Securiflex Alarm Cable | TCCA Type 3, 8 Core, 100m, LSF | White

FAQs

What is TCCA Type 3 alarm cable?

TCCA stands for Tinned Copper Clad Aluminium, which describes the conductor construction. Type 3 refers to the conductor size classification in BS4737-3.30:2015, the British Standard for intruder alarm system cables. Type 3 cables feature 7 strands of 0.20mm conductors, providing a good balance between current-carrying capacity, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness. This makes Type 3 the most popular choice for general intruder alarm installations. The tinned coating on the copper cladding protects against oxidation, ensuring long-term reliability. Type 3 is suitable for most alarm system components including PIR detectors, door contacts, keypads, sounders, and connections to control panels over moderate distances.

Why is LSF jacket important for alarm cable?

LSF (Low Smoke and Fume) jacket material is important because in the event of a fire, it will not emit toxic gases and produces significantly less smoke compared to standard PVC cables. This is particularly important for alarm cables which are often installed throughout buildings including escape routes and public areas. The reduced smoke production improves visibility for evacuation, while the absence of toxic fumes reduces health risks to occupants and firefighters. Many commercial premises, schools, offices, and public buildings prefer or require LSF cables to meet fire safety regulations and insurance requirements. While slightly more expensive than standard PVC jacketed cables, LSF provides important safety benefits that justify the modest additional cost.

How many cores do I need for my alarm installation?

The number of cores needed depends on your specific alarm system configuration. This 8 core cable is the most versatile option for general installations: a typical wired PIR detector requires 4 cores (2 for power, 2 for alarm signal); door contacts typically require 2 cores; keypads may require 4-6 cores depending on features; sounders usually require 2 cores for power. The 8 core configuration allows you to wire multiple devices on a single cable run or provides spare cores for future expansion. For complex installations with many devices, you might run multiple cables or use junction boxes. For simple installations with just a few devices, you might not use all 8 cores, but having extra cores provides flexibility and future-proofing.

What is the maximum cable run length for alarm installations?

The maximum cable run length depends on several factors including the alarm system voltage, current draw of devices, and acceptable voltage drop. With the conductor DC resistance of 155Ω/km, typical maximum run lengths for Type 3 cable are: for 12V alarm systems with moderate current devices, 100-150 metres is generally acceptable; for low current devices like door contacts, distances can extend to 200-300 metres; for higher current devices like powered PIR detectors or sounders, distances may need to be limited to 50-100 metres to avoid excessive voltage drop. Always check your alarm panel and device specifications for maximum recommended cable distances, and consider using a higher power supply voltage or larger conductor cable (Type 4 or Type 5) for very long runs or high current applications.

Can this cable be used outdoors?

While this cable has an LSF jacket that provides fire safety benefits, it is primarily designed for indoor installations. The LSF material and white colour are not specifically UV-stabilized or weatherproofed for prolonged outdoor exposure. For outdoor alarm sensor connections, cable runs along building exteriors, or any exposed outdoor application, you should use cables specifically rated for outdoor use with UV-resistant jackets, or install this cable within suitable conduit or trunking that provides weather protection. For buried cable runs, use cables specifically designed for direct burial applications. However, for short outdoor runs with adequate protection or in covered areas, this cable can be suitable when properly installed in conduit.

What do the different core colours represent?

The 8 cores are colour-coded (Red, Black, Blue, Yellow, Green, White, Orange, Brown) for easy identification during installation and maintenance. There is no strict universal standard for which colour represents which function in alarm systems – the colours are primarily for identification purposes, and their use is determined by the installer and documented in the system installation records. However, some common conventions include: Red and Black often used for positive and negative power; other colours used for signal pairs or data connections. The important thing is to maintain consistency throughout your installation and properly document which colours are used for which purpose. The colour coding makes troubleshooting and future modifications much easier compared to cables with identical core colours.

Is this cable suitable for all types of alarm systems?

This Type 3 LSF cable is suitable for most general intruder alarm systems including: wired PIR detectors, magnetic door and window contacts, glass break detectors, vibration sensors, panic buttons, keypads and control panels, internal and external sounders, and other standard alarm components operating at low voltages (typically 12V DC). It’s the most popular and cost-effective choice for these applications. However, it may not be suitable for: very long cable runs requiring lower resistance (use Type 4 or Type 5); high-current devices (use larger conductor cable); outdoor exposed installations (use outdoor-rated cable); or specialized alarm systems with specific cable requirements. Always check your alarm equipment specifications and installation instructions to ensure cable compatibility.

What does BS4737-3.30:2015 compliance mean?

BS4737-3.30:2015 is the British Standard specification for cables for use in intruder alarm systems. Compliance with this standard means the cable meets specific requirements for: conductor size and construction; insulation materials and thickness; voltage rating and electrical properties; mechanical properties and flexibility; and marking and identification. Type 3 specifically refers to the conductor specification within this standard (7 strands of 0.20mm). This compliance ensures the cable is fit for purpose in alarm system installations and meets industry expectations for quality and performance. Many alarm system manufacturers specify BS4737 compliant cables in their installation instructions, and some insurance companies or certifying bodies require it for approved installations.

How do I use the nylon rip-cord?

The yellow nylon rip-cord (210D strength) is a convenient feature that makes cable preparation much easier and faster during installation. To use it: locate the yellow rip-cord running along the inside of the cable between the cores and outer jacket; at your desired point, carefully separate a small section of the jacket to access the rip-cord; grip the rip-cord firmly and pull it along the length of cable you want to strip; the rip-cord will split the outer jacket cleanly without damaging the internal cores; peel back and trim off the outer jacket to expose the cores. This is much faster and cleaner than using a knife to strip the jacket, and reduces the risk of accidentally nicking or damaging the core insulation during cable preparation.

What is the difference between Type 3, Type 4, and Type 5 alarm cables?

The main difference is the conductor size, which affects current-carrying capacity and resistance: Type 3 (this cable) has 7 x 0.20mm conductors with 155Ω/km resistance – suitable for general alarm installations with moderate distances; Type 4 typically has larger conductors with lower resistance – better for longer cable runs or higher current devices; Type 5 has even larger conductors – used for very long distances or high current applications. Type 3 is the most popular choice because it offers the best balance of cost, flexibility, and performance for typical alarm system installations. Unless you have specific requirements for long distances or high current devices, Type 3 is usually the appropriate choice and is what most alarm installers stock and use as their standard cable.