Which statement about Q Cable tensioning is correct?

• A. Pulling the cable tight against the strain relief is required.
• B. Only use sealing caps to skip connectors.
• C. Do not pull the cable tight; allow proper slack.
• D. Tensioning has no effect on performance.

Answer: (C)

When wiring with Q Cable, the goal is to avoid putting tensile load on the terminations. Leave a bit of slack so the cable can move slightly during installation, bending, and thermal expansion without pulling on the connector or the strain-relief. Pulling the cable tight against the strain relief transfers tension into the termination, which can crack insulation, loosen the connector, or compromise the seal. Over time, that stress can cause intermittent failures or reduced reliability. Having proper slack lets the strain-relief absorb movement and protects the electrical connection, keeping performance stable across temperature changes and vibrations. The idea that tension has no effect is incorrect, because mechanical stress at the terminations directly impacts reliability. The other option about sealing caps doesn’t address tensioning and isn’t relevant to proper cable slack.