Q: I have a question about solderless wire connectors or sometime called “beanies.” I have been told that you can use them to crimp wires without having to strip the wires. However, some old timers say that is not so. Can you clear this up for me?

A: It has been confirmed by manufactures such as Dolphin that their crimp connectors can be used without stripping the wires. They have sharp teeth that cut into the insulation when you crimp. However, I would confirm with the manufacturer as to the type of wire insulation they specify. In the case of Dolphin, it is up to four No. 22 wires. It also depends on how good a crimp pressure you provide. I prefer the type of crimpers that ratchet so that you get a required amount of crimping pressure before releasing the crimper.

Q: I would like to do more with wireless, but I am always concerned about a reliable system, especially with larger commercial wireless systems. What precautions can I take to make sure I have specified and install a good reliable system?

A: First, you must remember a few things about wireless. Just like anything else in life, no RF transmission path is 100-percent guaranteed to work all the time. If you can select one of the new mesh type RF systems as they provide multiple paths to the alarm control. Remember also, things that reflect RF energy such as metal file cabinets can be moved around and disrupt signals. Make sure the system has polling or supervision signals. You may also want to select spread spectrum technology for more reliability. When doing a site survey for a large wireless system you might want to use a testing system such as the Inovonic’s Wireless Survey Kit.

 

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