Ribbon Cables and their applications
Single- and multi-coloured ribbon cables are used e.g. in fixed connections in telecommunication devices or electronic control systems for machines.
Telephone cables in practice
These cables are used not only in telecommunications, but they also proved to be good for standard telephone connections with the most common number of cores.
Hybrid cables
Hybrid cables enable transmission of different types of signals using a single cable, as they comprise several routes with different functionalities.
Examples of use of hybrid cables
- cables for motor drives, with three thick wires powering motor coils, and a few signal wires connecting magnetic field sensors of the coils with the drive;
- CCTV system, where a single cable is used for transmitting video signal, supplying power, and controlling camera movements;
- popular industrial applications, where such a cable is a part of a network, and a power supplier;
- solutions within stage sound systems, where hybrid cables limit the number of cables on stage.
Structure of hybrid cables
There are no standards or regulations defining what types of wires can be used within hybrid cables.
Hybrid cables may comprise:
- power supply cores,
- optical wires (optical fibre),
- signal cables,
- coaxial cables,
- computer twisted-pair cables. Each manufacturer provides unique solutions, and the structure of a cable is adjusted to particular applications, e.g. industrial drives, stage sound systems, etc.
Applications for hybrid cables
Hybrid cables are usually used in professional systems in the following industries:
- medical,
- military,
- industrial,
where certified connections compliant with applicable standards are required.
Using a hybrid cable with appropriate certification is often the easiest and the cheapest way to meet such requirements.
See also:
Summary
Hybrid cables are a comfortable connection solution, which allows you to save space and limit your cables in industry, medical technology, telecommunication or building systems. They simplify operations connected with mounting and service, while increasing the quality and reliability of your installation. What is more, they offer repeatable connection parameters, which is important in situations where connections are exposed to disturbances.