Power wire question

[dm88]

This is probably a dumb question, but I have a lot of 16/2 and 18/2 speaker wire around.  Is it ok to use that for the transformer power wire?

[DEL Installations]

Depends.

Wire (cable) for an alarm must be stamped with it's type and rating, like CL2 or FPL or CM. Any other type isn't suitable per code.

[dm88]

What is the proper type for a transformer?  I will only need less than 10 feet of it probably and am wondering what to use.

In regards to the type and rating stamped on the wire that you mentioned, I ordered a 500' spool of 22/4 wire from an online security retailer that I purchased the system from.   The only thing it says on it is the brand and 22/4.  Does that mean it is not per code?

[DEL Installations]

All wiring that I know of since I started in the industry back in 93-94 is stamped with both the wire AWG, conductors and type, which is all a code requirement.

I have seen it "inlaid" in the outer jacket, like stamping, but there should be some sort of label on the cable, otherwise IMHO, the wire is not rated for in-wall use/code compliant.

Some manufacturers will allow for a light AWG cable for the transformer, so the best is to look in the install manual for your particular panel, I prefer to run no less than 18 AWG myself.