Temperature Control Shielded Cables

Summary: Temperature Control Shielded Cables

Temperature Control Shielded Cables

Windy City Wire manufactures low-voltage SmartWire cables engineered for building automation and HVAC temperature control. In modern BAS networks that combine analog sensors with digital communications, dependable shielded control cabling is essential for stable readings and uninterrupted device communication. Our temperature control wire and cable portfolio covers plenum and non‑plenum installations, single and multi-conductor constructions, and paired and triad options to support thermostats, VAV boxes, actuators, controllers, and supervisory systems.

Whether you are running conventional control loops or integrating BACnet MS/TP and Modbus segments, our shielded constructions help reduce electrical noise and maintain signal integrity over long runs. For serial bus requirements, many customers also select from our shielded options for RS485/422 networks as well as rs 232 wire and cable connections within mechanical rooms and control panels. All products in this category are low-voltage SmartWire cables made in the United States.

Why choose SmartWire for HVAC and BAS temperature control

• Noise mitigation: Overall foil shields and individually shielded pairs help protect low-level sensor signals and controller communications from EMI in equipment rooms and plenums.
• Plenum and non-plenum choices: CMP and CL3P plenum-rated options for air-handling spaces; CMR and TC/PLTC/FPL/NPLF non-plenum selections for riser, tray, and general‑purpose control circuits.
• Constructions for any scope: From 1–12 conductors, multi-pair and triad constructions, and both bare and tinned copper options for application fit and ease of termination.
• Pulling efficiency: SmartWire Glide lubrication is applied during manufacturing to reduce friction by up to 70% for smoother pulls through tight pathways and congested conduits.
• Color identification: A wide range of conductor color codes and custom jacket/stripe colors help standardize installations and speed troubleshooting.
• Compliance and reliability: UL-listed options, RoHS compliance, and consistent manufacturing tolerances support dependable terminations and long-term performance.

Common applications

• Thermostat and sensor runs (temperature, humidity, CO2, pressure)
• Damper/valve actuator control and end switches
• Controller I/O and power-limited control circuits
• Building automation buses, including rs-485 wire and cable uses for BACnet MS/TP and Modbus, and short rs 232 wire and cable connections

At-a-glance options

• Available gauges: 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 AWG
• Available lengths: 1,000 ft and select 500 ft options
• Shielding types: Shielded and individually shielded pairs (including EPS options)
• Constructions: Single conductor counts up to 12, multi-pair, and triad
• Conductor materials: Bare copper and tinned copper (select paired/triad items)

How this portfolio adds value to your project

• Built for BAS environments: Shielded plenum and non-plenum constructions match the mix of air-handling spaces, risers, trays, and mechanical rooms found in typical HVAC jobs.
• Streamlines installation: Conductor color codes, consistent diameters, and SmartWire Glide lubrication help reduce installation time and rework.
• Flexible design coverage: A single product family supports zone controls, plant-level equipment, and communications links, helping standardize BOMs across buildings and campuses.
• US manufacturing and support: SmartWire is manufactured in the United States and backed by a team that understands temperature control wiring requirements from design through turnover.

Available constructions
Format: AWG CONDUCTORS STRANDING INSULATION VOLTAGE RATING: Description

