Riser Ethernet Cables

Description

Ethernet Riser Cables for Safe Installation

Bulk Ethernet riser cables are designed for vertical cable runs between floors in non-plenum spaces. They are jacketed with a CMR-rated PVC compound, offering flame resistance to prevent vertical flame propagation. Whether you’re installing Cat5e Ethernet cable riser, Cat6 Ethernet cable riser, or Cat6a Ethernet cable riser, these cables meet strict NEC safety codes for riser shafts and walls.

Technical Features of Riser Ethernet Cables

Riser jackets are more cost-effective while still ensuring fire safety for in-wall and floor-to-floor applications. Available in multiple lengths and categories, including Riser blue Ethernet cable and other jacket colors, these cables are ideal for permanent building infrastructure.

Jacket Material and Flame Resistance

Ethernet riser cable uses CMR-rated PVC jackets tested under UL 1666. These jackets resist vertical flame spread while maintaining flexibility for installation in conduits and riser shafts.

Conductor Composition

Options include 23–24 AWG solid bare copper conductors for stable performance in long vertical runs. Stranded copper riser patch cables are also available for flexibility in racks and termination points.

Bandwidth Support by Category

• Cat5e Ethernet cable riser: Up to 100 MHz, supporting 1 Gbps over 100 meters.
• Cat6 riser Ethernet cable: Up to 250 MHz, supporting Gigabit and 10 Gigabit (up to 55 meters).
• Cat6a Ethernet cable riser: Up to 500 MHz, supporting 10 Gigabit Ethernet over the full 100-meter channel.

Installation Notes

Running Ethernet riser cable under the house is acceptable as long as the crawlspace is not classified as a plenum area. Always verify local code requirements before installation.

Buying Guide for Riser Cables

• Choose a category (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a) based on network bandwidth needs.
• Select solid copper riser cable for permanent installs; stranded copper for short patching.
• Match jacket color to network labeling standards.
• Ensure compliance with UL 1666 flame test.
• For EMI-prone sites, pick shielded riser Ethernet cables.

FAQs

What is an Ethernet riser cable?

It is a CMR-rated Ethernet cable built for vertical runs between floors in non-plenum spaces, offering fire-resistant PVC jackets to meet NEC building codes.

Can I unplug my Ethernet cable while the computer is on?

Yes, unplugging an Ethernet cable while powered on is safe. Data transfer may stop abruptly, but it will not harm the device or the cable.

What is the difference between riser and plenum cables?

Riser cables use CMR PVC jackets for fire resistance in vertical shafts, while plenum cables use CMP-rated low-smoke jackets for ducts and air spaces.

Can riser cables be used outdoors?

Riser cables are not UV-resistant or waterproof. Use direct burial or outdoor-rated Ethernet cables for external applications.

What AWG size is common in riser cables?

Most riser cables use 23–24 AWG solid bare copper conductors, offering excellent conductivity and stability for building infrastructure.

Are riser cables suitable for PoE applications?

Yes, solid copper riser-rated Ethernet cables can safely support PoE, PoE+, and PoE++, depending on the category rating.