Paging System Speaker Cable

[chicagotechsolutions]

Hi, I was reading some of the posts in this forum. From what I have read I am aware that for a 70V paging installation it 20 gauge sheilded cable is recommended. Does anyone know where exactly I can find some of this cable? If I did a home-run type installation with several loops running to different zones in a building, what is the neatest method of connecting all these cables to one source? What is usually used in the industry? I was thinking of initially using a 66 block with solid cable connecting all the wires to the block and then to the amp, but im having doubts. If I used stranded 20 guage cable to wire up zones what would be a neat and organized way of providing a central connection to these cables?

 

[TouchToneTommy]

If you use stranded cable, you can't put it on a 66 block. Don't know if 66's will take 20ga solid either.

I would use barrier strips, using 3 sets of contact per run, so that you can terminate both conductors and the shield.
Crimp on spade tips are a pretty good idea as well.

Keep it neat and well marked!!

 

[mforrence]

Like any AC application, the appropriate wire size is dependant on the load placed upon it. The more speakers/watts of load, the heavier cable required. We generally use 18AWG w/sheild because it can be used in a slightly larger variety of situations. When dealing with multiple runs, we terminate on a terminal block. Cable should be available at electrical or telecom supply house.
Mike

 

[chicagotechsolutions]

Thanks again for the recommendations! I found some belden 18AWG shielded twisted pair cable that I think would work well. Barrier strips are a great idea, I completely forgot about them.

Thanks

 

[robertjo24]

As noted above, label everything well (each cable on both ends), when you install. If you use write on labels, wrap them in clear tape. Speaking from experience, this will make troubleshooting much easier later on.

 

[chicagotechsolutions]

Yeah, I agree labeling (I use a thermal label printer) is incredibly helpful when it comes to troubleshooting. I usually label all extension ports and cables in all of my installs (at both ends), so I will do the same with the paging install as well.

Thanks again for the advice,

db

 

[SYQUEST]

You can find system info for both 70.7V and 25v lines at the websites for Atlas Sound and Bogen. They have downloadable PDFs with this stuff.

Also for the code see NEC Articles 725 and 800 and other related sections.

Good reading.....

....JIM....