# Truss Cable Construction \[TB]

The Truss Cable Construction workflow item activates truss cables (the cables that tie the truss system together or support it from hanger points) in the staged construction model. From the selected stage onward the cables contribute stiffness and self-weight to the analysis.

## Cable Construction

**Stage:** Select the [Construction Stage \[TB\]](/templates/truss-bridge-workflow/construction-tb/construction-stage-tb.md) at which the truss cables will be installed. The cable FE group is activated from this stage onward.

**Bridge:** Select the [Bridge Alignment \[TB\]](/templates/truss-bridge-workflow/bridge-geometry-tb/bridge-alignment-tb.md) whose truss cables are being constructed. When **Construct All/Selection** is set to **All** the cable FE group of this bridge is activated.

**Construct All/Selection \[All/Selection]:** Choose whether to install every truss cable on the bridge (**All**) or only a specific user-selected subset (**Selection**). When **Selection** is used, the individual cables picked in **Cables** are activated at the selected stage.

**Cables:** Pick the individual truss cables to be installed at this stage. This list is only used when **Construct All/Selection** is set to **Selection**.

**Self Weight Factor:** Factor applied to the cables' own weight during this construction stage. A value of `1.0` applies the full self-weight; scale the value up or down to model oversized/undersized self-weight contributions (for example, to lump in hardware or sheathing weight). The factor is applied as a downward (negative Z) body-force multiplier on the activated cable FE group.


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