Belden 5101FE 14 AWG 3 Conductor Shielded Sound & Security Cable | CMR Riser Rated

The Belden 5101FE is a heavy-duty shielded cable used primarily for commercial audio, security, and control applications. With its 14 AWG conductors, it is specifically chosen for high-power speaker circuits, intercom systems, and security control systems where long cable runs are required. The extra conductor allows for specialized wiring configurations, such as grounded audio or basic control signaling.

No. The 5101FE is CMR (Riser) rated per UL1666. This rating means the cable is tested to prevent the spread of fire from floor to floor in vertical shafts but does not have the low-smoke or low-flame characteristics required for environmental air plenums. For installations inside plenum ceilings or ducts, you must use the plenum-rated equivalent, Belden 6101FE.

This cable is equipped with an overall Beldfoil® shield (aluminum foil-polyester tape) that provides 100% coverage. This shielding is critical for preventing electromagnetic interference (EMI) from neighboring power cables or electronic equipment from distorting audio signals or causing false alarms in security sensors. It includes a tinned copper drain wire to ensure a consistent, easy-to-terminate ground connection.

The 14 AWG stranded bare copper conductors offer much lower electrical resistance compared to standard 18 or 22 AWG cables. This is vital for maintaining signal strength and preventing voltage drop over long distances. In professional audio, this ensures that high-fidelity sound reaches the speakers without loss of volume or quality, while in security, it ensures that power-hungry devices like heavy-duty strikes or long-range sensors receive adequate voltage.

The 5101FE features three conductors insulated with high-density polyethylene (HDPE), wrapped in a foil shield, and encased in a Gray PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) jacket. It has a nominal outside diameter of approximately 0.238 inches. The PVC jacket is designed for durability and ease of stripping, making it a reliable choice for professional installers working in commercial environments.