CAT CAT Electrical and Wiring Fundamentals 2

Question 1

What voltage level is most commonly used for residential security alarm control panels?

Accepted Answer

12V DC

Answer

Most residential alarm panels operate on 12V DC supplied by a plug-in transformer and backed up by a 12V sealed lead-acid battery.

Question 2

What is a 'home run' wiring method in alarm installations?

Accepted Answer

Each device is wired directly back to the panel with its own dedicated wire run

Answer

A home run configuration gives each zone or device its own dedicated wire back to the panel, making troubleshooting and zoning simpler.

Question 3

What causes voltage drop in long alarm wiring runs?

Accepted Answer

Wire resistance increases with length, reducing voltage at the device

Answer

Longer wire runs have more resistance, which causes a measurable voltage drop that can prevent sensors or keypads from operating correctly.

Question 4

Which battery chemistry is most commonly used for alarm system standby power backup?

Accepted Answer

Sealed lead-acid (SLA)

Answer

Sealed lead-acid batteries are the industry standard for alarm backup power due to their reliability, cost, and compatibility with trickle-charging circuits.

Question 5

What is the function of a tamper switch on an alarm device or enclosure?

Accepted Answer

Trigger an alert if the device cover is removed or the enclosure is opened

Answer

Tamper switches detect unauthorized physical access to alarm devices or panels and send a tamper signal to the monitoring center.

(CAT) Certified Alarm Technician Practice Test

(CAT) Certified Alarm Technician Practice Test

CAT CAT Electrical and Wiring Fundamentals 2