Article 100 NEC Definitions (Letter C)

1. Cabinet

An enclosure designed for surface or flush mounting, provided with a frame, mat, or trim in which a swinging door or doors are or can be hung.
(CMP—9)


2. Abandoned Cable

Installed cable that is not terminated at equipment other than a termination fitting or connector and is not identified for future use with a tag.
(CMP—16)
Informational Note: See 640.6(B), 645.5(G), 722.25, 760.25, 770.25, and 800.25 for requirements covering the removal of abandoned cables.


3. Armored Cable (Type AC)

A fabricated assembly of insulated conductors in a flexible interlocked metallic armor.
(CMP—6)


4. Circuit Integrity Cable (CI)

Cable(s) marked with the suffix «-CI» used for remote-control, signaling, power-limited, fire alarm, optical fiber, or communications systems to ensure survivability for continued circuit operation under fire conditions.
(CMP—3)
Informational Note: See 728.4 for power circuits installed for survivability.


5. Coaxial Cable

A cylindrical assembly composed of a conductor centered inside a metallic tube or shield, separated by a dielectric material, and usually covered by an insulating jacket.
(CMP—16)


6. Festoon Cable

Single- and multiple-conductor cable intended for use and installation where flexibility is required.
(610) (CMP—12)


7. Flat Conductor Cable (Type FCC)

Three or more separate flat copper conductors placed horizontally edge-to-edge and enclosed within an insulating assembly.
(324) (CMP—6)


8. Instrumentation Tray Cable (Type ITC)

A factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors, with or without an equipment grounding conductor(s), enclosed in a nonmetallic sheath.
(CMP—3)


9. Integrated Gas Spacer Cable (Type IGS)

A factory assembly of one or more conductors, each individually insulated and enclosed in a loose-fit, nonmetallic flexible conduit, rated 0 volts through 600 volts.
(CMP—6)


10. Limited-Use Cable

Cables intended to be used with protection such as a raceway or for specific restricted applications.
(722) (CMP—3)


11. Medium Voltage Cable (Type MV)

A single or multi-conductor solid dielectric insulated cable rated 2001 volts up to and including 35,000 volts, nominal.
(CMP—6)


12. Metal Clad Cable (Type MC)

A factory assembly of one or more insulated circuit conductors with or without optical fiber members, enclosed in an armor of interlocking metal tape or a smooth or corrugated metallic sheath.
(CMP—6)


13. Metallic Conductor Cable

A factory assembly of two or more conductors having an overall covering.
(CMP—16)


14. Mineral-Insulated, Metal-Sheathed Cable (Type MI)

A factory assembly of one or more conductors insulated with highly compressed refractory mineral insulation and enclosed in a liquidtight and gastight continuous copper or alloy steel sheath.
(CMP—6)


15. Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable

A factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors enclosed within an overall nonmetallic jacket.
(CMP—6)


16. Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable (Type NM)

Insulated conductors enclosed within an overall nonmetallic jacket.
(CMP—6)


17. Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable (Type NMC)

Insulated conductors enclosed within an overall, corrosion-resistant, nonmetallic jacket.
(CMP—6)


18. Optical Fiber Cable

A factory or field assembly of one or more optical fibers having an overall covering.
(CMP—16)
Informational Note: A field-assembled optical fiber cable is an assembly of one or more optical fibers within a jacket, installed similarly to conduit or raceway.


19. Conductive Optical Fiber Cable

A factory assembly of one or more optical fibers having an overall covering and containing non-current-carrying conductive member(s) such as metallic strength member(s), vapor barrier(s), armor, or sheath.
(CMP—16)


20. Hybrid Optical Fiber Cable

A cable containing optical fibers and current-carrying electrical conductors.
(CMP—16)


21. Nonconductive Optical Fiber Cable

A factory assembly of one or more optical fibers having an overall covering and containing no electrically conductive materials.
(CMP—16)


22. Protected Optical Fiber Cable

Optical fiber cable protected from releasing optical radiation into the atmosphere during normal operating conditions and foreseeable malfunctions by additional armoring, conduit, cable tray, or raceway.
(CMP—14)
Informational Note: See ANSI/UL 60079-28 for additional information.


