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CSA C22.2 No. 209-M1985 (1986) Communication and Signal Cables: Scope, Requirements, and Compliance
A comprehensive guide to the Canadian standard for non-power-limited cables in communication, signal, and fire alarm circuits
CSA C22.2 No. 209-M1985 (reaffirmed 1986) is a Canadian standard that specifies construction and performance requirements for non-power-limited communication and signal cables. These cables are intended for use in communication, signal, control, and fire alarm circuits that operate at circuit voltages and currents exceeding the limits of power-limited circuits. As part of the CSA C22.2 safety standards family, this standard is a key reference in the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code) and is widely recognized for ensuring safe and reliable cable performance in commercial, institutional, and industrial installations.
Scope and Application
The standard covers single-conductor and multi-conductor cables with copper conductors, rated for voltages up to 300 V or 600 V, depending on the cable type. It applies to:
- Non-power-limited fire alarm circuits (NPLFA) as defined in CE Code Section 32
- Communication circuits such as telephone, intercom, and audio systems that are not classified as power-limited
- Control and signal cables for elevator, HVAC, and industrial control applications
- Remote-control and signaling circuits where circuit energy is sufficient to cause fire or electric shock if not properly insulated
Tip: Although the standard was originally published in 1985 and reaffirmed in 1986, later editions (2008, 2017) have replaced it. However, many existing installations still reference M1985 requirements, and it remains relevant for equipment certified under the earlier edition.
Technical Requirements
Conductors and Materials
Conductors must be solid or stranded copper, meeting the dimensional requirements of CSA C22.2 No. 42. Minimum conductor sizes are specified for each cable type. Insulation materials include thermosetting compounds (e.g., cross-linked polyethylene, ethylene propylene rubber) and thermoplastic compounds (e.g., PVC, nylon) that meet specific aging, dielectric, and flame-retardant tests.
Construction and Ratings
Each cable is assigned a voltage rating (300 V or 600 V) and a temperature rating (60°C, 75°C, or 90°C). The standard defines insulation thicknesses, jacket requirements, and conductor color codes. Cables must pass a spark test on the insulation and a dielectric voltage-withstand test between conductors and between conductor and shield.
| Cable Type | Conductor Gauge (AWG) | Voltage Rating | Temperature Rating | Typical Applications |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NPLFA Type FPL | 18 – 12 | 300 V | 90°C | Fire alarm systems (non-power-limited) |
| Communication / Signal Cable | 22 – 16 | 300 V | 75°C | Telephone, intercom, security systems |
| Control Cable (tray rated) | 14 – 10 | 600 V | 90°C | Industrial control and instrumentation |
| Elevator Traveling Cable | 20 – 14 | 300 V | 75°C | Elevator control circuits |
Flame Test Requirements
One of the key technical provisions is the flame propagation test. Cables must meet the requirements of CSA C22.2 No. 0.3 (Test Methods for Electrical Cables) for either FT4 (vertical tray flame test) or FT6 (horizontal tray flame test). The standard stipulates which test applies based on the intended installation environment (e.g., riser, plenum, general purpose).
Temperature Cycling and Cold Bend
Cables are subjected to temperature cycling from -40°C to the rated operating temperature without cracking or deformation. Cold bend tests at -25°C ensure the jacket remains flexible during winter installations.
Implementation Highlights
When specifying or installing cables to CSA C22.2 No. 209-M1985, consider the following:
- Circuit classification: Only cables marked as NPLFA or non-power-limited communication may be used in circuits that exceed power-limited thresholds (e.g., fire alarm circuits with voltage > 30 V or current > 8 A).
- CE Code adoption: The CE Code (Section 12, Section 32, etc.) mandates that cables for these applications be listed to this standard. Compliance is enforced by local inspection authorities.
- Substitution: In some cases, cables listed to equivalent UL standards (e.g., UL 1425 for NPLFA) may be accepted if they meet the Canadian requirements. However, the cable jacket must bear a certification mark (CSA, cUL, ETLc).
- Conductor size: Ensure the selected cable has sufficient ampacity for the circuit’s operating current. The standard does not provide ampacity tables – those are in the CE Code Table 12B and 12C.
