Triaxial cable has three conductor elements and is commonly used in the television industry. It can serve as both a power and signal conductor, and is often used to connect cameras to control units. It is not typically used in home applications, but can be used for signal distribution in Europe. Triaxial cable is a […]
A hoist cable is a strong braided steel cable used for lifting loads on cranes. It can also be made of fiber rope, which is safer, lighter, and cheaper. Fiber cable is preferred on overhead cranes due to its smaller diameter and quieter operation. A hoist cable is the braided steel cable that runs from […]
Axial lead is a connection configuration used on many electrical and electronic parts designed for board or carrier mounting. The leads are typically long enough to allow for easy installation into most PCB layouts. Axial lead configurations are found on a wide variety of components, including carbon resistors, electrolytic capacitors, fuses, and LEDs. The conductors […]
Armored cable is a power conductor cable covered in a metal sheath. There are three types: BX, true armored cable, and Metal Clad (MC) cable. The differences are small, but the grounding systems vary. BX has a poor grounding system, true armored cable has a better grounding system and heavier insulation, and MC cable has […]
Cord load measures the safe amount of electrical power a power cord can handle. The formula for calculating cable load is amps multiplied by voltage. Safe wire carrying capacity is measured in watts and amperage capacity is calculated by multiplying cable load by 0.8. Factors affecting cable load include resistance, length, insulation, location, ambient temperature, […]
Cable trays are used to house cables that need to cross traffic areas or be hidden. They can be made of different materials and are popular in industrial settings to avoid tripping hazards. Cable ducts allow for the passage of multiple cables and can be secured with brackets or adhesive. Once in place, the conduit […]
A cable assembly is a group of wires or cables arranged into a single unit for transmitting information signals or power. It is commonly used in automobiles, airplanes, and construction equipment, as well as HVAC equipment and vessels. The specific design depends on its use, and it is usually made manually. Cable assemblies provide protection […]
A cable car is a system that transports goods or passengers along a rope or cable. It can be supported by corners or turns and stabilized by type lines. The block and tackle assembly is used to suspend the load, and tow lines are attached to the block and rigging. Modern cable cars include ski […]
Cable sleeves protect and hold conductors in cables for electricity transmission, telecommunications, and other purposes. Different types are available for varying voltages and settings. Sheaths can crack over time due to weathering and strain, and technicians use specialized tools to cut them for splicing and repairs. A cable sleeve wraps around the outside of a […]
Multicore cables contain more lines than a typical cable of that type, and are common in construction, audio and video work, and civil construction. They have all the necessary parts of a single core cable but are wrapped up with other lines. They are found in condominiums and city infrastructure. A multicore cable is an […]
San Francisco’s cable cars are a popular tourist attraction and mode of transportation, but they were not the first cable cars. The cable car connects to the cable through a grip and is controlled from a central power station. Cable cars travel at a relatively low speed and are manually operated by a grab man […]
Cable cleaners remove dirt and contaminants from wires and cables, extending their life and reducing replacement costs. They come in liquid, aerosol, or gel form and can be used on exposed wires or insulation. Choosing the right cleaner is important to avoid fire hazards, injury, or damage to the wire. Cleaners should effectively remove debris […]
Cable TV advertising includes commercials, screen tracking, community channel ads, and above-programming promotion. Commercials can be costly, while tracking and community channel ads are more cost-effective. Internet sites may also serve commercials. Consider price, exposure, and target market when advertising on cable TV. Advertising on cable TV often involves using short snippets of time before, […]
The knotted rope was an ancient measuring device used in surveying, with knots marking units of distance. It was replaced by more accurate tools like the chain. The device is still used for quick measurements and education. Egyptian tomb paintings and Greek writings provide insight into its use. A knotted rope is an ancient device […]
Flexible flat cable (FFC) is a thin, flat electronic piece made up of many strands of wire used in cell phones and laptops. It rarely uses plastic plugs and has small metal pins that fit into receptor holes. FFC is capable of infinite flexing and is commonly bonded to a stronger plastic film. Its size […]
Cable crimping is a method of permanently terminating wire ropes to prevent fraying and ensure a secure joint. It involves forging or swaging a sleeve or ferrule onto the ends of the rope using hand or hydraulic tools. Swaging can also be used to join cables. Cable crimping is a term that describes a specific […]
A cable pulley is a wheel with an axle used to guide braided steel cables. They are commonly used in industrial settings and weight lifting machines. The size and number of pulleys determine the weight capacity of the system. Ski lifts use large pulleys, while exercise machines typically have one or two. A cable pulley […]
A cable holder, also known as a drag chain, secures cables attached to moving equipment to reduce the risk of injury to workers. Open and closed models are available, and plastics are the preferred material. Manufacturers offer standard and custom options and can assess the need for a facility. A cable holder is a device […]
Portable cords, also known as flex cables, are versatile and sturdy devices with multiple conductors that can be used with various machines, motors, and appliances. They are heavily insulated and can withstand extreme heat, cold, and exposure to chemicals. Portable cords come in different configurations, lengths, and ratings, and are identified by codes that relate […]
High-voltage cables transmit high-voltage energy and require special safety measures. They are made of insulated conductors and sheathing material to protect against electrical problems, shock, and fire. Warning signs mark the cables, and power lockout mechanisms allow for safe maintenance. High-voltage cable is electrical wiring designed to transmit high-voltage energy, which has some special safety […]