Tool for aligning a ribbon cable to a connector

摘要

An alignment tool (44) is disclosed for aligning the conductors of a ribbon cable (12) to insulation displacement contacts (172) of a connector (16, 18) during termination of the connector to the cable. The tool includes a body (46) having a fluted cable guiding surface (72, 74) and first and second connector receiving cutouts (66, 68) on opposite sides of the guide surface. A retaining plate (112) is hingedly attached to the body (46) and is arranged to releasable hold the ribbon cable (12) in located engagement with the fluted guide surface (72, 74). The retaining plate (112) enables the ribbon cable (12) to move longitudinally to position it for termination of a connector (16, 18) without loosening the retaining plate (112) and without disturbing the alignment of the ribbon cable.