Ranking of the best combination cables for 2022

Combined cables (KVK) are most often used for organizing video surveillance systems and are special connecting wires in which the transmission of the video signal (in expensive samples - and audio) is carried out in parallel with the transmission of power to the security camera. This is how their double, i.e. combined function.

General information

The abbreviation "KVK" stands for "combined video surveillance cable". The cord itself is a structure in which two wires are enclosed - one transmits a video signal, and the second, made of two wires, is responsible for supplying power. To cover the distance from the source to the receiver with a length of up to 100 meters, such wires are considered the best technical solution (for a voltage of 12-14 Volts). But a distance of more than 100 meters will require (most likely) a separate power source.

Modern samples of the considered consumables are characterized by some technical advantages over other wires used in video surveillance (for example, pure coaxial). Their thickened middle conductor has a large bandwidth, which implies minimal losses during video transfer.In addition, such cables have decent shielding, which will reliably protect the transmitted information from distortion, even if the wire is laid in an area of ​​increased electromagnetic "pollution". From this it is clear that the cameras connected by means of the CVC can be located at a fairly considerable distance from the central recorder. As a striking example of savings, a comparison with twisted pair can be given: the distance that a single segment of the KVK will cover, if you try to close it with a twisted pair, then the latter will require at least five repeaters.

If the video cameras and the control unit-registrar are located in the same room, then it is preferable to use a special "internal" modification of the KVK (marked with a gray or white shell). It does not have special protection against temperature changes or the negative effects of moisture, but its discreet color will perfectly fit into the interior of an office or a country house.

IMPORTANT! It is worth noting that if the combined wire is laid "on weight" on the street, then to enhance its physical stability, a special metal cable should be used, which will take on part of the gravitational load. An alternative could be a sample of KVK-Pt, in which such a cable is included in the design. The use of a cable is necessary for the reason that the weight of the combined cable itself is not so small, and in winter snow and icicles can stick to it, which, under the weight of the total mass, will lead to its breakage.

Applications and basic modifications

Combined cords today are more focused on servicing digital video cameras. This choice is more preferable, because KVK is easily integrated with computer networks.Moreover, for them it is not necessary to specially remake the entire communication field available on the scale, for example, of an industrial enterprise. By setting just the required number of segments from the recorder to the source, you can get a high-quality signal as a result and not worry about creating separate power points for the cameras.

In general, structurally, combined samples are unique consumables. In them, you can implement both a minimum and a maximum of opportunities, which will make them effective exactly as much as necessary. For example, two or four wires can be laid inside, equally provided with a reliable coating. Also, the KVK marking will allow you to accurately determine the type of cable and its belonging to one category or another. For example, a black shell indicates an outer gasket, and a gray shell indicates an inner one. The first is more resistant to moisture and sunlight, and the second is more successfully combined with the interior.

In total, there are two key modifications of the consumables under consideration, which, in turn, may have their own subgroups:

1. KVK-V - used in indoor areas, equipped with good protection against the spread of fire (section 0.5 mm);
2. KVK-P - has a strong polyethylene sheath, stably protects against light exposure and mechanical stress, which indicates the possibility of external laying (section 0.75 mm).

Also, the wires under consideration can be stranded, small-sized (for laying in a confined space), low-current or radio frequency. All of them will have not only a different coating, but also a cross-sectional diameter of the central core.

KVK is widely used in security and fire alarms and video surveillance networks.The peculiarity of its design guarantees an almost uninterrupted power supply to the signal source over a fairly long distance up to 100 meters. And if you lay the cable in a special cable duct, then the degree of protection from external influences will double.

At the same time, it is allowed to operate such cords in rather difficult conditions, for example, where there are elevated operating temperatures. A special heat-resistant shell will help resist them. As a standard, the PVC sheath can be used for 12 years, and for polyethylene - 15 years.

