Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
IBM Cabling System Jacks
A few other outlet jacks deserve mention. The first is the IBM Data Connector. The
Data Connector, shown in Fig. 6.18, is a hermaphroditic (genderless) connector
designed so that any connector mates with any other. It is a rather large, square-nosed
connector with a rectangular body. The Data Connector is designed to be used with
shielded twisted pair (STP) cable, although it can also be used with other connectors.
The Data Connector was specified in TIA-568-A as the standard connector for
use with STP-A cable. The use of STP with the Data Connector was previously spec-
ified by an
EIA Interim Standard Omnibus Specification, NQ-EIA/IS-43
. The TIA-
568-A standard detailed the Data Connector and its use with STP-A shielded cable.
The Data Connector's complete electrical and mechanical specifications are con-
tained in the first edition of IEC-807-8,
Rectangular Connectors for Frequencies
Below 3 MHz, Part 8: Detail Specification for Connectors, Four-Signal Contacts
and Earthing Contacts for Cable Screen
. Although this connector specification
states that the connectors are for 3 MHz and below, the TIA has extended their
characteristics to 300 MHz.
FIGURE 6.18
The Data Connector is a hermaphroditic (genderless) connector designed so that any connec-
tor mates with any other. (Courtesy of Thomas & Betts Corporation.)
