Communication Cable

Communication cable is used to carry low-voltage signals, audio, data, alarm, intercom, security, control, and equipment communication between devices or systems. It may be used in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, studios, security systems, public address systems, fire alarm controls, computer interconnects, and other signal-based applications.

The right cable depends on the signal type, conductor count, shielding requirement, voltage rating, jacket material, installation location, and required NEC or UL designation.

Communication cable is usually selected for signal, data, audio, intercom, alarm, security, or device-to-device communication. Control cable is typically selected for control circuits, equipment commands, relays, machinery, automation, and industrial control systems.

There can be overlap because some cables support both communication and control circuits. The best choice depends on whether the main priority is signal quality, equipment control, shielding, voltage rating, installation method, or environmental durability.

Shielded communication cable should be used when signal quality may be affected by electrical noise or interference. This can matter near motors, drives, power circuits, industrial equipment, lighting systems, radio equipment, control panels, or other electronics.

Shielding may be foil, braid, spiral, individual pair shielding, or overall shielding depending on the cable construction. The best option depends on the system, signal sensitivity, cable length, and surrounding environment.

CL2, CM, CMR, and PLTC are cable designations that help identify where and how the cable may be used. CL2 is commonly associated with Class 2 low-voltage circuits. CM is a general communications cable rating. CMR is a communications riser rating. PLTC stands for power-limited tray cable and is used for certain power-limited circuits and tray cable applications.

The correct designation depends on the circuit type, installation space, voltage, building requirements, and project specification.

To choose the right communication cable, start with the system it will serve. Confirm whether it is for audio, intercom, alarm, security, data, computer interconnect, control, fire alarm, studio, broadcast, or industrial equipment communication. Then compare conductor count, paired or multi-conductor construction, shield type, voltage rating, temperature rating, jacket material, NEC type, and installation environment.

For quote requests, provide the cable type, conductor or pair count, AWG size, voltage rating, shielding requirement, required footage, application, and any UL, CSA, NEC, or project specifications.