In PLFA fire alarm cable, the minimum conductor size for multiconductor cable shall not be smaller than which AWG?

In PLFA fire alarm cable, the minimum conductor size for multiconductor cable shall not be smaller than which AWG?

• A. 18
• B. 26
• C. 16
• D. 22

Answer: (B)

Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) cables are designed for low-current circuits and to keep cables compact and flexible while meeting listing and insulation requirements. For multiconductor PLFA cables, there is a specified minimum conductor size to ensure adequate current capacity and mechanical integrity. The smallest conductor allowed is 26 AWG, which means you can use 26 AWG or larger conductors, but not thinner (higher AWG numbers). This keeps the wiring practical for pulling and labeling, while still meeting the fire alarm system’s operating needs. Larger gauges like 22, 18, or 16 AWG are permissible in some cases, but they’re not the minimum.

Power-Limited Fire Alarm (PLFA) cables are designed for low-current circuits and to keep cables compact and flexible while meeting listing and insulation requirements. For multiconductor PLFA cables, there is a specified minimum conductor size to ensure adequate current capacity and mechanical integrity. The smallest conductor allowed is 26 AWG, which means you can use 26 AWG or larger conductors, but not thinner (higher AWG numbers). This keeps the wiring practical for pulling and labeling, while still meeting the fire alarm system’s operating needs. Larger gauges like 22, 18, or 16 AWG are permissible in some cases, but they’re not the minimum.