Here’s a wire color cheat sheet based on common conventions:
Power Wires
- Phase/Live/Hot: Black, Brown, Red
- Neutral: White, Gray
- Ground/Earth: Green, Green with Yellow Stripe, Bare Copper
Low-Voltage Wiring
- Positive: Red
- Negative/Ground: Black
Control Wiring
- Control Power: Red, Blue
- Control Signal: Yellow, Orange
Communication Wiring
- Data+ (positive): White, Blue
- Data- (negative): White, Blue with White Stripe
Audio/Video Wiring
- Audio Signal: White, Red (for stereo)
- Video Signal: Yellow
Ethernet Wiring (Cat5e/Cat6)
- Pair 1 (Data): White with Blue Stripe (or solid blue), Blue (or solid blue)
- Pair 2 (Data): White with Orange Stripe (or solid orange), Orange (or solid orange)
- Pair 3 (Data): White with Green Stripe (or solid green), Green (or solid green)
- Pair 4 (Data): White with Brown Stripe (or solid brown), Brown (or solid brown)
Telephone Wiring (Tip/Ring)
- Tip (positive): Green, Green with White Stripe
- Ring (negative): Red, Red with White Stripe
Three-Phase Power Wiring
- Phase 1: Brown
- Phase 2: Black
- Phase 3: Gray
- Neutral: Blue
- Ground/Earth: Green, Green with Yellow Stripe
Automotive Wiring
- Power: Red
- Ground: Black
- Ignition/Accessory: Yellow
- Speaker Wires: Various colors (may follow industry standards)
LED Lighting
- Power: Red
- Ground: Black
- Control/Dimming: White, Yellow
Thermostat Wiring
- R (Power): Red
- W (Heating): White
- Y (Cooling): Yellow
- G (Fan): Green
Security System Wiring
- Power: Red
- Ground: Black
- Zone Wiring: Various colors
It’s important to note that while these color conventions are widely used, they may vary depending on regional standards, local codes, and specific applications. Always refer to relevant documentation and follow safety guidelines when working with electrical wiring. If in doubt, consult with a licensed electrician or electrical engineer.