Wire Wrap

Wire wrap is a technique for constructing electronic circuits by wrapping thin insulated wire around square posts on a board or component, creating a gas-tight connection without soldering. It is commonly used for prototyping, low-volume production, and in applications requiring high reliability and easy modification, such as aerospace, telecommunications, and vintage computing. The method involves using a specialized tool to wrap the wire tightly around the post, ensuring electrical continuity and mechanical stability.

Also known as: Wire-wrapping, Wirewrap, WW, Wire wrapping technique, Wire wrap prototyping

Why learn Wire Wrap?

Developers should learn wire wrap for hardware prototyping and repair in electronics, especially when working with legacy systems, creating custom circuit boards, or in environments where soldering is impractical or risky. It is valuable for building and testing circuits quickly without permanent soldering, allowing for easy rework and debugging, and is often used in educational settings to teach electronics fundamentals. Use cases include retro computing projects, aerospace avionics, and telecommunications equipment maintenance.

Learning Resources

• docs: Wikipedia: Wire Wrap
• tutorial: SparkFun Wire Wrapping Tutorial
• tutorial: Adafruit Wire Wrap Guide
• video: YouTube: Wire Wrap Tutorial by GreatScott!
• docs: All About Circuits: Wire Wrap Techniques