The difference between IDC and IPC contacts

24.10.2023 | IDC and IPC contacts terminate the wires of a cable in an outlet, in a module or in a plug. Read on to know the difference between the two contact types.

Especially plugs are available with either IDC or IPC contacts. Both work, but quite differently.

IDC is the acronym for Insulation Displacement Contact. With IDC contacts, the wire is pressed into a V-shaped contact that cuts through the wire insulation and a little bit into the copper wire, which makes for a very good electrical contact. IDC contacts are preferred for solid wires, but high-quality IDC contacts can also be used for stranded wires.

IPC is the acronym for Insulation Piercing Contact. With IPC contacts, three nail-shaped contacts are pressed through the wire insulation and touch the surface of the bare wire firmly. IPC contacts are preferred for stranded wires, but high-quality IPC contacts can also be used for solid wires.

Good to know: Telegärtner uses only high-quality contacts. Telegärtner products with IDC (left) or IPC (right) contacts always accept both, solid and stranded wires.

Author:

Dirk Traeger

Technical Solutions Manager DataVoice