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LP is a term used in electrical engineering that stands for limited power. It is used to describe communication and power-limited cables that carry both power and data. These cables have been evaluated to carry power and data at a defined current level when installed in bundles of unspecified size. The specific current level can be found next to the LP designation on the cable. LP cables are often used to supply power to equipment such as IP surveillance cameras and intelligent LED lighting systems. In addition, LP is also used to refer to lighting panels, which are electrical panels used primarily for lighting circuits, typically operating at lower voltages such as 120/208V.
LP Characteristics and Values Table
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Stands for | Limited Power |
| Used for | Lighting panel |
| Voltage | Low voltage (120/208v in the US) |
| Cable rating | LP rating per conductor without exceeding the temperature rating of the cable |
| Cable bundle size | No limit specified |
| Cable use | Transmit power and data |
| Cable compliance | Comply with ampacity table 725.144 in the 2017 NEC or be used within the marked LP rating |
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What You'll Learn
LP stands for 'limited power'
LP stands for "limited power" and is used to describe a specific type of cable. These cables are used to transmit both power and data, and the LP designation indicates that they have been evaluated to carry these functions at a defined current level. The LP rating communicates that the cable has been tested to handle a specific current level without exceeding its temperature rating. This is particularly important when cables are bundled together, as it helps to address the risks of cable heating.
The LP suffix on communication and power-limited Class 2 and 3 cables indicates that they have been tested and can safely transmit power and data within specified parameters. The specific current level that an LP cable can handle is indicated on the cable itself, adjacent to the LP designation. This rating is typically given in amperes, and the cable is permitted to be installed based on standard ampacity tables.
LP cables are commonly used in LAN (local area network) twisted-pair cable applications, where a single cable supplies both power and data to equipment. Examples include IP surveillance cameras, intelligent LED lighting systems using Power over Ethernet (PoE), and flat-screen displays using Power over HDBaseT (PoH).
In the context of electrical panels, LP can also stand for "lighting panel," indicating a panel that is primarily used for lighting. This is distinct from a power panel (PP), which supplies power to equipment. The specific voltage associated with LP in this context is typically 120/208V, which is considered low voltage.
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LP cables carry power and data
LP stands for "limited power", and LP cables are certified under the product categories of Communications Cable (DUZX) and Power-Limited Circuit Cable (QPTZ). LP cables are designed to carry both power and data at a defined current level. This is indicated by the suffix "-LP" and the specific current level can be found adjacent to the LP designation on a cable.
LP cables are used to supply power to equipment such as internet protocol (IP) surveillance cameras (with positioning motors and heaters), intelligent LED lighting systems using Power over Ethernet (PoE), and flat-screen displays using Power over HDBaseT (PoH). The LP rating communicates that a cable has been tested for its ability to handle the LP rating per conductor without exceeding the temperature rating of the cable. This is important because as the amount of current running through a cable rises, the amount of heat generated within the cable also increases, which can push the cable beyond its rated temperature, reducing performance and reliability.
The LP designation was established as a simple method to address LAN (local area network) twisted pair cables that carry both power and data in a single cable. LP cables are particularly useful when bundling multiple cables together, as bundled cables are especially vulnerable to higher temperatures. The heat generated by the current passing through the inner cables can’t escape, contributing to higher overall temperatures.
LP cables are not always necessary, and most applications do not require their use. They are typically called for when power-supplying equipment is capable of power over 60W or when power-supplying equipment higher than PoE Type 3 is being used.
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LP cables are evaluated to carry power and data at a defined current level
LP stands for "limited power" and is used as a designation for cables that carry both power and data. LP cables are evaluated to carry power and data at a defined current level, which is indicated by the suffix "-LP". For example, a Class 2-LP cable is permitted to supply power to equipment at a current level up to the marked ampere limit located immediately following the "-LP" suffix.
LP cables are Certified (Listed) under the product categories of Communications Cable (DUZX) and Power Limited Circuit Cable (QPTZ). The UL guide information and Certifications (Listings) can be found on the UL Product Spec website. The guide information for both categories states that cables with the "-LP" suffix have been evaluated to carry power and data at a defined current level, with the specific current rating indicated by the "XX" in the "-LP (XX)" marking on the cable.
