When it comes to building a reliable and high-speed Ethernet network, it is essential to choose the right RJ45 connector type. RJ45 connectors, including modular plugs and jacks, are a crucial component of networking systems. These connectors enable seamless communication between our devices to the internet. Whether you are working with Ethernet Cables like Cat5e, Cat6, or the more robust Cat7 cables, understanding the various types of RJ45 connectors and their applications ensures optimal network performance. Selecting the best RJ45 connectors plays a crucial role in minimizing interference and enhancing data transfer speeds. From shielded to unshielded connectors, or pass-through to regular RJ45 plugs, each connector type matters.

By the end, you will be able to distinguish the differences between RJ45 connector types, their benefits, and how to buy the best RJ45 connectors that impact your networking setup. So, keep reading.

What Is an RJ45 Connector?

The RJ45 connector is the short form of Registered Jack 45 (RJ45) connector. These small network cable connectors are used to connect our devices, such as routers, computers, or switches. The RJ45 connector, introduced by Bell Systems in the 1970s for telephone wiring. This evolved into the standard for Ethernet networking by the 1980s. Its 8-pin 8p8c design became ubiquitous for connecting devices in LANS, supporting speeds from 10 Mbps to 40 Gbps today. These are commonly used in homes, offices, and industrial settings, such as factories and other workplaces, with a range of networking accessories available.

RJ45 connectors come in two primary forms:

• Male plugs: Typically crimped onto cable ends
• Female jacks: Installed in wall outlets, patch panels, and networking equipment

Their ubiquity across networking applications makes them among the most recognizable and widely deployed connectivity components worldwide. What makes them so popular, and why are there so many RJ connector types? Let's break it down.

Technical Specifications of RJ45 Connectors

What makes an RJ45 modular connector unique is its an 8P8C (8-position, 8-contact) plug or jack, designed for twisted-pair Ethernet cables. It features a plastic housing, gold-plated contacts for reliable signal transmission, and a locking tab to ensure secure placement. 

Here's the techy stuff:

The Difference Between 8P8C Modular Connectors and RJ45

These two terms, 8P8C vs. RJ45, are often interchanged and can lead to a common mix-up. They aren't technically synonymous; people usually confuse them. There is the difference between them:

• 8P8C8: 

Position, 8 Contact - refers to the physical connector design with eight positions, each containing a metal contact

• RJ45: 

Registered Jack 45 - technically refers to a specific wiring pattern and application standard originally developed for telecommunications

Standard Dimensions and Size Specifications of RJ45 Connectors

The RJ45 connector size and dimensions adhere to strict standards, ensuring universal compatibility across various networking equipment. These consistent dimensions are crucial for ensuring a proper fit and function when working with different types of RJ45 connectors.

• Width: ~6mm
• Length: ~11mm
• Height: ~8mm
• Pin spacing: 1mm apart

The RJ45 connector size matters because thicker cables, such as Cat6a or Cat7, require plugs that can accommodate their bulk. RJ45 plug dimensions ensure a snug fit; however, always check your cable's jacket diameter (typically 5–7mm) to prevent loose connections.

Pin Configuration and Wiring Standards (T568A vs. T568B)

A significant issue with the connectors is the correct wiring. So, people ask what the standard way is to wire an RJ45? It's simple, and it's all about arranging the colored wires inside the RJ45 modular plug according to TIA wiring standards. There are two main standards:

• T568A: Older, with green and orange wires swapped. Used in some legacy systems.
• T568B: The modern favorite, with a specific order for orange and green pairs. Most networks use this.

T568A vs T568B Wiring Standards

Male Plugs vs Female Jacks: Key Differences

RJ45 comes in two flavours: Male plugs and Female jacks. It is essential to understand the distinction between male and female RJ45 connector types for a robust networking infrastructure. These complementary components form the basis of all Ethernet connections throughout a network.

Female RJ45 Jacks

These receptacles accept male plugs and mount in various locations throughout the network. Female RJ45 connector types include:

• Wall-mounted jacks (for permanent infrastructure)
• Panel-mount connectors (for patch panels)
• Equipment-integrated jacks (found in switches, routers, etc.)
• Modular keystone jacks (for flexible installations)
• Inline couplers (for joining cables)

Female RJ45 jacks feature recessed contact points that create reliable electrical connections with male plug contacts upon insertion. These jacks often feature dust covers or spring-loaded doors to protect the contacts when not in use.

Male RJ45 Plugs

These modular connectors terminate the ends of Ethernet cables. The male RJ45 plug features eight exposed metal contacts arranged in a row, with a plastic retention clip that secures it when inserted into a compatible jack.

Types of RJ45 Connectors by Category Rating

Not all RJ45 connector types deliver the same level of performance. Different cable categories (Cat5, Cat6, Cat7, Cat8) need different RJ45 plug types. Here's how different types of RJ45 connectors match up with different cable categories, and why it matters for speed.

