Scotchlok Connector

Scotchlok Connectors for Reliable Copper Cable Splicing

Scotchlok connectors are insulation displacement connectors (IDC) used to join or tap insulated copper conductors without stripping the wire insulation first. They are widely used in telecommunications and outside-plant copper networks, where installers need fast, repeatable and mechanically secure wire connections.

Why IDC Connectors Matter in Telecom Installation

Traditional wire splicing can require insulation stripping, positioning, crimping and additional protection.IDC connectors simplify the process.

No Conventional Wire Stripping:The insulation displacement contact penetrates the insulation and establishes contact with the conductor.

Faster Field Installation:The connection can be completed in a single controlled operation when the appropriate connector and tool are used.

Consistent Connection:A standardized connector and installation procedure can help reduce variation between technicians.

Compact Splicing:Compact connector designs help control the size of the completed splice bundle, particularly in dense telecom cable environments.

Moisture Protection:Gel-filled versions use factory-installed sealant to help protect the connection against moisture and corrosion.

How the Connector Works

Topology

Butt (UY/UR) joins two wire ends inline. Tap (UB/U1B/U1R) adds a branch without cutting the main. In-line (UDW2/101) passes the main through. Pick by how the circuit is wired.

Wire range

Confirm conductor diameter (0.4–0.9 mm solid, AWG 19–26) and max insulation O.D. (≤ 2.08 mm). A connector that fits the wire but not the insulation will not seal.

Tool & seal

Use a parallel-action crimp tool matched to the body; gel-filled bodies for outdoor/underground, dry bodies only for protected indoor PIC cable.

Connector Type by Job & Environment

Requirement	Recommended Type	Wire / Insulation	Caveat
Straight join of two conductors (drop, jumper)	Butt — UY / UR family	0.4–0.9 mm, O.D. ≤ 2.08 mm	UR variants sized larger for thicker bundles; confirm O.D. headroom
Branch a drop without cutting main line	Tap / branch — UB / U1B / U1R	Main + branch within range	Do not interrupt the through conductor; verify branch slot accepts your gauge
Main passes through; one or two taps	In-line — UDW2 / 101-series	Per model spec	Confirm number of ports needed
Outdoor pole / underground vault	Gel-filled (sealed) body	Any within range	Dry bodies only for protected indoor PIC cable
High-density closure / tight bundle	Compact UY2 / UR2	0.4–0.9 mm	Smaller profile reduces splice-bundle O.D.
Dropwire self-stripping tap (aerial)	Self-stripping dropwire connector (557TG-type)	Dropwire per spec	Confirm dropwire conductor size before specifying

Outdoor vs. Indoor Splicing

The installation environment should determine the connector configuration.

Outdoor / Aerial / Buried Network – Priorities

Moisture resistance, corrosion protection, UV/environmental durability, cable compatibility, and stable mechanical connection.

Central Office / Indoor – Priorities

Compact size, installation speed, easy handling, dry connector configuration, and compatibility with existing tools.

Strict quality control

Contact Element:Verify contact material, plating and dimensional consistency.

Housing:Check material, mechanical strength and environmental suitability.

Sealant:For gel-filled products, verify sealant coverage and sealing performance.

Dimensional Consistency:Connector dimensions should remain consistent across production batches.

Electrical Connection:Verify stable electrical contact after installation.

Mechanical Retention:The conductor should remain securely held after termination.

Batch Traceability:For large projects, batch identification helps with incoming inspection and quality management.

Bulk Supply for Telecom Contractors & Distributors

01/

Stable Specifications:Approved samples should be consistent with subsequent production batches.

02/

High-Volume Capacity:Production should support project-level quantities.

03/

SKU Management:Different connector models should be clearly identified and separated.

04/

Private Label:Customized labels and packaging can support distributor brands.

05/

Documentation:Product specifications and test documentation can support customer approval.

06/

Replenishment:Stable supply is essential for network maintenance programs and multi-phase deployments.

Company Overview

Zhejiang Cable And Connector Optoelectronics Co., Ltd. is a high-tech enterprise located in Hangzhou, China. It was founded by a team with over 20 years of experience. We focus on the research and development as well as production of communication cables and connectors. Our products have all passed ISO, RoHS, CE and UL certifications and are exported to Europe, North America, South America and Asia, serving industries such as telecommunications, broadcasting, power and railways.

Packaging & Global Shipping

Small telecom connectors require efficient packaging because orders can contain thousands or millions of pieces.

Packaging

Individual protective bags where required
Inner boxes
Bulk cartons
Clearly labeled SKU packaging
Palletized export cartons
Customized packing quantities

Shipping

Sea Freight:economical for large-volume orders
Air Freight:suitable for urgent project quantities
Rail Freight:available for selected China-Europe routes
Road Freight:suitable for domestic and regional deliveries

Certifications & Technical Documentation

For international procurement, certification requirements depend on the destination market and project specification.We can provide the following materials:

ISO 9001 — Quality management system

RoHS — Restricted substance compliance

REACH — Chemical compliance

UL / applicable product approvals

Material specifications

Electrical test reports

Environmental test reports

FAQ

Q:What is a Scotchlok Connector?

A:A Scotchlok connector is an insulation displacement connector (IDC) used to make electrical connections between insulated conductors without conventional insulation stripping. It is commonly associated with copper telecom cable splicing and tapping applications.

Q:What is the difference between UY2 and UR2?

A:UY2 is primarily a two-wire butt connector, while UR2 is designed for two- or three-wire butt splicing and provides a wider range of conductor combinations.

Q:Are Scotchlok connectors gel-filled?

A:Many outdoor versions are supplied with factory-installed sealant for moisture resistance, while dry versions are available for applications where moisture sealing is not required.

Q:What wire sizes can these connectors accommodate?

A:The exact range depends on the model. For example, UY2 and UR2 configurations are commonly specified for 19–26 AWG (0.4–0.9 mm) solid copper conductors, with maximum insulation diameter depending on the connector.

Q:Do I need a special tool?

A:The recommended tool depends on the connector model. Some Scotchlok connector systems are designed for dedicated termination tools to ensure correct installation.

Q:Can I use the connector for outdoor telecom networks?

A:Yes, when the selected model is specifically designed for the outdoor environment. For outdoor applications, verify moisture protection, corrosion resistance, cable compatibility and environmental requirements before purchase.

Q:Can you provide samples and technical datasheets?

A:Yes. Samples, product specifications, dimensional information and applicable test documentation can be provided according to the selected model and project requirements.

Q:Can you provide customized packaging?

A:Yes. Box quantity, carton quantity, labeling, logo and private-label packaging can be customized for qualified orders.

Q:What are your payment terms?

A:Our standard payment term is 30% T/T deposit before production and 70% balance before shipment. L/C at sight can be discussed for qualified customers and larger projects.

Q:Can you support large-volume telecom projects?

A:Yes. Bulk quantities, customized packaging and project-based supply arrangements can be discussed according to the required connector models and delivery schedule.

As one of the most professional scotchlok connector manufacturers and suppliers in China, we have world-leading production equipment and strong manufacturing capabilities. Please rest assured to wholesale custom made scotchlok connector at competitive price from our factory.