4Core Stranded Copper/CCA UTP Security Alarm Cable for Access Control & Door Security Systems

UTP Alarm Cable Technical Data
UTP Alarm Cable refers to unshielded twisted pair cabling specifically designed for security, fire alarm, and access control systems. Unlike Ethernet UTP, these cables are optimized for low-voltage DC/analog signaling over longer distances with minimal interference. Here's a comprehensive technical breakdown.
Quick-Reference Technical Specifications
Parameter | Typical Specification |
|---|
Conductors | 2, 4, 6, or 8 solid copper wires |
Conductor Size | 22 AWG or 24 AWG (most common: 22 AWG) |
Insulation | PVC, High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) |
Twisting | Loose pair twist (2-4 twists per foot) |
Jacket | PVC (CM/CMR/CMP), PE (outdoor) |
Impedance | Not specified (non-critical for DC/audio) |
Voltage Rating | 300V |
Temperature Range | -20°C to +60°C (standard) |
Pair Colors | Standard: Red/Black, Green/White, etc. |
Detailed Technical Specifications
1. Conductor Specifications
Standard Conductor Configurations:
2-conductor: Red, Black
4-conductor: Red, Black, Green, White
6-conductor: Red, Black, Green, White, Yellow, Blue
8-conductor: Add Brown, Orange to 6-conductor
Material: Solid bare copper (most common) or stranded copper
Gauge:
- 22 AWG: Diameter = 0.644 mm, Area = 0.326 mm²
- 24 AWG: Diameter = 0.511 mm, Area = 0.205 mm²
- Stranding:Solid: Better for punch-down blocks;less flexible Stranded: More flexible for moving application
- DC Resistance:22 AWG 16.46 Ω/1000 ft (53.98 Ω/km);24 AWG: 25.67 Ω/1000 ft (84.20 Ω/km)
2. Insulation & Jacket Specifications
Insulation:
- Material: PVC (indoor) or HDPE (moisture-resistant)
- Thickness: 0.015-0.020' (0.38-0.51 mm)
- Dielectric Strength: 500-1000 VAC
- Color Coding: Industry standard colors for easy identification
Jacket Types & Ratings:
Jacket Type | Code | Application | Fire Rating |
|---|
General Purpose | CM | In-wall residential | Limited smoke |
Riser Rated | CMR | Between floors | Self-extinguishing |
Plenum Rated | CMP | Air handling spaces | Low smoke, non-toxic |
Outdoor | CMX/PE | Direct burial/conduit | UV/moisture resistant |
Jacket Properties:
- Thickness: 0.030-0.045' (0.76-1.14 mm)
- Outer Diameter:
- Tensile Strength: 1500-2000 psi
- Shrinkage: <5% at 100°C
3. Electrical Characteristics
DC Resistance & Voltage Drop:
Voltage drop is critical for alarm systems. Maximum recommended distances for 12V DC systems:
Conductor | Current | Max Distance (12V, 5% drop) |
|---|
22 AWG | 100 mA | 1000 ft (305 m) |
22 AWG | 500 mA | 200 ft (61 m) |
22 AWG | 1 A | 100 ft (30.5 m) |
24 AWG | 100 mA | 600 ft (183 m) |
24 AWG | 500 mA | 120 ft (37 m)
|
Formula: Voltage Drop = 2 × Length × Current × Resistance per foot
Capacitance:
- Pair-to-Pair: 15-20 pF/ft (49-66 pF/m)
- Conductor-to-Shield: N/A (unshielded)
- Mutual Capacitance: <20 nF/1000 ft
Insulation Resistance:
1000 MΩ·1000 ft at 20°C
500 MΩ·1000 ft at 60°C
4. Mechanical & Environmental Specifications
Physical Properties:
- Weight:4-conductor 22 AWG: 25-35 lbs/1000 ft; 8-conductor 22 AWG: 45-60 lbs/1000 ft
- Minimum Bend Radius: During installation: 8× cable diameter;After installation: 4× cable diameter
- Maximum Pull Tension:22 AWG: 25 lbs (11.3 kg)
- During installation: 50 lbs (22.7 kg) with lubricant
- Crush Resistance: 100 lbs/inch width
Environmental Ratings:
- Operating Temperature:
- Flame Test Compliance:
- Sunlight Resistance: 1000+ hours (UV-rated versions)
- Water Resistance: Moisture-resistant (some flooded for direct burial)
5. Performance Standards & Compliance
Key Standards:
- UL 1424: Safety standard for power-limited circuit cables
- NEC Article 760: Fire alarm systems
- NFPA 70: National Electrical Code requirements
- UL 13: Power-limited fire protective signaling cables
- RoHS Compliant: Restriction of Hazardous Substances
Fire Alarm Cable Classifications:
Class | Voltage Rating | Application |
|---|
NPLF | 300V | Non-power limited fire alarm |
NPLFP | 300V | Non-power limited fire alarm (plenum) |
FPL | 300V | Power-limited fire alarm |
FPLP | 300V | Power-limited fire alarm (plenum) |
FPLR | 300V | Power-limited fire alarm (riser) |
6. Applications & System Compatibility
Primary Alarm System Uses:
- Burglar Alarm Systems :Zone wiring for sensors,Keypad and siren connections,Control panel peripherals
- Fire Alarm Systems: Smoke/heat detector loops,Manual pull stations,Notification appliances (horns, strobes)
- Access Control Systems: Door strike/lock power,Reader to controller communication,Request-to-exit sensors
- Security Camera Systems:PTZ camera power and control,Analog video (with appropriate baluns)
- Environmental Sensors:Temperature,Flood/water detection,Gas detection
Compatible Equipment:
- Control Panels: Honeywell, DSC, Bosch, etc.
- Sensors: PIR, magnetic contacts, glass breaks
- Communicators: Dialers, cellular, IP modules
- Power Supplies: 12V/24V DC panels


