UTP Cat 5 Wiring): What are 66 and 110 blocks?
Both are “punchdown” blocks used to interconnect voice and data systems in an orderly way. Type 66 blocks have been around longer and were developed for the phone company; they make it easy to connect multiple phone taps to a given line, and with the use of bridging clips provide an easy way to disconnect inside wiring from a circuit for troubleshooting. Older 66 blocks are not suitable for category 5 wiring, although several manufacturers have come out with revised 66 blocks that will work. 110 blocks are newer and are preferable for computer work: for one thing, they make it easier to preserve the twist in each pair right up to the point of connection. Most Category 5 jacks also use type 110 terminals for connecting to the wire. A traditional impact punchdown tool with interchangeable bits like a Harris/Dracon will cost about $75 and can punch either 66 or 110 blocks (or any number of other types). Less expensive impact tools without interchangeable bits run about $25. Both kinds of
