What are Custom Cables and when should I use them?
A custom cable is a cable designed specifically for your needs and specifications. Ordering a custom made cable is a good choice when existing products are unable to meet the needs of your application or when an altered product could better meet the requirements of your application.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of using Custom Cable instead of standard products?
The biggest advantage of using custom cables is that all aspects of the cable’s design are catered to the needs of your particular application and compliance requirements. Ordering cables custom may even save money since it eliminates the need to pay for unnecessary extras.
The main disadvantage of using a custom cable is that it takes more time and planning when placing an order. You must leave time for the product to be manufactured, whereas a stock item could be shipped right away.
Do all Custom Cables need to be designed from scratch?
Custom cables can be made completely from scratch, but they do not have to be. You can alter an existing product so that it better fits the needs of your application.
What choices do I get to make during the Custom Cable design and manufacturing process?
When you work with our cable design experts, you have the opportunity to choose everything from the materials of the cable to the color of the jacket. We will help you determine which conductor material, stranding, and lay is right for your application. We will also tailor your special cable custom design to meet requirements for flexibility, environmental resistances, and performance parameters.
If you need your cable to meet industry standards, Allied Wire and Cable will accommodate that, too. We design custom cables to meet UL, CSA, CE, and even Mil-Spec standards.
Do you provide any other services for cable customization?
Allied Wire and Cable provides a wide range of value-added services for cables that are either custom made or bought from stock. These customization services include dyeing to custom colors, striping, cut and strip, twisting, paralleling, and more. With these services, you can easily customize your cable to meet all of your branding, identification, and installation needs.
Is it difficult to design Custom Cables?
With Allied Wire and Cable’s custom cable design experts, the process is simple. We have representatives standing by to walk you through everything step-by-step.
Do I have to buy a lot of products to be able to order a custom cable?
Depending on the cable, we offer order minimums ranging from 500ft to 1000ft. Allied Wire and Cable also offers prototype runs for custom cables with short minimum length requirements.
What lead time can I expect when I order Custom Cable?
Typically, you can expect a turn-around of 2 to 4 weeks to allow time for cable manufacturing. Times vary based on the complexity of the custom made cable.
How do I begin the Custom Cable design process?
Fill out a design sheet in our Custom Cable Design Center and submit your request. Once you submit the form online, one of our knowledgeable sales representatives will call you within 24 hours (during the business week) to discuss your special cable manufacturing needs, answer any questions you may have about getting cable custom made, and help you place an order.