What type of data cable should be chosen for vertical installations in a multi-story office building to comply with fire safety standards?

For vertical installations in a multi-story office building, riser-rated cables, often denoted as CMR (Communications Multipurpose Cable, Riser) or MPR (Multi-Purpose Riser), are specifically designed to meet fire safety standards. These cables are constructed to prevent the spread of flames between floors, which is crucial in a vertical application where the potential for fire to travel up through cable conduits and spaces is heightened.

Riser-rated cable is made with fire-resistant insulation and jackets that limit the toxicity and amount of smoke produced in case of a fire. This makes it appropriate and compliant with building codes for vertical runs between floors. In contrast, other options, like standard UTP cable or coaxial cable, may not provide the necessary fire resistance for vertical installations. Plenum-rated cables, while providing excellent fire safety for horizontal runs within air-handling spaces, are generally not required for riser spaces and can be more expensive.

Choosing riser-rated cable ensures adherence to safety regulations while effectively managing the risks associated with fire in multi-story buildings.