Industry standards support the development, implementation, and use of many different technologies. As published documents, they define the specifications and procedures that engineers need to know. Industry standards also matter greatly to sourcing managers. To select the right vendor, it’s important to pick a partner who can manufacture products according to these requirements.
In the wire and cable industry, IPC/WHMA-A-620 is the only industry-consensus standard that defines the requirements and practices for the manufacture of wire harnesses and cable assemblies. As a joint project of the Institute of Printed Circuits (IPC) and the Wire Harness Manufacturers Association (WHMA), IPC-WHMA-A-620 has defined the “rules of the road” since 2002.
Comparing Revisions A and B
Today, there are two major versions of IPC/WHMA-A-620: Revisions A and B. Rev A is older and well-established, but there are some differences from Rev B, which is the newer version. Specifically, these changes cover tools and equipment, inspection conditions, electrical clearance, ESD protection, contamination, rework/repair, and statistical process control. This on-line document explains in detail.
Revision B isn’t new, but engineers and sourcing managers will still find plenty of references to Revision A in their research. Released in October 2012, Revision B includes 682 full-color pictures – including 125 that are new or updated. The 19 chapters in Rev B cover wire preparation, soldering to terminals, termination of contacts, insulation displacement connectors, coaxial cables, molding, marking, and much more.
What Engineers and Sourcing Managers Need to Know
There’s value in mastering IPC/WHMA-A-620, of course, but reviewing the two revisions with a fine-toothed comb won’t help you with vendor selection. That’s why manufacturers who need IPC/WHMA-A-620 wire harnesses and cable assemblies trust SHINE Wire. We understand this important industry specification and can leverage our knowledge to support your wire and cable projects.
SHINE’s manufacturing center in Adams, Massachusetts is IPC/WHMA-A-620 certified. Moreover, all of our manufacturing staff and our entire QA department are certified to IPC 620, as this standard is also known. SHINE has a certified IPC trainer on staff, too. Because we can perform BOM scrubs with a special focus on crimps, SHINE can ensure that your specified call-outs meet IPC 620 crimp criteria.
Engineering Support and Vendor Selection
Do you need assistance with meeting the requirements of IPC/WHMA-A-620 Revision B? Do you have questions about component selection or product design? Engineering support meets vendor selection when you pick a contract manufacturer who’s a partner instead of a just a parts provider. Contact SHNE for more information, or request a quote on-line.
