CMP vs CMR: Which Cable Type Do You Need for Your Installation?

Selecting the right cable for your network installation is essential for both safety and performance. When working with structured cabling systems, you’ll come across terms like CMP and CMR, each referring to different cable types that are rated for specific environments.

Understanding the difference between CMP (plenum-rated) and CMR (riser-rated) cables is crucial for ensuring you choose the best one for your project. In this article, we’ll break down these two cable types, their uses, and help you determine which one is suitable for your next installation.

What Do CMR and CMP Stand for?

Before diving into the differences between CMP and CMR, let’s start by clarifying the terms. CMP stands for Communications Multipurpose Plenum cable whereas the CMR stands for Communications Multipurpose Riser cable. Both terms refer to different cable ratings that are designed for specific environments in a building.

Understanding Cable Ratings: Why It Matters

Cable ratings are defined by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and other regulatory bodies to ensure safety in case of fire. Different environments within a building are given different ratings based on the risk level, ventilation, and accessibility.

CMP cables are rated for use in plenum spaces, which are the areas used for air circulation in heating and cooling systems. On the other hand, CMR cables are rated for use in riser spaces, which are vertical spaces used to carry cables between floors.

What is the Difference Between CMR and CMP Cable?

The core difference between CMR and CMP lies in their fire-resistance ratings and usage environments. There are some key points to consider.

For instance, CMP cables have a more stringent fire resistance standard. They’re specifically designed to be installed in plenum areas, where air circulation is critical. If these cables catch fire, they need to produce less smoke and emit fewer toxic gases, making them safer for air handling spaces.

CMR cables, on the other hand, are less fire-resistant but still meet safety standards for non-plenum spaces. They are commonly used in riser spaces, such as vertical shafts between floors.

What is CMP Cabling?

CMP cabling refers to plenum-rated cables that meet stringent fire safety standards. These cables are built with materials that resist combustion and prevent the spread of fire and smoke. This is particularly important in plenum spaces, which are often connected to the building’s HVAC system.

The plenum is the space between the ceiling and the floor above it, used for air circulation in heating and cooling systems. In the event of a fire, you need cables that won’t contribute to the spread of flames or hazardous gases, making CMP cables a top choice for these environments.

What is CMR in Networking?

When discussing CMR in networking, you’re referring to cables used in riser spaces. These cables are designed to run vertically between floors of a building, typically through conduits or shafts. While CMR cables still offer some degree of fire resistance, they are not as robust as CMP cables in this regard.

CMR-rated cables are often used for general networking purposes, especially in non-plenum areas like riser shafts or horizontal runs that don’t require the same level of fire protection as plenum spaces.

Key Uses of CMR and CMP Cables

Choosing the right cable depends on the environment where it will be installed. Here’s a quick overview of common uses for CMR and CMP cables:

CMP vs. CMR Cable: Which One to Choose?

Now that we’ve outlined the differences, you might be wondering which one you need for your specific installation. It all depends on your needs and preferences.

CMP cables are necessary when the cable will run through plenum spaces (such as air ducts). These spaces require high fire safety standards, and CMP cables are specifically built to meet these requirements.

CMR cables are suitable for vertical runs between floors, where fire resistance is important but less critical than in plenum spaces. CMR cables provide a good balance of performance and safety in riser spaces.

Conclusion

Choosing the right cable for your installation, whether it’s CMP or CMR, depends on the environment and safety requirements. Always prioritize fire safety based on where the cable will be installed, ensuring you meet local codes and regulations.

For high-quality CMP cables and CMR cables that meet stringent safety standards, ATS Cables is the best option available in town!

FAQs

What is the difference between CMR and CMP cable?

CMP cables are designed for plenum spaces with higher fire safety standards, while CMR cables are rated for riser spaces, offering lower fire resistance.

What is CMP cabling?

CMP cabling refers to plenum-rated cables designed for air circulation areas, with high fire-resistance properties.

What is CMP in HVAC?

In HVAC systems, CMP refers to plenum-rated cables installed in spaces used for air circulation, designed to reduce the spread of fire and toxic gases.

What is CMR in networking?

In networking, CMR cables are used in riser spaces for vertical cable runs between floors. These cables are fire-resistant but less so than CMP cables.

What is CMP networking?

CMP networking refers to the use of plenum-rated cables for network installations in plenum spaces, ensuring safety and minimizing fire hazards.

What is the use of CMR cable?

CMR cables are used for vertical cable runs between floors, particularly in areas that don’t require the same stringent fire safety standards as plenum spaces.