What type of wire is recommended for grounding a burglar alarm panel?

The recommended type of wire for grounding a burglar alarm panel is 18/1 wire. The "18" in the designation refers to the wire gauge, which is appropriate for low-voltage applications like alarm systems. An 18-gauge wire is commonly used because it provides a good balance between flexibility and conductivity, making it suitable for connecting the grounding points of an alarm panel to an earth ground, which is critical for safety and proper system function.

The “/1” indicates that this wire consists of a single conductor, which is sufficient for the grounding needs of the panel. Grounding is an important aspect of alarm system installation, as it helps prevent electrical surges from damaging the system and ensures that any fault currents are safely routed away.

Other wire types listed may not be suitable for grounding due to either the number of conductors or the wire gauge which does not match the requirements for effective grounding in security systems. For instance, 20/1 would be thinner and less capable of handling current, creating potential issues. Similarly, while 18/2 and 16/3 have their uses in other aspects of alarm systems, they do not meet the specific requirements for grounding.