23. Portable Power Feeder Cable

One or more flexible shielded insulated power conductors enclosed in a flexible covering rated from 2001 to 25,000 volts.
(CMP—6)


24. Power and Control Tray Cable (Type TC)

A factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors, with or without associated bare or covered equipment grounding conductors, under a nonmetallic jacket.
(CMP—6)


25. Power-Limited Tray Cable (Type PLTC)

A factory assembly of two or more insulated conductors rated at 300 volts, with or without associated bare or insulated equipment grounding conductors, under a nonmetallic jacket.
(CMP—3)


26. Service Cable

Service conductors made up in the form of a cable.
(CMP—10)


27. Service Entrance Cable

A single conductor or multi-conductor cable provided with an overall covering, primarily used for services.
(CMP—6)


28. Service Entrance Cable (Type SE)

Service-entrance cable having a flame-retardant, moisture-resistant covering.
(CMP—6)


29. Service Entrance Cable (Type USE)

Service-entrance cable, identified for underground use, having a moisture-resistant covering but not required to have a flame-retardant covering.
(CMP—6)


30. Type P Cable

A factory assembly of one or more insulated flexible tinned copper conductors, with associated equipment grounding conductor(s), with or without a braided metallic armor, and with an overall nonmetallic jacket.
(CMP—6)


31. Under Carpet Cable

Cables intended to be used under carpeting, floor covering, modular tiles, and planks.
(722) (CMP—3)


32. Underground Feeder and Branch-Circuit Cable (Type UF)

A factory assembly of one or more insulated conductors with an integral or overall covering of nonmetallic material suitable for direct burial in the earth.
(CMP—6)


33. Flat Cable Assembly (Type FC)

An assembly of parallel conductors formed integrally with an insulating material web, specifically designed for field installation in surface metal raceway.
(CMP—6)


34. Cable Bundle

A group of cables tied together or in contact with one another in a closely packed configuration for at least 1.0 m (40 in.).
(CMP—3)
Informational Note: Random or loose installation of individual cables can result in less heating. Combing of the cables can result in less heat dissipation and more signal cross-talk.


35. Cable Connector

A connector designed to join flat conductor cables (Type FCC) without using a junction box.
(324) (CMP—6)


36. Cable Connector [Hazardous Locations]

An electrical device that is part of a cable assembly and establishes a connection between the conductors of the cable assembly and the conductors of a fixed piece of equipment.
(CMP—14)
Informational Note: See ANSI/UL 121201, ANSI/UL 2238, and ANSI/UL 2237 for standards on cable connectors.


37. Cable Joint

A connection consisting of an insulation system and a connector where two or more medium voltage (Type MV) cables are joined together.
(CMP—6)


38. Cable Management System

An apparatus designed to control and organize lengths of cable or cord.
(CMP—12)


39. Cable Routing Assembly

A structural system comprising single or multiple channels and associated fittings, designed to support and route:

  • Communications wires and cables
  • Optical fiber cables
  • Data cables for IT and communications equipment
  • Class 2, Class 3, and Type PLTC cables
  • Power-limited fire alarm cables

Applications: Plenum, riser, and general-purpose environments.
Reference: CMP—16


40. Cable Sheath

A protective covering (single or multiple layers) that holds and safeguards conductors or optical fibers.
Reference: CMP—16


41. Fire-Resistive Cable System

A system of cables and components ensuring the survivability of critical circuits under fire conditions for a specified time.
Reference: CMP—3


42. Flat Conductor Cable System

A complete wiring system for branch circuits, designed for installation under carpet squares. Includes:

  • Type FCC cable
  • Shielding, connectors, terminators, adapters, boxes, and receptacles

Informational Note: The FCC system includes Type FCC cable and associated shielding, connectors, terminators, adapters, boxes, and receptacles.
Reference: 324, CMP—6


43. Cable Termination

A connection consisting of an insulation system and a connector, installed on medium-voltage (Type MV) cables to connect to devices or equipment.
Reference: CMP—6


44. Cable Tray System

A structural system of units, sections, and fittings used to securely fasten or support cables and raceways.
Reference: CMP—8


45. Cablebus

An assembly of units or sections with insulated conductors and fittings, enclosed in a ventilated, protective metal housing. Designed to carry fault current and withstand magnetic forces.

Informational Note: Cablebus is ordinarily assembled at the point of installation from the components furnished or specified by the manufacturer in accordance with instructions for the specific job.
Reference: CMP—8


46. Cell (Batteries)

The basic electrochemical unit with an anode and cathode, used to receive, store, and deliver electrical energy.
Reference: CMP—13


47. Sealed Cell

A cell with no provision for adding water or electrolyte, and no external measurement of electrolyte specific gravity. May include pressure relief venting.
Reference: CMP—13


48. Cell Line

An assembly of electrically interconnected electrolytic cells supplied by a source of direct-current power.
Reference: CMP—12


49. Cell Line Attachments and Auxiliary Equipment

Includes:

  • Auxiliary tanks
  • Process piping
  • Ductwork
  • Structural supports
  • Exposed cell line conductors
  • Conduits and raceways
  • Pumps, positioning equipment, and cell cutout or bypass electrical devices

Auxiliary Equipment: Tools, welding machines, crucibles, and portable equipment used within the electrolytic cell line working zone. Includes exposed conductive surfaces of ungrounded cranes and crane-mounted cell-servicing equipment.
Reference: 668, CMP—12


50. Charge Controller

Equipment that controls DC voltage or current to charge batteries or energy storage devices.
Reference: CMP—13


51. Charger Power Converter

A device converting grid energy to high-frequency output for wireless power transfer.
Reference: 625, CMP—12


52. Child Care Facility

A building or structure, or portion thereof, for educational, supervisory, or personal care services for more than four children aged 7 or younger.
Reference: 406, CMP—18


53. Circuit Breaker

A device designed to open and close a circuit manually and automatically during overcurrent conditions.

