What is the difference between mass-production cables and cable assemblies?
Mass-production cables are usually produced in very large quantities overseas and then distributed through many levels (importer – wholesaler – distributor – retailer) before being bought. Each level takes profit so the focus is on producing cables as cheaply as possible. Cable assemblies are usually assembled domestically using a length of cable and connectors. Cables can be assembled using low grade components (usually without verifiable specifications) or high grade components (usually with verifiable specifications). The quality of either cable (mass-production or assembly) depends on the specifications of the cable (that was cut from a spool), connector type and quality, and termination quality. Determining the quality of mass-production cables is often difficult because the specifications of the cable used is not released and connectors are often glued or injection molded (so termination quality cannot be inspected).
