Friday 19 December 2014

What specifications must be considered when buying MilSpec Cable Tie?

Choosing the right type of military cable is an essential step for proper functioning of a device, even in the toughest military environments. There are varieties of cables in market, and each ones offers some specific functions. Therefore, while choosing a cable for military purposes, its application is a critical step to consider.

You must consider all the major factors when going for the purchase of cables. Following are few of those things that are must to consider when choosing
Mil Spec Cable Tie-

Weather resistant- Are cables weather resistant? This is foremost aspect that must be considered. Cables are intended for either indoor or outdoor use. The impact of resistance, extreme temperature changes, and humidity can affect the transmission performance of a cable. This is why cables required for military purposes needed to be made of Nylon with color black, and UV stabilized.

Tensile strength-Cables are to be used for many applications like wrapped around a device, inserted in a self-locking head and more. Therefore, it needs to have good tensile strength. Military cables need to have 50 lbs tensile strength to withstand while being the stretched or pulled during an application.

Temperature rating-Military cables are designed keeping in mind the high temperature level applications. These cables can withstand a temperature level of -40°F to 185°F thus providing excellent dielectric properties.

Flammability rating
-Lastly, in addition to withstand temperature level, these cables have UL 94 V-2 flammability rating that helps to withstand harsh environmental conditions.

Reliability-Army personnel should have trust on their tools when working in extreme conditions. This is where military need applications need to be reliable enough to withstand harsh situations.

Compatibility- This is another important factor that is needed to be checked before buying Mil Spec cables. These cables should be compatible enough to work in different application under different conditions. Keeping in mind the military needs, these are designed in different styles and sizes.

Beside the above stated factors, there are many other aspects to be checked due to harsh and unpredictable situations of military that makes it important for the companies dealing with the supply of military electronic products to meet the qualification tests.

Certain requirements decided by The U.S. Department of Defense regarding the military products are to be met that qualifies specific defense standards.

Wednesday 10 December 2014

How Electrical Connectors make connections in devices?

In various electronics, connectors are used to join electrical circuits between wires or application. It is an electro mechanical device, which uses a mechanical assembly. Electrical connection made by connectors can be short-term or permanent. In some electronics, temporary connection is made while in some other electronic applications, permanent link is made by joining two wires.

This electro mechanical device usually has two parts, plugs and jacks. However, electrical connectors are available in several types to meet the requirements of different electronics. Some of these types are:

Blade – Blade electro mechanical device is used in various electronics. It contains a conductor and a receptacle. Connection is made by joining both of these parts. Usually, both parts has leads attached to them.

Crimp on – Crimp on connector is used to create a solder less electrical circuit. It is widely used in high radio frequencies applications.

Insulation displacement
– Insulation displacement electro mechanical device is mainly used in extra-low voltage applications like telephone and network plugs. It can be attached to the conductor. It easily ends the need to strip insulation from cables for proper connection.

Posts – Posts are the electro-mechanical devices that can create electrical circuit with screws and clamps. It is used in audio and many other applications. It can be attached to a single and bare lead.

Plug and socket – Plug and socket connectors are used in portable applications. It consists of a male plug and a female receptacle. Male plug contains one or more pins, which are in inserted in the socket of electronic application. Headphones are the most common type of plug and socket.

Ring and spade
– Spade and ring terminal are the connectors that can create connection by attaching a screw. Circuit is created through flat surface of terminal by attaching a screw. These terminals are available in various sizes, to meet the requirements of different fields.

Terminal blocks
– Terminal block are the devices in which wire is joined with electronics by a screw. With terminal blocks, one can make the electrical circuit between cables without physically joining the parts. It is available in various types to meet the needs of different fields. It is used in appliances, switches, outlets etc.
F-Type, UHF, Hybrid, RCA, DIN, Banana, BNC, Tee, Optical fiber, Spade Lug, 8P8Cm power and USB are few of the common connectors used in electronics. Selection of these devices depends on the needs of electrical application.

Monday 1 December 2014

Why must only buy Hook up wire from authorized sources?

Every electrical or electronic device uses various types of components to function. Hook up wire is one of these many components that are necessary for the functionality of electronics. This insulated wire can make internal connections between two electric sources inside devices. Since, it is used in a variety of low current and low voltage applications; it is available in multiple types and styles. It is usually available in stranded bare copper and stranded tin-plated types. Stranded tin-plated type is for easy soldering.

This conductor wire is used in ovens, meters, computers, control panels, broadcast equipment, and many other electrical applications. It is also used in the various equipment of military and industries. It is available in following insulated types:

PVC – PVC hook up is usually used in house appliances and enclosed electronic applications. It provides protection from environment, solvents, oil etc.

