NEC Article 800 covers communications circuits. Cat6 cable falls under this article. The sections you're asking about, 800.113(A), (B), and (C), deal with specific wiring methods and protection requirements for communications wires and cables within buildings. Let's break it down in the context of Cat6: 800.113(A) Without a Raceway or Enclosure: This section deals with situations where the Cat6 cable is run exposed, without being in conduit or a raceway or even a junction box. It specifies conditions for support, separation from other cables, and clearances from specific building elements. 800.113(B) In a Raceway: This covers Cat6 that's run inside of a conduit, electrical metallic tubing (EMT), or other approved raceway. The requirements pertain to the type of raceway permitted, fill capacity, and proper bonding and grounding. 800.113(C) In an Enclosure: This section deals with situations where the Cat6 cable enters an enclosure, such as a cabinet or a piece of equipment. It focuses on how the cable must be properly protected at the point where it enters the enclosure (using strain relief).

Junction Boxes and Article 800

While Article 800 doesn't explicitly mandate the use of junction boxes in every scenario, it implies their use if you need to make splices or terminations outside of equipment. NEC 800.133: Cable Splices and Terminations Cable splices and terminations shall be made in listed or identified cable connecting blocks or connectors, or the terminations shall be made in a listed or identified enclosure appropriate for the use. Exception: FPL, FPLR, FPLP, CL2, CL2R, CL2P, CL3, CL3R, CL3P, CMP, CMR, and CL4 cables shall be permitted to be spliced or terminated using any of the methods described in the exception to 725.135(G).

So, to answer your question

The specific section of 800.113 that applies to your Cat6 installation depends on how you are running the cable.

If you're running exposed cable

800.113(A) applies.

If you're running the cable in conduit

800.113(B) applies.

If you're running the cable into an enclosure

800.113(C) applies.

Junction Boxes

In general, if you need to make a splice or termination of a Cat6 cable outside of a piece of equipment, you should use a junction box (or other suitable enclosure). This ensures that the connections are protected from physical damage and environmental factors, and that they meet the requirements of 800.133. The junction box itself needs to be appropriately sized and listed for its intended use.

Recommendation:

Consult a qualified electrician or low-voltage technician familiar with NEC and local codes to ensure your Cat6 installation is safe, compliant, and performs optimally. They can evaluate your specific situation and determine the correct wiring methods, enclosures, and protection measures. Flag for review