The LP designation was established to address the safety concerns associated with LAN (local area network) twisted pair cables that carry both power and data in a single cable. These cables are commonly used to supply power to equipment such as IP surveillance cameras, intelligent LED lighting systems using Power over Ethernet (PoE), and flat-screen displays using Power over HDBaseT (PoH).
To ensure the safe use of LP cables, the 2017 NEC introduced a new section and ampacity Table 725.144. This table provides the maximum allowable ampacity for cables based on the size of the individual conductors and the number of cables in a bundle. For installations with bundled cables, the new table helps to limit the allowable ampacity as the number of cables increases, reducing the risk of cable heating.
In summary, LP cables are evaluated to carry power and data at a defined current level, with the specific current rating indicated by the "-LP" suffix. The evaluation of LP cables ensures their safe use in applications where both power and data transmission are required, providing a simple method to address the safety concerns associated with cables carrying power and data in bundled configurations.
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LP cables are used to supply power to equipment such as IP cameras and LED lighting systems
LP, in terms of electricity, typically refers to low-power or low-voltage power. Low-voltage power cables are used to supply power to equipment such as IP cameras and LED lighting systems.
IP cameras are often powered using low-voltage power cables, which can transmit power directly from a power supply or through Power over Ethernet (PoE). PoE allows for both data and power transmission through a single Ethernet cable, such as Cat5e or Cat6. Cat5e cables, an enhanced version of Cat5, are commonly used for IP camera systems due to their ability to support higher data transfer speeds and reduced interference. They consist of four twisted pairs of copper wires, capable of handling data rates up to 1 Gbps and frequencies up to 100 MHz. Alternatively, Cat6 cables offer even greater performance with tighter twists and additional shielding, supporting data rates of up to 10 Gbps and frequencies up to 250 MHz.
For IP camera installations, Siamese cables are also used, combining video (coaxial) and power capabilities within a single jacket. These cables typically include an RG59 coaxial cable for video transmission and 18-gauge power cables. Siamese cables simplify installation, reduce cable clutter, and are suitable for both analog and IP camera systems.
LED lighting systems, on the other hand, utilize LED lighting cables specifically designed to connect LED lamps to power or control equipment. These cables are crucial for transferring electricity from the power source to the LED lights, ensuring their smooth and efficient functioning. LED cables are designed to carry a low-voltage power supply, typically stepping down the standard 120 or 240-volt power to a safer and more efficient 12 or 24 volts. This reduced voltage enhances the adaptability and flexibility of LED lighting systems, making them suitable for various settings, including outdoor environments.
The importance of LED cables extends beyond just powering the lights. They also contribute significantly to the safety and longevity of the lighting system. High-quality LED cables are designed to prevent short circuits and electrical fires, providing added protection. Additionally, LED cables are resistant to heat and designed to withstand the low-voltage supply, ensuring optimal light performance.
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LP can stand for 'lighting panel'
LP can stand for "lighting panel" in the context of electricity. This term is used by electrical engineers and electricians in the design, construction, and renovation of buildings. It refers specifically to a panel board or breaker in a building's electrical system that controls the lighting circuits.
The LP designation is often used in conjunction with a number to indicate a specific lighting panel or circuit, such as "LP-17" or "LP-XX". This helps to identify and differentiate between multiple panels or circuits in a building.
While LP commonly stands for "lighting panel", it can also vary depending on the context and specific conventions used in a project or building. For example, some may use "L" or "LP" to indicate "low voltage" or "low panel" for 120/208V circuits, while "H" or "PP" may denote "high voltage" or "power panel" for 277/480V circuits. In some cases, "LP" could be a completely random naming convention chosen by the client or project specifications.
It is important to note that the term "lighting panel" typically refers to a panel that controls lighting circuits and does not usually have outlets connected to it. However, in some cases, a lighting panel may have receptacles and power equipment connected to it, depending on the specific setup and requirements of a project.
In summary, LP can stand for "lighting panel" in electrical terms, referring to a panel board or breaker that controls lighting circuits in a building. The specific usage and conventions may vary depending on the project, but the LP designation is commonly used to identify and differentiate lighting-related electrical components.
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Frequently asked questions
LP stands for "limited power".
An LP cable is a power-limited cable that carries both power and data.
LP cables are used to supply power to equipment such as IP surveillance cameras, intelligent LED lighting systems, and flat-screen displays.
The current rating of an LP cable can be found adjacent to the LP designation on the cable.
