[sdiy] when and why use stranded? (was making PCBs, what's your method?)

[Michael Baxter]

I think for SDIY projects, it is probably mostly a matter of convenience.  
Stranded is more useful when you have to cluster cables for a large amount
of front-panel components, because it's easier to move the wire into
shape. I've found it easier to solder than the same gauge of solid wire.

But, you could not easily wire your house with stranded, because that much 
stranded will kink up such that it cannot be pulled through any 
extrusions, or wall interfaces. Solid wire is necessary for that kind of 
thing.

Stranded is also a little lighter, and has more surface area to conduct RF 
currents than solid wire -- so there are also impedance differences.

Best,
Michael

Transistor Analog Synth
http://www.clustersystems.com/

On Mon, 19 Jul 2004, john mahoney wrote:

> I've been meaning to ask why stranded wire is often specified. Component
> leads are like solid core wire, as are PCB traces, as is wire wrapping wire.
> Yet, we are often told to use stranded wire. Tim Daugard says he even uses
> old telephone wire, which is also solid core. (The Peasant would be proud.
> ;-)
> 
> So, when and why does one need to use stranded wire? Or, when is solid core
> wire inappropriate?
> --
> john
> 
> 
> ----- Original Message ----- 
> From: "TIm Daugard" <daugard at sprintmail.com>
> >
> > .... You can use old four conductor telephone wire...
> 
> 
>