R&M Streamlines RJ45 Connector Lines
R&M recently streamlined and harmonized its portfolio of RJ45 connectors including Category 6A, Category 6, and Category 5e products. As a result of this effort, each performance level is available in two variants—shielded and unshielded—resulting in fewer differences in the termination process as well as fewer part numbers from which to order.
The Category 6A, 6, and 5e modules all feature a universal design, which R&M explains means that terminating cables to them “requires less effort. All modules work with the Easy Lock quick mounting technology … Easy Lock turns the mounting of the wire guide, the connecting of the copper wires, and the closing of the housing into one step.” Functions including tension relief, color coding, and dust protection are consolidated into the housing as well, which results in “installers handling fewer loose small parts that have a tendency to be dropped,” the company pointed out.
This 6A, 6, and 5e product portfolio is part of the R&Mfreenet end-to-end cabling system. They all carry the moniker EL4.0, which stands for Easy Lock, 4th generation. They are available without adapters and fit into all R&Mfreenet outlets and patch panels. Separately, the company offers adapters for mounting in third-party products such as keystones.
The shielded versions feature zinc die-cast housing, while unshielded versions feature plastic housing. “In the Cat 6A EL 4.0 version, metal fibers in a plastic housing reduce alien crosstalk,” R&M stated.
In addition to streamlining its RJ45 connector product line, R&M has begun to phase out plastic packaging for its products. When ordered in bulk, RJ45 modules are shipped in recycled-cardboard boxes while individual products are packaged in paper bags.
The image gallery immediately below displays components of R&M's optimized Category 6A, 6, and 5e RJ45s along with accessories and other offerings. Click on the image to go to the full gallery.