Specifications and markings

The marking of the type of consumables under consideration may consist of several letters and numbers, of which most often the numbers mean specific dimensional indicators (length, cross section), and the letters - functional features. The most common letter markings include:

• P - cable for outdoor installation, capable of withstanding negative weather manifestations;
• B - cable for internal laying, often equipped with a refractory anti-spark sheath;
• A - aluminum core (not the best option, because the copper bandwidth is better, but it is not indicated in any way);
• Fri - the design provides for a supporting metal cable.

The first numeric designation after the "set of letters" traditionally indicates the number of additional insulated wires in the structure (2 or 4), which serve to supply power or control the camera (for example, maintenance of the rotary mechanism). Decimal fractions mean the cross section of the cores in diameter (x0.5 or x0.75).

Cable shielding

It can be made only on the basis of a copper wire braid (tinned copper) or be less dense, made of foil.The first option does not have its own marker, but the second is indicated by the letter "E". It is written as additional information after specifying the section in diameter. A less dense screen tends to transmit a signal with more attenuation, however, you can really feel the difference only in high resolution systems (for example, when face recognition is required). For standard video surveillance that captures the fact of entry / exit or the presence / absence of a person, this is not required and will not be noticeable. However, foil-shielded cord is much cheaper.

Cable sheaths

Initially, KVK were developed exclusively for outdoor installation, so their shell was made on the basis of polyethylene with inclusions of light stabilizers. Then it was necessary to provide the same wires to internal systems, which required the use of a different shell with different functionality. This is how a PVC-compound sheath appeared, which has special fire-fighting properties, while other (already unnecessary strength qualities) were not used in it. At the same time, requirements for environmental friendliness began to be imposed on such shells, and the shell material became less toxic. In the Russian Federation, these requirements are enshrined in the State Standard No. 31565 of 2012, and for internal installation they began to use KVK in a halogen-free sheath, which has the index “ng (A) -HF”.

Compatible KVK connections

To be honest, the modern market is not very good at pampering the consumer with compatible samples. However, absolutely all of them are used equally widely, whether it is an external / internal video surveillance system or a fire and security alarm.

twisted pair

This type is the easiest to integrate into a computer network when creating local network systems.On the VP, you can connect several very different electronic devices to each other - from sensors to digital video cameras. The connection is carried out by means of 8 insulated conductors, which are tied together in pairs and hidden by a common protective sheath. For this type of compatible twisted pairs, the following standards are distinguished:

• STP - has a foil braid for each pair, has a common outer shield made of copper;
• FTP - external common screen made of foil;
• UTP - conductors do not have a screen and any protection.

The advantage of this compatible type lies in its enhanced functionality, which allows the simultaneous transmission of both audio, video, and power over a single wire. Even if you build a segment with a very long distance (about 3000 meters) on a twisted pair cable, you can still transmit a picture and sound through it, however, their quality will leave much to be desired. At the same time, the VP has a small complexity of installation and low cost. Nevertheless, it is desirable to provide this combination in each section with additional amplifiers of the active/passive type.

stranded

They are very well suited for making patch cords when connecting various digital devices to maintain communication, where the connection will be made through an information outlet. Stranded samples are easy to mount and lay in confined spaces, because they have increased flexibility and excessive twisting and bending have little effect on the quality of their work. The reason for this is the presence of many strands in the wire, which can compensate for each other's work.

Combined coaxial with power supply for a video camera

It is a wire for connecting equipment, often used both in organizing a communication field in both analog and digital video surveillance systems. Can transmit real-time TV signal with proper clarity and power the camera at the same time. It should be noted that the main tasks for him are:

• Camera power supply;
• Synchronizing it with the control center;
• Transferring control signals to the camera (from changing ZOOM to mechanical rotation of the lens).

Structurally, such a wire has 3 or 4 optional conductors that are responsible for transmitting commands and power supply. They are protected by a single PVC coating.

