IMSA traffic signal cable is used to connect equipment in roadway and intersection signal systems. IMSA stands for the International Municipal Signal Association. This guide compares the 19-1 and 20-1 cable families in Ramcorp’s catalog and explains what to check before choosing a part number.
IMSA 19-1 vs. 20-1: the main difference
For the products covered here, the clearest difference is the outer jacket: IMSA 19-1 uses polyvinyl chloride (PVC), while IMSA 20-1 uses polyethylene (PE). Both families have polyethylene conductor insulation and include solid and stranded copper options.
Feature | IMSA 19-1 | IMSA 20-1 |
|---|---|---|
Outer jacket | Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) | Polyethylene (PE) |
Conductor insulation | Polyethylene (PE) | Polyethylene (PE) |
Copper construction | Solid or stranded, depending on part number | Solid or stranded, depending on part number |
Conductor size and count | Check the individual product | Check the individual product |
The jacket material alone does not establish project suitability. Match the complete cable specification and construction to the approved project requirements; 19-1 and 20-1 should not be treated as automatic substitutes.
Where these cables are used
These cable families serve traffic signal circuits, including signal heads and pedestrian signal equipment where specified. Product descriptions identify aerial or duct applications. Underground duct installation is different from direct burial, and an aerial run may require messenger support. Confirm the exact cable’s permitted use and support requirements with the project designer.
How to compare cable configurations
Start with the required IMSA specification. Check whether the plans call for 19-1 or 20-1, the required edition, and any agency-specific requirements. Keep the full designation on your quote request.
Match conductor size and conductor count. Use the AWG size and number of conductors specified for the circuit. For example, 14 AWG 7C means seven conductors of 14 AWG each; it does not identify the jacket or solid versus stranded construction.
Confirm solid or stranded copper. Solid conductors use a single wire; stranded conductors use multiple smaller wires. Match the specified construction and verify terminal compatibility. Do not substitute solely because the AWG and conductor count match.
Review the individual product specifications. Compare voltage and temperature ratings, overall diameter, and cable weight. Have the responsible professional confirm routing, conduit capacity, environmental exposure, and applicable material approvals before ordering.
Turn a general request into a clear cable description
“14 AWG traffic cable” leaves several choices unresolved. A more useful request is “IMSA 20-1, 14 AWG, 7 conductors, stranded copper, PE jacket,” followed by the required length. Ramcorp’s category table lets you compare those fields and open each product’s specifications.
Browse IMSA Traffic Signal Cables
What to include with your quote request
Send the Ramcorp part number, if selected, together with:
Required IMSA specification, AWG size, conductor count, and solid or stranded construction.
Total footage and each required continuous length; note any reel or packaging requirements.
Delivery destination, requested date, and the project’s material requirements.
Request the available product datasheet with your quote. Confirm availability, pricing, continuous lengths, packaging, and delivery timing in the written quote and order acknowledgment.
Related resources
Disclaimer: This guide provides general product-selection and purchasing information, not installation instructions or engineering advice. Have a qualified electrical professional verify product suitability, current manufacturer specifications, applicable codes, and project requirements. An IMSA designation alone does not establish approval for a particular agency or project. Availability, pricing, lengths, packaging, and delivery timing require confirmation in the written quote and order acknowledgment. IMSA is referenced for identification; no affiliation or endorsement is implied.