The need for security equipment is ever-present in today’s world, however, the actual equipment is only as good as the cable that it’s wired up with. If the cables fail, so does the equipment. It’s imperative then, that high-quality cabling is used.
At Cable Intelligence, we have a wealth of knowledge of the industry, spanning decades. As such, we are able to stock a large range of hand-picked, high-quality intruder/security alarm cable, suitable for a wide range of applications. These include:
Security systems | Sound and intercom systems |
Power-limited controls | Fire and burglar alarm systems |
Carbon Monoxide alarm systems | Single-line telephones |
Intruder Alarm systems | Smoke alarm systems |
However, aside from the actual application, there are a few other things you must consider when purchasing security cable. In this short post, we’ll take a look at the different types of security/alarm cable we offer, as well as the differences within those types.
Cores
Firstly, you must consider how many cores you require. This, of course, all depends again, on the application, the type and number of devices on the system (you may have multiple sounders, keypads etc.), the length of the cable run and so on.
Our security/intruder alarm cable is available in a range of different cores, including 4,6,8 and 12. If you are unsure about what you need, we are here to help – just give us a call on 01684 299 223
Screening
The second consideration you must think about is whether to opt for screened or unscreened cable. Essentially, the difference is that screened cable has an extra layer, which reduces electromagnetic interference. This is important in an industrial application, where lots of cable and equipment may be in close proximity to each other, resulting in crosstalk. However, in a domestic setting, this may not be as vital a consideration.
Protection
Next, it’s worth thinking about where the cable will go, be it simply external or underground. External cable is sometimes referred to as duct grade and features a heftier jacket to protect the inner cable from the elements, as well as causing the whole cable to be sturdier. Cable designed for interior use will simply deteriorate if used in an outside setting, making it faulty and dangerous.
Likewise, cable that runs underground in trenches is usually referred to as direct burial cable. This cable does what it says on the tin, and is suitable to be buried without any additional containment. Our direct burial cable is also crush resistant, for an added level of protection.
Safety
Next, you will need to think about safety. In the event of a fire, it’s actually the smoke that’s the most dangerous aspect – think of a domestic fire and the inhalation of the fumes can cause serious damage. There are two terms you may find on listings for security cable that look similar but are quite different:
LSF – stands for Low Smoke & Fume. These cables are made from a modified version of PVC, meaning that they still release a large amount of black smoke and harmful gas when burned. LSF is usually the cheaper option.
LS0H/LSZH – stands for low smoke, zero halogens. LS0H cables release much less smoke than their counterparts, as well as giving off very little dangerous gas.