Technology and telecommunication have come a long way. But, some may still wonder, what Is low voltage wiring and do I need it?
For many years, elementary wiring systems for telephones and telegraphs were the standard for telecommunications. However, the introduction of technologies, like high-speed internet, Wi-Fi, IoTs, and voice and data systems have changed all that.
Today, we use complex structured cabling systems for all our modern telecommunication needs and this requires a different kind of wiring – low voltage wiring. Low voltage wiring has created a whole new specialty section in the electrical industry.
New buildings need to have provisions for structured cabling so that the voice and data cabling needs of residents or offices can be met. Hence, construction companies employ specialty companies like Communications Solutions Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida, to plan, design, develop, and install low-voltage wiring or structured cabling.
Let’s discuss what low voltage wiring is, common wiring cables, and where they are used?
What Is it?
Structured cabling and low-voltage wiring are often used interchangeably, which is fine. However, the difference is that low voltage wiring is simply a part of structured cabling, which has many components like telecommunication closets, horizontal wiring, backbone cabling, and more.
Low voltage wiring is exactly what it sounds like, it is a wiring network that carries a low voltage current or low-pressure current. It is a network of wiring used for everything separate from standard electrical wiring for equipment that requires high or mid-voltage, like heating and cooling systems, lights, power outlets, etc.
A low-voltage wiring network is used for telecommunication equipment or voice and data cabling, which typically requires 50 volts or less electricity to function. To give you some perspective, most standard wall outlets are 120 or 240 volts.
Low voltage wiring networks can be used for things like:
- Voice and data networks
- Telephones
- VoIP
- Ethernet cabling
- Garage door controls
- Thermostats
- Alarm systems
- Security sensors and cameras
- Audio-visual systems
- Intercoms
- And more
There are many use cases, however, the important thing is that it provides a separate network or pathway for various technology systems to communicate digitally and share data.
This feature is important because it streamlines high-speed communication between devices without external interference or excessive electricity consumption.
Common Types of Cables for Low Voltage Wiring
- Unshielded Twisted Pair (UTP) Cables
These cables include Cat6 or 6a cables commonly used in homes and offices for voice and data cabling requirements. - Fiber Optic Cables
Fiber optic cables use light pulses to carry information across long distances and are much faster in delivering information than typical copper cables. However, they are difficult to work with and require specialized crimping tools and connectors. - Speaker Wires
You may be familiar with these as they are used for audio and home theater applications. - Coaxial Cables (coax)
These are copper cables typically used for Ethernet and telecommunications. The most common coaxial cables used in homes and offices is the RG-6. - Security System Wires
These are used for security cameras, sensors, and other monitoring devices in homes and offices.
Common Low Voltage Wiring Networks
Here are some common places where installing low voltage wiring networks is crucial to improve functions and telecommunications.
- Security System Networks
Security systems in buildings and offices use Cat5e or Cat6 cables, variants of low-voltage wiring cables. They connect security cameras to the video recorders and security servers. Such a security system wiring network is also capable of providing power through Power-Over-Ethernet (POE).
Hence, there is no separate wiring required for powering the security cameras and other devices like phones or sensors. Most fire and security alarm systems also make use of low voltage wiring to supply power and maintain communications.
- Voice and Data Cabling Networks
Phone systems like VoIP and internet connections in offices or buildings use voice and data cabling. This cabling network consists of a low-voltage wiring network to connect devices like VoIP phones, servers, Ethernet, and Wi-Fi networks.
The network of low voltage wiring used in voice and data cabling runs through every cubicle, office, and conference room in a workplace. It connects IoT and telecommunication devices to server rooms, telephone closets, and telecommunication enclosures.
- Intercom Networks
Voice or video intercom systems in residential and commercial buildings use a network of low voltage wiring to connect intercom devices from one area to another. It can also be used to connect one area to multiple different areas.
Often intercoms are used to broadcast information and internally communicate over a large area. They may use Cat5, Cat5e, or Cat6 cabling to make communications possible, depending on users’ requirements.
Conclusion
These were just some examples of low-voltage wiring cables and networks, and there are many other uses for them in homes, offices, and industries. It is a specialty network of electrical wires that requires experts for correct installations.
Without proper installation, your systems may not function properly and face many challenges in the future. Hence, you should only hire professionals like Communications Solutions Inc. in Jacksonville, Florida, for all your wiring and structured cabling needs.
They are experienced professionals who know how to handle such installations for proper function and future-proofing of your structured cabling networks.
If you want the best low-voltage wiring and structured cabling solutions, Contact Us Today.