Informational Note: The automatic opening means can be integral, direct-acting with the circuit breaker, or remote from the circuit breaker.
Reference: CMP—10


54. Adjustable Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker that can be set to trip at various current or time values within a predetermined range.
Reference: CMP—10


55. Instantaneous Trip Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker with no intentional delay in its tripping action.
Reference: CMP—10


56. Inverse Time Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker with a delay in tripping action that decreases as current magnitude increases.
Reference: CMP—10


57. Nonadjustable Circuit Breaker

A circuit breaker without adjustments for trip current or time.
Reference: CMP—10


58. Class 1 Circuit

The portion of the wiring system between the load side of the Class 1 power source and the connected equipment.
Reference: CMP—3


59. Class 2 Circuit

The portion of the wiring system between the load side of a Class 2 power source and the connected equipment. Provides fire and shock protection due to power limitations.
Reference: CMP—3


60. Class 3 Circuit

The portion of the wiring system between the load side of a Class 3 power source and the connected equipment. Offers fire protection with additional safeguards against shock hazards due to higher voltage and current levels.
Reference: CMP—3


61. Class 4 Circuit

The portion of the wiring system between the load side of a Class 4 transmitter and the Class 4 receiver or utilization equipment. Provides fire and shock protection through active monitoring and control of voltage and current.

Informational Note: A Class 4 circuit is also commonly referred to as a fault-managed power circuit.
Reference: 726, CMP—3


62. Class 4 Device

Any active device connected to the Class 4 circuit, such as a Class 4 transmitter, receiver, or utilization equipment.
Reference: CMP—3


63. Class 4 Power System

An actively monitored and controlled system consisting of one or more Class 4 transmitters and one or more Class 4 receivers connected by a cabling system.
Reference: CMP—3


64. Class 4 Receiver

A device that accepts Class 4 power and converts it for use by utilization equipment.
Reference: CMP—3


65. Class 4 Transmitter

A device that sources Class 4 power.

Informational Note: A Class 4 transmitter is different from traditional power sources in that it monitors the line for faults (both line-to-line and line-to-ground) and ceases power transmission if a fault is sensed.
Reference: 726, CMP—3


66. Class 4 Utilization Equipment

Devices directly powered by a Class 4 transmitter without the need for a separate Class 4 receiver (the receiver is integrated into the equipment).
Reference: CMP—3


67. Closed Construction

Any building, building component, assembly, or system manufactured such that all concealed parts of processes of manufacture cannot be inspected after installation without disassembly, damage, or destruction.
Reference: 545, CMP—7


68. Clothes Closet

A nonhabitable room or space intended primarily for the storage of garments and apparel.
Reference: CMP—1


69. Clothes Closet Storage Space

The area within a clothes closet where combustible materials can be stored.
Reference: 410, CMP—18


70. Collector Rings

An assembly of slip rings for transferring electric energy from a stationary to a rotating member.
Reference: 675, CMP—7


71. DC Combiner

An enclosure that includes devices used to connect two or more PV system DC circuits in parallel.
Reference: 690, CMP—4


72. Combustible Dust

Solid particles that are 500 µm or smaller (material passing a U.S. No. 35 Standard Sieve) that can form an explosible mixture when suspended in air at standard atmospheric pressure and temperature.

Informational Note: See ASTM E1226, ISO 6184-1, or ANSI/UL 80079-20-2 for procedures for determining the explosibility of dusts. Historically, explosibility has been described as presenting a flash fire or explosion hazard.
Reference: CMP—14


73. Combustible Gas Detection System

A protection technique utilizing stationary gas detectors in industrial establishments.
Reference: CMP—14


74. Commissioning

The process, procedures, and testing used to set up and verify the initial performance, operational controls, safety systems, and sequence of operation of electrical devices and equipment, prior to it being placed into active service.
Reference: CMP—13


75. Communications Circuit

A metallic, fiber, or wireless circuit that provides voice/data (and associated power) for communications-related services between communications equipment.
Reference: CMP—16


76. Network-Powered Broadband Communications Circuit

The circuit extending from the communications utility’s or service provider’s serving terminal or tap up to and including the network interface unit (NIU).

