Low-Current Cables Selection Guide
Engineering guide to selecting control, signal, PUR, silicone, coaxial, telephone and audio low-current cables by shielding, core cross-section and sheath material.
What are low-current cables? Low-current cables transmit automation control signals, analog/digital sensor data, audio-video feeds, intercom, and telecommunication signals at low voltage and current levels rather than main power distribution.
This guide covers the technical selection criteria for products in the Low-Current Cables category.
Low-current cable subcategories
- Control cables: Flexible multi-core YSLY-JZ/OZ (unshielded) and YSLYCY-JZ (copper-braid shielded) cables for machine and panel wiring.
- Signal cables: Fine-stranded LIYY (unshielded) and LIYCY (shielded) cables for 4–20 mA / 0–10 V analog signals, encoders, and RS-485 instrumentation.
- PUR cables: Polyurethane-sheathed cables engineered for drag chains, cutting oils, coolants, and continuous mechanical abrasion.
- Silicone cables: High-temperature silicone-insulated cables (SiHF) rated up to +180 °C for furnaces, heating elements, and glass/steel plants.
- Coaxial cables: Impedance-controlled RG59, RG6, and RG11 cables for RF/satellite distribution and CCTV video lines.
- Telephone cables and intercom cables: Indoor voice, PBX, and building intercom wiring.
- Audio, microphone and DMX cables and speaker cord cables: Public address, stage lighting control, and speaker lines.
Cable type, shielding and jacket comparison
| Cable Family | Common Codes | Shielding | Outer Jacket | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Control Cables | YSLY-JZ, YSLYCY-JZ | Unshielded or Cu braid | PVC (Gray) | Contactor, solenoid valve and machine control circuits |
| Signal / Data Cables | LIYY, LIYCY | Tinned Cu braid (70–85%) | PVC / LSZH | 4–20 mA analog sensors, encoders and RS-485 fieldbus |
| PUR Drag-Chain Cables | PUR-JZ, LIY11Y, LIYC11Y | Unshielded or braided | Polyurethane (PUR) | Cable tracks, CNC coolant zones and robotic arms |
| Silicone Cables | SiHF, SiHF-J | Unshielded or steel braid | Silicone rubber | High-temperature zones (-60 °C to +180 °C) and ovens |
| Coaxial Cables | RG6/U4, RG6/U6, RG59 | Foil + braid shield | PVC / PE / LSZH | Satellite/RF distribution and coaxial video transmission |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between LIYY and LIYCY signal cables?
LIYY is an unshielded multi-core signal cable suited for short digital runs with low electromagnetic interference. LIYCY adds a tinned copper braided screen that protects sensitive analog (4–20 mA, 0–10 V) and serial communication lines routed near variable-frequency drives or power feeders.
What do JZ and OZ mean on control cables?
JZ cables include one yellow/green protective earth core plus black numbered cores. OZ cables contain only numbered cores without a yellow/green earth conductor.
When should I specify a PUR jacket instead of PVC?
Standard PVC hardens and cracks when exposed to mineral oils, cutting fluids, or millions of flexing cycles. Specify PUR-sheathed cables for moving drag chains, machine tool wet areas, and outdoor abrasion-prone installations.