Cat5/5e RJ45 Connectors

Cat5 RJ45 connectors represent the basic standard for modern Ethernet connections. These cost-effective RJ45 connector types support networks up to 1 Gbps (Cat5e) and remain among the most widely deployed connector varieties. 

Key characteristics include:

• Support for networks up to 1 Gbps
• Typically unshielded design
• Affordable price point
• Wide availability
• Compatible with most network installations

Cat6/6a RJ45 Connectors

Cat6 and Cat6a RJ45 connector types represent a significant performance upgrade over their Cat5e predecessors. These enhanced modular connectors support networks up to 10 Gbps, making them suitable for more demanding applications.

Cat6 RJ45 connectors feature:

• Improved internal construction
• Includes an internal spline
• Support for 10 Gbps 
• Better crosstalk prevention
• Optional shielding 

Cat7 RJ45 Connectors

Cat7 RJ45 plugs are specialized connector types designed for high-performance, interference-resistant network connections. Unlike lower-category options, Cat7 connectors always feature comprehensive shielding to match their corresponding fully shielded cables.

These premium RJ45 connector types offer:

• Support speeds up to 10 Gbps
• Comprehensive shielding 
• Good in high-interference environments
• Standard RJ45 interface
• Specialized connector options 

Cat8 RJ45 Connectors

Cat8 RJ45 connectors represent the cutting edge of copper networking connectivity, supporting speeds of up to 40 Gbps for specialized applications. These high-performance connector types enable data center and backbone connections that previously required fiber optic infrastructure.

Advanced features include:

• Full external connector shielding
• Individual pair shielding body
• Improved signal integrity
• Higher-quality materials
• Backward compatibility 

Shielded vs. Unshielded RJ45 Connectors

Apart from the style and material, these connectors come in various styles and forms. So, are there different styles of RJ45 connectors? Yes, and shielding is a big one. Let's compare shielded and unshielded RJ45 connectors.

What Are Shielded RJ45 Connectors?

Shielded RJ45 connectors consist of additional metal shielding components designed to block electromagnetic interference (EMI) from disrupting network signals. These specialized Ethernet connectors feature metallic elements that create a protective cage around the signal-carrying components.

What Are Unshielded RJ45 Connectors?

Unshielded RJ45 connectors represent the most common and economical option for standard Ethernet connections. These basic modular plugs and jacks lack the additional metal shielding found in their protected counterparts.

When to Use Shielded vs. Unshielded Connectors

It is essential to understand the differences and their usage in various environments. How do you shield an unshielded RJ45 connector? You can't; you need to replace it with a shielded RJ45 plug and cable. Use shielded connectors in high-interference zones and unshielded ones in areas with low interference to save money.

RJ45 Connector Design Variations

Shielded and Unshielded were two variations of the RJ45. Are all RJ45 connectors the same? Nope! Beyond shielding, RJ45 plug types are available in various designs to meet specific needs. Below are some variations of RJ45 connectors. 

Standard RJ45 Plugs

These conventional modular connectors, often paired with connector boots, represent the most common RJ45 connector types used to terminate patch cables and permanent links throughout networks.

• Best for: Most home or office setups.
• How they work: Wires are cut and crimped into the plug.

Pass-Through RJ45 Connectors

Pass-through RJ45 connectors revolutionized cable termination by simplifying the installation process. These innovative RJ45 connector types feature an open-ended design that allows wires to pass entirely through the connector body during termination.

• Best for: DIYers or quick jobs.
• Pros: Pass-Through RJ45 Connectors

Two-Piece (Field Termination) RJ45 Connectors

Two-piece RJ45 connectors offer an alternative approach to field termination, particularly for solid-core cables that resist standard crimping methods. These specialized RJ45 connector types separate the termination process into two distinct components.

• Best for: On-site repairs or custom setups.
• Pro: No precise cutting needed.

Tool-less RJ45 Connectors

Tool-less RJ45 connectors offer the ultimate convenience for field installations. They allow for cable termination without specialized crimping equipment. These innovative connector types utilize built-in mechanisms to secure wires, eliminating the need for external crimping pressure.

• Best for: Fast fixes or when tools are scarce.
• Caution: Not suitable for permanent use.

Specialized RJ45 Connector Types

Beyond standard configurations, specialized RJ45 connector types address specific environmental challenges and installation requirements that exceed the capabilities of conventional options.

Outdoor/Waterproof RJ45 Connectors

Outdoor Cat6 RJ45 connectors and waterproof variants provide reliable connectivity in challenging environmental conditions. These specialized RJ45 connector types feature robust sealing systems that protect against moisture, dust, and extreme temperatures.

