IDC is short for Insulation-Displacement Connector. These electrical connectors are designed for ribbon cables and telecommunications applications. They are also referred to as insulation-piercing contacts (IPCs).
Flat Ribbon Cable Assemblies
IDC connectors are most commonly used with Flat Ribbon Cables to create a cable assembly. Ribbon cables consist of multiple wires connected together in a thin, flat ribbon. The IDC connector has sharp contact points which pierce the insulation and make contact with the wire. They are quick and easy as you do not need to strip shrouded wires like conventional crimping methods. IDCs are an ideal ribbon cable termination.
IDC Connectors use cold welding technology. The IDC connector terminal pushes down and cuts through the insulation of the wire. During this process, there is significant pressure applied which create this cold weld. Some IDC connectors also come with strain relief functionality which helps to protect the ribbon cable connection and improve life span and reliability.
Things to consider when purchasing an IDC:
Number of Contacts -
IDCs are available with different numbers of pins or connections. For example, 4-way and 10-way. Note: the pins may be across multiple rows.
Gender -
IDCs can come in a male version, also known as a plug, or female version, also known as a socket or header.
Pitch -
This refers to the distance between each contact. For example, 1.2 mm. This needs to be compatible with the ribbon connector you wish to connect.
Mounting Type -
IDC plugs and sockets are usually mounted onto a cable or a PCB as a header.
Description:
AMPMODU Mod IV wire applied non-polarized receptacle style
socket housings with a 2.54mm centreline. These non-polarized receptacle style socket housings are made from black, flame retardant thermoplastic, are available with single or double row configurations and stamped cavity identification (please ...
Description:
Tin plated board to board/board to wire interconnection
system. Single row IDC connectors with right angle exit for flat or single wire cablesNo special prepration of cables requiredCan be assembled by handDouble blade contactsRated at 3A/1000VFlammabilty rating UL94 V-0.
Description:
The Picoflex Series from Molex is a reliable
range of Wire to Board connectors offering designers more options for high-density applications where standard discrete wire and flat flexible connectors are not appropriate. Picoflex IDT connectors are ideal for automotive and ...
Description:
From RS PRO, this high-quality IDC connector is
an excellent solution to terminating cables in low voltage power applications quickly and easily. With a tough glass-filled polyester housing and contacts made from beryllium copper, this IDC connector is a robust ...