Need wire help

[Bluedog225]

I can’t figure out what is up with this wire.

It says “14 AWG X 2C”. But it looks thicker than 12 gauge.

Would using a micrometer be helpful or just go with the label? It’s nice speaker wire if that matters.

Thanks

 

[timselectric]

That is speaker wire. Do not use it for electrical installations.

 

[Bluedog225]

I didn’t know that. Why not?

Fwiw-12 volt, 6 watt bulbs.

I thought copper was copper.

 

[timselectric]

The insulation is not rated for nominal voltages.

 

[Kornbread]

Not all speaker wire is created equal. At one time, I auditioned some $3k silver ribbon speaker cable. Sound any different? Not much. Currently have a six-wire twist of 12/14gauge solid core copper for speaker cable. Not very flexible, but I don't know why it couldn't be used for many other low voltage needs.
Sorry to say, but most speaker wire is krap, or at least, most speaker wire found at local outlets is krap. In a similar clear coated speaker wire like you are holding, I've had the copper turn green in just a couple years.

 

[Bluedog225]

Good point about the insulation.

fwiw, this stuff was pretty good back in my mispent yut. It’s gotta be 25 years old

 

[ko6kL]

for indoor service only.

 

[A.Justice]

When I was a kid and just getting into electronics, I needed some wire, and my dad was cheap so he bought me a small spool of speaker wire. I used it on my projects for years before I bought myself some nicer stuff.

The insulation, generally speaking, isn't very good. If it's left in the sun for a few days it tends to get sticky and starts degrading VERY quickly. It also doesn't tolerate heat very well at all, when it gets warm, it also gets sticky. That being said, it works very well for low voltage (I've used it for 3.3v, 5v, and 12v) stuff under a few (let's say 3-5) amps, that won't have any UV or heat exposure.

 

[Batvette]

If its 12v or less, not nearly over its power limits, and the insulation isnt rotten, I wouldnt have a problem using that inside as long as youve got some kind of circuit protection.
The fact its speaker wire doesnt solely condemn it. I have some high quality scosche 12 awg speaker wire Ive had for 25 years. Had about 200' given to me used it for all kinds of stuff. Made in USA.