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Physical Specifications
Technical Specifications
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The Belden 5342FE is a multi-pair shielded cable engineered for high-reliability commercial sound, security, and control applications. Featuring three twisted pairs (6 conductors total), it is commonly used for RS-422 and RS-485 data protocols, multi-zone audio systems, and access control hardware that requires separate pairs for data, power, and auxiliary signals. The 18 AWG gauge is specifically chosen for longer runs where voltage drop and signal strength are primary concerns.
No. The 5342FE carries a CMR (Riser) rating per UL1666. This rating signifies that the cable is designed to resist the spread of fire in vertical shafts between floors and is suitable for general in-wall use. However, it does not meet the strict low-smoke and low-flame requirements for environmental air plenums. For installations requiring a plenum-rated cable, you should use Belden 6342FE.
This cable utilizes a twisted-pair design, where each pair of wires is twisted together to cancel out electromagnetic interference (EMI) and reduce "crosstalk" between the different signals inside the jacket. This is further enhanced by Belden’s Beldfoil® shield (100% coverage), which blocks external radio frequency interference (RFI). This combination is essential for maintaining the integrity of data transmissions or low-level audio signals in environments with high electrical noise.
While 22 AWG is standard for short security runs, 18 AWG provides significantly more copper cross-section. This results in lower electrical resistance, allowing for higher current capacity and minimal voltage drop over long distances. In practical terms, this ensures that card readers, electronic locks, or paging speakers at the end of a 500-foot run receive the same consistent voltage as those closer to the control panel.
The 5342FE is constructed with six stranded bare copper conductors arranged in three color-coded twisted pairs. The conductors are insulated with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and protected by an overall aluminum foil-polyester shield (Beldfoil). The entire assembly is encased in a durable PVC jacket with a nominal outside diameter of approximately 0.316 inches. The stranded conductor design ensures the cable remains flexible and easy to handle during complex conduit pulls.
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