Flat Red, Striped or Twisted? A Buyer’s Guide to TPS Cable for Fire and Data Circuits

Peter Kordabadi23 Aug, 2025Business

Thermoplastic-sheathed (TPS) cable underpins most low-voltage fire and data wiring in Australia. One product code on the purchase order hides three constructions tuned to different duties. Pick the wrong one and the inspector may order a complete re-pull. The notes below, prepared for sparkies and fire-system installers, explain why flat red, striped and twisted TPS exist, outline the relevant clauses in AS/NZS 5000.2, AS/CA S008 and AS 1670.1, and list site checks that keep projects on time.