Cables – A Guide On Their Types And Features

By Author: Nanshi Pacheco
Total Articles: 6
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Do you know what type cable has been used in your home? Do you know the difference between metallic sheathed cable and coaxial cable? Don’t fret, most people don’t. There are many things like cables and switches that we usually do not pay attention to. We only think about them when we have to replace them or buy ones for a new house. Let us discuss cables today so that for your new house you would know from beforehand which cable to buy.

What are cables?

To begin with, let us differentiate between cables and wires. Yes, most people use these terms interchangeably but they are different. The wire is a single conductor of electricity while the cable is a group of wires wrapped together. It is important that cables are installed properly, both for ensuring smooth electricity supply and safety of the people and the house.

There are more than 20 variants available in the market today meant for different purposes. Let us share information about a few common cables.

Different types of cables

Multi-conductor cables – this is the most common cable used in homes. As the name suggests, these cables ...
... come with more than one conductor which are insulated separately. This type of cable is simple to use. With an outer insulation layer, it is safe also. There are variants in this type of cable which are used for different purposes.

Coaxial TV cable – this is a special type of cable which has a tubular insulating layer protecting the inner conductor which in turn has another has another tubular conducting shield. The term “coaxial” is derived from the fact that the two inner shields have the same geometric axis. This cable is generally used to carry television signals and hence the name coaxial TV cables. They are also used to connect video equipment.

Copper electrical cable – copper being a good conductor of heat is used in making cables. Corrosion resistance and creep resistance also makes copper a popular choice for making cables. Copper electrical cables are quite commonly used in industries and residents too.

Copper flexible cable is another variant of copper cables. It is commonly used in transmitting low voltage signals and panel boards, battery cables etc. This cable is characterized by flexibility and resistance which make them useful for industries.

How to buy cables for your home?

After learning about these types of cables and their features, you must be wondering which one to get for your home.

Have you ever seen the power distribution board of your house? It is a complex system that is carefully designed to deliver power to make your life easy. There are different components of this system, which together make it possible to use all the electrical gadgets in the house. The meter, main breaker panel, circuits and cables are vital parts of it.

Before buying any part of this system, you need to check with the local inspector for permission. For choosing cables, check the labels carefully. Usually, all the vital information is printed on the labels that would help you to choose the right cables for your house. The max voltage, heat resistance, gauge, and material are some of the items you should check the label.

Shopping for cables is not easy. If you do it carefully with ample time in hand, you can ensure the safety of your home and loved ones and be in peace for a long time.

Nanshi Pacheco is an avid reader and a passionate writer, writes about several topics on electrical equipment like coaxial TV cables, Copper flexible cable, power distribution board.
To know more, visit: - http://www.standardelectrical.net