In my previous article, I discussed the history and structure of the RJ45 connector. In this instalment, let’s take a look at the key features of the RJ45 connector’s design and the scenarios in which it is suitable. Before we begin, let me introduce myself again: I’m a hardware engineer at VOOHU, and I’m always keen to learn. I’d love to discuss any experiences or queries you may have regarding the Ethernet field with you all. I’m passionate about all aspects of hardware knowledge in the Ethernet field and am always happy to share and learn. Without further ado, let’s get started with this instalment’s content.
We discussed how integrated RJ45 connectors consist of a plastic body, contact terminals, board-side terminals, a metal housing, an LED indicator, a network transformer and a PCBA substrate. Let’s take a look at the specifications of these core components.
Key Specifications
1. Types of contact terminals
The eight metal pins inside the RJ45 port are crucial for signal transmission via the network cable; they make contact with the metal contacts in the cable plug. Depending on the manufacturing process, these pins are classified as round or flat.
Round pins: These are fully gold-plated, which makes them more expensive; however, due to the higher physical strength of their circular structure, they offer superior shock resistance and durability against repeated plugging and unplugging compared to flat pins, making them suitable for industrial applications.
Flat pins: These utilise a partial gold-plating process, with gold plating applied only to the contact points that engage with the network port. Consequently, their cost is significantly lower than that of round pins. However, as the structural strength of flat pins is slightly inferior to that of round pins, they are not suitable for high-intensity applications and are generally used in consumer products.
2. Shielding structure
A ‘shielded’ RJ45 connector refers to one that has a metal shield around the connector; if it has one, it is known as a shielded RJ45 connector. If it is made of black or any other colour of plastic, it is an unshielded RJ45 connector.
Shielded RJ45: Features a shielded housing; EMI is suppressed by grounding the pins of the shielded housing or connecting them to the chassis. Taking the part SYT111B465AB2A1DP as an example, grounding is achieved via the grounding pins of the shielded housing.
**Unshielded RJ45: **The housing is typically made of black plastic. Taking this product as an example, SYT111Q066JB2B1D, it is commonly used in consumer electronics, such as home routers.
3. Port anti-detachment mechanism
This generally refers to spring tabs; in specialised RJ45 connectors, these are further categorised into Cannon self-locking and threaded locking types.
**Metal spring tabs: **Commonly used in industrial environments where there are high requirements for insertion/removal force and cycle life.
**Cannon self-locking and threaded locking: **Commonly used in environments subject to severe vibration and where high reliability is required.
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