What is a punch down tool primarily used for?

A punch down tool is primarily used to insert twisted-pair wires into a punch-down block. This tool facilitates the termination of the wires at the connection points within the block, ensuring a secure and reliable connection for network cabling. The design of the punch-down tool allows for precision and efficiency when seating the wires; it pushes the wire into the terminal strips of the punch-down block, simultaneously cutting off any excess wire.

Using a punch down tool is essential in structured cabling systems, where organized and properly terminated cabling connections are crucial for network performance. The other functions mentioned, such as cutting wires to specific lengths, testing connection speeds, and stripping insulation, are performed using different tools tailored for those tasks, such as wire cutters, network testers, and wire strippers, respectively. Thus, the primary function of the punch down tool remains focused on the insertion and termination of twisted-pair cables within patch panels or wall jacks.