ESA Certified Alarm Technician Practice Exam

In a fire alarm system, what is the minimum size of cabling that is acceptable?

1. AWG #20

2. AWG #18

3. AWG #16

4. AWG #14

The correct answer is: AWG #18

In fire alarm systems, the choice of cabling size is crucial for ensuring proper operation and compliance with safety standards. The minimum size of cabling that is acceptable is AWG #18. This gauge is typically specified to ensure that the conductors can handle the required current load, minimize voltage drop, and maintain the integrity of the communication between devices. Using AWG #18 cabling provides a good balance between affordability, weight, and electrical performance, making it suitable for most standard fire alarm installations. Additionally, this size helps in reducing the risk of overheating and allows for a sufficient ampacity rating that meets regulatory and safety standards for fire alarm systems. While other gauge sizes may also be suitable for specific applications or scenarios, AWG #18 is recognized as the minimum requirement according to applicable codes and standards governing fire alarm installations. This ensures that the systems operate effectively, providing reliable warning in case of a fire emergency.