What is Low Voltage Wiring? Here’s What You Need to Know

With newer homes being built to be as efficient as possible, more construction projects are following the lead of commercial buildings and relying on low voltage wiring. Unlike standard high voltage availability, low voltage wiring is designed to power small devices.

Below, we’re highlighting the different capabilities of low voltage wiring as well as the common types of low volt wiring you may run into during the planning and construction phases.

What is Considered Low Voltage Wiring?

At its core, low voltage wiring refers to the electrical wiring that’s opposite the current of the power outlets, fixtures, and switches. When something is considered low voltage, it's 50 volts or less. A lower voltage wiring job consists of two types of cables twisted together, both carrying a strong signal to create a foundation to run and maintain small devices and technological infrastructure.

Benefits of Low Voltage Wiring

Low voltage wiring comes with a variety of benefits, all of which can be considered an opportunity for improved efficiency.

  • It’s customizable to fit the means and needs of any industry or business
  • It involves lower electrical integrity, so it lowers the risk of electrocution
  • It’s scalable but never draws too much power

Different Types of Low Voltage Cabling Infrastructure

The low voltage cabling types include:

  • Cat6 carries more bandwidth than CAT5 and CAT5e, the earlier types of network cabling. Its maximum speed is 10 gigabits per second and can process frequencies up to 250 MHz.
  • Cat6A is the augmented version of Cat6. It can overcome 10 gigabits per second at up to 328 feet.
  • Fiber Optic cabling is generally used for Internet data transmission, offering faster connections than metal wiring.

What is Low Voltage Wiring Used For?

Because of its lower potential energy levels, low voltage wiring is often used for small power outlet fixtures. Some of the most common used for low voltage wiring include:

  • Smart doorbells
  • Garage door openers
  • Heating and cooling thermostats
  • Alarm system sensors and controls
  • Audio/visual systems, such as television and stereo systems
  • High-speed Internet computer networking
  • WiFi
  • LED lighting

Need Low Voltage Wiring?

In need of a low voltage wiring network? We can assist.

At Cache Valley Electric we focus on excellence—the highest quality work always completed with integrity, performance, and precision. We provide low voltage physical infrastructure solutions that build top-notch performance systems. You can trust our highly skilled and credentialed professionals in design, build, and assist.

Ready to learn more? Contact us directly today to get started.