Informational Note: A typical one-family dwelling network-powered communications circuit consists of a communications drop or communications service cable and an NIU and includes the communications utility’s serving terminal or tap where it is not under the exclusive control of the communications utility.
Reference: 830, CMP—16


77. Premises Communications Circuit

The circuit that extends voice, audio, video, data, interactive services, telegraph (except radio), and outside wiring for fire alarm and burglar alarm from the service provider’s network terminal to the customer’s communications equipment.
Reference: 840, CMP—16


78. Communications Equipment

The electronic equipment that performs telecommunications operations for the transmission of audio, video, and data, including power equipment (e.g., DC converters, inverters, and batteries), technical support equipment (e.g., computers), and conductors dedicated solely to the operation of the equipment.

Informational Note: As the telecommunications network transitions to a more data-centric network, computers, routers, servers, and their powering equipment are becoming essential to the transmission of audio, video, and data and are finding increasing application in communications equipment installations.
Reference: CMP—16


79. Communications Service Provider

An organization, business, or individual that offers communications service to others.
Reference: CMP—16


80. Community Antenna Television Circuit (CATV)

The circuit that extends community antenna television systems for audio, video, data, and interactive services from the service provider’s network terminal to the appropriate customer equipment.
Reference: CMP—16


81. Concealable Nonmetallic Extension

A listed assembly of two, three, or four insulated circuit conductors within a nonmetallic jacket, an extruded thermoplastic covering, or a sealed nonmetallic covering. The classification includes surface extensions intended for mounting directly on the surface of walls or ceilings and concealed with paint, texture, joint compound, plaster, wallpaper, tile, wall paneling, or other similar materials.
Reference: CMP—6


82. Concealed

Rendered inaccessible by the structure or finish of the building.

Informational Note: Wires in concealed raceways are considered concealed, even though they may become accessible by withdrawing them.
Reference: CMP—1


83. Concealed Knob-and-Tube Wiring

A wiring method using knobs, tubes, and flexible nonmetallic tubing for the protection and support of single insulated conductors.
Reference: CMP—6


84. Bare Conductor

A conductor having no covering or electrical insulation whatsoever.
Reference: CMP—6


85. Copper-Clad Aluminum Conductor

A conductor drawn from a copper-clad aluminum rod, with the copper metallurgically bonded to an aluminum core.
Reference: CMP—6


86. Covered Conductor

A conductor encased within material of composition or thickness that is not recognized by this Code as electrical insulation.
Reference: CMP—6


87. Insulated Conductor

A conductor encased within material of composition and thickness that is recognized by this Code as electrical insulation.
Reference: CMP—6


88. Overhead Service Conductor

An insulated conductor encased in a polymeric material adequate for the applied nominal voltage and any conductor types described in 310.4.

Informational Note: See ICEA S-76-474-2011, Standard for Neutral Supported Power Cable Assemblies with Weather-Resistant Extruded Insulation Rated 600 Volts, for information about overhead service conductors.
Reference: 396, CMP—6


89. Outdoor Overhead Conductors

Single conductors, insulated, covered, or bare, installed outdoors on support structures in free air.
Reference: 399, CMP—6


90. Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC)

A raceway of circular cross-section made of helically wound, formed, interlocked metal strip.
Reference: CMP—8


91. High Density Polyethylene Conduit (HDPE)

A nonmetallic raceway of circular cross-section, with associated couplings, connectors, and fittings for the installation of electrical conductors.
Reference: CMP—8


92. Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC)

A steel threadable raceway of circular cross-section designed for the physical protection and routing of conductors and cables. It can also serve as an equipment grounding conductor when installed with its integral or associated coupling and appropriate fittings.
Reference: CMP—8


93. Liquidtight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC)

A raceway of circular cross-section with an outer liquidtight, nonmetallic, sunlight-resistant jacket over an inner flexible metal core. Includes associated couplings, connectors, and fittings.
Reference: CMP—8


94. Liquidtight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit (LFNC)

A raceway of circular cross-section with three types:

  • LFNC-A: Smooth seamless inner core and cover bonded together with reinforcement layers.
  • LFNC-B: Smooth inner surface with integral reinforcement within the raceway wall.
  • LFNC-C: Corrugated internal and external surface without integral reinforcement.

Informational Note: FNMC is an alternative designation for LFNC.
Reference: CMP—8


95. Nonmetallic Underground Conduit with Conductors (NUCC)

A factory assembly of conductors or cables inside a nonmetallic, smooth-wall raceway with a circular cross-section.
Reference: CMP—8


96. Reinforced Thermosetting Resin Conduit (RTRC)

A rigid nonmetallic raceway of circular cross-section, with integral or associated couplings, connectors, and fittings for the installation of electrical conductors and cables.
Reference: CMP—8


97. Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)

A threadable raceway of circular cross-section designed for the physical protection and routing of conductors and cables. It can also serve as an equipment grounding conductor when installed with its integral or associated coupling and appropriate fittings.
Reference: CMP—8


98. Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride Conduit (PVC)

A rigid nonmetallic raceway of circular cross-section, with integral or associated couplings, connectors, and fittings for the installation of electrical conductors and cables.
Reference: CMP—8


99. Conduit Body

A separate portion of a conduit or tubing system that provides access through a removable cover(s) to the interior of the system at a junction of two or more sections or at a terminal point.

