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What is the difference between multiconductor cable and signal cable?
The difference between these two types of cable is not an easy distinction. Certain multiconductor cables offer signal cable properties and certain signal cables have multiple conductors. So, what do we mean by these two designations? Multiconductor cable, sometimes written as multi-conductor or even multi conductor, is exactly what it sounds like. It is a cable that carries multiple conductors. This brings us to signal cable. If a cable is not properly protected, its signal can be disrupted by electromagnetic inference (EMI). Signal cable is designed to transmit signals through areas that can deal with EMI. So the difference between these two types of cable can be a little grey. Below we will look at each type of cable in more detail.
Multiconductor
Coax Cable
Multi Pair and Tray Cable
Speaker Wire
Zip Cord
CAT5E & CAT6
Devicenet
Tinned Copper Braid
Before we move on, it is important to note that each type of multi-conductor cable or signal cable is designed with a particular purpose in mind. Our general multi-conductor cables carry anywhere from two to twenty-five conductors, and our signal cables range from one conductor to as many as four. Different jobs and projects have different requirements. There is no “one size fits all” cable. Some are meant for average industrial applications, whereas others are designed to deal with electromagnetic interference. Basically, if it has more than one conductor, it is considered a multi-conductor cable. If it is designed to reduce or prevent EMI, it is a signal cable regardless of the number of conductors.
"Basically, if it has more than one conductor, it is considered multiconductor. If it is designed to reduce or prevent EMI, then it is signal cable regardless of the number of conductors."
Multiconductor Cable
Signal Cable
Where are these types of cables used?
Each type of multiconductor cable has a specific intended purpose where it is commonly employed. Below are some of the most common uses for each type of multi-conductor or signal cable. This list is not all-inclusive as there are multiple uses for each type of multiconductor cable.
Multi-conductor cable can be found in things such as remote signaling, communications, and broadcast applications. It really depends on whether the cables are shielded or not as to where they are used. An example is a 3-conductor shielded cable which would be used in an application where EMI is a concern. In general, they are commonly found in control purpose applications.
Tray cables are commonly used to connect radio transmitters and receivers to antennas and are used as a transmission line for radio frequencies. Commonly a 4 or 6-conductor wire, you can find them in computer networks, cable television signals, and even digital audio equipment.
Coaxial cables are primarily used by the computer and communication industries. They are designed for hazardous environments making them ideal for industrial applications. They can be a 2-conductor wire or more as certain applications will call for a 4-conductor wire. Oftentimes, they are run in trays along the ceiling to prevent any damage to the cables themselves.
Speaker wire is used to connect audio equipment and speakers. This 2-conductor wire is used in jukeboxes, home theaters, stereo equipment, and digital audio. This type of wire is also used in cars, RVs, boats, and other vehicles to connect speakers to an audio system.
Zip cord, or bonded wire, is useful for a few reasons. First off, it is parallel bonded meaning it is easier to run the wires in situations where they need to be routed quickly. Secondly, the wires can be easily separated when needed meaning they can branch off if necessary. Zip cord is manufactured as 2-conductor wire, 3-conductor wire, or 4-conductor wire. These are commonly used in trailer lights and DC circuits.
Cat5, Cat5E, and Cat6 (Category Cable)
CAT Cable is often used in data transmissions. Most people recognize them from their internet hookups. You have probably seen them coming out of your modem or PC. They contain several twisted pairs of internal wires. This is the cable most people refer to as Ethernet cable.
DeviceNet is best known for its use in network systems that interconnect control devices. It is used to connect independent control devices together and tie them to a hub source. DeviceNet contains two sets of 2-conductor shielded cables and a drain wire. Oftentimes, you will find this type of cable in automated industries.
Tinned Copper Braid is used for a variety of functions. It can be excellent as a shielding wire when used in short runs. It also works well as a low impedance ground path. It is comprised of soft-drawn tinned copper wire. In some instances, it can even be used as a strong connection between larger components.
What gauges are available?
We aim to offer the absolute best choices while avoiding options that are not very beneficial. This means we re-evaluate our ideas and concepts to offer you the best choices possible without adding so many you get lost or overwhelmed. Below is a quick reference table for some of the gauge sizes we offer for different types of cables.
| Wire Gauge | Shielded or Unshielded | Number of Conductors | Units | Minimum Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14AWG | Shielded | 2, 3 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 14AWG | Unshielded | 2 |
Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 16AWG | Shielded | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 16AWG | Unshielded | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 18AWG | Shielded | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 18AWG | Unshielded | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 20AWG | Shielded | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 20AWG | Unshielded | 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 9, 15 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 22AWG | Shielded | 2, 3, 4, 6, 8, 10, 15 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 22AWG | Unshielded | 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 10, 12, 15, 25 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| Wire Gauge | Number of Conductors | Units | Minimum Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14AWG | 2 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 16AWG | 2 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 18AWG | 2 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| Wire Gauge | Color Options | Number of Conductors | Units | Minimum Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 14AWG | Red/Black, Grey/Black, Blue/Black | 2 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 16AWG | Red/Black, Grey/Black, Dark Blue/Black |
2 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 16AWG | Green w/ yellow stripe, Yellow, Brown, White(4 Conductor only) |
3, 4 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| Wire Gauge | Approx. AWD Estimate | Flat Width | Nom. Circular Mils | Units | Minimum Quantity |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 36AWG | 18AWG | 1/8" - 0.125" | 1800 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 14AWG | 1/4" - 0.25" | 4200 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 12AWG | 3/8" - 0.375" | 7200 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 10AWG | 1/2" - 0.5" | 9600 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 10AWG | 5/8" - 0.625" | 9600 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 9AWG | 3/4" - 0.75" | 13200 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 7AWG | 1" - 1.0" | 21600 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
| 36AWG | 3AWG | 1 1/2" - 1.5" | 52800 | Multiconductor cable by the foot | 25 feet |
Where are these products implemented?
Pacer multiconductor cable and signal cable are implemented in a range of applications across multiple industries. Looking to replace a faded speaker wire? We have you covered. Want to upgrade your CAT5 cable to something better? We have what you need. Whether you are looking to replace a multiconductor cable or install a new run, we have everything you will need. Aside from cables, we also carry the proper tools you will need as well as the right terminals and connectors and even the highest quality heat shrink.
Why choose Pacer for your multi conductor and signal cable?
With nearly forty years of being a top wire and cable manufacturer, Pacer has become the expert the professionals turn to. Serving some of the world’s largest boatbuilders has allowed us to inspect, refine, and perfect our own processes in order to meet the demands of a competitive industry. Offering multiconductor cable by the foot as well as everything a professional needs makes us an essential tool. We are proud to put our name on everything we do. When you see Pacer, you know it means quality.
*This page was updated on 10/17/2024*