Backbone Cabling

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	Question by Anzor Natli posted 10 Nov 2000
	Backbone Cabling
Working at the project which provides connection of two IDF closets to existing MDF room located on the above floor. I need to run (3)100 pair cat3 voice, (25)4-pair cat5e data and (1) 6 strand fiber-optic cable in 12ht floor ceiling and the go up to MDF room above. Can I run these cables bonded with J-hooks or fasteners or I must run these cables in conduits? Please give me some guidelines about running horizontal backbone cables in ceiling.
	Answer by Roman Kitaev posted 11 Nov 2000
Anzor, the answer depends on which fire rating the cables have and whether the ceiling space is "plenum" (i.e. space used for air handling). If the ceiling space is plenum, then you have to use plenum cables (they are marked as CMP for copper and OFNP for fiber) and then J-hooks are OK. If the space is plenum and cables are non-plenum, then the conduits are required. If you are not sure if the ceiling space is plenum, then for your safety use metallic conduits. See also our FAQ section. There are also several tips available. Best regards Roman Kitaev, RCDD
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