum cable is not a difficult task, and can be performed with minimal effort and supplies.

Step 1 – Plan Cable Route

The first step to running or installing plenum cable is to plan the route where the cable will be installed. You need to determine the starting point of the cable as well as the path the cable will run through the plenum space to reach your desired ending point. Check the plenum space along your desired path to ensure there are no wall or room barriers in your path. As well, try to create a path that will prevent your cable from lying directly above a florescent light, as florescent lights can diminish cable productivity over time. As well, be certain to use proper ladder safety by having a ladder that is tall enough to reach into the plenum space and by having a spotter at the bottom of your ladder to secure it for you while you work.

Step 2 – Start Installation

Once you know your desired path, you can begin the installation process. You need to begin in your starting point, whether it is a network center, telephone box or cable intake. It is best to have your cable wrapped our wound together to make the installation process smoother. Run your plenum cable up and into your plenum space. You may have to remove ceiling tiles as you go throughout the installation process. Your cable can lie directly on top of the frames of your ceiling tiles. If you are installing multiple types of cable, it is best to keep them bunched together or ties together with loose fitting zip ties.

Step 3 – Continue Installing

Lay the cable in the plenum space and move across your desired path. Once you reach your desired destination, it is best to drop the cable from the ceiling or plenum space along a wall to prevent the cable from hanging in an open area. You can drop the cable and secure with clips to a wall to run to your destination, or drop the cable into a cable column if your building was designed with these.