A breakout is a joint where one or more conductors separate from a multi-conductor cable to complete circuits at designated points, while the remaining conductors continue within the main jacket.
In wire and cable systems, a breakout provides a controlled way to branch off individual conductors or groups of conductors from within a larger multi-conductor assembly. The separated conductors are routed to specific devices or circuits, while the rest of the cable continues along its path. To maintain integrity, the breakout point is often sealed, and the separated conductors may be placed in their own jacket for protection. Breakouts reduce the need for multiple parallel cables, simplifying layouts and ensuring efficient routing in complex systems. Properly constructed, they preserve electrical performance and resist moisture, abrasion, and mechanical stress.
Breakouts and related assemblies may be evaluated under UL (Underwriters Laboratories), IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission), and IEEE (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers).
The concept of breakouts emerged with the growth of multi-conductor cables in telecommunications and industrial control. As systems became more complex, purpose-built breakout assemblies were developed to branch circuits without splicing or replacing entire cables, improving durability and efficiency.