A connector is a physical component that helps connect multiple devices in one computer network. Connectors allow data processing signals through contact points called pins. They provide the network’s electrical and mechanical interface. In mechanical mode, they offer a complete arrangement and safe connection. In Electrical mode, they promote the flow of power and data in the network. In computer networking, connectors play a significant role and are famous for their mating features, such as jack attachments (male connectors) and port attachments (female connectors).
Connectors are used to connect the different physical and virtual components. There are various types of connectors in computer networks. Every type plays a specific role in networking. This blog post will teach you about the connectors and their types. You will also learn some interesting facts that will surprise you.
Function of Connectors in a Computer
The function of connectors is to interconnect components in the computer network. Data, signals, and power transfer easily when all components perform correctly. These connectors act as the interfaces that make reliable communications between external and internal devices. Communication is impossible when any connector, cable, or other component malfunctions. You can send and receive data to check the speed of a computer network. You should always use the best connectors and other elements to make effective computer networking.
Different Types of Connectors in Computer Networks
There are various types of connectors in computer networks. Every type plays an important and unique role in the networking system. Connectors are the main components that help with physical and virtual connections. When every network element performs, the setup becomes complete and functional. Now, you will learn different types of connectors for various purposes.
Registered Jack 45 (RJ-45)
Registered Jack is the most common connector used for Ethernet networking and LAN. It connects the computer, switches, router, and other hardware components.
Its essential characteristics are given below:
- The RJ-45 connector has 8 pins.
- It uses high-class ethernet cables like CAT5e, CAT5, and CAT6.
- It sends data at the speed of 10 MBPS, 100 MBPS, and 1 GBPS.
- It is considered a more secure and reliable wired data.
- It sends the data and power to the network.
RJ-11: (Registered Jack-11):
RJ-11 is not an ethernet connector like RJ-45. It’s primarily used in telephonic wiring. Although they look the same, there are too many differences between them.
Its essential features are explained below:
- RU-11 is mainly used in the telephone lines.
- It is used in the Digital Subscriber Line (DSL).
- RJ-11 consists of the small 6 pins.
- Some RJ-11 connectors also contain 2 and 4 pins.
- It uses analog signals, while RJ-45 uses the ethernet.
Fiber Optic Connectors:
Fiber Optic Connectors are vital components for fiber optic communication devices. Their primary purpose is to improve the transmission of communication signals. Various types of connectors are used to connect fiber optic connectors, such as subscriber connectors, Straight-Tip connectors, Lucent Connectors, and MTRJ connectors.
Some more characteristics are explained below:
- It wastes a small amount of power in the data processing.
- It is considered the backbone of high-speed internet.
- It is used in the medical field like diagnostic instruments
- It is compact and ideal for high-density applications.
- It is easy to run and install.
USB (Universal Serial Bus):
Universal Serial Bus (USB) connects multiple devices to a computer. It is used on a large scale because it is adjustable and suitable. It provides power delivery, data transfer, and device charging. There are different types of USB, such as Type-A, Type-B, and Type-C.
Its features and structure are given below:
- It is easy to use.
- It is a more used device than others due to less cost and flexibility.
- Most modern computers use USB ports, which are also used by mice, telephones, cameras, printers, keyboards, and other portable devices.
- USB support to the 127 devices in the series.
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface):
The High-Definition Multimedia Interface is the smartest choice for transmitting audio and video signals over a single cable. It is connected to consumer electronic devices such as ultra HD TVs, DVD and Blu-ray players, game consoles, and streaming devices like Roku, soundbars, laptops, and PCs. HDMI is also used for computer networking for all communication devices.
Its typical features are explained below:
- It is used in electronic devices.
- It is used in computer networking and all technology devices.
- The first HDMI was released in December 2002 and developed by Philips.
- It has multiple features, such as mechanical, electronic, and communication protocols.
- It supports the different devices that connect with cables and perform mechanically.
SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable):
Small Form-factor Pluggable is a tight and hot-pluggable network connection for data communication and telecommunication. It provides electrical and optical reach through fiber and copper optics. It can send and receive data at the same time. It is mostly used in computer networking to provide a high-speed internet connection.
Some unique features are given below:
- It is small and becomes very useful when space is limited.
- It is beneficial for expanding the network without redesigning the cable structure.
