Definitions for "Punchdown"
Keywords:  bittree, patchbay, idc, backplane, clip
A method for securing wire to a quick clip in which the insulated wire is placed in the terminal groove & pushed down with a special tool. As the wire is seated, the terminal displaces the wire insulation to make an electrical connection. The punchdown operation may also trim the wire as it terminates. Also called cut down.
Refers to IDC connectors and the method used to terminate them.
Denotes a patchbay backplane that is wired with a standard "punchdown tool" which connects leads and clips excess wire in one simple step. These connectors are options on the backplane of Bittree audio patch panels. This type of backplane is best used in installations where alterations are not expected. The main advantage of this system is the single step with which the leads can be connected and clipped, as opposed to building a connector to be plugged in. The disadvantages are that all the work needs to be done directly on the panel, and mistakes are harder to see and correct. See also E3 and E90, other backplane options.