For a business CCTV system in Canada, use solid-copper Cat6 (or Cat5e) cable for IP cameras on PoE, keep each run under 100 m (328 ft), use outdoor-rated cable outside, and ask which fire-rating mark the cable carries, because FT4 and FT6 are not interchangeable in every space. FT4 is a vertical flame test mark; FT6 adds smoke-density limits and is the mark usually associated with plenum spaces. Which one you need depends on the building, the pathway and local code, and the authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) has the final say. This guide explains the cable choices and the questions to put in a quote.
PCBy the Pixl Canada install team. Updated October 26, 2026. 7 min read. General information, not code advice.
- Cat6, coax and fibre compared
- Solid copper vs copper-clad aluminum
- FT4, FT6 and CMP/CMR in plain terms
- What to ask your installer
- IP cameras on PoE use Ethernet cable. Coax is for analog HD systems.
- Buy solid copper. Copper-clad aluminum is a false saving on PoE.
- Cat6 describes data performance. FT4 and FT6 describe fire performance. They are separate ratings.
- Ask which fire rating your installer will use for each pathway and confirm with the building owner or AHJ.
Which cable does each type of CCTV camera use?
| System | Cable | Power | Distance guide |
|---|---|---|---|
| IP cameras (PoE) | Cat6 or Cat5e Ethernet | Over the same cable (PoE) | 100 m (328 ft) per run |
| Analog HD (CVI, TVI, AHD) | Coax plus a separate power cable | Separate | Depends on resolution and cable. Check the maker’s chart |
| Between buildings, longer than 100 m | Fibre, or a second switch | Local power at the far end | Much longer than copper |
Most new business systems use IP cameras on PoE because one cable carries video and power. See PoE switch and UPS sizing and NVR vs DVR.
Why does solid copper matter for PoE cameras?
| Cable | What it is | For PoE cameras |
|---|---|---|
| Solid copper | Pure copper conductors | The correct choice: lower resistance and steadier power on long runs |
| Copper-clad aluminum (CCA) | Aluminum core with a copper coating | Cheaper, but higher resistance, more heat on PoE and more failures. Avoid for cameras |
Cheap cable is one of the most common reasons a camera drops out months after installation. Ask for the conductor type in writing.
What do FT4 and FT6 mean, and which does a business need?
Canadian cable carries an “FT” mark that tells you how it performed in a flame test. According to CSA and industry summaries, FT1 and FT4 are vertical flame tests, and FT6 is a flame and smoke-density test, with FT6 the mark generally used for plenum spaces (the air-handling space above a ceiling). U.S. markings CMR (riser) and CMP (plenum) are commonly treated as rough counterparts to FT4 and FT6.
| Mark | What it tells you | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| FT1 | Passes a vertical flame test | Light-duty, limited spaces |
| FT4 | Passes a more demanding vertical flame test | General building wiring where plenum rating is not required |
| FT6 | Passes a flame and smoke-density test | Plenum spaces and some higher-risk pathways |
Which mark is required depends on the building type, the space the cable passes through and the rules that apply there. The Canadian Electrical Code points to the flame-spread requirements of the National Building Code or local building rules, and the authority having jurisdiction has the final say. Do not assume FT4 is acceptable in a plenum or that Cat6 alone satisfies a fire rating.
- Cat6 describes data performance. FT4 or FT6 describes fire performance.
- If a cable passes above a drop ceiling used for air return, ask about FT6.
- When in doubt, ask the building owner, the property manager or the local authority.
What changes for outdoor and long runs?
| Situation | Good practice |
|---|---|
| Exposed to weather or sun | Use outdoor-rated, UV-resistant cable |
| Buried or underground | Use direct-burial rated cable or run it in conduit |
| Between buildings | Consider fibre and surge protection at both ends |
| Near power wiring | Keep low-voltage cable separated from mains cabling as the code requires |
| Through fire-rated walls or floors | Seal the opening with an approved firestop |
| Documentation | Label both ends of every run and keep a cable map and test results |
Long outdoor runs are one reason lots and yards need a site plan. See parking lot cameras and farm cameras.
What should a CCTV quote say about cable?
| Ask | Why |
|---|---|
| Cable type and conductor (solid copper Cat6?) | Avoids copper-clad aluminum |
| Fire rating (FT4 or FT6) by pathway | Plenum spaces may require a different rating |
| Run lengths and any run over 100 m | Long runs need a switch, repeater or fibre |
| Conduit, raceway and firestopping | Affects cost and compliance |
| Labels, cable map and test results at handover | Makes future service easy. See warranty and support |
Pixl itemizes cables, recorder, cabling and labour separately in a free written quote for wired CCTV. See commercial CCTV installation cost.
CCTV cable: frequently asked questions
What cable do IP security cameras use?
Cat6 or Cat5e Ethernet. With PoE, the same cable carries power and video, up to 100 m per run.
Is Cat6 better than Cat5e for cameras?
Cat5e is enough for most single cameras. Cat6 gives more headroom and is common for new installs.
What is the difference between FT4 and FT6?
FT4 is a vertical flame test mark. FT6 includes smoke-density limits and is the mark generally used for plenum spaces.
Do I need FT6 cable for CCTV?
It depends on the building and where the cable runs. Plenum spaces generally need a plenum-rated cable. Confirm with the building owner or the authority having jurisdiction.
Why avoid copper-clad aluminum cable?
It has higher resistance and can overheat or fail on PoE. Use solid copper.
Does Pixl itemize cable in the quote?
Yes. Wired CCTV gets a free written quote that lists cameras, recorder, cabling and labour separately. You pay after the job.
Get a written quote with the cable specified
Send photos or a floor plan. Free written quote for wired CCTV. You pay after the job.
PoE switch and UPS sizing
Business CCTV storage calculator
Business security camera system
Sources and method. FT marking descriptions are summarized from CSA and industry explainers such as the IAEI Canadian column on FT markings and the Sycor overview of CSA FT ratings. Code requirements vary by province, building and pathway, and the authority having jurisdiction decides. This is general information, not code or legal advice.
About Pixl Canada. Pixl Canada is an installation company based in Edmonton, Alberta, serving cities across Canada with TV mounting, security cameras, appliance installation and smart home setup. Call or text (587) 899-7495. Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 8pm and Sunday 9am to 7pm.