Important: Cables covered by CSA C22.2 No. 209 are not intended to be used as substitute for power-limited circuit cables (Class 2 or Class 3) in plenum spaces unless they also meet the appropriate fire protection requirements (e.g., FT6 for plenum). Always verify the cable markings and consult the local electrical authority.
Compliance and Certification Notes
Certification Marks
Manufacturers must have their cables tested and certified by an accredited Certification Body (CB) such as CSA Group or Intertek (ETL). The cable jacket must be permanently marked with the standard number (C22.2 No. 209), the voltage and temperature rating, and the flame test rating (FT4 or FT6). For example: CSA C22.2 No. 209 FT4 90°C 300 V.
Field Verification
Inspectors typically verify that the cable marking matches the construction documents and that the cable is appropriate for the environment (e.g., dry, damp, wet). Special attention is paid to the flame test rating when cable passes through plenums, risers, or other fire‑rated areas.
Manufacturing Quality Control
The standard requires that each “lot” of cable be tested for insulation resistance, dielectric withstand, and dimensional compliance. Sample cables must pass the full series of physical and electrical tests at least once per production run. Records must be maintained and made available to the certification body.
Compliance success: A correctly selected and installed CSA C22.2 No. 209 cable provides a high level of safety for communication and fire alarm systems. Its robust insulation and flame‑retardant properties minimize the risk of fire propagation and maintain circuit integrity under fault conditions.
Critical: Do not use ordinary low-voltage cable (e.g., thermostat wire, doorbell wire) in non-power-limited fire alarm circuits. Such cables are not tested to the same flame‑propagation and insulation standards, and their use could lead to fire damage or electrical shock during a fault.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is CSA C22.2 No. 209-M1985 (1986) still current?
A: No, it has been superseded by CSA C22.2 No. 209-08 (R2018) and subsequent editions. However, the M1985 edition is still referenced for legacy installations and for equipment certified under the earlier standard. For new installations, use the latest edition as adopted by the current Canadian Electrical Code.
A: No, it has been superseded by CSA C22.2 No. 209-08 (R2018) and subsequent editions. However, the M1985 edition is still referenced for legacy installations and for equipment certified under the earlier standard. For new installations, use the latest edition as adopted by the current Canadian Electrical Code.
Q: What is the difference between this standard and CSA C22.2 No. 210 (Power‑Limited Cables)?
A: CSA C22.2 No. 210 applies to cables for power-limited circuits (Class 2/3) where the energy (power) is inherently limited to levels that do not cause fire or shock. No. 209 applies to circuits where the power is not limited, so the insulation must withstand higher voltages and currents, and the flame test requirements may be more stringent.
A: CSA C22.2 No. 210 applies to cables for power-limited circuits (Class 2/3) where the energy (power) is inherently limited to levels that do not cause fire or shock. No. 209 applies to circuits where the power is not limited, so the insulation must withstand higher voltages and currents, and the flame test requirements may be more stringent.
Q: Can a cable marked for 600 V be used in a 300 V circuit?
A: Yes, a higher voltage‑rated cable is acceptable for a lower voltage circuit as long as temperature and flame ratings also match the installation environment. However, consider cost and flexibility – 600 V cables are often thicker and less flexible than their 300 V counterparts.
A: Yes, a higher voltage‑rated cable is acceptable for a lower voltage circuit as long as temperature and flame ratings also match the installation environment. However, consider cost and flexibility – 600 V cables are often thicker and less flexible than their 300 V counterparts.
Q: How does the standard relate to the Canadian Electrical Code (CE Code)?
A: The CE Code references CSA C22.2 No. 209 as a mandatory standard for specific circuit types (e.g., Rule 32-100 for fire alarm cables). Compliance with the standard is therefore legally required through the provincial adoption of the CE Code.
A: The CE Code references CSA C22.2 No. 209 as a mandatory standard for specific circuit types (e.g., Rule 32-100 for fire alarm cables). Compliance with the standard is therefore legally required through the provincial adoption of the CE Code.
This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult the official standard text and the current edition of the Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1) for regulatory compliance. Year: 2026