Information Technology Reference
In-Depth Information
FIGURE B.8
The Data Connector design is defined in IEC 807-8,
Rectangular Connectors
.
Although the title of the IEC document implies a 3 MHz frequency limit, the
connector is actually designed for much higher frequency operation. The TIA-568-
C characterizes the connector parameters to 300 MHz, three times that of the hum-
ble 8-pin modular connector. The connector incorporates an electromagnetic shield
to complement the shielded cable structure. This connector could theoretically sup-
port data rates beyond the current 100 MHz offerings.
The Data Connector is configured for four signal wires and a shield. The con-
nector design uses IDC contacts for the cable wires. The contact pins are color
coded red, green, orange, and black to match the color coding of the STP cable. The
wires terminate in the pins with a plastic clip and the cable body snaps together,
making the installation almost tool-less. A rotary cable stripper is handy to remove
the outer jacket and trim the shield.
The step-by-step assembly instructions are as follows. Place the threaded connec-
tor sleeve over the cable. Then remove 1 1/8 in of the outer jacket. Trim the braided
shield and the foil pair shields to within approximately 1/8 in of the edge of the jacket.
Place the cable into the connector body and bend the braid back against the connec-
tor shield. Route the wires to the proper color coded termination posts, push the wires
into the slotted jaws of the posts, and snap the retaining clip over the posts with the
recommended tool or with a pair of pliers. Place the side cover onto the connector
body and snap it into place. Test the electrical integrity of the connector.
Two versions of the Data Connector are available that have slightly different
mechanisms to lock the connectors together. They are referred to as style A (the
original IBM version manufactured by AMP) and style B. If you use this connector
