A flat cable, sometimes also called a multi-strand flat cable, is a type of electronic wiring characterized by its flat, flexible appearance. In many cases, it resembles the type of ribbon used on gift wrapping, hence its name. This type of flexible cable was used extensively in some early computer models, both as a means of internal wiring and to connect machines to other devices, particularly printers. The body of the cable or the “ribbon” itself is usually made of much smaller insulated wires that are joined together to form a long, flat surface. Cables are often color-coded in terms of primary function, and manufacturers also often indicate direction by making the top or top cable a different color, usually red, so users can quickly identify which side is up. and which one is below, for example. In most cases, cables run through a series of conductors and connectors and come in different sizes depending on their primary use. When they were first introduced, ribbon cables were widely considered the industry standard. However, as the technology evolved, so did the wiring technology, and these parts were largely superseded by smaller rounded cables for indoor and outdoor use.
Ribbon cables are found on floppy drives.
Main uses
The ribbon style of cabling was pioneered as a way to facilitate electromagnetic processing in early computer mainframes, but smaller versions can be found in a wide variety of small electronic components. The main idea with a ribbon cable is to connect a series of important cables and connect them as one, a concept that, in many ways, simplifies the manufacture and repair of electronic products. Bundled cables are generally easier to install and reconnect.
Less commonly, these cables were also used outside of machines, often as a way to connect one part to another. They were some of the first to connect early computers to printers, for example. Although not normally used for power, almost all messages that need to be communicated between devices can be transmitted over cables very efficiently.
Security Considerations and Color Coding
In a flat cable, each wire, more formally known as a conductor, is used to connect two corresponding contacts. It is very important, then, that the correct cable is connected to each end. Manufacturers have introduced a color coding system to simplify this process and help avoid connecting the wrong contacts. Most cables have a red stripe on one end, for example, which helps users and technicians identify which end is the top or starting end. In another type, each cable has a different color so that they can be easily identified; this variety is sometimes known as “hippie cape”.
contacts and conductors
Flat cables are distinguished by the number of conductors and the spacing between them. In the most common size, the conductors are typically 0.05 in. (1.27 mm) apart; this allows for a two line connector and a pin spacing of 0.1 in. (2.54mm). This tape formation is most often used for enclosed spaces. Cables can have anywhere from four connectors to as many as 80.
The connecting ends of the wires are forced into a row of electronic contacts across the ends of the wires. The connectors at the end of a flat cable are known as insulation displacement connectors. On most cables, there is an insulation compensation connector at both ends.
Understanding connectors
There are five basic connectors that are used on most electronic devices. The BT224 is the most common and is generally used in computers. The PCB transition headers have the same configuration as the BT224, but include a second row, while the BT224 only has one. D-subminiture connectors are found on the printer ports; while most European computers and printers work with the DIN41612 connector. DIL headers are commonly used for external connections.
More modern equivalents
It’s relatively rare to see ribbon-type cables in modern electronics, that is, electronics manufactured since about the year 2000. On smaller machines, it’s often believed that the flat surface blocks airflow and creates static, for example, and they can be bulky and uncomfortable. work with. In most places, they have been replaced by sealed round cables that perform the same basic function, just in a more streamlined and compact shape.
