Ribbon Cable

A ribbon cable is a thin, flat cable made up of multiple small-grade conductors laid parallel to each other. Each conductor is positioned side by side, forming a wide flat cable that closely resembles a piece of ribbon. These cables feature flexible, low-profile, and colour-coded conductors designed for compact electronic systems and internal wiring. Typical conductor pitch is around 0.05” (1.27mm) or less, allowing precise and efficient wiring in tight spaces.

Ribbon Cable Types

There are several variations of ribbon cables, each suited to particular requirements and environments. The two primary forms are:

Flat Ribbon Cable

Flat ribbon cables, also known as multiplanar cables, consist of multiple small-grade wires arranged parallel to each other, forming a wide, flat design similar to a ribbon. These cables are primarily used in electronic systems to connect internal peripherals, such as disk drives to their controllers. The colour coding on flat ribbon cables aids in easy identification of connections.

Round Ribbon Cable

Round ribbon cables feature wires laid flat side by side, often with different colors for easy differentiation. These cables are mainly used for external wiring in electronic devices and consumer products. Their compact design makes them ideal for tight spaces. Round ribbon cables are available in shielded and unshielded options, with varying voltage ratings and capacitance, and the number and size of strands can differ.

Conductor Count & Wire Gauge Options

Ribbon cables come in various pin configurations, including common counts like 3, 4, 6, 10, 20, 26, and 40+ pins. Typical wire gauges include 22 AWG ribbon cable, 26 AWG, and 28 AWG options. For example, a 4 pin ribbon cable is commonly used in small power and signal applications, while 8 pin ribbon connector cables are popular in data transmission. Matching the right conductor count and wire gauge with compatible connectors ensures optimal performance.

What is Flat Wire?

Flat wire refers to a single conductor with a flat profile, different from ribbon cable which bundles multiple conductors side by side. Unlike the multi-wire flat ribbon cable, flat wire is used for simpler connections or power distribution where a single conductor’s flat shape provides space-saving benefits.

Ribbon Cable Connectors & Accessories

Ribbon cable systems often require specific connectors and accessories for efficient installation and reliable performance. Common options include:

• IDC connectors: Insulation Displacement Connectors are designed for fast, secure terminations on flat ribbon cable, allowing multiple conductors to be connected simultaneously without stripping the wires.
• D-sub connectors: Widely used in data communication, these connectors interface easily with ribbon cables for signal transmission in industrial and computing applications.
• Sockets, headers, and adapter cables: These accessories provide versatile connection solutions to adapt ribbon wires to different devices or equipment.
• Extension cables: Also called ribbon extension cords, these enable easy plug-and-play installations, extending existing ribbon cable runs without complex rewiring.

For more details on connectors and accessories, visit our related pages on cable connectors and wiring solutions.

Industrial Applications of Ribbon Cable

Electronics Manufacturing

Ribbon cables are essential for internal wiring in computers, printers, and consumer electronics. Their compact, organised layout allows efficient connection of multiple data lines between components, ensuring smooth device operation.

Automotive Industry

In vehicles, ribbon wire is used in wiring harnesses where space is limited. These cables provide reliable data and power connections for electronic control units and sensor systems.

Medical Equipment

Precision and reliability are critical in medical devices. Flat ribbon cables offer flexible, low-profile wiring for diagnostic machines, monitors, and imaging equipment, supporting accurate data transmission.

Aerospace and Defence

Due to their lightweight and compact design, ribbon cables are used in aerospace systems requiring durable, high-reliability wiring that can withstand challenging environments.

How to Choose the Right Ribbon Cable

Choosing the appropriate ribbon cable involves considering several key factors:

• Conductor count: Determine the number of pins needed, such as 3 pin ribbon cable, 4 pin ribbon cable, or higher counts like 20 or 40 pins.
• Wire gauge: Common gauges include 22 AWG ribbon cable, 26 AWG, and 28 AWG. Select based on current and signal requirements.
• Cable type: Decide between flat ribbon cable or round ribbon wire depending on space and flexibility needs.
• Voltage and current ratings: Ensure the cable supports your system’s electrical specifications.
• Connector compatibility: Confirm compatibility with connectors such as IDC or D-sub.
• Environmental conditions: Consider shielding, temperature range, and durability for your application.

Ribbon Cable Manufacturer, Supplier & Distributor in Australia

RS is a trusted ribbon cable manufacturer, supplier, and distributor in Australia. We provide an extensive range of high-quality ribbon cables from globally trusted brands like Molex, 3M and Wurth Elektronik.

Whether you're sourcing a few ribbon power cables for prototyping or placing a bulk order for OEM production, RS delivers competitive pricing, consistent stock availability, and secure online ordering. Enjoy fast, nationwide doorstep delivery across Australia when you buy from RS.

Buy Electrical Ribbon Cable Online from RS

Purchasing your ribbon cable through RS Australia’s online store is fast, simple, and reliable. Browse our extensive catalogue to find the right flat ribbon cable or ribbon extension cord—along with essential accessories like IDC connectors and multimeters. Complete your order securely using flexible payment options, including credit cards and business accounts.

Our well-established logistics network ensures rapid, nationwide doorstep delivery across Australia—typically within 1 to 3 business days. For full details on how to place an order, estimated delivery times, shipping costs, and available delivery methods, visit our Delivery Information page. Equip your systems with reliable ribbon wire—shop online with RS Australia today!