Teflon or PTFE – Teflon or PTFE wire can be used in difficult environments due to its abilities of flexibility and heat tolerance. It can tolerate high temperatures, which makes it ideal for rough environments and outdoor electronics.

Mil Spec –Mil spec is the term used for hook ups, which can qualify every military specification. Military uses these wires in variety of applications. Since army, works in very tough environments, the specifications, and quality standards are higher than normal. Leads specifically made for military can resist water, solvents, chemicals, heat, and oil etc. They can withstand bad weather conditions for a long time.

Characteristics of this wire are:

Conductivity
– Hook up is a conductor that is used to make connection in electrical applications. It provides high thermal conductivity. It is available in various materials and gauge numbers.

Voltage
– Voltage is another characteristic of these wires. It can handle low, middle, or high voltage. However, it is usually used for low voltage devices.

Insulation – Insulation of hook up is completed by various materials like PVC, Neoprene, PTFE, and EDPM etc. Each insulation material has different qualities, which makes it easier for buyers to choose. Buyers can choose any insulated lead that meets their industry’s requirements.

Resistance – Hook ups can resist solvents, chemicals, water, heat, oil etc. Its resistance quality makes it ideal for various industries.

Its benefits are:

Hook up is known for its high performance. It can be used in indoor and outdoor electronics as well as in military applications. It is a reliable option to use in electronics. It is also very cost effective.

Sunday 23 November 2014

What are the advantages of fork terminal over others?

Likewise, buying of electronic like connectors, test instruments, wires, cables and other test accessories require good manufacturers who focuses on delivering quality products, it is equally important to understand the details of the product that you want buy.

There are countless terminals available in market. You need to choose one that will serve your purpose. However, to make a valuable purchase, it is important to get acquaint with the details about the terminal electronic product.

Fork terminal is commonly used from the hoard of terminals. Following are few of the advantages of it over other terminals-

Stainless steel: In comparison to conventional grades of steel terminals, stainless steel terminal is resistant to corrosion, heat damage, and chemical damage. This feature provides added strength to the terminal.

High accuracy grade: This type of connector has higher accuracy grade and high consistency, thus providing optimal results. This feature is not there in all connectors, thus making form connector the prime choice of clients.

Optimal running of the equipment: The quality deliverance by the application of this terminal helps bring optimal results. The equipment runs smoothly at a much greater speed than application of other terminals.

Water-resistant anodized- Unlike other terminals, this connector is water resistant. This means it does not fade or wear down even if it used under water application.

Different insulation types: These are available in different types, which are Nylon, Vinyl, and Heat Shrinkable Polyolefin. Depending on the purpose of work and clients need, appropriate terminal is required to select.

Available in many styles
: Each terminal has different styles. To name a few include locking, flanged locking, expanded insulation support, and moisture resistant spade lugs.

Variety of gauges and stud sizes: These connectors are available in many sizes. Based on the need and application to run, any gauge and stud size of fork connectors can be picked.

Affordable
: No matter whatever is the budget of client, these are affordable to buy and manufactured with the highest quality in the industry.

Effective connection: It is frequently used items in electronic power connections because of the effective connectivity feature for transmitting electricity or audio.

From the aforementioned points, you must have got an idea what are the advantages of using fork connectors over other terminals. So, if you are confused of which connector to buy, go for fork connectors.

Monday 17 November 2014

Connecting circuits in electronics - Terminals

In every electronic application, several types of components are used, so that application functions properly. Connectors are used in electronic applications to join electrical circuits. Ring terminal is one of the connectors, which is attached by a screw or bolt through them. It has a shape of ring, like an O, at the end to fit screw. Electrical connection is made by the flat surface of this terminal.

This connector is used in several types of electronics. They are produced in different sizes according to the requirements of industries. It is also available in several types, which are:

Insulated: Insulated type of ring connectors is used in various applications. The need of insulation is reduced with this type. Vinyl and PVC insulated are the most common ones. Nylon or vinyl sleeves are included in it to provide insulation. They are ideal to use in those situations, where someone may come in contact with circuit.

Non-Insulated: Non-insulated are the ring connectors that do not contain any vinyl or nylon sleeve. They are usually used in those applications, where no one will come in contact with circuit.

Heat Shrink: Heat shrink types of terminal are used in those industries, which require water resistant electronic applications. Once the connection is made, heat is applied to shrink sleeve and seal wires. It effectively covers the connections and provides water resistance. It also provides relief to wires from extra strain. This is why it is widely used in marine electronics.

Crimp less: This terminal is made to handle extra pressure, without cracking or breaking. It is thicker compare to other connectors, which makes it ideal for several industries.

