Differences in RJ45 connector models

The main differences between RJ45 connector models lie in transmission rate, structural design, protection level, and application scenarios Different models meet diverse needs through differentiated technical parameters and physical characteristics. Here's a detailed analysis of the core differences:

I. Classification by Transmission Rate and Standard

RJ45 models are directly related to Ethernet categories (Cat), with different categories corresponding to different transmission rates and bandwidths:
 

Technical Differences ：

• Cat6 vs Cat6A Cat6A improves bandwidth from 250MHz to 500MHz by optimizing twist length and shielding, supporting 100-meter 10Gbps transmission, while Cat6 only supports 55 meters.
• Cat8 vs Cat8.1 Cat8.1 introduces more advanced signal processing technologies (such as PAM4 modulation) based on Cat8 to achieve 40Gbps transmission and is compatible with existing Cat8 cabling systems.

II. Classification by Structure and Functional Design

1. Shielded and Unshielded Design

Unshielded (UTP) ：

• Features No metal shielding layer, low cost but weak anti-interference ability, suitable for low-interference environments.
• Model Example VCOM Unshielded Cat5e Module (50u gold-plated, ≥1500 insertions).
• Applications Home routers, consumer electronics.

Shielded (STP/SFTP) ：

• Features Metal shell or aluminum foil shielding layer, attenuates EMI/RFI, supports higher transmission rates.
• Model Example Siemens IE FC RJ45 Plug (metal shielded, IP67 protection).
• Applications Industrial equipment, data centers.

2. Latch Type and Protection Level

Standard Latch ：

• Features Plastic latch, prevents accidental disconnection, suitable for normal environments.
• Model Example Huawei AirEngine 6776I-X6TH RJ45 interface (IP68 protection).
• Applications Office networks, smart homes.

Reinforced Latch ：

• Features Stainless steel or galvanized steel latch, resistant to vibration and impact, protection level IP66/67/69.
• Model Example ILME CJZA 8 IA4 (with roller latch, IP69 protection).
• Applications Factory automation, new energy charging piles.

3. Integrated and Separate

Integrated ：

• Features Built-in network transformer, saves space but heat dissipation is limited, commonly used in consumer electronics.
• Model Example Xiaomi smart TV RJ45 module (with LED status indicator).
• Applications Routers, smart TVs.

Separate ：

• Features External network transformer, good heat dissipation, supports high-power PoE++ (90W).
• Model Example Advantech ENS-2421E industrial switch module (supports 4 groups of Bypass).
• Applications Industrial PLCs, servo drivers.

III. Classification by Application Scenarios

1. Consumer Electronics and Office

Integrated RJ45 ：

• Features Small size, supports 1Gbps, some with LED indicators.
• Model Example TP-Link router RJ45 interface (Cat6 standard).
• Applications Home routers, smart TVs.

Latch Version ：

• Features Plastic latch prevents accidental disconnection, suitable for scenarios requiring long-term stable connection.
• Model Example D-Link DGS-108T switch port (Cat5e).
• Applications Office network cabinets.

2. Industrial and Extreme Environments

Reinforced RJ45 ：

• Features IP67/IP68 protection, wide temperature range (-40°C~+105°C), anti-vibration design.
• Model Example Siemens IE FC RJ45 plug (6GK1901-1BB10-2AA0, IP67).
• Applications Factory robots, wind power equipment.

Separated structure ：

• Features External network transformer to avoid magnetic component failure at high temperatures.
• Model Example DRP10188200012 industrial plug (Cat6A, 45° cable outlet).
• Applications Industrial switches, new energy charging piles.

3. Data centers and high-speed networks

Shielded RJ45 ：

• Features Metal shell grounding, supports 25G/40GBASE-T protocol.
• Model Example Molex dust cover socket (6-port stacking design).
• Applications Cloud computing servers, storage devices.

High-density design ：

• Features Multi-port stacking, saves space.
• Model Example ShiDian Technology six-port EtherCAT splitter (SW4-ECP06).
• Applications Wafer handling system, battery testing line.

4. Smart home and Internet of Things

PoE power connector ：

• Features Supports 802.3bt standard, transmits 90W power.
• Model Example Huawei PoE++ interface board (integrated power supply and data transmission).
• Applications Smart cameras, industrial APs.

Waterproof RJ45 ：

• Features IPX9K protection, resistant to high-pressure water jets.
• Model Example TE Connectivity waterproof RJ45 (IPX9K certified).
• Applications Outdoor lighting, smart helipads.

IV. Comparison of Key Selection Parameters

V. Brand Model Features and Application Cases

Huawei ：

• Model AirEngine 6776I-X6TH
• Features Supports 10GE/PoE_IN, IP68 protection, -40°C~70°C wide temperature range, suitable for industrial IoT.
• Applications Smart factory equipment networking.

Siemens ：

• Model IE FC RJ45 Plug 180 (6GK1901-1BB10-2AA0)
• Features Metal shielding, IP67 protection, supports PROFINET protocol, 180°/90°/145° cable outlet.
• Applications Automotive production line control system.

Advantech ：

• Model ENS-2841E(B)
• Features 8-port Gigabit RJ45, supports 4 sets of Bypass, suitable for high-density industrial switches.
• Applications New energy battery testing line.

ShiDian Technology ：

• Model SW4-ECP06
• Features Six-port EtherCAT splitter, supports hot-swapping, used for multi-device synchronous control.
• Applications Wafer automatic handling system.

VI. Future Development Trends

1. High-speed Cat8.1 is in mass production, 80Gbps RJ45 is under development, suitable for AI servers and autonomous driving data centers.
2. Multi-functional integration Integrating PoE++ power supply, signal monitoring and protocol conversion (such as EtherCAT) to achieve "one-network connectivity".
3. Green EU RoHS3.0 promotes lead-free, ceramic substrate material extends plug-in life to 150,000 times.
4.  

The essential difference between RJ45 connector models is A balance between performance, environmental adaptability and cost When selecting, consider factors such as specific scene transmission requirements, electromagnetic interference levels, and power supply requirements. Prioritize cable grade matching and pay attention to brand certifications (such as TIA/EIA, UL, CE).