Tools

These are some common tools used to work on this device. You might not need every tool for every procedure.

Background and Identification

Wires are cylindrical cords of metal, commonly surrounded by insulation. They are used to either bear weight or conduct electricity. For this reason, wires have a range of applications throughout different industries. Applications for wire include suspension bridges, springs, electronics, telephone cables, electric power transmission, heating, etc.

Wire comes in various fundamental forms, including solid core, braided, or stranded forms. In addition to having functional purposes, wire can also be used for decorative or amusement purposes, like jewelry and slinkies. In fact, wire was first used in jewelry making, originating in Egypt around 2890 BC.

Damaged electrical wires can be the culprit for various electronic malfunctions. Damaged wires can usually be replaced fairly easily, as long as the wires are accessible without destroying the device. Generally, the same wire repair mechanism can be applied to all electrical wire types because all wires need to have a solid electrical and physical connection, achieved by crimping wire ends together and applying heat shrink. There are, however, numerous different types of electrical wires. Available electrical wires differ in their size (gauge), material, insulation, etc. Types of wire include NM-B wire, cat5e wire, bare copper wire, cat6 wire, and UF-B wire.

Damaged wire can be identified by examining the wire for physical malformations/breakage in the insulation or metal strands. If electrical wire is not conducting electrical current, it most likely has an identifiable physical deformity.

Additional Information

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