hookup wire

[CGS2510.SEP.STUDENT.UCA at CUB.UCA.EDU]

> Does anyone have a reason why I shouldn't use stranded copper wire (ac
> wire, split into two separate wires) to hook up pots, switches, etc.?  I
> think the standard to use would be about 24 gauge tinned, stranded
> wire.  The ac wire is I think 18 gauge and not tinned.  Is there a
> strong preference for the tinned wire?

For the most part, use whatever you like best.  This is where you 
will get best results since you find it most natural.  From the 
standpoint of 24 gauge vs 18 gauge, unless you are dealing with 
higher current than 24 gauge will like OR the resistance of the pot 
is not SIGNIFICANTLY more than the wire, either should do.  The 
tinning is a convenience for soldering as tin plating doesn't have 
Copper oxide or as much dirt for the flux to clean off of before the 
solder fuses with the copper.  I personally would worry more about 
the shielding.  A lot of lamp cord has polypropylene shielding which 
melts very easily and is quite messy.  I like teflon shielding.  
Apart from that, it ought be obvious what logical wire size is 
appropriate.  A pot doesn't get along to well with 4/0 welding cable, 
not does it get along with 57 gauge voice coil wire.   A good size 
usually fits nicely into solder lugs.  If at all possible, though its 
always nice to use solid silver wire!  You can occasionally find it 
in old military stuff and commercial broadcast stuff.