In an era where electronic devices are becoming increasingly essential to our everyday lives, it is paramount that we understand and uphold the high-quality standards necessary to ensure their reliability and longevity. One such critical benchmark in electronic manufacturing is the IPC/WHMA-A-620, Acceptability of Electronic Wire Harness and Cables. Certification (IPC 620) universally acknowledged as the gold standard for cable and wire harness assembly. This certification ensures that products are assembled correctly, safely, and in a manner that guarantees efficiency and quality. In this blog post, we delve into the intricacies of the IPC 620 certification, discussing its importance, the process of achieving it, and what role EPTAC has in IPC 620 Certification.
IPC/WHMA-A-620 Certification: The Gold Standard in Electronic Manufacturing
The IPC/WHMA-A-620, often simply referred to as IPC 620, represents the only industry consensus standard for Requirements and Acceptance of Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies. Established by the Institute of Printed Circuits (IPC) and the Wiring Harness Manufacturer's Association (WHMA), it has become the global metric for ensuring quality in cable and wire harness fabrication and installation.
The inception of IPC 620 traces back to 2002 when it was first published as a cooperative effort between IPC and WHMA to meet a perceived need for enhanced quality controls in wire harness assembly processes. Over the years, the certification has been updated to reflect advancements in technology and industry practices, with the most recent revision being the IPC/WHMA-A-620E in October 2022.
At its core, the IPC 620 certification sets forth the accepted workmanship standards for a broad array of electronic interconnections. It covers everything from crimped connections and soldered terminations, to splices, molding, and marking of cable and wire harness assemblies. It is worth noting that the IPC 620 standards are exceptionally comprehensive, providing detailed visual aids and instructions to promote clarity and common understanding across different manufacturing contexts.
The central reason behind the IPC 620's revered status in the electronic manufacturing industry stems from its impact on quality assurance such as a significant improvement in production quality and a reduction in assembly rework. This directly influences the bottom line by reducing costs and enhancing customer satisfaction.
Moreover, the IPC 620 certification acts as a benchmark of competency, demonstrating to customers and stakeholders that a manufacturer is committed to achieving high standards of quality and reliability in their products. Consequently, it is not uncommon for clients in the electronic manufacturing sector to insist on IPC 620 certification as a requirement for their suppliers, further consolidating the certification's crucial role in the industry.
In conclusion, the IPC 620 certification stands as a pivotal requirement in the electronic manufacturing industry, not just as a mark of quality assurance, but also as a differentiator in market competitiveness. Its rigorous standards and comprehensive coverage ensure that cable and wire harness assemblies meet the highest levels of quality, safety, and efficiency.
Navigating the IPC 620 Certification Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Embarking on the journey towards IPC 620 certification may seem daunting at first, but with a clear understanding of the steps involved, your team can successfully navigate this process. Let's break down this procedure into a series of manageable steps.
Understanding the Need and Commitment
The first step involves recognizing the need for IPC 620 certification and committing to the associated time and resource investment. This involves a clear understanding of the standard’s requirements and the value it adds to the organization, thereby justifying the investment. There are the following IPC Certification Programs available: Certified IPC Specialist (CIS), Certified IPC Trainer (CIT), and Certified Standards Expert (CSE/SCSE). It covers a wide range of topics, such as
- General; Applicable Documents; Preparation; Measuring Cable Assemblies and Wires; Testing
- Crimp Terminations; Insulation Displacement Connection
- Soldered Terminations; High Voltage Applications
- Connectorization; Over-Molding/Potting
- Ultrasonic Welding; Splices
- Marking/Labeling; Securing; Finished Assembly Installation
- Coaxial and Biaxial Cable Assemblies
- Harness/Cable Electrical Shielding; Cable/Wire Harness Protective Coverings
Familiarize your team with these requirements to set a clear expectation of what lies ahead.
