Punch down blocks, also known as punch blocks, are a shortcut for making many wire or cable connections at once, such as in telephone exchange systems. Instead of stripping insulation and tightening connections with screws one at a time, use punch down blocks to quickly make or change connections in batches.
To make connections with a punch block, use a punch block tool to insert pairs of wires or cables to be connected into one of the numerous slots in the punch down block. Blades in the tool or slot strip the insulation from the wire as it's pushed in, and the slot holds the connected wires in place.
The 110 punch down block is the standard size used today. It's compact in size and capable of handling high-speed Category 5 connections. You can still find earlier, bulkier 66 punch down blocks if you need them as replacement parts for older systems, but 66 telephone punch down blocks can't handle anything more than Category 3 connections. With either model, be sure to:
1. Compare punch down block providers prior to purchasing.
2. Look for providers that sell used or refurbished telephone punch down blocks.
3. Obtain any extra tools and accessories you need to make connections with punch down blocks.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Find phone network punch down blocks that work well for your business
Punch down block providers carry a wide variety of punch down blocks from many different manufacturers, for many different needs. Whether you are looking for 66 punch blocks to nurse along a small office phone exchange or need the highest-speed 110 punch block, look for a punch block provider offering online tutorials or toll-free technical assistance lines.
I recommend: HomeTech Solutions carries both 110 and 66 punch blocks. They also offer an instore
seminar or an online learning section for their web customers.
Telephone Central stocks telephone punch down blocks for 66 and 110, and they carry accessories, jacks and cords for both systems.
Purchase refurbished punch down blocks
Phone punch down blocks can be a substantial investment. By purchasing used or refurbished equipment, you can get quality products at a lower price.
I recommend: Network Liquidators stocks refurbished used punch down blocks that are usually available for overnight delivery.
Startech Telecommunications provides new and refurbished 66 punch down blocks and 110 punch down block with all needed cable and accessories.
Don't forget to purchase the right punch down block tool and replacement blades
You need a punch down block tool to insert the wires or cables into the slots in punch blocks. Some tools come with interchangeable heads that adapt to both the older 66 punch down blocks and the new 110 punch down block standard.
I recommend: Cables To Go carries a punch down block tool and replacement blades that fit both the 110 and the 66 with same day shipping.
TechToolSupply.com has the 66 and 110 punch down tool as well, and offers customers a toll free question line.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Punch down blocks aren't just for telephone systems. Broadcast and audio recording studio electricians use them, too, for use of making and switching multiple connections on the fly.
The official source of Punch Down Blocks is the Punch Down Blocks page at Business.com
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