Note: Boxes such as FS and FD or larger cast or sheet metal boxes are not classified as conduit bodies.
Reference: CMP—9


100. Connector

An electromechanical fitting.
Reference: 393, CMP—18


101. Intercell Connector

An electrically conductive bar or cable used to connect adjacent cells.
Reference: CMP—13


102. Intertier Connector

An electrical conductor used to connect two cells on different tiers of the same rack or different shelves of the same rack.
Reference: CMP—13


103. Load Connector

An electromechanical connector used for power from the busbar to utilization equipment.
Reference: 393, CMP—18


104. Pendant Connector

An electromechanical or mechanical connector used to suspend low-voltage luminaires or utilization equipment below the grid rail and to supply power from the busbar to utilization equipment.
Reference: 393, CMP—18


105. Power Feed Connector

An electromechanical connector used to connect the power supply to a power distribution cable, to connect directly to the busbar, or to connect from a power distribution cable to the busbar.
Reference: 393, CMP—18


106. Pressure (Solderless) Connector

A device that establishes a connection between two or more conductors or between one or more conductors and a terminal by means of mechanical pressure without the use of solder.
Reference: CMP—1


107. Rail-to-Rail Connector

An electromechanical connector used to interconnect busbars from one ceiling grid rail to another grid rail.
Reference: 393, CMP—18


108. Connector Strip

A metal wireway containing pendant or flush receptacles.
Reference: 520, CMP—15


109. Container (Batteries)

A single-cell or multicell vessel or jar that holds the plates, electrolyte, and other elements of a single unit in a battery.
Reference: CMP—13


110. Continuous Load

A load where the maximum current is expected to continue for 3 hours or more.
Reference: CMP—2


111. Control

The predetermined process of connecting, disconnecting, increasing, or reducing electric power.
Reference: 750, CMP—13


112. Control Circuit

The circuit of a control apparatus or system that carries the electric signals directing the performance of the controller but does not carry the main power current.
Reference: CMP—11


113. Fault-Tolerant External Control Circuits

Control circuits entering or leaving the fire pump controller enclosure that, if broken, disconnected, or shorted, will not prevent the controller from starting the fire pump from other internal or external means.
Reference: 695, CMP—13


114. Emergency Lighting Control Device

A separate or integral device intended to perform one or more emergency lighting control functions.

Informational Note: See UL 924, Emergency Lighting and Power Equipment, for information covering emergency lighting control devices.
Reference: 700, CMP—13


115. Control Drawing

A drawing or document provided by the manufacturer of intrinsically safe or associated apparatus, detailing allowed interconnections between the apparatus.

Informational Note: See ANSI/ISA/UL 120202, ANSI/UL 913, ANSI/UL 60079-11, ANSI/UL 121201, and ANSI/ISA RP 12.06.01 for additional information.
Reference: CMP—14


116. Control Room

An enclosed control space outside the hoistway, intended for full bodily entry, containing the elevator motor controller.
Reference: 620, CMP—12


117. Control Space

A space inside or outside the hoistway intended to be accessed with or without full bodily entry, containing the elevator motor controller.
Reference: 620, CMP—12


118. Control System

The overall system governing the starting, stopping, direction of motion, acceleration, speed, and retardation of the moving member.
Reference: 620, CMP—12


119. Controller

A device or group of devices that governs the electric power delivered to the apparatus to which it is connected.
Reference: CMP—1


120. Motion Controller

The electrical device(s) governing the acceleration, speed, retardation, and stopping of the moving member.

Informational Note: The motor control function may be integral to the motion controller.
Reference: 620, CMP—12


121. Motor Controller

Any switch or device used to start and stop a motor by making and breaking the motor circuit current.
Reference: CMP—11


122. Operation Controller

The electrical device(s) initiating the starting, stopping, and direction of motion in response to a signal from an operating device.
Reference: 620, CMP—12


123. DC-to-DC Converter

A device that provides an output DC voltage and current at a higher or lower value than the input DC voltage and current.
Reference: CMP—4


124. DC-to-DC Converter Circuit

The DC circuit conductors connected to the output of a DC-to-DC converter.
Reference: CMP—4


125. Converting Device

The part of heating equipment that converts input mechanical or electrical energy to the voltage, current, and frequency used for the heating applicator.
Reference: 665, CMP—12


126. Counter-Mounted Cooking Unit

A cooking appliance designed for mounting in or on a counter, consisting of one or more heating elements, internal wiring, and built-in or mountable controls.
Reference: CMP—2


