Fire Alarm Cable

Don't get burned, use American made fire alarm cable!

We pride ourselves on our quality and great customers service. That's why we offer Made in USA products-because of their reputation for quality. Our product line offerings range from Plenum FPLP Data Grade Shielded 300V (CMP) to Riser Unshielded FPLR 300V (CMR) just to list a few.

These cables are crucial to the performance of potentially life-saving devices such as fire alarms and smoke detectors, and are manufactured to the highest standards. Cables are available to meet FPL, FPLR, FPLP, and NPLF ratings.

Security Cable and Fire Alarm Cable Frequently Asked Questions

How many different types of Fire Alarm Cable are available?

There are five basic types of Fire Alarm Cable

• FPL - Power Limited General Purpose
• FPLR - Power Limited Suitable from Floor to Floor
• FPLP - Power Limited Suitable for use in Ducts, Plenums, and other spaces
• NPLF - Non-Power Limited General Purpose
• NPLFP - Non-Power Limited Suitable for use in Ducts, Plenums, and other spaces

What's the difference between power limited cables and non-power limited cables?

The difference between power limited cables and non-power limited cables comes down to which sections of NEC they comply with. Non-power limited cables is a fire alarm circuit powered by a source that complies with NEC sections 760-21 and 760-23. Power limited cables is a fire alarm circuit powered by a source that complies with section 760-41.

Generally, how do I know what kind of fire alarm cable I need?

Fire alarm cables are placed into three broad categories: plenum, non-plenum, and riser. Each of these corresponds to another standardized category. Plenum cable, to be used in ducts or other enclosed air spaces, is called FPLP; non-plenum cable, to be used in applications such as surface wiring, is FPL; and riser cable, which can be used in applications that go vertically from floor to floor, is FPLR. All of these names reflect where the fire alarm cable can be installed safely. Once you know where you will install the cable, you know in which category to start looking.

Which standards should I consider when choosing fire alarm and security cable?

In the US, the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) plays an important role in standards because it publishes the National Electrical Code (NEC). This document regulates the installation of electric wiring and equipment and should definitely be considered before starting a project.

ASTM International and Underwriters Laboratories (UL) also design tests and standards for a wide variety of wire and cable, including those used for fire alarm and security applications. In Canada, CSA International does work similar to the UL in the United States and can help assure compliance with the Canadian Electrical Code.

What are some important safety precautions to consider when choosing fire alarm cable?

There are many safety precautions such as voltage, abrasion resistance, chemical resistance, etc., that should be considered in choosing any kind of electrical cable, including that for fire alarms. However, there are some notable fire-related safety precautions to consider as well. First is the fire resistance of the cable – will it burn and/or how long will it burn? Another is smoke propagation -- how much will it give off if it comes in contact with fire? These considerations should be made when choosing any type of electrical cable, but they are especially important in the case of fire alarm cable which must function in emergency situations and under extreme conditions.

Most safety concerns (including these fire-related ones) are regulated by the UL, NEC, and other standards organizations and guidelines. The NEC outlines acceptable limits for burning and smoke emissions while the UL and other organizations are responsible for the development of various flame tests cables must pass in order to be considered safe for use.

If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call. 951-824-1572