It may be tempting to jump right into asking questions regarding the overall construction of a cable assembly. However, establishing what a cable assembly is stands as the most logical first step.
The Basics
A cable assembly is a group of cables or wires arranged into a single unit. Cable assemblies are organized into an easier-to-install package that allows for maintenance & eventually replacement to be simpler. A sleeve provides protection to the assembly.
Cable assemblies are characterized as being incredibly durable & structured in such a way as to protect the wires & cables that run through them. They tend to be the go-to solution for facilities where environmental conditions can cause greater wear & tear. High heat, pronounced vibrations, dirt/dust, and moisture are just some of what cable assemblies can tolerate due to their sturdier construction.
FAQs
Such a definition might not seem necessary. However, industries across the board tend to use the terms ‘cable assembly’ & ‘wire harness’ interchangeably. Greater consistency in used terminology across the board needs to be addressed as it can throw a wrench into the ordering process. This distinction is also pivotal in the world of customization.
Other questions regarding cable assemblies include:
What information needs to be submitted to a manufacturer?
Assembly manufacturers want to provide all customers a quality product that meets their needs. However, unless they know what the assembly is for, it’s hard for them to know how best to build the product. Moreover, you also need to provide accurate information about measurements for the amount of product needed because surplus material means an added expense.
What kind of credentials should I look for in a cable assembly manufacturer?
Certifications are a mark of competence and dedication to knowing an industry well. It also is indicative of a manufacturer’s dedication to its employees and customers as these certifications ensure safety protocols being followed & their employees are receiving up-to-date training. Important credentials to look for include but aren’t limited to: ISO certification, UL Registry, RoHS compliance, and IPC/WHMA adherence.
What kind of schedule do I need to keep for delivery of a final product?
It is important to be sure to establish the time constraints under which a project will be operating. Prospective cable assembly manufacturing partners should be keen on maintaining production dates that work with the client’s schedule.
How does budget factor in things?
Of course, budgetary concerns should also remain top of mind. The best cable assembly manufacturers make it a priority to work with a client’s budget all while still providing a product that doesn’t cut corners in terms of quality.
If there is one particularly vital FAQ when it comes to a cable assembly, it would have to do with the quality of the manufacturer with which a client would work. Aside from the aforementioned credentials, the right manufacturer will take the time to work with a client so that the EXACT solution for that client’s application is achieved. The best manufacturers have dedicated design & engineering personnel who delve into the minutiae of a project with the goal of addressing the current needs of a client with an all-important eye toward the future.
A plethora of companies across a variety of industries has counted on LoDan Electronics, Inc. in Chicago for their cable assembly needs. See what has made us a go-to name in interconnect solutions since 1967.