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A customer in Austin swore by using cat5 for everything, even power. I called him nuts.
He insisted on running cat5 for his 12v power to a new siren, saying it was cheaper and just as good. I told him the gauge was too thin and he'd get voltage drop over the 80 foot run. He pushed back hard, so I did it his way to avoid an argument. Sure enough, the siren sounded weak and the transformer ran hot. I had to go back a week later and replace it all with proper 18/2. Has anyone else had a client fight you on a basic power wiring spec like that?
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anthony_sullivan686mo ago
Wait, he thought cat5 could handle 12 volts over 80 feet?
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the_lucas6mo ago
Have you ever actually tried it, because it works fine for low current?
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wadea535mo ago
Seriously, it's not just about voltage drop, it's about safety and code. That thin wire can get real warm with any decent current over that distance. You're basically making a long, skinny heater. What happens if there's a short or something draws more power than you planned?
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