Star Ring: Star ring type has small structures inside the O shape of terminal. These small structures dig into metal while screw is attached effectively making a safe connection.

There are several more other categories of ring connectors. However, they are widely used in many industries due to their benefits like:

Easy to connect – These connectors are very easy to connect compare to other options. In solder less option, soldering iron is not even required to complete connection. One just needs to fit a screw or bolt through them to make electrical connection.

Secure – Security is another benefit of these terminals. After properly fitting a screw through them, connection is completely secured. In solder type, connection becomes more secured after soldering.

Performance – These terminals provide good conductivity and performance. In insulated type, the need of insulation is removed. Non-insulated type accepts additional insulation, effectively increasing performance level.

Above-mentioned benefits make them ideal for many applications of different industries.

Are You Selecting the Correct Heat Shrink Tubing?

Heat shrink tubing is a particular type of product used for numerous applications. As the name indicates, it’s tubing that shrinks when heat is applied. It is used for both preventative maintenance and making repairs. It is used for regular preventative protection applications such as relieving strain, sealing, and additional padding. It is extremely helpful in making repairs whether permanent or temporary. Because it doesn’t stick, it’s also used to join tubes. Material used to create this product mainly includes thermoplastics, PVC, PTFE and FEP. It is used in latest medical equipment, aircrafts, planes, and vehicles.

It has ideal electrical qualities  such as high dielectric and resistivity that makes it suitable for use with terminations, connections, and circuit board applications. It can also be used for covering damaged cable splices, jackets, insulations, and connectors.

Following are the factors to consider when selecting the size of tubing:

Size: You need to determine the diameter of primary materials to be covered. Purchase the tubing that is 20-30 percent larger than this dimension.

Shrink ratio: These tubing are classified based upon their ratio of shrink and are available in 2:1, 3:1 or 2.5:1. It means that tubing will shrink when heat is applied. Higher shrink ratio will be required for larger underlying materials to be covered.

Wall thickness: Thickness of the wall is to be determined based upon tubing’s technical data. Wall thickness is measured in inches or millimeters.

Length: It has a small loss of length during the recovery process, which varies from 5-10 percent depending on the type of material. In your selection, consider change of length after recovery.

Other Factors: You also need to consider many other valuable factors such as temperature and voltage ratings, chemical resistance, flexibility, water resistance, strength and other environmental hazards in your selection.

These tubing is available in wide range of colors, which makes the identification purpose easier. It can also be printed with permanent labels. Heating procedure can be completed using a heat gun. You will receive it with the kit you purchase.

At the end, we can say that you need to make sure that the product you are going to purchase will fit perfectly in it application. Hence, you need to be completely certain about its specifications and can seek help from manufacturer, if any assistance is required for the correct selection.

Thursday 13 November 2014

Types of ring terminals and its features

Whether working on a home project or a business project, ring terminals are commonly used for electrical wiring application. These are available in wide variety of types, colors, and sizes. Even different varieties of high temperature rings are available that efficiently helps in soldering electrical connection.

Here are few different types of ring terminals-

Vinyl Insulated Terminals

This type of ring terminal is insulated with nylon or vinyl sleeve. It is used for testing electrical connections because of the ease of positioning the crimping tool.

The temperature range of this terminal is from -40ºC to 105 ºC /-40ºF to 220ºF and available in wide AWG range sizes from 22 - 1 and stud sizes from 10 to 1/2.

Non-Insulated Terminals

This type of terminal is not insulated with vinyl or nylon sleeve. It is the most economical terminal in comparison with others. These non-​insulated ring terminals help in connecting one or more wires to a single connection point.

The temperature range of this bare non-​insulated ring terminal is from 175ºC/347ºF. Standard AWG size ranges from 26 to 20 to 12-​10 and stud sizes from 10 to ½.

Nylon Insulated Ring Terminals with Insulation Grip

The nylon insulated ring terminal with insulation grip is in every electricians or mechanics toolbox because it can easily be use where positive insulation grip and insulated barrel are required.

The operating temperature of this range from -40ºC to 105 ºC /-40ºF to 220ºF. Multiple stud sizes ranging from 0 to 10 are available in it.

High Temperature Ring Terminals

Insulated with steel with nickel plating, these are preferred for applications where high temperature connection is required. It is perfect for use in in ovens, motors, light fixtures and other applications.

The temperature of this terminal is rated at either 482ºC/900ºF or 667ºC/1200ºF.

Non-Insulated Brazed Seam Ring Terminals


A flat piece of metal is rolled into a cylinder with a high melting point. Variety of standard AWG sizes is available in non-insulated brazed seam ring terminals ranging from 22 to 2/0 and stud sizes from 10 to .5.