- Choosing the correct type of SFP depends on the distance between devices, network, wavelength, and module.
- There are different types of SFP, such as 1G, which has a shorter distance (100-550 m): 1000BASE-T SFP and 1000BASE-SX SFP.
- SFPs are used in datacom and telecom.
Types of Connectors Used for Networking
Various connectors are used to establish a physical connection in computer networking. Each type of connector plays a vital role in the communication. There are 3 basic types which play the most critical role in it that are explained below:
- Coaxial Cable Connectors:
- Its developing purpose was to connect different network devices like TV networks and modems.
- It is used for cable internet and television.
- It is mostly used for cable broadband internet.
- Twisted-Pair Cable Connectors
- Twisted-Pair Cable Connectors are the old and famous network media.
- It is mainly used for signal processing on electronic devices.
- It is also used for modern Ethernet networks and telephone communications.
- Fiber-Optic Cable Connectors
- It wastes a small amount of power in the data processing.
- It is considered the backbone of high-speed internet.
- It is used in the medical field like diagnostic instruments
- It is compact and ideal for high-density applications.
- It is easy to run and install.
Networking Cable Connector
There are many network cable connectors, each used for a specific purpose. Every cable type connects to a specific type of connector in the network. You must set cables and connectors properly to connect to the computing network.
Necessary networking cable connectors are given here.
- T type connectors
- RJ-45 connectors
- RJ-11 Connectors
- DB-9 (RS-232) connectors
- Universal serial bus (USB) connectors
- MTRJ connectors
- Barrel connectors
- F connectors
- Terminator connectors
Types of Cables and Connectors in Computer Network
There are 11 types of connectors and 4 types of cables used in computer networking. All these are explained below:
Types of Cables in Computer Networking:
- Twisted Pair Cables
- Fiber Optic Cables
- Coaxial Cables
- PoE Cables
Types of Connectors in Computer Networking:
- Multi-Fiber Push On/Pull Off
- Bayonet Neill-Concelman
- Coaxial Connectors
- DB9 and DB25 Connectors
- DIN Connectors
- Registered Jack-45
- Registered Jack-11
- Fiber Optic Connectors
- Universal Serial Bus
- High-Definition Multimedia Interface
Summary
Connectors are an important part of computer networking. A computer network is built on different elements and is the submission of multiple devices. A network will be successful when every component will work correctly. Various devices are connected through connectors in one network. According to the need for networking, connectors are divided into different categories. Every connector type is used for specific tasks, like RJ-45 for the ethernet cable.
FAQs About the Types of Connectors in Computer Network
In this section, you will learn frequently asked questions about various types of connectors in computer networks. You can also ask any question in the comment section.
What are the Different Types of Connectors in Networking?
A connector is a physical component that helps communicate between devices in one computer network. Connectors allow the data processing signals through contact points called pins.
Different types of connectors in networking are explained below:
- T type connectors
- RJ-45 connectors
- RJ-11 Connectors
- DB-9 (RS-232) connectors
- Universal serial bus (USB) connectors
- MTRJ connectors
- Barrel connectors
- F connectors
- Terminator connectors
What are the Six main Types of Connectors in a Computer?
There are multiple types of connectors in a computer. But the most used of them are given below:
- RJ-45 (Registered Jack-45)
- RJ-11: (Registered Jack-11)
- USB (Universal Serial Bus)
- Fiber Optic Connectors
- High-Definition Multimedia Interface
- SFP (Small Form-factor Pluggable)
What are the Different Types of Connecting Devices in Computer Networks?
Computer networks contain different elements, each playing a vital role in networking. The best computer network strategies work efficiently and produce a lot of output.
Different types of connecting devices in computer networks are given below:
- Hub
- Bridge
- Modem
- Switching
- Router
- Repeater
- Gateway
- Load Balancers
What are the types of connectors in computer networks and their functions?
In a computer network, connectors are essential to make a physical setup in the shape of the network. Communication becomes easy when you make the best connection, and data remains secure. Different connectors are used to make a physical connection in the computer network.
Their essential function is given below:
- RJ-45 and RJ-11 are used in the telephones and ethernet cables.
- SFLP and QSFP are used for high-performing networks and are primarily found in data centers.
- SC, LC, ST, and MTP are used for the long-distance data transmission lines.
- Preferred Connectors are used for different network devices like USB and ethernet cables.