Features of installation of KVK

Laying combined cables has distance limitations. Even if you use the most modern models, such as KVK-V-2x0.75, then each segment should not exceed 120 meters (for a voltage of 13.8 Volts). In principle, such lengths are quite enough to provide video surveillance in relatively small stores (relative to the huge areas of hypermarkets) or standard offices. The same distance is enough for equipping a multi-room apartment or a country house. If you want to form a network for a very small space, then it is better to get by with a simple coaxial cable (it will come out much cheaper), and provide power supply in the form of a separate source. In any case, to mount the network even with quite acceptable distances of 100 meters, it is desirable to provide it with backup power supplies powered by batteries.The connection of KVK to devices is made using special plugs of a completely different design, but the DJK-11K connector is considered the most common. It is immediately equipped with a screw terminal for connecting a 12-volt power supply. The cost of this model is affordable, it guarantees the strength of the contacts in the socket, ensuring the permanent connection.

Difficulties of choice

Before making a purchase of a combined product, you need to decide on the type of equipment that it will serve, and which must be compatible with each other and be compatible for this type of cable. The most common mistake of a "real" amateur is, for example, an attempt to connect an analog camera with a KVK cable to a digital recorder. Thus, it is worth paying close attention to the following points:

• Each combined wire has its own clear technical parameters, more or less suitable for a particular type of equipment. Having successfully found the "golden mean" between the capabilities of the cable, the capabilities of the equipment and the set of upcoming tasks, you can get high-quality transmission in the network without interference and at the same time save as much as possible.
• Naturally, more expensive options for combined consumables have more functionality, are better protected from interference and can be connected to a greater number of types of equipment. Nevertheless, a reinforced outdoor cable will not justify its costs if it is mounted indoors;
• In the process of laying any cable, it is advisable to place it at least 50 centimeters from the power lines, otherwise the dangerous proximity will result in a deterioration in the signal transfer;
• If installation is expected in confined spaces and the line will have many bends, then it is better to prefer samples with a large cross section.

Ranking of the best combination cables for 2022

Budget segment

3rd place: "RCroft" KVK-P-2x0.5 mm, shielded, for video surveillance, 20 meters"

The sample has improved protection against electromagnetic interference. Intended for the organization of video surveillance systems. Marking color - black (suitable for street laying). The insulation is made of PVC. The recommended cost for retail chains is 650 rubles.

• Improved protection;
• Adequate price;
• Possibility of street laying.

• Small length.

2nd place: "Syncwire" KVK-P-2 * 0.75 mm, shielded, 20 meters"

The model is intended for simultaneous connection of the power circuit and video signal transmission to CCTV cameras in security and fire alarm systems. Used for outdoor laying. The outer diameter of the cable is 8 mm. Operating temperature range from -40 to +80 degrees Celsius. The coaxial combination used is RK 75-2-11, the sheath material is made of polyethylene. The recommended cost for retail chains is 790 rubles.

• Ability to service various peripheral devices;
• Wide operating temperature range;
• Thick outer base.

• Not detected.

1st place: "Internal cable for video surveillance with power supply 20 meters (for video recorder video camera, AHD video intercom) "Uralkabmed" KVK-V-2 - 0.5mm shielded white"

The sample is used to transmit television signals in video surveillance systems with power and control signals simultaneously connected. Installation - indoors. It has a white color, the sheath is made of high quality PVC compound, which gives the cable additional softness and flexibility. The conductor is made of pure copper, the operating temperature is from -40 degrees to +85 Celsius, the cable diameter is 8 m, the operating voltage of the conductive core is up to 600 V. It allows you to transmit an analog video surveillance signal and power in excellent quality without interference on cable routes up to 120 m. Supplied in a small single cut, which is convenient for small network solutions. The product is elastic, conducts the signal without loss of quality, it is possible to carry out hidden laying in the most inaccessible places. The recommended cost for retail chains is 869 rubles.

• Versatility of use;
• Possibility of laying in cramped conditions;
• Adequate price.

• Not detected.

Middle price segment

3rd place: "KVK-P-2x0.5 mm, stranded, for AHD cameras, 50 meters "UralKabMed"

The model is used in AHD video surveillance systems or video intercoms. The color is black, which means it can be used outdoors. Supplied in coils of 50 meters. The outer shell is made of polyethylene. Multi-strand design means installation along a route with many strong bends. The country of origin is China, the warranty is 1 year. The recommended cost for retail chains is 1550 rubles.

