Insulation-displacement contact (IDC) connectors are electrical connectors that feature contacts with sharpened blades. This design allows the connector contacts to be forced through the wire insulation to achieve electrical contact with the wire conductor. This eliminates the need to strip the conductor insulation prior to connecting. At Electro-Prep, we offer a wide range of ribbon cables and IDC connectors in various gauges, pin sizes, and centerlines that can be customized to your unique specifications. We also provide several testing options to prove the quality and safety of our IDC assemblies.
What Are IDC Connectors?
IDC, also known as IPC (insulation piercing contact) connectors, are common electrical connectors designed to pierce through wire jackets to connect to the wire conductors of insulated cables. During the connection process, the IDC connector’s contacts are inserted through the wire insulation and into the wire conductor without stripping the insulation beforehand. A primary benefit of IDC connectors is that they offer a reliable and quick way of connecting to discrete wires and flat ribbon cables.
Some of the most common applications for IDC connectors include monitoring and access control systems, computer systems, and transportation components.
Advantages of Using IDC Connectors
IDC connectors have many advantages. For example, they are easy to handle and can be used without the need for special tools. They also do not require soldering. Other advantages include:
- Reduced assembly costs. It is much faster to populate IDC connectors compared to other types of connectors. This speed reduces overall assembly costs.
- Efficiency. Pre-stripping of the wire’s insulation is not required, and dozens of wires can be processed at once.
- Reliable connections. IDC connectors often include strain relief mechanisms that clamp and hold the wire in place. This secure connection improves reliability and prevents damage from flexing and strain.
Why Partner with Electro-Prep?
Since 1977, Electro-Prep has become an industry leader through our commitment to the highest quality standards, and we build our IDC cable assemblies in-house. Our highly trained and experienced team verifies wire type, thickness, spacing, cable alignment, and application tooling so that you can count on reliable, safe, and consistent connections that prevent short-circuits and electrical opens. We employ certified, on-site trainers that ensure constant conformity with our ISO 9001:2015 certification, IPC-620 workmanship standards, and J-STD soldering standards. Our company has a long history of working with disparate industries, providing them with IDC assemblies that meet their specific industry or application requirements.
Quality IDC Assemblies from Electro-Prep
When your application depends on fast, secure, quality terminations, Electro-Prep has the IDC assemblies you need. We have over 40 years of experience in supplying custom, turn-key, or consignment materials to electronic instrument manufacturers in various industries, such as military, process control, medical, industrial, and more. Our company is committed to continuous improvement, adhering to the highest quality standards, providing reliable and friendly service, and ensuring complete customer satisfaction.
Our certifications include:
- ISO 9001:2015
- IPC/WHMA-A-620
- IPC J-STD-001
- UL
- CSA
- ITAR
To learn more about our IDC assemblies or to work with us on your next project, contact us or request a quote today.
