Audio, Data & Video Cable & Accessories
Audio, data, and video cables are essential components in various electronic and communication systems, connecting devices and facilitating the transmission of different types of signals.
Audio Cables are used to transmit sound signals between devices. These include cables like RCA, 3.5mm, and XLR, each designed for specific audio applications ranging from consumer electronics to professional sound equipment. They can carry analog signals and, in some cases like digital optical cables, digital signals as well.
Data Cables are crucial for data communication in computer networks and telecommunications. Examples include Ethernet cables (like Cat5, Cat6, and Cat7), USB cables, and fiber optic cables. These cables are designed to handle high-speed data transmission with varying capacities and are essential for internet connectivity, office networks, and data centers.
Video Cables transmit video signals and are integral to home entertainment systems, broadcasting, and digital signage. Common types include HDMI, which supports high-definition video and audio; DisplayPort, often used for computer monitors; and older standards like VGA and composite video, which are less common in modern applications due to their lower quality compared to newer technologies.
Industrial Wire Types: Part 2
Twisted Pair Wire
Twisted pair wire is most commonly seen in scenarios where data is being transfer to and from certain locations. It uses two separate conductors, twisted together, for a single circuit. The two conductors are twisted together to reduce electromagnetic interference or “cross talk” between the two wires. It is common to use twisted pairs in place of a coax cable for data transfer. Coax can be fairly expensive and can be more difficult to run whereas twisted wire is not as thick or rigid and can easily be maneuvered in tough to reach locations. Twisted wire will always come in pairs, but there are no limits to how many pairs can be included in a single cable. For instance, CAT5 or CAT6 cable, which is commonly used in home and office networks, uses twisted pair wire. This type of cable has four different pairs of communication lines.
Shielded Wire
Shielded wire is different from regular wire insulation in that it is made of a conductive material. This conductive material includes, braided strands of copper (or other types of metal), non-braided aluminum and copper tape. The purpose of this shielding is to protect the signal passing through the wire from any outside interference. Unlike twisted cable, which is trying to eliminate interference among wire being used in the same circuit, shielded wire needs protection from outside interference and from other electrical circuits in the area.
Tray Cable
Tray Cable is a factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors, with or without associated bare or covered grounding conductors under a nonmetallic sheath, for installation in cable trays, in raceways, or where supported by a messenger wire. It is common to see tray cable that has many different conductors that can be used for control wiring, instrumentation and signal wiring as well as many other applications. Tray cable is often rated for use in direct sunlight applications, as well as direct burial applications. Because of the potential weight of tray cable when suspended, it will need to be supported properly to avoid hazardous environments.