Overview
The Thomas & Betts 185-16CSA flat cable is a proven interconnect solution for industrial and OEM applications requiring precise 16-conductor ribbon cabling. Manufactured in the United States, this Thomas & Betts 185-16CSA cable combines dimensional accuracy with robust sheath material to meet IDC (insulation displacement connector) system requirements. Supplied on a convenient reel, the 100ft length accommodates typical equipment layouts while the gray sheath provides durability and ESD protection in manufacturing and control environments.
Key Features
- 16 parallel conductors for reliable IDC connector compatibility
- 28 AWG solid wire gauge optimized for low-crosstalk signal transmission
- Precision flat profile: 0.800″ width with ±0.010″ dimensional tolerance
- 100ft reel format for convenient handling and storage
- Gray polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sheath for mechanical protection
- USA-manufactured for consistent quality and delivery
Technical Specifications
- Part Number: 185-16CSA
- Number of Conductors: 16
- Wire Gauge: 28 AWG (solid)
- Width Dimension A: 0.800″ (20.32 mm)
- Depth Dimension B: 0.750″ (19.05 mm)
- Width Tolerance: ±0.010″ (±0.25 mm)
- Cable Length: 100 feet
- Sheath Color: Gray
- Sheath Material: PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
- Connector Type: IDC-compatible (insulation displacement)
- Manufacturing Origin: United States
Typical Applications
- IDC flat cable assemblies for computer peripherals and legacy equipment
- Industrial control system interconnects with 16-conductor requirements
- OEM ribbon cable harnesses for equipment panels and enclosures
- Data transmission in manufacturing automation and test systems
- Equipment retrofit and repair where 185-16 cable is specified
- Aerospace and defense applications requiring precision flat conductor spacing
Compatibility & Replacements
Compatible With
- IDC (Insulation Displacement Connector) systems and sockets
- 16-conductor flat cable connectors per industry standards
- Equipment designed for Thomas & Betts 185-series ribbon cable
- Industrial control enclosures and terminal blocks
- Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) harness assemblies
Replaces / Drop-In Replacement For
- Thomas & Betts 185-16 (base model for standard applications)
- Legacy 16-conductor ribbon cable assemblies rated for 28 AWG solid conductors
- Direct replacement for Ansley-branded flat cable part numbers with identical specifications
Works With
- IDC connectors and sockets (standard pitch, 0.025″ conductor spacing)
- Flat cable assembly tools and crimpers compatible with 16-conductor ribbon formats
- Industrial control systems utilizing ribbon cable interconnects
- OEM equipment requiring precision flat cable routing and low-profile routing paths










