G
Graeme
An important question is "does the length of the leads have a significant impact on the quality of the measurement?" The answer is probably "No" unless you are working with UHF or microwave radio frequencies, or with very high current or very low resistance. The length requirement most likely comes from the fact that it is a common stock length, is convenient to work with, and is probably what the original engineer happened to have on hand.
If the length truly is not critical, is it possible to change the implied exact measurement requirement to something with more flexibility? Then you can get back to the work of generating income by repairing widgets.
If the length truly IS critical, there should be a tolerance listed, and in that case the cable needs to be measured and marked with the length. If this is the case then you MAY need a calibrated rule if it is your usual practice to make these cables as needed. And you have to have a procedure for making cables. (and lots more ...) Or if you normally purchase cables, then you have to start inspecting them for that parameter. (As you can see, a small question can generate a lot more "stuff".)
So first, ask how important the "three foot" value is, and document the answer.
(Another question is "does this requirement come from a bureaucratic organization that requires 100% verbatim compliance?" In that case, the easiest solution often is to quietly surrender and do what they say.)
------------------
Graeme C. Payne
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer
[This message has been edited by Graeme (edited 21 November 2000).]
If the length truly is not critical, is it possible to change the implied exact measurement requirement to something with more flexibility? Then you can get back to the work of generating income by repairing widgets.
If the length truly IS critical, there should be a tolerance listed, and in that case the cable needs to be measured and marked with the length. If this is the case then you MAY need a calibrated rule if it is your usual practice to make these cables as needed. And you have to have a procedure for making cables. (and lots more ...) Or if you normally purchase cables, then you have to start inspecting them for that parameter. (As you can see, a small question can generate a lot more "stuff".)
So first, ask how important the "three foot" value is, and document the answer.
(Another question is "does this requirement come from a bureaucratic organization that requires 100% verbatim compliance?" In that case, the easiest solution often is to quietly surrender and do what they say.)
------------------
Graeme C. Payne
ASQ Certified Quality Engineer
[This message has been edited by Graeme (edited 21 November 2000).]