SYSTON 18/2 Shielded Fire Security Control Cable CMR - Riser Rated

In this review the SYSTON 18/2 Shielded Fire Security Control Cable is assessed for installers and system integrators who need a reliable, low-voltage control run where interference and fire safety matter. The bottom line: this cable stands out because of its full aluminum foil shielding and stranded pure copper conductors, which together deliver consistent signal integrity for fire alarm, security, intercom and other power-limited circuits. Our review finds it a practical choice when riser-rated flame performance and 300V insulation are required.

Key Features

• Multiple application compatibility: Designed for fire alarm, security burglar alarm, public address, intercoms and other low-voltage, power-limited systems so one cable can serve many installation needs.
• Pure copper conductors: Stranded bare copper conductors provide good flexibility and conductivity, making pulls through conduit and long runs easier while keeping resistance low.
• Aluminum foil shielding: The continuous aluminum foil shield reduces electromagnetic interference, preserving signal clarity in environments with nearby electrical noise.
• CMR / CL3R riser rating: Riser-rated construction meets enhanced flame-retardant requirements for vertical shafts and commercial installations where safety matters.
• 300V, CL3 rated insulation: A 300V rating ensures robust insulation for low-voltage control and Class 3 power-limited circuits, adding a margin of safety for thermostat, security and A/V use.

Who It's For

This cable is best for professional electricians, security system installers and facility maintenance teams who need a riser-rated, shielded control cable for commercial or multi-story buildings. It suits projects where clean signal transmission is important, such as alarm panels, nurse call systems and access control runs that may run near power wiring.

DIY homeowners with simple, short runs or projects that do not require riser-rated cable might find this offering more capability than needed; for outdoor direct burial or extremely heavy-duty mechanical environments, a cable specifically rated for those conditions should be chosen instead.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Good shielding performance keeps EMI from distorting sensitive signals in security and communications circuits.
• Stranded pure copper conductors offer reliable conductivity and easier handling during pulls.
• Riser-rated CMR/CL3R construction adds fire safety for vertical runs in buildings.
• Broad application range makes it useful across alarm, intercom and A/V control uses.

Cons

• Some buyers report the cable feels thin for certain mechanical uses, so it may require careful handling during installation.
• Not intended for direct burial or extreme outdoor exposure without additional protective conduit or jacket.

Specifications

Conductor	Stranded bare copper
Configuration	18/2 (two conductors)
Shielding	Aluminum foil full shield
Rating	CMR / CL3R / FT4 (Riser-rated)
Voltage	300V, CL3 rated
Applications	Fire alarm, security, intercoms, PA, access control, nurse call, low-voltage circuits

Our Verdict

The SYSTON 18/2 shielded control cable is a sensible, value-oriented choice for installers who need a riser-rated, EMI-resistant cable for fire and security systems. It pairs reliable stranded copper conductors with continuous shielding and 300V insulation to protect signal quality and meet building safety needs, making it a practical pick for commercial and multi-floor installations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cable suitable for fire alarm panels?
Yes. It is intended for fire alarm and other power-limited control circuits and carries a riser-rated CMR/CL3R construction appropriate for many panel-to-device runs.

Can it be used outdoors?
The jacket is UV resistant for some outdoor exposure, but long-term or direct burial outdoor use should use conduit or a cable specifically rated for burial and continuous outdoor exposure.

Does the shield protect against interference from nearby power cables?
Yes. The aluminum foil shielding helps block electromagnetic interference and keeps sensitive signals clearer when run near potential noise sources.