Cable

Cable is a bundle of one or more conductors enclosed in an insulating, protective jacket, designed to carry electrical power, signals, or data. Cables can transmit low-power signals or high-voltage power and are built from a conductive core, insulation, often shielding, and an outer jacket. They may be designed for indoor or outdoor use, subject to environmental, mechanical, and electrical requirements. Cables are distinguished from wires by their multiple-conductor structure and protective covering.

Electrical cables include power cables, control cables, and cables used in industrial and consumer equipment. Conductors are commonly copper or aluminum. Insulation materials include polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and cross-linked polyethylene (XLPE). Some cables feature shielding to minimize electromagnetic interference and armor to protect against mechanical damage. Cable constructions vary from single-core and multi-core cables to armored or flexible types.

Data and communications cables focus on transmitting information. Twisted pair cables (UTP/STP) and coaxial cables are used for telephone, Ethernet, and video. Fiber optic cables transmit data as light through a glass or plastic core, offering high bandwidth and low loss. Fiber cables require transmitters and receivers and are central to modern telecommunications and data networks.

Standards and safety guide installation, performance, and testing. Industry organizations such as IEC, UL, and ISO publish specifications for insulation, flame retardance, voltage rating, and durability. Cables are selected based on electrical load, environmental exposure, data rate, and installation conditions.