RJ45 Patch leads

[comms]

We have been using RJ45 for our ethernet network for nearly five years.

Using ITT STP cabling systems with 10 year guarantee we have now decided that
the best approach is to full patch up an installation and leave the patch
cables well alone.

To insert and remove patch cables even with good quality AMP connectors from
a solid heavy gauge 19" face plate with metal shrouded STP connectors needs
a considerable amount of effort. And there is flexing involved. Then the 
sockets tend to loosen with age.

Imagine the effect on a PCB mounted RJ45 socket on module.

3com ethernet hubs have blocks of 12 sockets which are seperate from the 
circuit boards. So you could design a module to use these blocks but this 
would use up a lot of module space.

As a cost effective data/telephony system which is semi-permanently 
installed then it has come to dominated the market place. But remember it 
surplanted insulation displacement (Krone racks anyone?) and before 
that soldering on wiring frames. But it's just not suited for regular 
patching work however cost attractive.

Stephen Punt