Heat Shrink Brazed Seam Ring Terminals
Made from the highest quality materials, these ring terminals welded so efficiently that causes no crimping of the ring around the wire or cable.

The operating temperature of this type is from -65°F (-55°C) to 230°F (110°C). Likewise, other ring terminal product, these are available in a variety of standard AWG ranges with a wide variety of stud sizes.

Sunday 9 November 2014

What are the Military Standards for Electronic Products?


Military often works in extreme conditions, which is why they need heavy-duty tools and gadgets. This is the reason why every military product has to qualify certain quality standards, before getting purchased.

United States Military has some fixed quality standards such as MIL-STD and MIL-SPEC. The U.S. Department of Defense uses only those electrical products that qualify these specific defense standards. Army uses various standardized products like mil spec wire, connectors, cable ties, and ring terminals etc.

To qualify for the set standards, all these items must contain qualities such as:

Resistance
– To be compatible with tough situations, it is necessary for electronic items to be resistant. According to the military standards, electronic products like wires and connectors must be resistant to chemical, water, and impact. Heat resistance is also important.

Reliability
– To work in extreme situations, military needs dependable gadgets. This is why reliability is considered important in standardization. It is important that army personnel can trust their tools even in extreme conditions.

Compatibility – Compatibility should be another quality of Mil Spec electronic items. It is necessary for them to be compatible with other devices used by the army in harsh weather conditions. All products must be strong enough to be used in aerospace and marine applications.

Total cost of ownership – Total cost of ownership (TCO) helps in determining the total costs of a system, whether it is direct or indirect. TCO is included in the military standardization regulations, which makes it necessary for electronic products to meet the requirements of total cost of ownership.
Due to harsh and unpredictable conditions, military only uses electronic products that qualify their quality tests. Every electronic product for army is built in the accordance with all the given specifications.

Many other industries and organizations like non-Defense government also use these defense standardized electrical items, as electronic item that qualifies for army standards are considered to be of the best quality.

Tuesday 4 November 2014

What are the fundamental Components of an Electronic Connector?

Different types of electrical connectors are available in the market and some of the most commonly used ones are ring terminals, quick disconnect, butt, and spade lug connectors. These are very important electronic components used in various applications. They can be insulated or non-insulated. Insulated ones like nylon, vinyl and heat shrinkable polyolefin are available in different styles including locking, moisture resistant, and expanded insulation support. Whereas, the non-insulated ones like bare copper has a tin coating.

It is necessary for you to understand the different elements that a basic electronic connector should have before you go any further.

Connector Shell: This external shell plays the role of first line of protection against environmental issues by defending the internal connector components. It ensures that the end of uncovered wires is not exposed to external environment.

Pins and Sockets: Pins and sockets are connected to each other to carry out electricity via connector. The fit should be perfect to ensure that the connection is strong, but should be lose enough to ensure easy disconnection. The number of pins and sockets will depend on the specific type of product you purchase.

Socket Retainer: It is designed to ensure that pins and sockets do not loosen. This socket retainer operates just like the secondary locking system that pushes the plastic handles that grip the pins and sockets in position.

Seals: A rubber seal is used on both ends to ensure that the water does not enter the connector. Because wires enter all the way through the connector, it helps to block the entrance of water and moisture.

Tips for Purchase:


When buying these products, it becomes necessary to find an authentic place for your purchase. It is recommended that you should use UL listed connecters for quality connections.

Wednesday 29 October 2014

Why PVC coated cables are a good choice for electrical use?

There is a wide range of wires available in markets. Different wires are used for different application. PVC wire is one of the most commonly used wires for electronic applications.

PVC (Poly vinyl chloride) is a polymer, which has two forms rigid and flexible. Different forms of PVC are used in various areas like telecommunication, construction, furniture, fiber optics, and data transmission etc.

PVC cables are considered good for wiring in appliances, which are used in homes and offices. They are widely used in households and industries due to many reasons that include-

Insulation properties – Poly vinyl chloride is commonly used as an insulator in various industries. This polymer provides good insulation to wires, which make them ideal for several electronic applications.

Flexibility – Poly vinyl chloride coated cables are known for their flexibility. They are flexible enough to be used in various devices. Electricians use them by bending on different angles without breaking them.

Weather resistance – In any type of weather, PVC can last for years. They can resist direct sunlight and various other weather conditions.

Durability – Poly vinyl chloride coated wires are also very durable. Their ability to resist any kind of weather condition and chemicals increases their durability.

Chemical resistance – Chemical resistance is another quality of these cables. They can resist various types of chemical.

