RIDHO MASYHURI / 1411012004

4 DIV ELECTRONICAL ENGINEERING

Crimping Tool

A crimping tool is a device used to conjoin two piece of metal by deforming one or both
of them in a way that causes them to hold each other. The result of the tool's work is called
a crimp. A good example of crimping is the process of affixing a connector to the end of a
cable. For instance, network cables and phone cables are created using a crimping tool
(shown below) to join the RJ-45 and RJ-11 connectors to the both ends of either phone
or CAT5 cable.

Picture 1. RJ45 and RJ11 Crimping Tool

 Picture 2. Several type of crimping tool
There are several different styles of crimpers available. The best crimper, shown on the
top, has a built in ratchet. As the handles are squeezed together, it will ratchet and prevent the
jaws from opening back up. When enough pressure has been applied, the ratchet will
disengage and release the crimped part. This ensures enough pressure has been applied. This
style of crimper also has a wide jaw to cover more surface area on the connector.
The crimping tool on the bottom can achieve nearly the same results, although it requires
the user be be much more vigilant. This style of crimper is generally less sturdy. Attention
must be given while crimping to ensure the jaws are lined up properly on the connector.
Misalignment will cause a less than desirable crimp connection. Over time, wear and tear
from normal usage can also cause the jaws to become separated and not close fully.
Generally, squeezing it as hard as possible will be sufficient.

How does crimping tool work?

To use crimping tool, each wire is first placed into the connector. Once all the wires are
in the jack, the connector with wires are placed into the crimping tool, and the handles are
squeezed together. Crimping punctures the plastic connector and holds each of the wires,
allowing for data to be transmitted through the connector.