127. Selective Coordination

Localization of an overcurrent condition to restrict outages to the circuit or equipment affected, achieved by selecting and installing overcurrent protective devices with appropriate ratings or settings.
Reference: CMP—10


128. Flexible Cord

Two or more flexible insulated conductors enclosed in a flexible covering.
Reference: CMP—6


129. Cord Connector

A contact device terminated to a flexible cord that accepts an attachment plug or other insertion device.
Reference: CMP—6


130. Cord Connector (Hazardous Locations)

A fitting intended to terminate a cord to a box or similar device, reducing strain at points of termination. May include explosionproof, dust-ignitionproof, or flameproof seals.
Reference: CMP—14


131. Cord Set

A length of flexible cord with an attachment plug at one end and a cord connector at the other end.
Reference: CMP—6


132. Corrosive Environment

Areas or enclosures without adequate ventilation where electrical equipment is located and pool sanitation chemicals are stored, handled, or dispensed.

Informational Note 1: See EPA Advisory: Swimming Pool Chemical: Chlorine, OSWER 90-008.1, June 1990.
Informational Note 2: See ANSI/APSP-11, ANSI/ASHRAE 62.1, and 2021 ISPSC for ventilation requirements.
Reference: 680, CMP—17


133. Counter (Countertop)

A fixed or stationary surface typically intended for food preparation, personal lavation, or laundering, presenting a routine risk of liquid spillage.

Informational Note 1: See UL 498 and UL 943 for performance and construction criteria.
Informational Note 2: See 406.5(E), 406.5(G)(1), and 406.5(H) for receptacle requirements.
Reference: CMP—2


134. Crane

A mechanical device used for lifting or moving boats.
Reference: 555, CMP—7


135. Critical Branch

A system of feeders and branch circuits supplying power for task illumination, fixed equipment, select receptacles, and select power circuits serving patient care areas.
Reference: 517, CMP—15


136. Designated Critical Operations Areas (DCOA)

Areas within a facility or site designated as requiring critical operations power.
Reference: CMP—13


137. Critical Operations Data System

An information technology equipment system requiring continuous operation for public safety, emergency management, national security, or business continuity.
Reference: 645, CMP—12


138. Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS)

Power systems for facilities or parts of facilities requiring continuous operation for public safety, emergency management, national security, or business continuity.
Reference: CMP—13


139. Cutout Box

An enclosure designed for surface mounting with swinging doors or covers secured directly to and telescoping with the walls of the enclosure.
Reference: CMP—9


