When working with high-voltage cables that need quality insulation, you want to ensure that you have the best materials in place. One of the best ways you can do this is with the help of a Megger test. What is Megger testing, you might ask? Megger test equipment measures the electrical resistance and overall condition… Read more »
Electricity
What is an Electrical Contact?
With many people using appliances, electronic equipment, or motors at home, it’s important to understand how electrical contacts work in order to ensure seamless connection and your devices work properly. So, what is an electrical contact? Electrical contacts are low-voltage switches that complete or disrupt a circuit that is affecting your electrical current flow. Learn… Read more »
What is the Difference Between Overload and Short Circuit Current?
If you notice that your lights go out or your appliances aren’t working at their best when plugged in, then you may have an overload current or short circuit on your hands. However, while they are two separate issues, the result is often the same: loss of power. Learn more about the difference between overload… Read more »
What is Current Overload?
When it comes to managing your electrical projects, you’ll always want to maintain the right electrical current to avoid sending too much power and electricity to your current. Similar to a river or a stream, a steady current offers smooth passage, while a higher current is where you can run into some dangerous problems. That’s… Read more »
What is Polycarbonate?
While it’s crucial to understand how electrical processes work and how different components and tools must be handled correctly, it’s also important to understand what these materials are. On many of our electrical products at Gateway Cable Company, you’ll see dust caps and other parts made of a certain material called polycarbonate. What is polycarbonate… Read more »
Electrical Cable Types
Just as there are many different types of connectors, the family of electrical cable types is equally as wide. Are you looking for the right cable for transferring signals and frequencies, or for use while in the field? Refer to our list of electrical cable types and applications below to see which cable is the… Read more »
What is an Ampere?
What is ampere in electricity? First, let’s answer the question, “What is a current?” Current is the measure of the rate at which electrons “flow” in a circuit. Ampere is a basic unit that measures current, and is frequently shortened to “Amp.” It’s a measure of the amount of electric charge that passes a point… Read more »
Electrical Connector Types
There are many different electrical connector types operating within virtually all industries. In fact, it can be overwhelming deciding which is best for your application. Gateway Cable Company is a leading provider of military-grade electrical products; our electrical connectors are primarily MIL-SPEC intervehicle connectors that conform to NATO STANAG. However, there are many other types… Read more »
How Does Waterproofing Work?
Waterproofing is the process of giving an object, such as a cable, waterproof or water resistant properties. How does waterproofing work for cables? It’s simple — the cable is reinforced with a thick and sturdy material that prevents water penetration, even under pressure. Commonly used water-resistant materials for cable jackets include thermoplastic chlorinated polyethylene (CPE),… Read more »
What is a Hook-Up Wire?
What is a hook-up wire? It’s a special type of wire that’s used primarily in low-current, low-voltage applications. If you need wiring for an enclosed piece of electronic equipment, there’s a good chance you need a hook-up wire. Hook-up wires vary in terms of conductors, jacket and insulation material, and voltage, so it’s important to… Read more »
What is an In-Line Fuse?
Fuses are protective devices that are used for electrical and electronic components. What is an in-line fuse? What differentiates an in-line fuse from other types of fuses? An in-line fuse is secured inside a cable as opposed to a ceramic or glass cartridge. If you’re shopping for an in-line fuse, learn more about their functions… Read more »
How Does an Inductor Work?
Simply put, an inductor is a coil of wire wrapped around a core, which could be air or a magnet. As current moves through the inductor, a magnetic field starts to form, which the inductor uses to store energy. Inductors, along with capacitors and resistors, are essential electronic components. They’re used in a variety of… Read more »