Large deflection constrained insulation displacement terminal and connector

Abstract

An improved insulation displacement terminal (IDT) includes opposed spaced fingers having outer edges with first and second abutment sections adjacent the ends of the outer edges. A resilient spring-like mid-section in the finger between the abutment sections applies a generally normal force to a wire captured between the inner edges of opposed fingers of the IDT. The resilient spring-like mid-section of each finger may be provided by narrowing the width of each finger between the abutment sections such as by recessing the outer edges from the outer edges of the abutment sections or by providing slots or openings in the mid-section of the fingers. Corners of inner edges of the fingers are smoother and inner edges are generally planar to provide a large contact area between the fingers and a wire disposed therebetween. The IDT is mounted within a housing to provide an insulation displacement connector (IDC).