Shurtape 724-Perfect For Temporary Computer Wiring Labels

labeled computer cables-consoletape.comTrying to figure out where the other end of a cable in a bundle of computer wires can be a real headache.  They run behind the desk, around the corner and to the back of a dark computer.   They all look the same and when you’re not watching they seem to multiply on their own.

Before you cable a new computer, create labels for both ends of the cable so that they are easy to trace.

Take two  short pieces of Shurtape 724 paper tape and wrap them  around each end of the cable so that they adhere sticky side to sticky side.  Cut the ends so that they are clean.

Using a Sharpie Marker,  label each end of the cable with the same information so that you will know what each wire is supposed to do.

Console Tape-Definitely NOT for Cable Bundling

mic cableTool boxes get heavy fast, so any time you can find a single product that fills multiple roles, it can save space and weight.

While paper console tape can be used for making signs, marking stage and spike marks and creating temporary labels, one job it is not right for is cable bundling.

It is a common practice to use tape to create temporary cable bundles or to secure cables to keep them from tangling.

Unfortunately, the rubber adhesive that makes this tape easy to remove and normally residue free, tends to react with rubber coated audio and power cables and it can leave a mess behind.

If you want to bundle cables with tape, gaffers tape is a much better choice.

Shurtape 724-Half Inch Width For Patch Bays

audio patch bay labeling thetapeworks.comLabeling audio and video patch bays is particularly challenging, because there isn’t much space to work.

Tightly packed connectors and restrictive rack spaces mean that getting legible labels in place can be tough.

Shurtape 724 is available in half inch widths, narrow enough to fit in the space between rows of patch points.

Because the tape has re-positionable adhesive, you can create the labels on a flat surface like a table and then place them where you want them on the patch bay.

Dry Erase Strips? Really!

Sharpie Marker from Thetapeworks.comI monitor a lot of forums related to live concert production and recently came across a discussion of the best thing to use for labeling mixing consoles.

One forum poster recommended using strips of dry erase material and then immediately followed up with the comment that he was constantly erasing the markings with his hands when using the mixer.

So, you’re erasing the strips, your hands are covered with marker ink and you are recommending this method to others?

The whole point of dry erase material is that, when used with the proper marker, it can be quickly erased and used again.

I remember needing to use a dry erase board once, and I couldn’t find a dry erase marker, so I reached into my pocket and pulled out a Sharpie Marker (every good sound person has one) without ever giving it a second thought.

Needless to say, Sharpies are not “dry erase” and now my whiteboard is totally useless.

Dry erase is definitely not the way to go.