Course objectives
This course aims to train and certify personnel specialized in the application of the IPC/WHMA-A-620 standard, “Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies”.
The IPC/WHMA-A-620 standard is the industry’s de facto reference for cable fabrication and cable assembly. It defines the product classes for Target, Acceptable, Process Indicator and Defect conditions, and provides a large number of illustrations to verify the acceptability requirements of each class.
The course provides a detailed explanation of the IPC/WHMA-A-620 standard and can be supplemented with an additional day in the laboratory dedicated to building a cable harness, which is then evaluated by the instructor.
Course program
The course is entirely theoretical and strictly follows the training program defined by IPC, both in the teaching material presented and in the assessment tests. Participants receive all the information needed to identify the factors affecting the quality, reliability and performance of wires and harnesses in relation to how they are used.
- Module 1
Introduction/IPC Professional Policies and Procedures (Section 1)
Foreword and Applicable Documents (Section 2)
Cable / Wire Preparation (Section 3)
Measuring Cable Assemblies (Section 11)
Testing Cable Assemblies (Section 19) - Module 2
Crimp Terminations (Section 5)
Insulation Displacement Connections (Section 6) - Module 3
Soldered Terminations (Section 4) - Module 4
Connectorization (Section 9)
Molding / Potting (Section 10) - Module 5
Splices (Section 8) - Module 6
Marking / Labeling (Section 12)
Wire Bundle Securing (Section 14)
Shielding (Section 15)
Protective Coverings (Section 16)
Finished Assembly Installation (Section 17) - Module 7
Coaxial and Twinaxial Cable Assemblies (Section 13) - Module 8
Solderless Wire Wrap (Section 18)
Practical session — HANDS-ON TRAINING CERTIFICATION
This combined theory and practice course complements and completes the IPC/WHMA-A-620 certification. Participants learn and apply the techniques required to meet IPC criteria and assemble a cable harness, demonstrating — after receiving the instructions — skills in:
- Measuring and cutting single and multi-conductor cables, stripping and tinning wires
- Assembling and soldering terminals, crimping terminals (insulated or non-insulated)
- Assembling BNC connectors on coaxial cables, RJ45 connectors and flat cables
- Bundling single wires and multi-wire cables using cable ties or continuous lacing techniques
Final exam
A test is scheduled at the end of each module; to pass it, participants must answer at least 70% of the questions correctly. For the optional modules activated, practical exercises and learning assessment tests are available (optional).
Who is the course for?
Operators and managers involved in the production of cables and harnesses and in the assembly of parts including cables and connectors, and anyone who needs to assess the acceptability of cables and harnesses in terms of quality and reliability.
The maximum number of participants is 15; with a minimum of 4 enrollments the course can be held at the customer’s site. No specific prerequisites are required to attend the course.
For certification renewal, the only prerequisite is having previously obtained an IPC/WHMA A-620 CIS certification.
