The IDEAL FT-45 Feed-Thru Modular Plugs and Crimp Tool are now available in Europe. The modular plugs and crimp tool with IDEAL Networks data cable testers offer an end-to-end solution, say the tool and test product suppliers.
The plugs are single-piece connectors, removing the need to assemble a three-piece connector, even when working with CAT6 cable. This makes terminations faster and more consistent, and makes the process for working with CAT5e and CAT6 identical, the product company says. The modular plugs eliminate much of the complexity, the makers add. This also makes it easier for new twisted pair installers to convert from coax to data, according to the firm.
To speed the assembly process, FT-45 installers no longer need to spend time pre-trimming conductor wires to a specific length. Instead, to get started IT people simply need to remove an appropriate section of jacket, remove the centre spline (if present), untwist the pairs into the right order, and trim the ends flat. The cable can then be slid into the connector until seated.
As the wires are fed through the clear connector they can be seen, enabling installers to visually verify the correct wiring order. This is far easier than looking through the plug’s shell, as with a standard connector, according to the manufacturers. The open-ended feed-thru plug includes three-pin contacts, rather than the two-pins seen in most other RJ45 modular plugs. This improves wire stability by providing three prong contacts into every wire for more conductive contact points, as well as a better transfer rate, it’s claimed.
Once the wires are fed through, the user can pull the cable into the plug, allowing the twists to be pulled to the front of the connector. This provides better radio-frequency performance and minimal untwisting, while ensuring that the cable jacket is fully secured under the strain relief tab, the makers say.
To complete the process, the installer places the assembled plug into the FT-45 Crimp Tool and squeezes the handle to the closed position. With reduced hand force and no ratcheting, this cleanly shears the excess conductor wires.
The tool is capable of crimping feed-thru, standard and shielded connectors and includes 568A and 568B wiring schemes marked on the tool. The cutting blade will last for over 2000 cuts the makers report and is replaceable, allowing users to control costs by maintaining the Crimp Tool, instead of purchasing a new one.
The FT-45 package can be used with an IDEAL PrepPRO to strip the cable jacket. The IDEAL Electrician’s Scissors can then be used for spline removal and wire trimming.
Once the termination is made, it can be tested with the IDEAL Networks VDV II cable verifier. The VDV II wiremap tester offers trouble-shooting, for measuring cable length and locating distance to fault, and enabling users to identify wiring errors. For more about IDEAL’s products for assembling, terminating and testing data cable, visit www.idealnetworks.net.
