Unpaired unshielded fire alarm cables consist of a collection of solid individual and insulated wires bundled together and encased by a protective layer of external insulation. These cables are unshielded and used where electromagnetic interference (EMI) is not of concern. They are often used for smoke detectors and fire alarm systems.

Unpaired shielded fire cables consist of a collection of solid individual and insulated wires bundled together and encased by a protective layer of external insulation. These cables have a braided or foil shield to safeguard against electromagnetic interference (EMI) and maintain the integrity of transmitted signals. They are often used for smoke detectors and fire alarm systems.