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A different (i.e. better?) IDC
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<p><u>A different (i.e. better?) IDC</u></p><p>IDCs (Insulation Displacement Connectors) have been discussed here many times before. Tony Koester uses them (see August, 1998 MR). Allen Gardner has some words of caution when using IDCs: (see <a href="http://www.wiringfordcc.com/track.htm#a17">http://www.wiringfordcc.com/track.htm#a17</a>)</p><p>Bear with me and I might be able to shed some new light on IDCs. In both cases referenced above they were referring to the typical "suitcase" connectors as is shown below from the Mouser catalog:</p><p>[IMG]http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff209/jcampbell1615/suitcase.jpg[/IMG]</p><p>However, on the bottom of the same Mouser catalog page (<a href="http://www.mouser.com/catalog/631/1283.pdf">http://www.mouser.com/catalog/631/1283.pdf</a>) you will find T-TAP disconnects:</p><p>[IMG]http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff209/jcampbell1615/ttap.jpg[/IMG]</p><p>And on the next page of the Mouser catalog (<a href="http://www.mouser.com/catalog/631/1284.pdf">http://www.mouser.com/catalog/631/1284.pdf</a>) you will find various male blades such as:</p><p>[IMG]http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff209/jcampbell1615/blade.jpg[/IMG]</p><p>I have found that using these two items may solve a number of concerns expressed by Mr. Gardner.</p><p>1. You can mix the tap and blade size to match the wire gauges that you are using.</p><p>2. You do not need to unclamp the T-TAP to disconnect the drop wire. By its very nature this is a disconnect-able assembly which can be great for troubleshooting.</p><p>3. The T-TAP size is more suitable for using a conventional tool (pliers) instead of a specialized crimping tool.</p><p>4. If one of the two parts fails or gets damaged or has a bad connection you do not have to replace both (Functionally both).</p><p>I have just begun wiring my new layout using these T-TAP connectors so I can NOT speak from extensive experience however I have done some testing and I have put together a few pictures to show how they look in real life:</p><p>[IMG]http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff209/jcampbell1615/2007_09150003_8x6.jpg[/IMG] </p><p>The picture above shows how they would be used under a layout. The bus wire is 12 gauge and the feeder wires are 20 gauge. </p><p>The pictures below are close-ups of the individual parts:</p><p>[IMG]http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff209/jcampbell1615/2007_09150006_8x6.jpg[/IMG]</p><p>[IMG]http://i238.photobucket.com/albums/ff209/jcampbell1615/2007_09150005_8x6.jpg[/IMG]</p><p> </p><p>A few of installation notes that I have discovered so far:</p><p> </p><ul><li>1. If you use a pair of pliers, use only pliers with a wide surface such as the large RoboGrips shown in the picture. Pliers with a small face may bend the T-TAP connector.</li><li>2. I have found it easier to "pre-set" the 12 gauge wire into the T-TAP jaws with a light squeeze of the pliers before closing the case and making the final squeeze to lock the tap into place.</li><li>3. I also find is easier to disassemble the insulated male blade, as shown in the picture, and crimp the un-insulated blade body. Then slide the insulation back up over the connector.</li></ul><p> </p><p>Finally, if you have a concern about long term corrosion using IDCs, then a dash of Dielectric grease (oxidation inhibitor) on each contact will solve this problem.</p><p><a href="http://products3.3m.com/catalog/us/en001/auto_marine_aero/aerospace/node_GS9NWKSQZTbe/root_GST1T4S9TCgv/vroot_GSNNJ6NQDKge/gvel_S3PQPD4JXXgl/theme_us_aerospace_3_0/command_AbcPageHandler/output_html">http://products3.3m.com/catalog/us/en001/auto_marine_aero/aerospace/node_GS9NWKSQZTbe/root_GST1T4S9TCgv/vroot_GSNNJ6NQDKge/gvel_S3PQPD4JXXgl/theme_us_aerospace_3_0/command_AbcPageHandler/output_html</a></p><p>You can find dielectric grease at your home center or hardware store. It is used in residential/commercial wiring when joining two types of electrical conductors (i.e. aluminum to copper) and is also used extensively in boating and automotive wiring.</p><p>Obviously I will do anything to minimize my time "under the table." </p><p>Good Luck,</p><p>-John</p><p> </p>
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