Multi-stranded cables use multiple small conductors, so they bend more easily and work well for routing through tight spaces, connecting moving equipment, or making short equipment connections. Solid-conductor cables hold their shape better and often suit permanent runs and punch-down terminations, while stranded cables require connectors or terminals rated for stranded conductors to support a reliable termination.

Choose the conductor count based on the signals or circuits you need to carry, with two-conductor cable suited to simpler connections and four-conductor cable supporting additional speaker, control, or low-voltage connections. Select the wire gauge based on the installation’s load, cable length, and termination requirements, with the assortment including 14, 16, and 18 AWG conductors for general-purpose, security, and speaker applications, plus 24 AWG stranded cable for Ethernet patching.

Before installing multi-stranded cables, review the cable jacket and applicable rating, the space classification, local code requirements, and whether the cable supports the intended speaker, security, networking, or fiber application. For example, CL2 cables suit listed general-purpose uses, CL3R FT4 cables are marked for riser applications, and the rugged fiber cable is designed for indoor riser or tray installations and outdoor ducts, so verify the cable marking before routing it.

Shielding helps determine how well a multi-stranded cable handles electrical interference, so unshielded cable may suit many speaker, security, and general-purpose runs, while shielded cable can be useful in noisier environments when the system supports it. Jacket ratings such as CL2, CL3R, and FT4 help match the cable to its installation space, while connector types, such as RJ45 plugs for Cat 6 patch cables or compatible fiber connectors, must match the equipment and termination method.