Why must wire strands not be altered or cut when fitting terminals?

The correct response highlights the importance of adhering to established standards when working with wire strands and terminals. Standards such as J-STD-001 are created to ensure consistency, reliability, and safety in electronic assemblies. Altering or cutting wire strands can lead to variations that are not compliant with these standards, potentially resulting in poor performance, increased resistance, or failure in electrical connections.

Maintaining compatibility with standards is vital not only for the immediate assembly but also for long-term efficiency and safety in the electrical system. If wire strands are modified improperly, the final product may not meet regulatory requirements or industry benchmarks, which can have serious implications in terms of product performance and liability. Thus, following the standards ensures that the assembly process produces reliable and functionally sound electronic devices.