Identifying Your Candidates
The certification is ideal for assembly process engineers, quality assurance supervisors, training managers, and others responsible for the quality and reliability of cable and wire harness assemblies. The more people in your organization understand and apply the IPC 620 standards, the higher the quality of your products will be.
Selecting the Right Training Program
The next step involves selecting an IPC-certified training center or engaging an IPC-certified trainer. There are hundreds of IPC licensed training centers around the world, and it is crucial to choose a center or trainer that aligns with your company’s needs. These courses are offered by IPC authorized training centers and are available in various formats, including online, in-person, and hybrid. The training typically lasts for several days and covers the criteria of the IPC 620 standard. Read about the key factors to consider when choosing an IPC certification provider in the United States and Canada here - Choosing the Right IPC Certification Partner.
Completing the Training and Preparing for the Exam
After enrolling in the training course, your team will need to complete the course and prepare for the certification exams. The training course will cover all the necessary material, but it's essential for your team to review and understand the content thoroughly. The course typically covers various areas, including but not limited to, crimp terminations, soldered terminations, splices, connectorization, and assembly/installation.
Note: There is an optional practical module lab, see EPTAC’s CWH Lab.
Passing the Certification Examination
Upon completion of the training course, candidates must pass the certification examinations. The written test consists of multiple-choice questions.
Re-certification
It is important to note that IPC 620 certification is not a one-time process. The certification is valid for a two year period, and needs to be renewed before it expires.Be sure to keep track of the renewal dates to maintain the certification status.
For more detailed information, you can refer to the IPC/WHMA-A-620 Endorsement Program and the Policies and Procedures outlined by IPC.
EPTAC's Role in IPC 620 Certification: Programs and Offers
EPTAC, a leading provider of solder training and IPC certification for over 35 years, offers a variety of programs and courses related to IPC 620. These programs are designed to cater to different learning preferences and needs, providing professionals with the tools and training they need to advance their careers and improve their businesses.
IPC-A-620 Specialist Certification
The IPC-A-620 Specialist is a comprehensive, operator-level certification that teaches inspection and assembly criteria for all three classes of cable and wire harness assembly. This course is based on the IPC/WHMA-A-620, “Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies”, the most widely used inspection specification for the cable and wire harness assembly industry. It is a 4-day lectured course with three available formats – Scheduled Classes (Online or In-Person), Dedicated Classes (Online or On Site), or Challenge Test.
IPC-A-620 Instructor Certification
IPC-A-620 Instructor is a comprehensive, instructor-level certification that teaches inspection and assembly criteria for all three classes of cable and wire harness assembly. This course is based on the IPC/WHMA-A-620, “Requirements and Acceptance for Cable and Wire Harness Assemblies”, the most widely used inspection specification for the cable and wire harness assembly industry. It is a 4-day lectured course with three available formats – Scheduled Classes (Online or In-Person), Dedicated Classes (Online or On Site), or Challenge Test.
EPTAC’s Hands-On Cable Wire Harness Lab
This 1-day, Hands-On Cable Wire Harness Lab may be added to either the IPC-A-620 Certified Instructor or IPC-A-620 Certified Specialist course. The IPC/WHMA-A-620 is the most widely used Inspection Specification for the cable and wire harness assembly industry. It contains accept/reject criteria as well as hands-on procedures. Use the IPC/WHMA-A-620 to ensure the quality of cable and wire harness assemblies.
Practical hands-on experience is a necessary part of many companies’ training goals. After completing either the IPC-A-620 Certified Instructor or Specialist lecture course, EPTAC’s CWH lab provides the opportunity to practice the skills of the criteria they have learned by following an assembly print and building a harness assembly.
Through the hands-on labs, the students perform necessary procedures for building an entire wire harness assembly.
This program is available in two formats – Scheduled Classes - In-Person or Dedicated Classes - On Site.
NOTE: EPTAC’s Cable Wire Harness Lab is separate from the IPC Certification.
