Conductor count determines how many power, control, RGB, or color-temperature channels a linear lighting installation can carry, with two-conductor wire suited to simpler runs and six-conductor wire supporting more complex multi-channel setups. Wire gauge affects power delivery and voltage drop, so 16 AWG can support higher-current lighting runs than 18 AWG, while shielded 24 AWG two-conductor wire is designed for RS-485 or DMX 512 control signals.

Use shielded wire for RS-485 or DMX linear lighting control when the signal runs near power wiring, motors, switching equipment, or other sources of electrical interference. The shield and drain wire help reduce unwanted noise on the control signal, supporting more reliable communication between the lighting controller and connected fixtures.

Communication wire carries control signals between the lighting system and its control components, while power wire delivers low-voltage electrical power to the LED lighting. Communication wire commonly uses shielded, smaller-gauge conductors for protocols such as RS-485 or DMX, while power wire typically uses larger-gauge conductors selected for the lighting load and run length.

Control wire for linear lighting in this category is rated CM and CL3, is UL listed, and is intended for low-voltage linear-lighting applications. The wire is specified for temperatures from -20°C to 75°C, so select a conductor and installation method that match the project’s environmental conditions and local code requirements.