Summary Table

TermDefinitionReference
CabinetEnclosure for surface or flush mounting with swinging doors.CMP—9
Abandoned CableInstalled cable not terminated or identified for future use.CMP—16
Armored Cable (Type AC)Insulated conductors in flexible interlocked metallic armor.CMP—6
Circuit Integrity Cable (CI)Cable ensuring survivability under fire conditions.CMP—3
Coaxial CableCylindrical assembly with a conductor inside a metallic shield.CMP—16
Festoon CableFlexible cable for installations requiring flexibility.610, CMP—12
Flat Conductor Cable (Type FCC)Flat copper conductors enclosed in an insulating assembly.324, CMP—6
Instrumentation Tray Cable (ITC)Insulated conductors in a nonmetallic sheath.CMP—3
Integrated Gas Spacer Cable (IGS)Conductors in loose-fit nonmetallic conduit, rated 0–600V.CMP—6
Limited-Use CableCables for restricted applications or with protection.722, CMP—3
Medium Voltage Cable (Type MV)Solid dielectric insulated cable rated 2001–35,000V.CMP—6
Metal Clad Cable (Type MC)Insulated conductors in interlocking metal tape or metallic sheath.CMP—6
Metallic Conductor CableTwo or more conductors with an overall covering.CMP—16
Mineral-Insulated Cable (Type MI)Conductors with refractory insulation in a liquidtight metal sheath.CMP—6
Nonmetallic-Sheathed CableInsulated conductors in a nonmetallic jacket.CMP—6
Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable (NM)Insulated conductors in a nonmetallic jacket.CMP—6
Nonmetallic-Sheathed Cable (NMC)Insulated conductors in a corrosion-resistant nonmetallic jacket.CMP—6
Optical Fiber CableAssembly of one or more optical fibers with an overall covering.CMP—16
Conductive Optical Fiber CableOptical fiber cable with non-current-carrying conductive members.CMP—16
Hybrid Optical Fiber CableCable with optical fibers and current-carrying conductors.CMP—16
Nonconductive Optical Fiber CableOptical fiber cable with no electrically conductive materials.CMP—16
Protected Optical Fiber CableOptical fiber cable protected from releasing radiation.CMP—14
Portable Power Feeder CableFlexible shielded insulated power conductors rated 2001–25,000V.CMP—6
Power and Control Tray Cable (TC)Insulated conductors under a nonmetallic jacket.CMP—6
Power-Limited Tray Cable (PLTC)Insulated conductors rated at 300V under a nonmetallic jacket.CMP—3
Service CableService conductors in cable form.CMP—10
Service Entrance CableSingle or multi-conductor cable for services.CMP—6
Service Entrance Cable (Type SE)Flame-retardant, moisture-resistant service cable.CMP—6
Service Entrance Cable (Type USE)Moisture-resistant service cable for underground use.CMP—6
Type P CableInsulated flexible tinned copper conductors with nonmetallic jacket.CMP—6
Under Carpet CableCables for use under carpeting or floor coverings.722, CMP—3
Underground Feeder Cable (Type UF)Insulated conductors with nonmetallic covering for direct burial.CMP—6
Flat Cable Assembly (Type FC)Parallel conductors with insulating material for surface raceway.CMP—6
Cable BundleGroup of cables tied together in a closely packed configuration.CMP—3
Cable ConnectorConnector for joining flat conductor cables without a junction box.324, CMP—6
Cable Connector [Hazardous]Device for connecting cable conductors to fixed equipment.CMP—14
Cable JointConnection for joining medium voltage cables.CMP—6
Cable Management SystemApparatus for organizing and controlling cables or cords.CMP—12
TermDescriptionReference
Cable Routing AssemblyStructural system for supporting and routing cablesCMP—16
Cable SheathProtective covering for conductors or fibersCMP—16
Fire-Resistive Cable SystemEnsures circuit survivability under fire conditionsCMP—3
Flat Conductor Cable SystemWiring system for installation under carpet squares324, CMP—6
Cable TerminationConnection for medium-voltage cablesCMP—6
Cable Tray SystemStructural system for supporting cables and racewaysCMP—8
CablebusEnclosed system for supporting conductors and terminationsCMP—8
Cell (Batteries)Basic electrochemical unit for energy storageCMP—13
Sealed CellCell with no provision for adding water or electrolyteCMP—13
Cell LineAssembly of interconnected electrolytic cellsCMP—12
Cell Line Attachments and EquipmentAuxiliary equipment for electrolytic cell lines668, CMP—12
Charge ControllerControls DC voltage or current for chargingCMP—13
Charger Power ConverterConverts grid energy for wireless power transfer625, CMP—12
Child Care FacilityBuilding for care services for children406, CMP—18
Circuit BreakerDevice for opening/closing circuits during overcurrentCMP—10
Adjustable Circuit BreakerCircuit breaker with adjustable trip settingsCMP—10
Instantaneous Trip Circuit BreakerCircuit breaker with no intentional delay in trippingCMP—10
Inverse Time Circuit BreakerCircuit breaker with decreasing delay as current increasesCMP—10
Nonadjustable Circuit BreakerCircuit breaker without trip adjustmentsCMP—10
Class 1 CircuitWiring system for Class 1 power sourcesCMP—3
Class 2 CircuitWiring system for Class 2 power sourcesCMP—3
Class 3 CircuitWiring system for Class 3 power sourcesCMP—3
Class 4 CircuitWiring system for Class 4 transmitters and receivers726, CMP—3
Class 4 DeviceActive devices connected to Class 4 circuitsCMP—3
Class 4 Power SystemSystem of Class 4 transmitters and receiversCMP—3
Class 4 ReceiverDevice converting Class 4 power for utilization equipmentCMP—3
Class 4 TransmitterDevice sourcing Class 4 power726, CMP—3
Class 4 Utilization EquipmentDevices directly powered by Class 4 transmittersCMP—3
Closed ConstructionBuilding components with concealed parts545, CMP—7
Clothes ClosetRoom for garment storageCMP—1