• 14 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CL3P: Plenum-rated power‑limited control cable for higher current control devices and long thermostat runs. Overall shield helps reject noise in air-handling spaces.
• 16 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Robust plenum control cable for actuators and controller power-limited circuits in return-air spaces. Overall foil shield improves signal stability near VFDs and motors.
• 16 AWG 3 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Adds a third conductor for common/feedback or auxiliary switching needs. Suitable for HVAC control loops and supervisory inputs in plenum pathways.
• 18 AWG 1 Pair Tinned Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Shielded, tinned copper pair for low-level signals and balanced communications in plenum runs. Helpful for sensor lines where corrosion resistance and clean terminations are desired.
• 18 AWG 1 Triad Tinned Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Triad construction supports three related signals with shared shielding, often used for differential sensor and control feedback wiring in plenum spaces.
• 18 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: General-purpose plenum control cable for thermostats, sensors, and actuator power-limited circuits. Overall shield helps limit induced noise over longer pulls.
• 18 AWG 3 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Versatile plenum option for thermostat and controller I/O wiring requiring an extra conductor. Suitable for RS485/422 drops within HVAC control networks.
• 18 AWG 4 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Four-conductor plenum cable for combined sensor+control wiring. Shielding supports stable readings in dense mechanical areas.
• 18 AWG 5 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Adds conductors for multi-function controllers or zone devices. Useful when future expansion is anticipated.
• 18 AWG 6 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Higher conductor count supports multiple points from a single home-run. Shielding helps maintain signal integrity in shared pathways.
• 18 AWG 8 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: For larger controller terminations and I/O blocks in plenum environments. Reduces the number of individual cable pulls.
• 18 AWG 10 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Expanded plenum control cable for multi-point temperature and status wiring. Shield helps minimize cross-talk among circuits.
• 18 AWG 12 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Maximizes homerun efficiency to controllers with many inputs/outputs. Appropriate for complex zone control panels in plenums.
• 18 AWG 2 Pair Bare Copper Individually Shielded Plenum CMP: Each pair is shielded for superior noise rejection between signal sets. Common for differential sensors and RS485/422 segments in plenum spaces.
• 18 AWG 3 Pair Bare Copper Individually Shielded Plenum CMP: Three individually shielded pairs help isolate multiple communication or sensor circuits within one jacket. Supports structured BAS wiring in plenums.
• 20 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Space-saving plenum cable for shorter control runs and sensor loops. Overall shield assists with EMI mitigation in dense cable trays.
• 20 AWG 3 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Three-conductor plenum cable for thermostat and control lines that require an additional return or reference. Good balance of size and performance.
• 20 AWG 4 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Four conductors support combined signal and power-limited control. Useful for compact plenum pathways.
• 22 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: A common choice for sensors and low-current control circuits in plenums. Shielding supports stable analog readings.
• 22 AWG 3 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Adds flexibility for devices needing a third conductor. Suitable for BAS control points and low-speed serial drops.
• 22 AWG 4 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Popular plenum control cable for thermostats and multi-sensor devices. Shielding helps limit interference along shared routes.
• 22 AWG 6 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Supports multi-point terminations from a single cable. Ideal for compact controllers in return-air spaces.
• 22 AWG 8 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Higher conductor count for complex zones and panel wiring. Shield reduces coupled noise.
• 22 AWG 12 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Plenum CMP: Consolidates numerous control points for efficient rough-in. Suitable for larger automation panels located in plenums.
• 22 AWG 2 Pair Bare Copper Individually Shielded Plenum CMP: Individually shielded pairs reduce cross-talk in multi-signal runs. Often used for dual-sensor and comms combinations in plenums.
• 24 AWG 1.5 Pair Tinned Copper Shielded Plenum Low-Cap CMP: Low-capacitance shielded pair-and-a-half for sensitive signals and extended communications in plenum pathways. Tinned copper supports clean terminations and corrosion resistance.

Available constructions – Non-Plenum
Format: AWG CONDUCTORS STRANDING INSULATION VOLTAGE RATING: Description

• 16 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum TC/PLTC/FPL/NPLF: Tray- and power-limited control rated cable for mechanical rooms and general pathways. Overall shield helps maintain signal quality around motors and pumps.
• 16 AWG 4 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Four-conductor option for multi-function devices and controller I/O outside air-handling spaces. Shielding supports reliable analog and digital signals.
• 16 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum CMR: Riser-rated control cable for vertical shafts and non-plenum risers. Suitable for actuator and controller power-limited circuits.
• 18 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum TC/PLTC/FPL/NPLF: Control cable for equipment rooms and trays where plenum rating isn’t required. Shield reduces interference in mixed-voltage conduits.
• 18 AWG 4 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Four-conductor non-plenum control cable for sensor and control wiring. Helps consolidate multiple points into a single pull.
• 18 AWG 6 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Added conductors support more I/O at the controller. Overall shield assists with EMI control near drives and compressors.
• 18 AWG 8 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: High-count option for complex mechanical rooms. Shielding helps minimize cross-talk among adjacent circuits.
• 18 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: General-purpose, shielded control cable for non-plenum pathways. Suitable for short rs485 wire and cable drops within equipment spaces.
• 18 AWG 3 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Three-conductor variant for devices requiring an extra reference or signal. Shield aids stable readings.
• 18 AWG 6 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Consolidates multiple control points with a single jacket. Useful for panel terminations in mechanical rooms.
• 22 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum CMR: Riser-rated cable for vertical runs outside plenum spaces. Ideal for sensor circuits traveling between floors.
• 22 AWG 2 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Compact, shielded control cable for shorter non-plenum runs. Supports analog sensors and low-current devices.
• 22 AWG 4 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Four-conductor cable for combined sensor and control lines. Shield helps mitigate interference in shared raceways.
• 22 AWG 6 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Supports multi-point wiring to controllers or terminal blocks. Useful when expanding zones.
• 22 AWG 8 Conductor Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Higher conductor count simplifies homeruns for larger devices. Shielding reduces coupled noise.
• 22 AWG 2 Pair Bare Copper Individually Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Individually shielded pairs isolate signal sets for clean communications. Common for RS485/422 and sensor combos in equipment areas.
• 22 AWG 3 Pair Bare Copper Shielded Non-Plenum Non-Plenum: Multi-pair shielded option for grouping several signals in one jacket. Helps organize wiring inside panels.

