Mast cable assemblies are most notable for their place in the field of communications. However, this can be a bit vague when you consider what communication could mean. Moreover, the terminology used in the manufacturing of mast cable assemblies can also be confusing. As such, the prospective customer who needs to order the right assembly, needs to be familiar with at least some of the industry jargon.
Here are five terms that should be high priorities but by no means a complete list:
ASME — Abbreviation for the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. This organization is closely associated with ASTM, which is an abbreviation for the American Society for Testing Materials. The ASTM is an organization that tests materials and attempts to set standards on various materials for industry. These acronyms are key features to look for when it comes to standards & specs.
Mast — A mast is sometimes referred to as a tower, and this interchangeable use of terms can be the most confusing. In laymen’s terms, a mast is a structure held up by stays or guys. A mast can be based either on the ground or roof & supports antennas at a height where they can best send or receive radio waves. The most common masts are made of steel lattice or tubular steel construction.
Cable Assembly — A cable assembly is a cable with plugs or connectors on each end for a specific purpose. It may be formed in various configurations.
Signal — A current used to convey information, either digital, analog, audio, or video. It should be noted that a signal generator is a device used to furnish current at a known frequency, modulated, and to deliver a measured voltage only at the terminals of the generator without appreciable radiation at any other point.
Frequency Band — A particular range of frequencies that forms part of a larger continuous series of frequencies. Bands include: EHF, SHF, UHF, VHF, HF, MF, LF, and VLF.
As you can see, the terminology involved in mast cable assemblies can be involved and a bit confusing. If you’re not an industry insider or manufacturers, it’s not surprising to find the terminology hard to navigate at times. This is why it is important for cable assembly manufacturers to maintain communication throughout the manufacturing process so that customers feel comfortable knowing that what they’re ordering is right for their specific applications.
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