• Best for: Backyard Wi-Fi or outdoor cameras.

Industrial-Grade RJ45 Connectors

Industrial-grade RJ45 connectors deliver enhanced reliability in manufacturing environments, process control systems, and other demanding applications. These specialized RJ45 connector types withstand conditions that would quickly destroy consumer-grade alternatives.

• Best for: Factories or construction sites.

Locking RJ45 Connectors

Locking RJ45 connectors prevent accidental disconnection in critical applications or high-vibration environments. These specialized RJ45 connector types enhance the standard modular plug design with additional securing mechanisms.

• Best for: Public spaces or high-traffic areas.

Right-Angle RJ45 Connectors

Right-angle RJ45 connectors solve installation challenges in space-constrained environments by redirecting cable paths 90 degrees from the insertion direction. These specialized RJ45 connector types prevent cable damage when clearance behind equipment is limited.

• Best for: Behind TVs or in crowded racks.

Panel-Mount RJ45 Connectors

Panel-mount RJ45 connectors provide secure, integrated network access points in equipment enclosures, wall plates, and custom assemblies. These specialized RJ45 connector types feature mounting hardware that secures them to panels while maintaining proper connectivity.

• Best for: Custom setups or machinery.

Understanding RJ Connector Types

"RJ" stands for "Registered Jack," and there are several types besides the RJ45 used for Ethernet:

1. RJ11:
   The small connector used for traditional telephone lines. It has six positions, but typically only two or four contacts are used.
2. RJ14:
   These connectors resemble RJ11 but utilize more of the available contacts to support multiple phone lines.
3. RJ25:
   RJ25 connectors feature a 6-position design that utilizes all six contacts, allowing for the support of up to three separate phone lines.
4. RJ45:
   The 8-position connector is used for Ethernet networks. This is the standard network cable connector type in most computers, routers, and switches.

Pro Tip: Even within RJ45 connector types, there are differences in quality and features. Some models feature superior gold plating on the contacts, while others boast stronger locking tabs.

Comparing RJ45 with Other RJ Connector Types

While RJ45 connectors dominate networking applications, understanding how they relate to other RJ connector types provides valuable context for telecommunications infrastructure.

• RJ11 vs. RJ45: RJ11 (6P2C/4C) is for phones; smaller and incompatible.
• RJ12 vs. RJ45: RJ12 (6p6c) is for multi-line phones, not for Ethernet.
• RJ25 vs. RJ45: RJ25 (6P6C) is for phones; too small for RJ45 ports.
• RJ48 vs. RJ45: RJ48 is used for T1 lines, featuring a different wiring configuration.
• RJ49 vs. RJ45: RJ49 is rare and used for telecom, not Ethernet-compatible.

Conclusion

From Cat5e RJ45 connectors to shielded Cat8 RJ45 plugs, the world of RJ45 connector types offers something for every network. Whether you're wiring a home office, a corporate LAN, or an outdoor setup, the right RJ45 modular plug or RJ45 female connector ensures fast, reliable connections. We've explored the types of RJ45 jacks, wiring standards, and the best RJ45 connectors to help you make an informed choice. 

Ready to upgrade your network? 

Shop at Smartech Cables, and share your wiring tips in the comments. Here's to a stronger, faster internet!

FAQS

Which piece of connector is available as a wall-mounted device?
RJ45 female connectors, specifically wall-mounted RJ45 jacks, are the connector pieces available as a wall-mounted device. These types of RJ45 jacks provide permanent network access points in homes or offices. They connect Ethernet cables securely to LANs using the T568B wiring standard.

What is the price of RJ45 connectors?
The price of RJ45 connectors typically ranges from $0.10 to $2 per plug, depending on type. Unshielded RJ45 connectors are generally less expensive, while shielded RJ45 plugs or outdoor Cat6 RJ45 connectors tend to be more costly. 

What is an RJ45 female-to-female coupler?
An RJ45 female-to-female coupler is a device that joins two Ethernet RJ45 connectors to extend cable length. Also known as an inline coupler, it’s ideal for connecting Cat6 RJ45 connectors without requiring rewiring. Ensure compatibility to avoid signal loss in LAN setups.

What is a mechanical RJ45 Ethernet cable coupler?
A mechanical RJ45 Ethernet cable coupler is a durable RJ45 female-to-female coupler designed for heavy-duty use. It securely connects two RJ45 modular plugs in rugged environments, like industrial settings, and maintains signal integrity for shielded RJ45 connectors.

Can you use an RJ45 connector for non-Ethernet applications?
Yes, RJ45 connectors can be used for non-Ethernet applications like serial connections or telecom, but wiring differs from T568B. 8P8C modular connectors are often used for these purposes. Always check compatibility, as RJ45 plug types are primarily for Ethernet networking.