What is the IPC WHMA A 620 Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies?
Despite only launching in 2002, the IPC A 620 standard, developed with the support of the WHMA (Wire Harness Manufacturer’s Association), has made an immediate impact in the electronics industry the most widely used standard for process, materials and inspection for cable and wire harness manufacturing. This standard and training has earned international recognition as a source for end–product acceptance criteria.
What is covered in the IPC WHMA A 620 standard/training course?
This standard, and it’s associated training, covers the following topics:
- Crimp Terminations
- Soldered Terminations
- High Voltage Applications
- Connectors
- Marking, Labelling and Securing
- Coaxial and Biaxial Cable Assemblies
- Cable and Harness Electrical Shielding and Protective Coverings
- Ultrasonic Welding and Splices
Who is the IPC A 620 standard/training course suitable for?
Almost every electronic assembly manufactured needs to be connected to other products as part of a larger build. This requires some form of cable and wire harness. Original Equipment Manufacturers and Contract Electronics Manufacturers alike have adopted this standard to ensure complete product reliability and quality.
Any individual or team within an electronics organisation that’s involved in the build, test or inspection of cable and wire harnesses would strongly benefit from embracing this standard and training. The IPC/WHMA A 620 covers the acceptance criteria for all three classes of product: Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.
IPC A 620 Training is available at the following levels:
- Certified IPC Specialist (CIS) and is suitable for Assembly Operatives, Quality staff, Inspection personnel, Engineers
- Certified Subject Expert (CSE) and is best suited for staff required to have an advanced knowledge of the standard in the event of conflict resolution or staff liaison
- Certified IPC Trainer (CIT) for delegates wishing to deliver internal training to CIS level
Which level of training is best suited for you depends on your aims and goals for training and adopting the standard. The Electronics Group is happy to guide and advise you through this decision process.
All IPC Certificates are valid for two years and recertification criteria found in the Policies and Procedures apply for CSEs and CITs.
How long is the IPC A 620 training and how is it delivered?
- Certified IPC Specialist Training is 3 days
- Certified Subject Expert Training is 4 days
- Certified IPC Trainer training is 4 days
The IPC A 620 training can be taught at our training centre, on your premises or remotely via Teams/Zoom.
The IPC/WHMA A 620 course does have an optional hands on/workmanship day where delegates will have the opportunity to build a cable and wire harness assembly to the standard they’ve learned in the initial. This hands-on day is not aimed at training people how to learn any of the techniques required to build the harness, it’s designed for those with the basic skills to build to the IPC 620 standard.
The hands-on day can only be taught at our training centre, or on-site with our customers.
IPC 620 hands on addendum is 1 day.
What do I need for the IPC A 620 course?
- A copy of the latest IPC A 620 standard
- A copy of the relevant IPC Policies and Procedures
- A laptop or computer for exams
We can provide these items on loan should you not have your own or wish to purchase a copy of the book, however, having a cop of the standard available to trained IPC staff is beneficial in their day-to-day work. These items are required for all delivery methods, levels and locations.
If you are taking a remote course, you will need to ensure that your IT equipment meets certain specifications. Details on this can be found here.
Training at your facility will require a suitable classroom environment with a HDMI compatible TV or Projector.
Are there any prerequisites to studying for the IPC A 620 course?
Whilst there are no prerequisites for enrolling on the course, we do recommend delegates have basic knowledge of cable and wire harness assembly, terminology, testing and inspection procedures would be advantageous.
What is included in the cost of the IPC A 620 training course?
Included in the cost of the course is:
- IPC Exam Fee
- Tuition for the duration of the course
- Loan copies of books and laptops for face-to-face training, admin fees apply for remote training
- Lunch and refreshments (courses at The Electronics Group only)
- Downloadable training materials (successful CIT only)
- On going support, advice and guidance throughout the duration of your certification
