Datacom and Telephone Cable

Datacom cable is used to transmit data signals between network equipment, communication systems, computers, controls, and connected devices. It may be used in commercial buildings, industrial facilities, offices, data centers, equipment rooms, control systems, and communication infrastructure.

The right datacom cable depends on the signal type, data requirements, conductor or pair count, shielding, jacket material, rating, and installation environment.

Telephone cable is used for voice communication, phone systems, intercoms, low-voltage communication circuits, and related building communication wiring. It may be used in commercial, industrial, institutional, and utility environments depending on the cable construction and project requirements.

When ordering telephone cable, buyers should confirm the number of pairs, conductor size, shielding requirement, jacket type, voltage rating, and where the cable will be installed.

Datacom cable is usually selected for data transmission, network communication, and equipment-to-equipment signaling. Telephone cable is generally selected for voice, phone, intercom, and related communication circuits.

Some applications overlap, especially in low-voltage communication systems. The right choice depends on whether the system is carrying data, voice, control signals, or another communication function.

Shielded datacom or telephone cable should be used when electrical noise may interfere with signal quality. This can matter near power circuits, motors, drives, industrial equipment, lighting systems, control panels, or other sources of electromagnetic interference.

The shield type and cable construction should match the signal sensitivity, cable length, surrounding equipment, and project specification.

To choose the right cable, start with the system and installation path. Confirm whether the cable is for data, voice, intercom, control, network, or equipment communication. Then compare the conductor or pair count, AWG size, shielding, jacket material, voltage rating, temperature rating, plenum or riser requirement, indoor or outdoor use, and required footage.

For quote requests, provide the cable type, number of pairs or conductors, conductor size, shielding requirement, rating, application, length, and any UL, CSA, NEC, or project specifications.