DIGIT-ARC read-only archive · snapshot: July 23, 2026

How to Open Wire/Cable Ties?

9 posts · originally from https://geek.digit.in/community/threads/how-to-open-wire-cable-ties.149249/

R
RajivKumar123456 Original post #1
Nov 26, 2011 at 7:28 AM
Hey guys!

This may sound foolish to you but I am stuck so I am asking.
I have a 5-7 years old P4 PC. I need to replace a non-working exhaust fan, but after opening the cabinet I found that, as it should be, internal cables/wires along with the fan cable/wire are tied together (to avoid cable-clutter) with binder plastic strips of different sizes wrapped around wires. I tried untieing/opening them, but couldn't figure out how to open them. I am stuck.
I don't know what are they called- strips, ties, wire-fixers, fasteners or anything else? for your information they are white strips made of plastic.
I don't have a camera at the moment otherwise I would have attached a picture. I hope you understood. :!: :?: :!:
mithun_mrg
Nov 26, 2011 at 9:07 AM
just cut the cable ties carefully with scissors
clmlbx
clmlbx #3
Nov 26, 2011 at 9:51 AM
Ya, we understood they are made only for one time use. so it can not be untied. Only way is to cut it.
avichandana20000
Nov 26, 2011 at 11:04 AM
technically called zip ties. and yes cut them .
R
Nov 27, 2011 at 4:46 PM
Well thanks guys! I'm gonna cut them.
But are they easily available on computer shops? Are they called "zip ties" as avichandana20000 said?

(ii) Is there any better option available than use-and-throw ties , I mean reusable ties??? :?:
6x6
6x6 #6
Nov 27, 2011 at 5:22 PM
easily available at electrical shops. 100 ties packet costs ~Rs50/- (4" long)
doomgiver
Nov 27, 2011 at 7:29 PM
use twist ties.
thin black/grey/white strips of plastic (about a few mm wide) with a wire running down the centre.

reusable, multipurpose. i love them.

Twist tie - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
*www.supplyplaza.com/images/uploaded/100%20WEB.jpg
d6bmg
d6bmg #8
Nov 27, 2011 at 8:17 PM
OT: ^^ Brilliant idea!! Never thought that twist ties can be used in long term purpose inside the rig. Will definitely give a try. :)
doomgiver
Nov 28, 2011 at 4:31 AM
they are damn useful, and if you want to move cables around, just untie.

one tie lasts around 10-15 cycles of twisting and opening.