The reliability of mission critical power systems depends upon not only the quality of power distribution equipment but the overall integrity of the installation. Incorrect selection of wiring types and the manner in which their terminations are made can embed underlying risks which may not be immediately evident. As there are many varieties of wiring types, each having properties advantageous for particular applications, there are also many types of wiring termination materials to be considered for system reliability. Incorrect wiring connections frequently become the weakest element in a critical power path. However, to select the proper and most effective conductor termination hardware and evaluate its strengths and understand its shortcomings, an awareness of the various types of cables available, their construction, and the particular applications to which they are suited.
