I'm running SolidWorks Premium 2013 and getting ready to roll-out Enterprise PDM.

We have a part numbering system that is a 3 letter 6 digit designator.

My big question is how to handle part numbers for wire in EPDM. For example, I want to have a PN for a particular type of 18AWG wire. In different assemblies, I may use different lengths of that wire, and I don't want to create a new part number for every length of wire.

I can create a configuration of the same part every time I need a new length of wire, but I am hoping there is a more elegant solution.

What are some suggestions for part number and CAD file management of wires of various lengths in a mechanical assembly rather than a wire harness? Can I use a 'structural member' at an assembly level and define a profile with my Part Number as a property?

Thanks in advance!