I came across a full box of Belden cat-5 plenum
cable from 1997. Belden part # 1585A1.
Would this cable be equivelent to Cat-5E today?
This is nice cable, I'd like to use it if I can.

Thanks

If it doesn't say 5E it's not.

I just called Belden, that number is discontinued and it is Cat 5, not 5e.
You can use it for voice

It can still be used for data, just not as fast as cat 5e. Average user would never notice. Hint: save it for that el-cheapo-delux client that talks you down in price

Like Dave says - but if you use it for data, just keep the runs under 100' for extra insurance.

You could take a length of it, say 100-150', terminate it with good cat5e or cat6 jacks, and try to see if it will certify cat5e. or just use it for voice or a cheap customer/low budget job where you're going through an air return ceiling.

Jack

were talking one box of cable not a truckload . why even mess with if . use it for voice and buy 5e for data

give the customer what they expect from a pro job (even the cheap ones )

Dont use Cat5 for any data job. Minimum Cat5e. It may be a pretty box of cable but do things the right way even if the customer says they want the cheapeast. FYI Cat5 is not a TIA/EIA/BICSI/ANSI recognized cable type.