• Laying on difficult routes;
• Work with various equipment;
• Decent warranty.

• Not detected.

2nd place: "RCroft" KVK-V-2 * 0.5 mm, Shielded, for AHD cameras, 100 meters"

The model has improved protection against electromagnetic interference. This combination sample is suitable for AHD CCTV systems and video intercoms. Both internal and external laying is possible. The insulation is made of PVC. The conductor material is pure copper. Country of manufacture - Russia. Supplied in coils of 100 meters. The recommended cost for retail chains is 2750 rubles.

• Limit cut for the combined consumable;
• The conductor is made of pure copper;
• Improved protection against electromagnetic "pollution".

• The braid screen is not solderable, but is perfectly crimped (at the discretion of the owner).

1st place: KVK for video surveillance internal 0.5 mm shielded, copper, 100 meters, UKM

The product is used to transmit television signals in video surveillance systems with simultaneous power supply and / or transmission of control signals. It consists of a coaxial cable and power conductors, combined under a single sheath with a screen. Conductor - single-wire copper with a cross section of 0.35 mm, power is supplied through a copper core with a cross section of 0.50 mm. The screen is made of aluminum, and the shell is made of light-stabilized PVC. The sample transmits a video signal without loss or interference and provides power supply over a distance not exceeding 150 m. The recommended cost for retail chains is 2,800 rubles.

• Resistance to UV rays;
• Sufficient shielding;
• There is an external braid.

• Somewhat thin execution, which speaks of fragility.

Premium class

3rd place: "KVK-V-2 * 0.5 mm, shielded, for AHD cameras, 200 meters"

The model has a flat design, which is typical for servicing indoor AHD video surveillance systems. Marking color is white. Supplied in coils of 200 meters. Allows both internal and external installation. Insulation - PVC (as in outdoor models), not subject to cracking in the cold. The recommended cost for retail chains is 5500 rubles.

• Excellent value for money and quality;
• High-quality insulation;
• Successful resistance to low temperatures (up to -35 degrees Celsius).

• In most cases, you will have to make segments.

2nd place: "KVK-P-2 + 2x0.75 sq.mm CCA, 96%, 200m, black, PROCONNECT OUTDOOR 01-4109"

The model is used to transmit television signals in video surveillance systems with simultaneous power supply and / or transmission of control / control signals. The product consists of a radio frequency wire and power wires under a single sheath. It can transmit video signal and power supply without loss and interference at a distance not exceeding 120 m. Supplied in coils of 200 meters. The recommended cost for retail chains is 6852 rubles.

• Good flexibility;
• Full compliance with Russian GOST;
• Relatively reasonable price.

• The core material - Cooper Clad Aluminum (CCA) - is aluminum clad with copper, which means slightly worse permeability.

1st place: "Paritet" KVK-Pt 2 × 0.5 cable combined with a cable 200 meters"

It is used for analog video surveillance systems, has a multi-wire radio frequency element RK 75-2-13M, a screen (braided with copper wires with a density of at least 90%) and two power wires with a cross section of 0.5 mm2. Designed for external fixed suspension laying. The model is resistant to ultraviolet radiation, precipitation, relative humidity up to 98% at temperatures down to -35°C. The voltage is possible up to 250 V AC with a frequency of 50 Hz (for power wires). Resistant to short-term exposure to mineral oils. The recommended cost for retail chains is 13,559 rubles.

• Climatic modification according to GOST 15150-69 - UHL category of placement 1-2;
• Maximum operating temperature: +70°С;
• Resistant to high humidity up to 98%;
• Resistant to solar radiation, frost, dew;
• Service life - 30 years.

• Not detected.

Conclusion

It is always necessary to remember that the central core in KVK is preferably made of copper, because aluminum is a solution for organizing a communication field in small areas, and even of a closed type. Copper will better conduct a low frequency signal, even at distances exceeding the recommended values ​​​​(more than 100 meters). At the same time, it should be taken into account that the combined cable will work with maximum efficiency if it is matched as closely as possible to the equipment being serviced.