1000-Feet 18/2 Solid Core Alarm Wire

If you are setting up your own hardwired security system, then having alarm wiring is an absolute must. This is the piece of equipment that physically connects various added hardware to a central alarm control panel. Added hardware can include new sensors, an upgraded alarm monitoring communicator, a new secondary keypad, or even a siren. All of those accessories are connected with wired alarm panels through alarm wiring. And the reality is that the wiring is actually no different from the wiring that you might use for other equipment, such as audio equipment and other electrical devices. It is just meant to transmit electrical current from one precise location to another precise location. Since alarm systems only use a very small amount of electricity, they are commonly referred to as low-voltage electrical device. It is perfectly safe for a DIY user to work on their own low-voltage equipment, as the injury risk is extremely low, and low-voltage equipment is a lot more forgiving and safe than high-voltage electronics.

If you have no wiring already and you are looking for a good starting wire type to start building your system, then 18-2 wire is usually the best option. At 18 AWG, the wire is thick enough to allow for some relatively long wire runs, but it is not so thick that it is difficult to work with. It is a good overall wire size for alarm systems, and it is used in everything from DIY home security setups to professional alarm system installations. This wire is extremely versatile, and you can certainly use it however you would like. But we should mention that most users prefer stranded copper wiring, instead of solid core copper wiring. Stranded wiring is less likely to break off during the wiring process when making tight connections, and it is generally more forgiving. If you aren't experienced with wiring, or if hands-on projects aren't your strongest suit, then you may feel better off with stranded wiring. In fact, many professionals use stranded wiring as their tools of trade. But if solid core wiring is your preference, then it is available as well.