Cables & Connectors

Cables & Connectors link power, data, and audio/video so your projects run safely, cleanly, and with fewer headaches. From home networking and home theater to industrial control, automotive, marine, and solar, the right cable and connector choices improve reliability, speed up installation, and simplify maintenance.

Find power cables (THHN, SOOW, extension leads, speaker wire), low-voltage wiring (thermostat, security, doorbell), and data/network cables (Cat6/Cat6A, fiber optic). For media and peripherals, explore HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, USB-A, and audio options like XLR, TRS, and RCA. Match them with connectors that fit your task: NEMA and IEC power plugs, ring and spade lugs, crimp butt splices, terminal blocks, RJ45 keystones, USB, MC4 for solar, quick-disconnects, and waterproof IP67 circular connectors for harsh environments.

Choose with confidence by matching current and voltage to conductor size (AWG) and insulation rating. Look for jacket and fire ratings such as CMR/CMP for riser or plenum spaces, and CL2/CL3 for in-wall speaker and low-voltage runs. Use stranded wire for flexibility, solid for permanent runs. Shielding and twisted pairs help cut electromagnetic interference near motors or fluorescent lighting. For outdoor or oily areas, select UV-, water-, or oil-resistant jackets. Verify listings like UL/ETL and RoHS to meet code and safety goals.

Pro tips for smoother installs:
- Plan routes, measure twice, and leave service loops.
- Respect bend radius and provide strain relief with glands and boots.
- Separate power from data to reduce noise.
- Label both ends; use ferrules, heat shrink, and color coding.
- Test with a multimeter, continuity tester, or network certifier; trace with a tone probe.

Maintain uptime by inspecting for nicks, loose terminals, and corrosion. In marine settings, favor tinned copper and dielectric grease. Pair your picks with quality crimpers, wire strippers, punch-down tools, soldering gear, and heat guns to achieve secure, professional connections that last.