How far can you run wiegand wire?

[five.five-six]

I understand it's a lot like RS485, but I have a run that's just over 300 feet to a reader, do I need to upgrade from 18 to 16 AGW?

 

[zbang]

Do you mean connections from a Weigand-type card reader? Long time back (30+ years), we'd wire the read heads w/ 5c 18g and I don't think 3-400' was ever a problem since the effective data rate is so low.

Actual Wiegand wire is a whole different thing, and I'm sure that's not what you're extending.

 

[five.five-six]

Yes, wiegand reader. 18/6OAS.

 

[MisterCMK]

500' is the limit.

We typically use 22/6 shielded

 

[five.five-six]

So, if im going say 350 with 18/6 OAS, and I have to splice to avoid buying another box, should i be OK?

 

[GrayHair]

Look at the installation sheet for the particular Reader Interface Board the reader will be connected to. I saw limits pushed and exceeded, sometimes resulting in no tech support because of the "non-compliant" install. :rant:

My experience was that data suffered; intermittent mis-reads and/or no-reads. One RIB had configuration options for extended cable runs. Reader installation sheets could impose limits, but I don't recall ever seeing that.

 

[GeorgeB]

So, if im going say 350 with 18/6 OAS, and I have to splice to avoid buying another box, should i be OK?

I'm amazed at how often "industrial electricians" fail to properly connect shielded cable when they splice. I've run into many problems with the shield on one piece is connected to a conduit fitting at the entry point, and the other to the conduit fitting at the exit point ... NO NO NO!

Use the minimum amount of unshielded conductor, and from your 18/6, use 7 terminals. Ideally no conductor, including the shield, will be over 3" long