Application tooling is the generic, all encompassing term for crimp tooling of which there are two main types:

Manual and Automatic/Semi-automatic

Manual tools rely on the operators grip strength, sometimes with hydraulic assistance, to preform the crimp.

While the exact terminology varies between manufacturers, hand crimp tools typically fall into one of three classes according to their price and warranties/certifications.

TE connectivity calls theirs Service, Commercial and Premium, while Molex has just ServiceGrade, and PremiumGrade.

These are the most economical(cheapest) tools and they also require the most operator “skill”. In their cheapest form they are typically two piece, stamped steel construction, with a single rivet as the hinge point and vinyl handles. Odds are you probably have a pair of these in your toolbox for doing ring terminals. Slightly more expensive versions might look more like traditional pliers, with a forged metal frame and ground faces, and in rare instances you may even see ratchet mechanisms. The real defining feature of these is that they come with absolutely no certifications or warranties on the crimps being performed. This does make them cheaper however (in relative terms).

One word: Ratchet. One-way ratcheting mechanisms guarantee a minimum amount of force is applied before the handles relax and the jaws can re-open. This is also when you will start seeing certifications, and price tags to match.

Auto/Semi-auto crimp presses can be powered any number of ways, depending on various factors like the desired force output, machine footprint and whether it is loose piece or strip fed.