I've written about how to properly label cables for years, but every time I teach a class at CEDIA (Basic or Advanced boot camp), I'm reminded that no one read those articles (or saw the video). So it's worth repeating.
Every cable that you install on a job MUST be labeled. No excuses. Labeling will not only save you lots of time on the job site, but will greatly reduce frustrations of troubleshooting and service. Professional labeling will also separate you from the non-professional competition.
If you want to read more, download the whole TIP with photos, links, etc. at
www.trainingdept.com/files/TIPS/APRIL08_Tip.pdf
Cable ID's
Every cable installed on the job should appear on a CABLE SCHEDULE. The cable schedule is derived from the design drawings and lists each cable to be installed with from-to location and termination information. It documents what needs to be installed and where. (a sample cable schedule is available on our site at www.trainingdept.com/files. Look for the Sample_cable_schedule file).
Each cable on the schedule has an identifier (ID). The ID can be numbers, letters, or any combination as long as you understand it and it works. I’ve tried a bunch of different systems, but always come back to the same conclusion: don’t try to make the label “make sense.” That is, don’t try to use labels like “Master Bedroom to Security panel”.
First, you can’t fit it on a label. Second, I know you think it makes perfect sense when you write it, but come back even a day later and you’ll forget what you were thinking. Third, it doesn’t tell you enough. Use a cable reference ID. The labels you make for the cable will simply reference the ID on the cable schedule. If you need to know where the cable goes from-to, look it up on the schedule. I’ve settled on using letters for the ID since numbers are used for location ID’s on the plans.
Each cable on the schedule has an identifier (ID). The ID can be numbers, letters, or any combination as long as you understand it and it works. I’ve tried a bunch of different systems, but always come back to the same conclusion: don’t try to make the label “make sense.” That is, don’t try to use labels like “Master Bedroom to Security panel”.
First, you can’t fit it on a label. Second, I know you think it makes perfect sense when you write it, but come back even a day later and you’ll forget what you were thinking. Third, it doesn’t tell you enough. Use a cable reference ID. The labels you make for the cable will simply reference the ID on the cable schedule. If you need to know where the cable goes from-to, look it up on the schedule. I’ve settled on using letters for the ID since numbers are used for location ID’s on the plans.
How to Label
There are basically two good ways to label; either create labels using a portable label maker such as the Brady ID Pal, or the DYMO Rhino Pro 5000. Both of these companies have good products and they are available at many online retailers such as Amazon, or from stores like Home Depot, and Office Max. They are less than $200.
Since I wrote the article I found out that at least the DYMO labeler has a "WRAP" mode so the letters are printed at the end of the label, so when you wrap the label around the cable, you don't have to worry about covering up the letters.
The other technique is to buy sheets of self-laminating labels You can write on them with a felt-tip marker (BEFORE you apply the label) or run em through a laser printer (in the shop). Self-laminating means they include a colored print-on area and a clear part that wraps over the label, protecting it. These are very easy to use in the field and they won't run out of batteries or jam!
I recently discovered an interesting gadget from Dymo that's the best of both, the Rhino 101 (at several on-line stores for about $30). It’s a dispenser for self-laminating labels on a roll with a “window” to allow you to write the label, then cut and eject the label ready for application. There is even a place to hold a pen, and the thing clips to your belt. Nice.
Hope some of this was of help.
Let me know any technique you have that's been successful so I can pass it along!