IPC-A-620 Standard Expert
If you are an expert in this criteria and need a credential to validate your position, then this is the program for you - IPC-A-620 Standard Expert.
As a CSE – Certified Standard’s Expert, you have the opportunity to support your organization as a key subject expert on the IPC/WHMA-A-620, interfacing with a variety of functions within your firm and providing critical interpretation support of the standards, without the requirements carried under previous IPC Instructor Certifications.
This 4-day, lectured course is a comprehensive certification that teaches inspection and assembly criteria for all three classes of cable and wire harness assembly. This course is based on the IPC/WHMA-A-620, the most widely used inspection specification for the cable and wire harness assembly industry.
Obtain a CSE Certification in one standard and, if you choose, add additional certifications in IPC-A-610, J-STD-001, IPC-A-600, IPC-6012, or IPC-7711/7721. With three (3) CSE certifications, apply with the IPC to become a Senior Certified Standard’s Expert.
As part of the requirements for certification as a CSE – Certified Standard’s Expert, students must successfully complete the appropriate testing requirements for the particular program.
This program is available in three formats – Scheduled Classes (Online or In-Person), Dedicated Classes (Online or On Site), or Challenge Test.
IPC-A-620 Specialist Recertification
The IPC-A-620 Specialist Recertification is a 4-day lecture course for anyone needing to renew their existing IPC-A-620 Specialist Certification. Attendees will review the IPC-A-620 standard and must successfully complete open and closed book exams in order to renew their 620 Specialist certification. Recertification is required every 24 months.
This program is available in three formats – Scheduled Classes (Online or In-Person), Dedicated Classes (Online or On Site), or Challenge Test.
IPC-A-620 Instructor Recertification
The IPC-A-620 Instructor Recertification is a 2-day lecture course for anyone needing to renew their existing IPC/WHMA-A-620 Instructor Certification. Attendees will review the IPC/WHMA-A-620 standard and must successfully complete open and closed book exams in order to renew their 620 Instructor certification. Recertification is also required every 24 months6.
This program is available in three formats – Scheduled Classes (Online or In-Person), Dedicated Classes (Online or On Site), or Challenge Test.
Learning Formats
EPTAC offers a variety of learning formats to suit different needs. These include:
- Scheduled Classes: Attend a live instructor-led class which are regularly scheduled online or in 24 locations across North America.
- Dedicated Classes: For groups of employees needing training and certification, EPTAC can create a class online or at your location on your schedule.
- Challenge Test: If you understand the content of a particular program, inside and out, a challenge test might be for you. Test, pass the exam(s), and go directly to IPC Certification.
EPTAC's programs and offers related to IPC 620 are designed to provide professionals with the knowledge and skills they need to meet and exceed industry demands. With twenty-four locations across North America, EPTAC's solutions and instructional staff provide easy access to knowledge that will enhance your business model.
The journey to mastering quality standards in electronic manufacturing, particularly the IPC 620 certification, is a continuous process of learning, application, and improvement. With the right mindset, resources, and training partner, this journey can lead to significant benefits in terms of product quality, customer satisfaction, and business success. As we continue to rely more on electronic devices in our everyday lives, the importance of these quality standards will only continue to grow.
So, whether you are a professional seeking to advance your career or a business striving to improve your product quality and market competitiveness, mastering the IPC 620 certification is a step in the right direction. And with EPTAC's comprehensive programs and experienced instructors, you are in good hands on your journey to achieving and maintaining this prestigious certification.
About EPTAC
EPTAC is an internationally recognized leader in solder training and IPC certification, providing professionals with the skills to accelerate their careers, and businesses, the talent to succeed. For over 35 years, EPTAC has been helping corporations increase quality standards, improve productivity, and maximize profits. With 24 locations in North America, EPTAC continues to expand its offerings and exceptional instructional staff to provide easy access to knowledge and skill-based programs when and where the industry demands it. Access our scheduled programs through our website or schedule your own corporate on-site training. For information, call 800.643.7822 or contact us.
