Abstract: A cutting element configured for use in an electrical connector device for cutting two or more wires received by the electrical connector device. The cutting element includes a member having a leading edge, and the leading edge is shaped for nonsimultaneously cutting multiple wires in a single cutting motion. By cutting the wires nonsimultaneously, less force is needed to effect the cutting operation.

Abstract: The invention is a modular terminal block assembly. The modular terminal block assembly includes a base module in which communications company lines may be dressed and retained during the dressing operation. A connector module is provided for attachment over the base module and to engage the distribution lines retained in the base module with insulation displacement connectors (IDC) which are retained in the connector module. A protection module is provided for engagement with an opposite side of the base module so that protection can be provided on the lines without interfering with the connection termination of customer service line on the connector module. The modular terminal block assembly provides structures which allow the assembled modular terminal block to be retained on a standard U-shaped mounting frame or for attachment to a rod frame system. The protection module maintains protection on the lines while the terminal block assembly is in contact with the U-shaped frame and rod frame system.