Color coding and customization

Standard conductor color codes include options such as Black/White, Black/White/Red, Black/White/Red/Green, and extended combinations up to twelve colors to simplify identification during install and service. SmartWire can also be made with custom jacket and stripe colors to align with your organization’s standards—contact our team to discuss a tailored order.

Summary: partner with Windy City Wire

Windy City Wire’s SmartWire temperature control wire and cable line gives HVAC and BAS contractors a dependable, US‑made platform for plenum and non‑plenum control, sensors, and communications. With shielded constructions that support everything from analog loops to RS485/422 segments, broad AWG and conductor-count coverage, and SmartWire Glide lubrication to ease pulls, you can standardize on one family of low-voltage products and move confidently from rough‑in to commissioning. When your next project needs consistent quality, clear identification, and the right mix of plenum and non-plenum choices, trust SmartWire from Windy City Wire.

Solutions: Temperature Control Shielded Cables

Temperature Control Shielded Cables

Windy City Wire supplies shielded temperature control wire and cable engineered for reliable signal integrity across today’s Building Automation Systems (BAS) and HVAC controls. From standalone thermostats to fully networked enterprise platforms, our portfolio supports controls from Trane, Honeywell, Alerton, Johnson Controls, Siemens, Schneider Electric, Carrier, Daikin, Automated Logic, Delta Controls, Distech, and Niagara-based integrations—helping consultants, contractors, and facility teams standardize materials and simplify installations.

Where these cables are used

• HVAC equipment: RTUs, AHUs, VAV/VTU boxes, fan coils, heat pumps, boilers, chillers, economizers, and energy recovery units
• Field devices: thermostats, wall modules, damper and valve actuators, temperature and humidity sensors, CO2/IAQ sensors, pressure transducers, float and airflow switches
• Networked BAS trunks and links: BACnet MS/TP and Modbus RTU carried over RS485/422; options suitable for legacy supervisory links commonly implemented with rs 232 wire and cable
• Monitoring and optimization: demand control ventilation, zone control, hot/cold deck changeover, equipment safeties, and trend/logging points

Industries and environments

• Commercial offices and mixed-use buildings
• Healthcare and life sciences facilities
• Education campuses and K–12
• Hospitality and retail
• Industrial/MFG plants and warehouses
• Data centers and mission-critical spaces
• Municipal and government facilities
• Multifamily, senior living, and student housing

Why shielding matters in temperature control

Controls wiring often runs near VFDs, lighting circuits, and power feeders. Our shielded constructions—available as overall shielded and individually shielded pair options—help reject EMI/RFI and maintain stable signals for 0–10 VDC, 4–20 mA, thermistor loops, and digital communications. This can reduce nuisance noise, improve sensor accuracy, and support dependable network performance where rs-485 wire and cable or rs485 wire and cable is required.

Cable options to match your spec

• Ratings for the space: Plenum-rated selections (e.g., CMP and CL3P) for environmental air spaces, plus riser and general-purpose control options (e.g., CMR and PLTC) for non-plenum pathways. Select the rating appropriate to each pathway and jurisdiction.
• Conductor sizes: Broad AWG range—14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 AWG—to balance distance, voltage drop, and device requirements.
• Conductor counts: From 2–12 conductors, as well as 1–3 pair and triad constructions, to accommodate everything from a simple thermostat loop to multi-point VAV controls or sensor/actuator bundles.
• Shielding choices: Overall foil shields for general noise protection and individually shielded pairs for sensitive analog signals or when combining signal types under one jacket.
• Lengths: Available in 1000 ft and select 500 ft lengths to help align spool sizes with your project pull plan and reduce scrap.

