With cable assemblies combining groups of similar electric cables together; and innumerous cable assemblies further combined together to form complex circuits in complex applications, it becomes very difficult to identify individual cables and assemblies, both. To make it easier thus, cables and assemblies are labeled for easy identification. When they are labeled, they can be easily identified, which makes the process of not only installation, but also maintenance, repairing, and replacement very easy and quick.
With labels, information can be communicated in a variety of ways, like numbers, alphabets, alphanumerics, or barcodes. Numbers, alphabets, and alphanumerics can provide a particular identification number or code for the particular cable. Barcodes can also provide information that can be scanned by anyone handling or working with the cable assembly. In addition, if an assembly is a UL-certified product, or a military specific product, special UL and MIL-SPEC tags can also be applied.
There are a number of ways in which a cable assembly can be labeled, depending upon how it is to be used. Some of the most commonly used methods include –
- Self-laminating laser printable polyester film labels that are low cost labels having a UV-resistant coating, used for general indoor and outdoor use
- Printable thermal transfer self-laminating wraparound film labels that are made from polyester or vinyl, and have a white area for printing information, and a clear tail to be wrapped around wires
- Thermal transfer printable heat shrink wire marker sleeves that provide military-grade permanent and durable identification
Before deciding upon which label to use, you must understand the pros and cons of each, and also the label type that best suits your application. For this, you need the assistance of a professional cable assembly or label manufacturer. You must choose the format that best suits your needs. Miracle Electronics is one of the best cable assembly manufacturers in Germany who can not only manufacture cables and assemblies, but can also help label your cables the way you want. Whatever type and size of your cables, they can be labeled with numbers, alphabets, extra characters, and barcodes.
Working with such providers who can both manufacture and label your cables is of added advantage. This is because such a manufacturer can provide greater efficiency, increased dexterity, and decreased risk of incorrect labeling. Let us take a look how.
- Greater efficiency – Having a cable assembly built and labeled within the same facility is much more efficient than having the assembly being transported and handled again after being manufactured.
- Increased dexterity – In case you require changing the format or content of the label due to any reason whatsoever, it becomes easier to do so in a facility where both operations are handled.
- Decreased risk of incorrect labeling – Manufacturers who develop cable assemblies have complete understanding of the material and characteristics of cabling materials, and thus can provide the most appropriate labeling system appropriate to the cable. They will also have a good understanding of the application in which the cable assembly is to be used, thus further suggesting the best labeling system.