Separable multi-member composite cable

Abstract

Discussed herein are multi-member cables which are comprised of two or more components (including component cables and non-cable components) held together by at least one adhesive element placed between the components, and methods for manufacturing such cables. Multi-member cables which are compromised of jacketed cables whose jackets are adhered together without the use of an adhesive element, such as by co-forming the jackets, and methods for manufacturing such cables are also discussed. Generally, the components will be separated from the multi-member cable by an installer, although other methods may also be used.

1 - 34 . (canceled)  
   
   
       35 . A method of installing cable comprising: 
 providing a multi-member cable including at least three component cables having individual jackets and bonded by an adhesive element;    grasping a terminating end of said multi-member cable;    separating one of said component cables from said adhesive element by breaking said bond without damaging said jackets;    installing said one of said component cables; and    repeating said steps of separating and installing for the remainder of said at least three component cables    
   
   
       36 . The method of  claim 35  wherein said adhesive element comprises plastic.  
   
   
       37 . The method of  claim 36  wherein said plastic comprises polyvinyl chloride (PVC).  
   
   
       40 . The method of  claim 35  wherein at least one of said at least three component cables comprises a voice or data cable.  
   
   
       41 . The method of  claim 35  wherein at least one of said at least three component cables comprises a coaxial cable.  
   
   
       42 . The method of  claim 35  wherein at least one of said at least three component cables comprises an optical fiber cable.  
   
   
       43 . The method of  claim 35  wherein said at least three component cables are arranged in a non-parallel arrangement.  
   
   
       44 . The method of  claim 43  wherein said at least three component cables are twisted together.  
   
   
       45 . The method of  claim 44  wherein said at least three component cables are twisted into a helix.