Alarm Cables

Alarm cable in Kenya

Alarm cable carries power and signals between alarm panels, sensors, sirens, keypads, CCTV cameras and access control devices. This collection lists ADP 100m rolls in 4, 6 and 8 core for security and CCTV wiring, plus a 2-core 1.5mm fire alarm cable.

Choosing the number of cores

The core count is the number of insulated wires inside the jacket. Manufacturers colour-code each core so that you can match detector and panel terminals; for example, a UK maker's datasheet gives red, blue, yellow and black for 4 core, adding green and white for 6 core and brown and orange for 8 core. Higher core counts give a thicker cable, so allow for conduit space.

Conductor size, screening and sheath

Alarm cable is commonly described by its conductors. A "7/0.2" cable has seven strands of 0.2mm per core, about 0.22mm2. Screened cable has a foil or braid around the cores to reduce interference on long runs near mains or electrical noise; unscreened cable is common for ordinary intruder wiring. Sheaths come in PVC or low smoke zero halogen (LSZH). Check the product page for these details, because they differ between makes.

Fire alarm cable

Fire alarm cable is designed to keep a circuit working in a fire. In the UK, BS 7629-1 cable is sold as standard, rated for about 30 minutes under the EN 50200 test (PH30), and enhanced, rated for 120 minutes (PH120). Which one you need depends on the building's fire design, so check the project specification. Cable fixings matter too: plastic clips and trunking that melt are not suitable for fire-rated circuits.

What to check before you buy

• Core count: count the wires each device needs and add a spare core.
• Length: each roll is 100m. Measure the route, bends and drops, and allow extra.
• Voltage drop: on long 12V runs, thin cable loses voltage. See CCTV power supplies.
• Protection: use conduit or trunking outdoors or where cable can be damaged.
• Labelling: mark both ends so faults can be traced quickly.

Where it is used

• Intruder alarms in homes, shops and offices.
• CCTV control wiring.
• Door entry and access control systems.
• Fire detection circuits.

Frequently asked questions

Can alarm cable be used for CCTV?

The listings describe the 4, 6 and 8 core rolls as security and CCTV wiring cable. Check your camera's needs.

Is fire alarm cable different?

Yes. It is built to survive heat for a set time and should be used for fire circuits.

How many cores do I need?

Count the wires each device needs, then pick the next size up.

Adepta Technologies delivers in Nairobi and across Kenya. Tell us what you are wiring and we will help you choose.