Paige Electric 258300301 Cat 6 CMP Cable 22/4PR
Overview
The Paige Electric 258300301 is a 4-pair Cat 6 cable built to CMP (Communications Multi-use Plenum) fire-safety standards, designed for professional security and network installations where plenum-rated cabling is required by code. The 22 AWG conductor gauge delivers the performance envelope of standard Cat 6 while maintaining flexibility for in-wall, conduit, and aerial runs. This cable supports structured cabling across access control, video surveillance, IP intercom, and low-voltage network infrastructure without requiring a separate jacket upgrade when installed above drop ceilings or in HVAC plenums.
Key Features
- CMP Plenum Rating: Fire-rated jacket meets NEC Article 800 and local code requirements for plenum spaces — eliminates the need to run additional conduit or upgrade to more expensive alternatives when crossing above drop ceilings or in HVAC return paths.
- 22 AWG Conductors: Four twisted pairs deliver standard Cat 6 bandwidth (up to 250 MHz) for PoE-powered cameras, access control readers, IP phones, and analog integrations — no performance penalty versus non-plenum Cat 6 in the same gauge.
- Industry-Standard Termination: Compatible with all Cat 6 RJ-45 connectors, patch panels, and network equipment — no proprietary adapters or conversion hardware required.
- PoE Ready: Conductor gauge and impedance support full PoE (802.3af) and PoE+ (802.3at) delivery without voltage drop concerns on runs up to the standard 100-meter limit — common for remote cameras and access control devices.
- Flexible Installation: Suitable for in-wall, conduit, plenum air-handling spaces, and aerial spans — handles the mechanical demands of retrofit and new construction equally well.
- Legacy System Compatible: Works with older analog security systems and mixed-voltage runs (e.g., camera power + control pair) if your infrastructure still uses discrete cabling — a practical consideration in phased upgrades.
Integration & Compatibility
This cable integrates directly with structured network cabling architectures. Deploy it with PoE switches for IP camera and access control power delivery, or pair with traditional patch panels in legacy environments. The 22 AWG gauge makes it suitable for longer runs in larger facilities where voltage drop becomes a design factor — verify distance calculations for any single camera or device drawing peak PoE current. For network video recorder or access control panel installations, confirm your termination method (punch-down, crimp, or modular connectors) before purchasing bulk quantities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What does CMP rating mean for my installation?
A: CMP (Communications Multi-use Plenum) means the cable jacket passes fire tests required when cable runs through air-handling spaces (plenums) above drop ceilings or in HVAC returns. Most jurisdictions require CMP-rated cable in these spaces; check your local fire code or ask your AHJ (Authority Having Jurisdiction). If you're running cable only inside walls or conduit below the ceiling plane, you may be able to use lower-cost CMG or CMR cable instead.
Q: Will the 258300301 work with PoE switches?
A: Yes. The 22 AWG four-pair configuration fully supports 802.3af (15.4W max) and 802.3at (30W max) PoE delivery per IEEE standards. Voltage drop is not a concern on standard 100-meter runs for typical IP cameras (3–13W) and access control devices. For longer runs or very high-power PoE devices, calculate voltage drop using the cable's resistance per meter — your switch vendor or an online PoE calculator can help.
Q: Can I use this cable for analog camera feeds?
A: Yes. The four twisted pairs can carry analog video signals, balun pairs, or control data on separate pairs if you're migrating from older systems. However, if your long-term plan is IP-based, purchasing Cat 6 CMP now future-proofs the installation and avoids the cost of re-cabling later.
Q: What's the difference between CMP, CMR, and CMG?
A: CMG (General) is the least expensive and suitable for walls and conduit below ceilings. CMR (Riser) can run between floors in risers but not in plenums. CMP (Plenum) is the most fire-resistant and required above drop ceilings or in HVAC air-handling spaces. Always verify code requirements with your local authority before purchasing.
Q: Is the 258300301 sold by the foot or in bulk spools?
A: Check availability and order quantities with your distributor — cable is typically offered in 500-foot, 1000-foot, or full-spool quantities. Calculate total run length plus 10% for termination waste before ordering.
Q: Does Paige Electric offer pre-assembled patch cables in CMP?
A: Consult the Paige Electric product catalog or contact the manufacturer directly for information on finished assemblies or custom cable kits. Bulk cable is the standard offering for professional installers.
Ted PerryPerspective based on aggregated IP Security Depot and affiliated engineering team experience.
The Paige Electric 258300301 is a straightforward compliance play: if your jurisdiction mandates CMP for plenum runs, this cable delivers. The 22 AWG four-pair configuration is the workhorse of professional security cabling — it's not bleeding-edge, but it doesn't need to be. You're buying peace of mind that your run above the drop ceiling will pass inspection and support both legacy and modern PoE devices without a mid-project upgrade.
Technical Highlights:
- CMP Fire Rating: Eliminates the need for expensive conduit or separate plenum-rated jacket when running above drop ceilings or in HVAC returns — a significant cost savings on large projects with dozens of camera runs.
- 22 AWG / Four-Pair: Supports full Cat 6 bandwidth (250 MHz) and PoE delivery (802.3af and 802.3at) without conductor-gauge downgrade — no hidden costs from voltage drop on standard 100-meter runs.
- Industry-Standard Termination: Works with every Cat 6 connector, patch panel, and switch port on the market — no proprietary hardware, no learning curve, no supply chain risk.
Deployment Considerations:
- Verify your local fire code requires CMP before committing — if your run is conduit-enclosed or below the ceiling plane, CMG or CMR may be acceptable and cheaper. Get written confirmation from your AHJ or the building official.
- If you're terminating on site, budget for quality RJ-45 connectors (Cat 6-rated) and a proper crimping tool — cheap connectors will degrade performance and cause intermittent link failures.
The 258300301 is the right fit for retrofit security installations in offices, retail, or light industrial facilities where plenum runs are unavoidable and code compliance is non-negotiable. Pair it with a managed PoE switch and you've got a future-proof backbone for both IP cameras and access control.
