It is prudent to PREWIRE while in stick phase

RE: Prewire for Security System (Generic information for any security system) INSTALLING CABLE/WIRE BEFORE THE SHEETROCK IS DONE IS A PRUDENT MOVE The cable/wire that is recommended for small installations is 22 gauge 4 conductor stranded cable and if it is a larger project then 18 gauge 4 conductor stranded cable. (Not shielded) This will work for most hardwired systems. Two of the wires are for power and two in order to activate the alarm. Powered devices are motions, glass breaks, smoke detectors etc…

Whoever does the prewire should label each end of each cable clearly with a zone number that corresponds with a MAP or use a description such as FRONT LOBBY, REAR DOOR etc….Care should be taken so as not to damage the wire when installing it because the outer coating on security wire is much thinner than THHN. (We can do the prewire or you can.)

Most residential and small commercial projects will have wire installed from each device to where the panel will be installed. (HOMERUNS) unless it is a large system that has an addressable loop. If it is addressable then one circuit can be installed going around the entire building. Monitor modules cost from $40 to $65 depending on the system. So you will need to determine if installing 20 mm will save you wire and labor rather than home running all zones.

The panel should be in a spot where power can be ran to the panel as well as phone lines although most systems we install today will use cellular or radio so they won’t be susceptible to phone lines getting cut. This will be a decision the owner will need to be involved with.

The advantage of having a hardwired system is that you will not have to change out batteries for the devices such as motions, smoke detectors or glass break sensors.

Consider installing wire for MOTIONS in Main areas, Smoke detectors, Glass Break Sensors, Low Temperature sensors if the building drops below 40 degrees F, water sensors in areas where flooding could occur and if it is possible you may want cameras installed then now is the time to install the cable. Airflow and humidity sensors can also be installed in the server rooms.

The older cameras (analog) used RG59 with 18g2c cable although the newer IP cameras will normally be POE (powered over Ethernet) using CAT5 or CAT6 but there are limits on distances powering them over the Ethernet without extra power.

Call for free consultation. (801) 898 6003 or the office 801 428 1384 or 801 486 7231 x384 Larry@peakalarm.com www.PeakAlarm.com