Securiflex Alarm Cable | PVC, TCCA Type 3, 4 Core, 100m | White

FAQs

When should I use 4 core cable instead of 6 or 8 core?

Use 4 core cable for simple installations where you only need basic circuits – typically power supply (positive and negative) and a single detection circuit or zone. It’s perfect for connecting individual PIR sensors, single door contacts, basic keypads, or simple single-zone residential systems. The four cores (Red, Black, Blue, Yellow) are sufficient for most straightforward applications. If you’re installing a basic system with no plans for expansion and want to minimize costs, 4 core is the ideal choice. However, if you anticipate any future expansion or need multiple zones, consider 6 or 8 core options.

What are the advantages of the ultra-compact 3.50mm diameter?

The 3.50mm diameter makes this the smallest alarm cable available, offering significant practical advantages. It fits through extremely tight spaces where larger cables won’t go, requires minimal space in conduits (allowing more cables in the same conduit), is easier to conceal when surface mounted, causes less visual impact in finished spaces, and is simpler to route through walls and ceilings. For retrofit installations in completed buildings, this compact size can make the difference between an easy installation and needing to create new access routes. It’s also the easiest cable to handle and terminate in small junction boxes.

Is 4 core cable suitable for all alarm sensors?

Yes, 4 cores are sufficient for most individual alarm devices. Standard PIR sensors, door/window contacts, glass break detectors, and basic keypads typically require only 2-4 conductors. The four colour-coded cores allow for power supply connections plus signal circuits. However, some advanced sensors with additional features (tamper loops, dual technology, etc.) or installations requiring end-of-line resistors on separate circuits might benefit from 6 core cable. For basic, straightforward sensor connections, 4 core is perfectly adequate and more economical.

How much can I save using 4 core instead of larger cables?

Using 4 core cable where appropriate typically saves 40-50% compared to 8 core options and 20-30% compared to 6 core. On a typical residential installation using 100-200 meters of cable, this represents substantial savings. The compact size also reduces installation time (faster to pull and terminate), lower shipping costs (lighter weight), and less material waste. For straightforward installations, contractors can significantly improve their margins or offer more competitive pricing by specifying 4 core cable where those circuits are sufficient for the system design.

Can I use this cable for outdoor installations?

This PVC jacketed cable is designed for indoor use. While PVC offers good durability, for outdoor or underground applications, a PE (Polyethylene) jacketed cable would be more suitable as PE provides superior UV resistance and moisture protection. Use this 4 core PVC version for internal wiring in homes, offices, and commercial buildings where it excels. The compact size actually makes it ideal for indoor installations where space is limited or aesthetic impact needs to be minimized.

What types of installations are perfect for 4 core cable?

Ideal applications include: basic residential alarm systems with single zones, individual sensor connections from junction boxes to devices, simple commercial systems in small retail units or offices, budget-conscious installations where system design is straightforward, retrofit installations where running larger cables is difficult, connecting individual alarm devices like panic buttons or smoke detectors, and any situation where you need to connect basic alarm equipment with minimal circuits. If your installation doesn’t require multiple zones or complex configurations, 4 core cable delivers everything you need at minimum cost.