Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE 7.10
A BIX connector. (Courtesy of NORDX/CDT.)
tally in a mounting frame. Unlike the 110 system, the station or feeder cables are
punched down directly into the back edge contacts of the connector.
Some examples of BIX hardware are shown in Fig. 7.10. An array of BIB con-
nectors, installed in a 50-, 250-, or 300-pair mount, forms a “module.” Modules
may be mounted directly on walls, backboards, or in racks with an optional rack-
mount kit. Modules may also be combined into a mounting frame to form an inter-
mediate distribution frame (IDF) or main distributing frame (MDF).
Cross-connects are made from the front of the BIX connector. Connectors are
available premarked at either 4- or 5-pair intervals. The 4-pair version is used in
most LAN wiring, while the 5-pair version is useful for termination of cables of 25
or more pairs.
All connections are made with a BIX connecting tool, which is similar in func-
tion to the tools used for 66 and 110 blocks. Some standard impact tools can be
equipped with BIX blades. Cables enter from the sides of the mount, either above
or below the connector. The mounts include a provision for a marking strip (or des-
ignation strip), which mounts between a pair of BIX connectors. The connectors are
used in pairs, with a marking strip in between. A common 300-pair mount, for
example, contains a maximum of 12 connectors and six designation strips.
Connector labels are available for the 4-pair connectors in colors to match the
usage group designation in EIA/TIA-569 (see Table 14.1 in Chapter 14).
Bridging clips are available that connect vertically between two adjacent con-
nector positions. A special wiring fixture can also be used to assist in terminating
cables. The fixture is snapped into a connector position and is moved to the next
connector position to be terminated, in turn.
Modular jack assemblies that mount in the BIX mounts are also available in a
variety of jack configurations. The assemblies occupy two connector slots in the
mount. Category 3, 5e, and 6 versions are offered.
The BIX-type connecting blocks are also used in modular jack outlets and on
patch panels for wire termination. They are common options from several manufac-
turers, although all of the blocks come from NORDX/CDT. Distribution modules,
jacks, and patches using BIX connecting hardware may be certified for Category 5e,
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