Welcome to our Bridging Clips category, your go-to source for precision fasteners that ensure reliable electrical and telecommunications connections. These small but mighty components, often made from durable phosphor bronze, bridge terminals on 66-style punch-down blocks, making them indispensable for installers handling phone lines, data networks, and low-voltage systems. Whether you're outfitting a wiring closet or upgrading home networking, our selection of 11 products—including single clips, bulk packs, and bundles—delivers the quality and quantity you need for professional results.
What Are Bridging Clips and Why Do They Matter?
Bridging clips create short-circuit connections between adjacent terminals on punch-down blocks like the popular 66M1-50 style. Typically U-shaped or 2-position designs, they allow quick jumps for splitting lines or powering multiple devices from one pair. In the world of Office & School Supplies, they fall under specialized tools that prevent loose connections and signal loss, saving time and reducing callbacks in installations.
Key to their reliability is the material: tin-plated phosphor bronze resists corrosion and maintains spring tension over time. Products here range from individual packs like the Leviton 40067-BC (50 clips per polybag) to comprehensive bundles such as the ICC 66 Wiring Block with 100 bridging clips, TAA compliant for government projects.
Key Features to Consider When Shopping
Selecting the right bridging clip boils down to compatibility, durability, and pack size. Look for:
- Position Type: Most are 2-position for standard bridging; confirm fit for your 66 block model (e.g., S66 or 310-366).
- Material: Phosphor bronze with tin plating for conductivity and longevity.
- Quantity and Packaging: Bulk options like 100-packs from ICC or 50-packs from Siemon suit high-volume jobs.
- Extras: Bundles with blocks or tools, plus related items like VCE low-voltage mounting brackets for complete setups.
- Compliance: TAA for federal use or low-profile designs for tight spaces.
Brands like Leviton excel in straightforward, high-tension clips, while ICC offers value-packed bundles for pros. For cable organization alongside clips, consider adhesive-backed options or zip ties in this lineup.
Common Use Cases for Bridging Clips
These clips shine in telecom environments: bridging pairs on 66 blocks for PBX systems, DSL splitters, or Ethernet cross-connects. In data centers, they facilitate quick rearrangements without rewiring. Homeowners use them for structured media panels, pairing with keystone tools like VCELINK's speed termination punch-down for Cat6 jacks.
Beyond pure bridging, related products here support the workflow—VCE flush mount boxes organize cables pre-clip, and XINGO zip ties with screw holes secure bundles post-install. If bridging is part of a larger fastening project, explore our Tape, Adhesives & Fasteners for complementary glues and ties, or dive deeper into Clips, Clamps & Rings for binder clips and clamps.
How to Choose and Install Bridging Clips
Match clips to your block: Siemon's SA1-100 fits S66 blocks perfectly, while C&E's 6-pack suits smaller jobs. For speed, opt for easy-insert U-shapes. Installation is simple—punch down wires, snap on the clip, and test continuity.
Pro tip: Pair with 90-degree keystone tools from VCELINK or Everest for angled jacks, minimizing cable stress. In office builds, these integrate seamlessly with low-voltage setups, outperforming generic fasteners in vibration-prone areas.
Compared to alternatives like screw terminals, bridging clips offer faster deployment and better density. For broader options, check Fasteners or Clips categories.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are bridging clips used for on 66 blocks?
They connect adjacent terminals to split or jump signals, common in telephony for powering multiple extensions from one line or creating cross-connects in networking panels.
Are all bridging clips made of phosphor bronze?
Most premium ones, like those from Leviton and ICC, use tin-plated phosphor bronze for superior conductivity and corrosion resistance, though some budget options vary.
Can I use bridging clips for data networking?
Yes, especially on 66M1-50 blocks for Cat5e/Cat6 runs, but pair with proper punch-down tools for best performance and to avoid signal degradation.
How many clips come in a standard pack?
Packs vary: 50 per polybag (Leviton), 100-packs (ICC), or smaller 6-packs (C&E), with bundles including blocks for full kits.
Are these clips compatible with modern low-voltage installs?
Absolutely—ideal for PoE, HDMI, and coax alongside telecom, especially with mounting aids like VCE brackets in this category.
