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Keystone Electronics Ltd is highlighting the importance of selecting appropriate cabling when installing alarm, monitoring and communication equipment, following a recent customer enquiry involving a 4G GSM auto dialler.
When installing or replacing equipment, it can be tempting to use suitable-looking cable that is already available. However, Keystone Electronics Ltd explains that cable type, conductor size, run length, shielding and the surrounding electrical environment can all influence the reliability of an installation.
The recent enquiry provides a useful example. A customer had replaced an older unit with one of Keystone Electronics Ltd's 4G GSM auto diallers. The dialler was operating as a standalone unit with its own power supply in a bespoke application, but the customer was experiencing difficulties getting the system to operate correctly.
After discussing the installation, the Keystone Electronics Ltd team discovered that speaker cable had been used over a run exceeding 15 metres.
Can Speaker Cable Be Used for Alarm Equipment?
Standard copper speaker cable can be suitable for some low-voltage alarm applications, including certain connections to keypads, door and window sensors and external sounders.
For short and straightforward runs involving low direct current and relatively little power, unshielded 18–22 gauge speaker cable may be appropriate. However, there are limitations that installers should consider.
Speaker cable is generally unshielded, potentially making it more susceptible to electromagnetic interference (EMI). Particular consideration should therefore be given to cable routes close to mains wiring, electrical equipment or other potential sources of interference.
Speaker cable also commonly contains only two conductors, whereas dedicated alarm cables are available with four, six or more conductors. Standard speaker wire may also lack an appropriate fire rating for certain in-wall or commercial installations.
Choosing Between 23AWG and 24AWG Cable
For a standard GSM voice dialler installation, both 23AWG and 24AWG cable can potentially be suitable, as the audio and trigger signals involved require relatively little power and bandwidth.
There are, however, practical differences between the two.
23AWG has a thicker copper conductor and lower electrical resistance than 24AWG. This can help minimise voltage and signal drop over longer distances and provides a more robust cable during installation.
Keystone Electronics Ltd notes that this can make 23AWG particularly useful for longer cable runs, including applications extending beyond 50 metres.
By comparison, 24AWG is thinner and more flexible. This can make routing the cable into compact alarm panels and dialler enclosures easier, particularly for shorter installations of around 20 metres or less.
Cable construction and shielding can ultimately be more significant than the relatively small difference between the two conductor sizes. Where voice dialler signals may be exposed to electromagnetic interference, shielded twisted-pair cable can provide a more appropriate solution.
Where Does 22AWG Cable Fit In?
22AWG provides another option, offering a balance between manageable cable size and relatively low electrical resistance.
Its characteristics can make it suitable for a variety of low-power applications, including security and alarm systems, telecommunications, motion sensors, sirens, door contacts and low-voltage LED installations.
Rather than selecting a cable simply because it is readily available, Keystone Electronics Ltd recommends considering the requirements of the individual installation.
Cable Length and Installation Environment Matter
Choosing cable for alarm and communication equipment involves more than conductor gauge alone.
Installers should consider the total cable length, number of conductors required, potential sources of electromagnetic interference, shielding requirements and the environment through which the cable will run.
The appropriate cable may therefore differ between a short connection within a straightforward alarm installation and a long cable run through a commercial building containing significant electrical equipment.
Supporting 4G and PSTN Auto Dialler Installations
Whether installing a modern 4G GSM auto dialler or replacing an older PSTN auto dialler, selecting suitable cabling is an important part of creating a dependable system.
The recent customer example also demonstrates the technical support available from Keystone Electronics Ltd. Rather than simply supplying equipment, the company can help customers troubleshoot installations and investigate potential causes when a system does not perform as expected.
Alongside its range of PSTN and GSM auto diallers, Keystone Electronics Ltd supplies equipment for security, alarm and connected monitoring applications, including low-cost 868MHz radio transmitters and receivers.
Customers unsure about the most appropriate equipment or cabling arrangement for a particular application can contact Keystone Electronics Ltd for further technical guidance.
For more information on Choosing the Right Cable for a GSM Auto Dialler Installation talk to Keystone Electronics Ltd