Certified Fiber Optics Practice Exam

The presence of which feature enhances the safety of plenum cables?

1. Durable construction

2. Low smoke production

3. High bandwidth capacity

4. Multi-stranded design

The correct answer is: Low smoke production

The feature that enhances the safety of plenum cables is low smoke production. Plenum cables are specifically designed for use in air circulation spaces, such as ceilings and under floors, where they may be exposed to fire hazards. If a fire were to occur in these areas, traditional cables might emit dense smoke and harmful gases, creating dangerous conditions for building occupants and first responders. Low smoke production is crucial because it ensures that, in the event of a fire, the cable will produce less smoke when burned, allowing for better visibility and a reduction in toxicity. This characteristic is a key safety standard for plenum-rated cables, making them suitable for installation in spaces where air circulation is responsible for distributing heating or cooling throughout a building. In contrast, while durable construction, high bandwidth capacity, and a multi-stranded design may contribute to the overall performance and reliability of the cable, none of these features directly address the critical issue of safety in fire situations like the low smoke production feature does.