22/4 Alarm Wire
Alarm Grid is your home for 22-gauge, 4-conductor wire. We know how important it is to have high-quality wiring of many types. The 22-4 wire size represents some of the most commonly used wire for alarm systems. At 22 AWG, this wire is slightly thinner than 18 AWG. We often steer customers towards 18-gauge, but there are applications where 22-gauge can work better. A user will generally find that 22-gauge wire is thinner and a little more flexible than 18-gauge wire. But 18-gauge wire is better-suited for longer current runs.
If the building is relatively small and long current draws are unnecessary, then a user will usually do just fine with 22-gauge wire. The user might also want to check if there are any local building regulations or fire codes that warrant the use of thicker wire. Some commercial locations may be in violation of certain requirements if they use the thinner 22-gauge wiring option. But other than that, there really isn't much to worry about. We find that the 18-gauge and 22-gauge wiring is often used interchangeably. The important thing is ensuring that that connections are tight and secure.
As a thinner wire, 22-gauge is better-suited for data transmissions than power transmissions. It can still be used to reliably transmit power, but a user should get a thicker wire if they intend to complete longer current draws. With that in mind, 22-gauge wire is generally reserved for strictly data transmissions and very low-current draws. However, it's also important to consider that this particular wire is 4-conductor. This means that it has four inner wires that are housed inside a larger cable. It is great for completing 4-wire connections. Some common applications for 22-4 wire include wiring alarm system keypads and wiring motion detecting sensors. It can also be used for 4-wire life-safety sensors, but that is often best-suited for thicker 18-gauge wire.
A 4-conductor wire can also be used with 2-wire connections. This would involve simply leaving two of the four inner wires disconnected. These wires would be left unused, while the other two inner wires would be actively connected. The user would want to make sure the wires are not mixed up. But since the wires are individually colored (red, black, green, white), this would be a difficult mistake to make as long as the user is paying attention. Of course, the user can also obtain 2-conductor wiring if they don't want to leave any internal wire unconnected. It really comes down to the user's preference and what they are willing to keep on-hand.
The 22-4 wiring we sell is stranded. Unlike solid core wiring, stranded wiring is easy to cut, splice and bend without damaging. This makes it especially great for DIY users who may not have the best wire-handling practices. Professional installers also often seek out stranded wire, as it is just easier to work with in general. Alarm Grid recommends the use of stranded wiring for nearly any security system application. We offer stranded wiring from Genesis. This is a Resideo-owned company (formerly Honeywell) that has deep roots in the alarm industry. Genesis knows the importance of providing tough and reliable cables. You are sure to get wiring accessories that provide you with confidence when you shop on the Alarm Grid website.