ICEA coding should replace the older standard designated by which agency?

• A. UL, Underwriters Laboratories
• B. NEMA
• C. CSA
• D. RUS, Rural Utilities Service

Answer: (D)

ICEA coding standardizes how cables are described by encoding insulation type, conductor size, shielding, and operating ratings into a single descriptor. This system was developed to replace the older designation system issued by the Rural Utilities Service, giving utilities a universal labeling scheme for cables across regions. While UL, NEMA, and CSA are separate organizations tied to safety and product standards, the legacy designations ICEA aims to supersede came from RUS, which managed rural electric distribution cable specifications. Using ICEA coding helps utilities and manufacturers achieve consistency in testing criteria and procurement, reducing confusion when comparing cables from different sources. The older standard replaced by ICEA coding is the one designated by Rural Utilities Service.