Cost effectiveness – It is one of the most cost effective options. Compare to other options, they are less expensive and offer better properties.

Recyclable – Being recyclable is another benefit of these wires. They are recycled in specialized plants. PVC compound can be recovered from waste cables and reused. Recycled products can also reduce the environmental footprint of product.

Fire safety
– These wires are also fire retardant. They can delay combustion in fire due to their flame retardancy properties. They do not burn until a flame is directed towards them.

Sunday 26 October 2014

What are the Primary uses and benefits of Heat Shrink Tubing?

Heat shrink tubing is a multipurpose tube that is made up of thermoplastic materials. As the name suggests it shrinks when heat is applied, and creates variable stiffness. It is used for both protection and enhancement purposes.

Some of the most prominent uses and benefits of this product are described below:

It is ideal for electronic insulation, because it has resistivity and is dielectric. It is considered the best for covering electrical parts and protecting wiring. Moreover, for electrical insulation, it is placed over metal shafts.

It is widely used to cover damaged cable coatings and splices. It gives you enough time to look for a replacement cable without any interruption. However, in few cases, it can also work as a permanent solution and save your money.

It works as a sealant, as it offers an extra layer of protection to the cables. To protect cables from environmental factors, it can be placed over substrates, connections, joints, and gaps.

It offers great insulation. Hence, it can be used on terminations, connections and other circuit board applications to offer additional electrical safety.

It is also used to join tubes together. It can be easily removed whenever needed because it does not stick to most of the materials.
This tubing is also used for color coding cables, for identification purpose.

When selecting heat shrink tubing, you need to take plenty of things into consideration. Size is an important aspect to consider. You also need to check the specifications of the tubing to find out the recommended heating temperature.

To shrink the tubing, you can use a commercial heat gun, but do not overheat it.

Other than that, do not forget to check the shrink ratio labeled on it to ensure it matches with your requirements.

You can also share your requirements with the manufacturers, if you need assistance in your selection, as a reliable manufacturer will always be happy to help you.

Wednesday 15 October 2014

Buy The Right Type Of Hook Up Wire For Best Results!

Hook up wire is one of the most common types of industrial power cables, mainly used for low current or low voltage applications. They are used in telephone, computers, electronic equipment, remote control toys, and more.

There are different types of hook up wires bases on their use, take a look:

Type B

It is the most common type and is made up of stranded tinned copper. Type B is approved and capable of handling temperature ranging from -55C to 105C. This wire passes the VW-1 flame test, which makes it ideal for many applications.
 
Type E


It is the PTFE wire and has a special coating that makes it resistant to solvents, chemicals, and oils. It is small in diameter, and offers enough flexibility. Type E cables are made up of standard silver platted copper and have a unique PTFE insulation. If you are looking for a stronger and durable wire, then it would be the best choice.

UL1015

It is made up of PVC. It has a temperature rating of 105C, and is mostly used in the manufacturing of wire harnesses. Electronic devices and appliances have wire harnesses installed in them to withstand, when exposed to oil. These wires come in different colors including black, white, brown, red, blue, green, and orange.

Suggestion for the buyers

When buying hook up wires, you must consider certain specifications like insulation, conductors and rated voltage, and few more; otherwise, you may end up buying the wrong wire. You also need to consider the intended environment for the wires.
In case you have any uncertainties, seek help from your supplier, as most of the experienced suppliers have friendly staff that can provide you helpful answers for all your queries.

Tuesday 30 September 2014

7 Main Benefits of Mil Spec Cables

Electrical & electronics cables are the backbone of communication system. While different cables are used for different purposes, there are certain cables that have entirely specific usage.

Take Mil spec wire for example. They are manufactured in accordance with military specifications and are best known for functioning in in the harshest environments. Aerospace and military rely heavily on these wires.

Here are few of the most prominent characteristics of these cables:

1. They are designed to perform extremely well in any setting.

2. These cables are expected to last longer as compare to other ordinary wirings.

3. These wires are designed to cope with extreme weather conditions, without any major wear and tear.

4. One of the main benefits of using these products is that the materials used in their manufacturing procedure are closely scrutinized to ensure their efficiency.

5. These wires are considered a cost-effective choice because of their quality performance.

6. They are known for their consistency, durability, and excellence.

7. Special procedures such as soldering, manufacturing, and testing are performed before these wires go out of the factories and used by different industries.

When looking for a distributor to purchase these wires, it is important to make sure that you find someone who is known for providing highest quality products.
These wires are available in different styles and sizes; hence, you need to wisely pick the type you need. You also need to make sure that you check the product specification sheet to ensure that you are buying the products that you actually need.