Hi All, is there any standard for colour-coding the outer insulation of XLR cables? I have made up my own system but am re-jigging my system and wish to comply with any standardisation which exists.
Interconnects colour coding
- Thread starter Carl Klinkenborg
- Start date
The EIA color code ( which we use for snake fan outs and short XLR patch cord but not standard mic cables )
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Thanks. In the apparent absence of any standard, this is what I have already adopted!
I mark all my XLR with BXX color coded bushings and put my name with Brother tape under clear XXCR rings.
That way I have cables without tape/heat shrink, looks cleaner and are easier to handle.
That way I have cables without tape/heat shrink, looks cleaner and are easier to handle.
The EIA color code is the closest there is to a standard, but it's far from universal. For example, neither Hosa nor Whirlwind follow it on their standard products (using printed numbers and group coloring instead). And Belden lists no fewer than 9 different wire color codes in their catalog ( http://www.techsheet.com/BroadcastInstallShop/pdf/belden/colourcodes.pdf ).
Personally, I'd rely on clear labeling and using color to denote group or function instead of relying on color codes (this is essentially what Whirlwind does).
Personally, I'd rely on clear labeling and using color to denote group or function instead of relying on color codes (this is essentially what Whirlwind does).
Use a label on the male end, covered with clear heat shrink. All cable on stage or seen on camera should be black unless there is some intentional artistic design involved. Inside a rack or where nobody sees it, color doesn't matter but labels are still your friend.
As my sight is failing, colour-coding is a winner over tiny labels in darkish racks, but I see that your suggestion is foolproof. I'm also investing in 8-pole Speakons to reduce the chances of a cock-up!
The current batch of fools is "more foolish" than last year. I'm happy to achieve "fool-resistant".