Punchdown tool problems

[valve90210]

Hi

I installed a couple of mini patch panels at the weekend and last night set about running wires into them and connecting them. I used the cheapo punchdown tool I picked up from ebay a couple of years ago and found that it really didn't do the job, the metal pusher bit seems a bit too fat to fit into the plastic slot so the wires don't get pushed down and the cutter is fairly well useless.

This morning I've picked upa slightly more expensive one from screwfix but to be honest it looks exactly the same and I'm not convinced it'll be any better.

Now, having read the reviews of this tool they all seem positive so I'm wondering if I'm just not using it properly (not that it seems like there's a lot to it), anyone got any tips/advice on using them?

 

[RoyMi6]

Don't think I've ever spent more than a fiver on a punch down tool... My past few have been from ebay as well and the only reason I keep buying them is I keep loosing them!

Had a clear out last week and found 3!

Anyway, yeah, you'll likely find they're all just the same re-branded thing but as far as tips goes I'd just make sure you're pushing straight down, firm and it generally helps if the wire that's going to be cut is sitting out straight (like, right angles from the socket so the clippers have a good bash at cutting it)

Also, make use of the flat edge/blade that's built into the side to line up the wire and push it in a bit first.

Other than that, maybe just check a couple of YouTube videos to make sure you're using it correctly

EDIT: The one's I get are like cheaper versions of this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0VYxAvIl8rE

 

[valve90210]

Thanks.

Having done loads of reading this morning and speaking to the IT department at work I think that the issue might be because the slots on the patch panel are 110 slots and don't seem to be the same shape/size as what you'd normally find in the UK (that's what you get for buying from a ebay I guess). The tools I have both have wide parts nearly 1mm across either side of the gap on the push down blade. It's these that don't seem to fit into the slots.

Having spoken to the IT guys at work I have come away with a different type of punchdown tool which has a completely flat blade which I'm hoping will fit into the slots on the patch panel.

I also came away with a basic network cable tester (I have one already but you never turn down free kit!! )

 

[jellybeard999]

I got a cheap krone style punchdown tool (couple of quid) and a cheap network tester (maybe a fiver?) from ebay and both have been fine. Worked with the cheap ebay sockets and patch panels anyway

 

[valve90210]

Just to update this.

I tried the punchdown tool I got from the IT department and it worked a treat. On further investigation, it turns out I was right, the slots on the patch panel were 110 and not krone so I needed a 110 punchdown tool which the flat bladed one is.

 

[bledd]

Trendnet TC-PDT is a fantastic punchdown tool for ~£20-25, comes with 110 and Krone blades.

If you want to spend more, then Paladin Tools PA3592 + Paladin Tools PA4575 (£60 + £25)