How to Choose the Right Security and Alarm Cable for the Job
18th Jan 2017
Determining which cables to use for a security and alarm system install or update can be a complicated task. There are many fixed and variable factors for each setup that need to be considered to ensure you show up to the job site with the correct cables. We’re able to supply you with any possible security alarm Cable variations you need and, to help you out, we have outlined the essential attributes you need to look for in order to find the right ones.
Characteristics of a Quality Security Alarm Cable
All cables are not manufactured to the same standards. So, if you want to guarantee safe, reliable and long-lasting wiring for your clients you need to use first-rate security alarm cables. Below are the characteristics that make our cables capable of delivering superior quality:
Made in America - All our security alarm cables are manufactured to the high standards American factories are held to.
Pure Copper Conductors - Our conductor wires are composed of 99.4% pure copper, which far superior to CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) on many performance and durability metrics.
300 Volt Rating - Security and alarm cables need to be capable of handling the diverse electricity needs of keypads, motion detectors, sensors and alarms. Our cables can handle all of this with a rating of 300 volts 75C.
Encapsulated conductors - It is possible to use separate wires and zip-tie them together, but this a sign of work done by amateurs. Professionals should only use only a single cable containing all wires surrounded by PVC jacket.
Shielded Wires - An aluminum mylar shield is generally required for noisy EMI (ElectroMagnetic Interference) environments or for extremely long runs.
Riser Or Plenum Rated Security and Alarm Cables
All our security and alarm cables are rated as either riser or plenum. Riser cables run between floors and the fire requirements are not as strict, so they are less expensive. Because of this disparity, Plenum cables can always replace risers, but risers cannot always replace plenums. To ensure your installs are always up to code, it is recommended to always use plenum rated cables.
Pay Attention to the Number of Conductors Needed for Each System
Security alarm cables come in many different sizes. The AWG size needs to be appropriate for the electrical power and the number of conductors needs to be a match for the system you are installing. Security cables have anywhere from 2 to 12 conductor wires. Simpler contact or protective loop security systems only need 2 conductors, although it is considered good practice to use 4 conductor cables, and leave the extra pair for future servicing or failures. The number of conductors required rises with the complexity of the system. There should alway be specifications included in security and alarm system manuals to tell you the required gauge and number of conductors.
Let us supply you with all the Security alarm cables you will need for installs. Please contact us to request a quote today.