Does cat5/6 network cable carry voltage?

MDian · 9 Oct 2013 at 18:59

Sorry, this is probably a really stupid question, but does network cable carry electricity voltage which could cause a fire risk if installed under carpet?

I know carpet fitters won't install cable under the carpet, but not sure if that is specifically to do with network cabling or not.

I have no other option sadly, but can at least run it parallel with the carpet edging frames and under a couple of thresholds to avoid constant standing on it or rubbing, but just want to be sure in case it does eventually give wear apart.

Randomface74 · 9 Oct 2013 at 19:03

it's copper, so I guess so.

you'd probably have to intentionally try and heat it to have a problem tho

JoeF1 · 9 Oct 2013 at 19:06

No power is carried through unless your using POE switches. It will be fine mate.

Jokester · 9 Oct 2013 at 19:08

It's low voltage and low power.

OracIe · 9 Oct 2013 at 20:00

OpethLover or PH46607 said:
No power is carried through unless your using POE switches. It will be fine mate.

+1
Its capable of doing so, but not if your using a normal switch.

thenewoc · 9 Oct 2013 at 21:55

As the others have said but have you considered the stick on conduit and sticking that around the skirting boards?

Zefan · 9 Oct 2013 at 22:01

Technically any cable does, but it's very small and for signalling - absolutely nothing compared to the sort of power seen on mains cabling. I wouldn't; give it a second thought.

Cabling under a carpet will be just fine.

MDian · 9 Oct 2013 at 22:48

Thanks all, really appreciate it and yes to thenewoc, I've been through all options but this is the only one which will work. Will make a mess of the carpet this weekend then

mejinks · 9 Oct 2013 at 23:14

Its not the voltage you need to worry about, but the amperage.

MDian · 10 Oct 2013 at 09:52

mejinks said:
Its not the voltage you need to worry about, but the amperage.

In either case, is this something of a concern or not?

rhysduck · 10 Oct 2013 at 09:59

No. It'll be perfectly ok. Don't worry about it and go rip up the carpet