Re: what is the best wire for a perimeter alarm

["Robert L Bass" <RobertLBass@xxxxxxxxxxx>]

Bob,

There are several types of wire you may use for a burglar alarm
system.  For magnetic door and window sensors 22-gauge, 2-conductor
is sufficient in most residences.  Motion detectors, glass break
sensors and the like require 4 conductors -- 2 for power and 2 for
the "zone" (sensing circuit).  Most keypads use the same ordinary
(unshielded, not twisted pair) cable as motion detectors.  A few
systems such as the ELK-M1G use CAT5 cable for the keypads.  The M1G
is a home automation / alarm system, probably more than what you're
looking for.

The transformer which supplies low voltage AC to power the panel is
usually wired using 2-conductor, 18-gauge wire.  Siren speakers can
be wired using the same type of cable.

If you include fire alarm sensors (smoke detectors, heat detectors,
etc.) you will need 18-gauge, "power limited" fire alarm cable for
those.  One exception is Rhode Island where 16-gauge is the minimum.
Smoke detectors are available in 2-wire and 4-wire models now.  If
you need 10 or less smokes, select 2-wire types since the sensors and
the cable are less expensive and performance is identical.

Regarding the magnetic contacts, consider using 4-conductor wire even
though they only need 2.  The difference in cost is minimal and
you'll have an extra pair available in case a staple goes awry during
the installation.

There has been a lot of discussion regarding stranded vs. solid core
cable for burglar alarm wiring.  Some folks insist that stranded is
the only way to go.  Others are just as insistent that solid core
wire is better.  The reality is that either cable will work the same
once installed.  Use whichever you feel more comfortable working
with.  Whichever you choose, make certain it's rated for in-wall use.
Virtually all cable sold for the purpose at most online stores,
including mine, catering to DIYers will be UL listed and rated for
the purpose.

--

Regards,
Robert L Bass

=============================>
Bass Home Electronics
941-925-8650
4883 Fallcrest Circle
Sarasota · Florida · 34233
http://www.bassburglaralarms.com
=============================>

>>> thinking of wiring a new house and would like to know what kind
>>> of
>>> wire to run. cat 3, cat5, cat6 something else???????
>>> it will be in the walls, not in air spaces, 2 zone alarm with NC
>>> switches all in parallel.,
>>>
>>> thanks in advance....