Abstract: Based on the virtual work increment equation of updated Lagrangian formulation and the basic assumption of cable, a finite element method with two-node curved cable element for the geometrical non-linear analysis of cable structures is developed and its stiffness matrix is presented. With reference to the geometric shape and physical equation of cable, the node forces of cable element are accurately formulated. The present method overcomes the disadvantages of two other widely used elements: two-node linear bar element which has low precision and the multi-node element which is difficult to computerize for many D.O.F. This method in the paper can be used in the analysis of long-span suspension bridge, cable-stayed bridge and tensile structure. The results of three examples show that the proposed method is very precise and valid.