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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 308
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I would like to use CAT 5 cable for lowvoltage (24) volt control wiring. I am planning to control 3Amp contact rating relays to operate window shutters. And am planning on using small N/O switches to control the relays.
Is the rating of the CAT 5 cable higher than 24 Volts?
Any other suggestions?
Edward
Thanks Edward
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Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 1,498 Likes: 1
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Check the cable. I had a look at some of the patchcords in the office: 300V (sic!)
The other rating I commonly find on computer cables is 30V. I think it would be technically impossible to manufacture a cable that could not handle this.
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Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 886
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CAT5 as well as any of the other CAT cables are CL2 listed and as such are 150V. You will be fine.
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Joined: Jan 2002
Posts: 38
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Just as a suggestion... try using 18 gauge control wire. phone wire is only about 22 gauge.
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Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 507
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I second Brian's suggestion for 18awg. Volt drop becomes an issue very quickly when you are starting with low voltage.
GJ
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Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 886
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That was my first thought also but after rereading the question I think I understood that the 24ga wire will operate the coils of the relays through the switches. Not much current there so voltage drop shouldn't be a problem. The 3A current rating is for the relay contacts, not the current through the control wire.
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 308
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Thanks for the reply.
The contact rating is 3 amps.
The voltage problem should not be a problem. I just need to verify that using a CAT 5 cable is an acceptable method in this application which sounds like it is. And i am not violating NEC.
Edward
Thanks Edward
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Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 119
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Last time I checked 5 mins ago cat 5E is 26 Guage Might want to get 20 or 18 Guage wire
Theres always enough room in the junction box.You just need a bigger hammer
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Joined: Dec 2002
Posts: 308
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It is 24AWG. I think i will use thermostat wire 18AWG.
Edward
Thanks Edward
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Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 119
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The stuff I have is 26 AWG it came with my cable modem. but the newer stuff is 24 Guage
Theres always enough room in the junction box.You just need a bigger hammer
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Posts: 44
Joined: July 2013
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