I've searched online and found wire gauge calculators but I still can't seem to find a reliable answer.
What gauge wire do I need to carry 36 volts (DC) at 5 amps (peak) for 4 meters?
This cable will be used for a video arcade machine light gun, and the power drives a solenoid which is only active for a few milliseconds. The current draw should be zero until the light gun is fired which quickly activates a solenoid and then stops but the gun can be fired in rapid succession... (which can cause a fairly steady (?) draw of 5A to continuously activate the solenoid)
Would an 18 AWG wire be sufficient, or do I need to go bigger? ...or can I go smaller?
Voltage drop isn't too important because the solenoid circuit can use 24 - 36V and will be powered with a regulated 36V power supply. I just don't want the wire to heat up or catch on fire, heh.
edit: I'm looking to use a stranded wire for flexibility (in case that matters)...
edit: This is related to a previous question, where a cable length of "10 to 15 feet at the most" is mentioned.