Clothes Closet Storage SpaceArea for storing combustible materials in closets410, CMP—18
Collector RingsSlip rings for transferring electric energy675, CMP—7
DC CombinerEnclosure for connecting PV system DC circuits690, CMP—4
Combustible DustParticles forming explosible mixtures in airCMP—14
Combustible Gas Detection SystemSystem using gas detectors for protectionCMP—14
CommissioningProcess for verifying electrical equipment performanceCMP—13
Communications CircuitCircuit for voice/data and powerCMP—16
Network-Powered Broadband CircuitCircuit from service provider’s terminal to NIU830, CMP—16
Premises Communications CircuitCircuit for voice, video, data, and alarms840, CMP—16
Communications EquipmentEquipment for transmitting audio, video, and dataCMP—16
Communications Service ProviderOrganization offering communications servicesCMP—16
CATV CircuitCircuit for CATV servicesCMP—16
Concealable Nonmetallic ExtensionInsulated conductors within a nonmetallic jacketCMP—6
ConcealedRendered inaccessible by building structureCMP—1
Concealed Knob-and-Tube WiringWiring method using knobs and tubesCMP—6
Bare ConductorConductor with no insulationCMP—6
Copper-Clad Aluminum ConductorConductor with copper bonded to aluminumCMP—6
Covered ConductorConductor with non-insulation coveringCMP—6
Insulated ConductorConductor with recognized insulationCMP—6
Overhead Service ConductorInsulated conductor for overhead use396, CMP—6
TermDescriptionReference
Outdoor Overhead ConductorsSingle conductors installed outdoors on support structures399, CMP—6
Flexible Metal Conduit (FMC)Helically wound, interlocked metal strip racewayCMP—8
High Density Polyethylene Conduit (HDPE)Nonmetallic raceway for electrical conductorsCMP—8
Intermediate Metal Conduit (IMC)Steel threadable raceway for conductor protectionCMP—8
Liquidtight Flexible Metal Conduit (LFMC)Liquidtight, nonmetallic-jacketed flexible metal racewayCMP—8
Liquidtight Flexible Nonmetallic Conduit (LFNC)Nonmetallic raceway with three types (A, B, C)CMP—8
Nonmetallic Underground Conduit with Conductors (NUCC)Factory assembly of conductors in nonmetallic racewayCMP—8
Reinforced Thermosetting Resin Conduit (RTRC)Rigid nonmetallic raceway for electrical conductorsCMP—8
Rigid Metal Conduit (RMC)Threadable metal raceway for conductor protectionCMP—8
Rigid Polyvinyl Chloride Conduit (PVC)Rigid nonmetallic raceway for electrical conductorsCMP—8
Conduit BodyAccess point for conduit or tubing systemsCMP—9
ConnectorElectromechanical fitting393, CMP—18
Intercell ConnectorConductive bar or cable connecting adjacent cellsCMP—13
Intertier ConnectorConductor connecting cells on different tiers or shelvesCMP—13
Load ConnectorConnector for power from busbar to utilization equipment393, CMP—18
Pendant ConnectorConnector for suspending low-voltage luminaires or equipment393, CMP—18
Power Feed ConnectorConnector for power supply to distribution cable or busbar393, CMP—18
Pressure (Solderless) ConnectorMechanical pressure-based connector without solderCMP—1
Rail-to-Rail ConnectorConnector for interconnecting busbars between grid rails393, CMP—18
Connector StripMetal wireway with pendant or flush receptacles520, CMP—15
Container (Batteries)Vessel holding battery plates, electrolyte, and elementsCMP—13
Continuous LoadLoad with maximum current expected for 3+ hoursCMP—2
ControlProcess of connecting, disconnecting, or adjusting electric power750, CMP—13
Control CircuitCircuit carrying signals directing controller performanceCMP—11
Fault-Tolerant External Control CircuitsControl circuits ensuring fire pump operation during faults695, CMP—13
Emergency Lighting Control DeviceDevice for emergency lighting control functions700, CMP—13
Control DrawingManufacturer-provided drawing for intrinsically safe apparatus interconnectionsCMP—14
Control RoomEnclosed space for elevator motor controller620, CMP—12
Control SpaceSpace for elevator motor controller, accessible with or without full entry620, CMP—12
Control SystemSystem governing motion, speed, and stopping of moving members620, CMP—12
ControllerDevice governing electric power deliveryCMP—1
Motion ControllerDevice governing acceleration, speed, and stopping of moving members620, CMP—12
Motor ControllerDevice for starting and stopping motorsCMP—11
Operation ControllerDevice initiating motion in response to operating signals620, CMP—12
DC-to-DC ConverterDevice adjusting DC voltage and current levelsCMP—4
DC-to-DC Converter CircuitConductors connected to DC-to-DC converter outputCMP—4
Converting DeviceEquipment converting energy for heating applicators665, CMP—12
Counter-Mounted Cooking UnitCooking appliance for counter mountingCMP—2
Selective CoordinationLocalizing overcurrent conditions to minimize outagesCMP—10
Flexible CordInsulated conductors enclosed in a flexible coveringCMP—6
Cord ConnectorDevice for connecting flexible cordsCMP—6
Cord Connector (Hazardous Locations)Fitting for terminating cords in hazardous locationsCMP—14
Cord SetFlexible cord with plug and connectorCMP—6
Corrosive EnvironmentAreas with inadequate ventilation and pool chemicals680, CMP—17
Counter (Countertop)Surface for food preparation or launderingCMP—2
CraneMechanical device for lifting or moving boats555, CMP—7
Critical BranchPower system for patient care areas517, CMP—15
Designated Critical Operations Areas (DCOA)Areas requiring critical operations powerCMP—13
Critical Operations Data SystemIT system requiring continuous operation645, CMP—12
Critical Operations Power Systems (COPS)Power systems for continuous operationCMP—13
Cutout BoxEnclosure with swinging
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