Compatibility with common control platforms

• Trane, Honeywell, Alerton, Johnson Controls, Siemens, Schneider Electric: Sensor loops, actuator runs, and controller I/O wiring for zones, air handlers, plant equipment, and terminal units.
• Carrier, Daikin, VRF/VRV platforms: Indoor unit control, outdoor unit communication trunks (per manufacturer wiring diagrams), and gateway links into the BAS.
• Automated Logic, Distech, Delta Controls, Niagara-based systems: Controller-to-controller trunks, supervisory links, and panel I/O wiring where RS485/422 signaling is used.
• Legacy/auxiliary links: Where older serial interfaces are present, options are available that align with rs 232 wire and cable practices.

Typical control applications

• Thermostat and wall module home-runs to unit controllers
• VAV box wiring: actuator, reheat, discharge air temp, and differential pressure sensors
• Hydronic valve/damper actuator control and end-switch feedback
• Sensor networks: space, duct, water, and outdoor temperature; humidity; CO2
• Controller-to-controller MS/TP or Modbus RTU trunks over RS485/422

Performance and installation advantages

• Signal integrity: Foil shielding helps maintain clean signals in electrically noisy rooms and mechanical spaces.
• Code-ready: Plenum and non-plenum options let you match rating to pathway without over-specifying materials.
• Right-sizing the run: Multiple AWGs and conductor counts help manage voltage drop and future expansion while minimizing oversized cable costs.
• Project flexibility: Select multi-conductor or multi-pair designs to consolidate pulls and reduce conduit fill on dense control points.

Digital controls and BAS networking

For modern BAS trunks, choose constructions suited to RS485/422 to support BACnet MS/TP and Modbus RTU. Correct impedance, shielding, and grounding practices are essential for network reliability—especially across long runs or when parallel to power feeders. Our temperature control wire and cable options are designed to support these requirements and help you maintain consistent, verifiable performance.

Streamlining on-site workflows

Pairing these cables with our SmartWire approach can help crews organize zone runs, speed device terminations, and simplify testing and turnover across large projects—assisting with consistent results from rough-in through commissioning.

Selecting the right cable

1. Confirm the space rating required (plenum vs. non-plenum)
2. Match AWG and conductor count to device power/data needs and distance
3. Choose shielding level (overall vs. individually shielded pairs) based on noise exposure and signal type
4. For network trunks, align with protocol guidance (e.g., RS485/422) and manufacturer recommendations
5. Choose 1000 ft or 500 ft lengths based on pull distances and waste reduction goals

Whether you are wiring a single air handler or an entire campus BAS, Windy City Wire provides temperature control wire and cable solutions that help deliver stable signals, straightforward installation, and code-aligned selections. Contact our team for assistance with cross-referencing a specific control platform or finalizing the best construction for your sequence of operations.

Frequently Asked Questions: Temperature Control Shielded Cables

• What AWG conductors are available with these SmartWire Temperature Control shielded cables?
  Available in 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 AWG.
• What other colors are these SmartWire Temperature Control shielded cables available in?
  Black/White, Black/Red, Black/White/Red, Black/White/Red/Green, Black/Red/White/Green, Black/White/Red/Green/Brown, Black/White/Red/Green/Brown/Blue, Black/Red/White/Green/Brown/Blue, Black/White/Red/Green/Brown/Blue/Orange/Yellow, Black/White/Red/Green/Brown/Blue/Orange/Yellow/, Black/Red/White, Black/Red/White/Green/Brown/Blue/Orange/Yellow, Black/Red/White/Green/Brown/Blue/Orange/Yellow/Purple/Gray/Pink/Tan, Pair - Black/White, Single - Yellow, Black-Red/White-Green, Black/Red, White/Green, Brown/Blue, Black/Red/Blue/Orange, Black/Red/Orange/Blue, Black/Red/Blue/Orange/Yellow/Brown, Black/Red/Blue/Orange/Yellow/Brown/Pink/Purple, Black/Red, White/Green, Black/Red, Green/White, Brown/Blue
• Are these SmartWire Temperature Control shielded cables made with solid or stranded copper conductors?
  These temperature control shielded cables use stranded copper conductors for flexibility and durability; select constructions utilize tinned copper.
• What lengths are these SmartWire Temperature Control shielded cables sold in?
  Windy City Wire manufactures and stocks SmartWire Temperature Control cable in a standard 1,000 ft length. Select items are also available in 500 ft lengths.
• How is your SmartWire low-voltage Temperature Control cables sold on spools or in boxes?
  Our SmartWire Temperature Control cable is packaged in our patented RackPack carton for efficient pulls and jobsite handling. Learn more about our RackPack: https://windycitywire.com/solutions/rackpack-overview

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• Learn more about our SmartWire Cable
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