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

[Paul Higgins]

I use very light-gauge solid wire (AWG #24, I think) for most 
perfboard/PCB stuff.  I find it works better when trying to push the 
wire into holes for IC sockets, etc., even when you tin the stranded 
stuff first.  (The stranded stuff often changes shape and shifts in the 
hole when the tinned solder melts as you're making the 
connection--kinda frustrating).  I also use solid wire (AWG #22) for 
doing tube sockets and other point-to-point connections.

As another list member pointed out, stranded wire is best for doing 
front-panel connections and wiring that needs to be dressed and 
bundled.  Plus stranded can take a lot more stress without fatiguing 
and breaking.  So it's nice to have both kinds of wire if you can 
afford it and have the shop space.

-PRH

On Monday, July 19, 2004, at 12:17 PM, 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



Paul Higgins
email: higg0008 at tc.umn.edu