When it comes to the difference between cables and wires, many people might be confused and ask, "Aren't they the same thing?" Of course not. Cables and wires differ significantly in size, structure, purpose, and characteristics, so they shouldn't be confused. So, what's the difference between cables and wires? What types of wires are there? Let's take a closer look.
What are the differences between wires and cables?
Wires are made up of one or more flexible conductors, covered in a lightweight, flexible sheath. They are conductive metal wires used to carry current. They come in various forms, such as solid, stranded, or braided. Based on the insulation, they are categorized as bare wire and insulated wire.
Wires
Cables are insulated conductors consisting of one or more mutually insulated conductive wires enclosed in a sealed sheath. This sheath may be covered with a protective coating and is used to transmit and distribute electrical energy or send signals. Cables differ from ordinary wires primarily in their larger size and more complex structure. Cables primarily consist of four components: a conductive core, insulation, a sealed sheath, and a protective coating.
Cables
Based on their purpose, they can be categorized as power cables, communication cables, and control cables. Therefore, we generally refer to wires used in circuits as wires and cables. There's no strict distinction between wires and cables. Home decoration generally doesn't require cables, so wires will suffice.
What types of wires are there?
1. Hard wire, professionally known as BV wire, is primarily used for lighting, electrical outlets, and air conditioning. Hard wire has a certain degree of rigidity, making it easier to bend and straighten.
2. Soft wire, professionally known as BVR wire, is similar to home power cords. Soft wire is more complex to manufacture than hard wire, and high-frequency circuits have a higher current carrying capacity than hard wire.
With the expansion of usage, many types of wires have become "cables within wires" and "wires within cables." Therefore, a strict distinction is unnecessary. In daily life, household wiring is often referred to as wires, and power cables are simply referred to as cables. Wires and cables primarily include bare wire, winding wire, power cables, communication cables, optical cables, and cables for electrical equipment.
