Compare wire vs. cable and choose the right option based on gauge, number of conductors, insulation, and current rating.
Ethernet Cable

- Use For:
Unshielded: Data; Category 3 can also be used for Telephones
Shielded, Double Shielded: Data, Interference Shielding - Flexible
- Insulation:
Outer: PVC Plastic
Inner: See table
Send data between computers, printers, servers, and switches. Ethernet category standards describe the cable’s performance capabilities. Higher category numbers mean faster speeds, superior data transfer, and better signal strength. Category cables are backward compatible, so you can mix and match, but your speed will only be as fast as the lowest-rated cable.
Double-shielded cable has a layer of braid and foil shielding for the best protection against signal interference. Use it in areas with high signal distortion, such as near transformers, generators, and heavy duty motors.
Inner Insulation | Per Ft. | ||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ethernet Cable Category | Transmission Frequency | Wire Ga. | No. of Wires | Cable AWG | Max. Temp., °F | OD | Material | Color | Outer Insulation Color | Length, ft. | 1-499 | 500-Up | |
Double-Shielded Stranded Wire | |||||||||||||
| 6A | 500 MHz | 26 | 8 | 26/8 | 175° | 0.27" | Polyethylene Plastic | Blue Blue/White Brown Brown/White Green Green/White Orange Orange/White | Yellow | 000000 | 00000 | 00000 | |
Industrial Communication-Standard Cable
- Use For:
Flexible: Data, Interference Shielding
Continuous Flex: Data, Interference Shielding, Automation, Continuous Motion - Insulation: See Table
Connect devices such as sensors, programmable logic controllers, and actuators to an automated network. Choose the communication standard that matches your existing network.
Use continuous-flex cable in automated applications that require continuous motion, such as robotics.
Cable with TPE rubber outer insulation has a protective layer that is more flexible and resists abrasion better than other materials. It also stands up to extreme temperatures and chemicals, making it good for use in harsh outdoor environments.
Double shielded cable has a layer of braid and foil shielding for better protection against signal interference than foil alone. Use it in environments with high signal distortion, such as near transformers, generators, and heavy duty motors.
Flame rated cable meets requirements for preventing the spread of flames based on a timed test. VW-1 cable is suspended vertically during testing.
Outer Insulation | Per Ft. | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Communication Standard | Transmission Speed | Wire Ga. (No. of Wires) | Temp. Range, °F | OD | Material | Color | Specifications Met | Length, ft. | 1-99 | 100-Up | |
Continuous Flex | |||||||||||
Double-Shielded Stranded Wire | |||||||||||
| Profinet Type C | 100 Mbps | 22 (4) | -30° to 155° | 0.3" | TPE Rubber | Green | UL 2556 VW-1 | 0000000 | 00000 | 00000 | |


























