Which metal form is used as the standard conductor material in low-voltage cable?

• A. Stranded copper
• B. Annealed (soft) solid copper
• C. Aluminum
• D. Copper-clad aluminum

Answer: (B)

Copper is the standard conductor material for low-voltage cable because it offers excellent electrical conductivity, good corrosion resistance, and favorable manufacturing characteristics. The form described as annealed (soft) solid copper is used because annealing makes copper soft and highly ductile, which allows it to be drawn into a uniform solid wire and bent or formed during installation without cracking. This combination of high conductivity with easy processing and installation is why soft, solid copper is the typical conductor for many low-voltage cables. Stranded copper is chosen when extra flexibility is needed, but the default form for many low-voltage cables is the annealed solid copper. Aluminum or copper-clad aluminum are lighter options with lower conductivity and other trade-offs, so they’re not the standard choice for typical low-voltage wiring.