Molex 1000Base-T adapter targets GbE apps

Molex Inc.'s SFP RJ-45 1000Base-T transceiver adapter module provides a seamless end-to-end RJ-45 Cat.5 solution for office networking, among other applications. The SFP adapters, which will be launched at next month's Supercomm show in Atlanta, Georgia, enable users to reliably transmit GbE data over Cat.5 copper cable, said Craig Fosnaught, product manager at Molex.

The next-generation SFP system, which provides increased data transfer rates, builds on the networking industry's GBIC standard. The adapters are used to connect copper or fiber-optic pluggable transceivers and cable assemblies into the host end equipment, such as network switches, routers, servers and storage devices, at a smaller size. "This gives networking customers the option of being able to plug in Cat.5 cable or optical cable as the marketplace transitions from GBIC to small-form-factor products," said Fosnaught.

Providing an integrated, full-duplex data link for communication over UTP copper cable, the adapter is also hot-pluggable. Thus, SFP-compatible modules can be changed without any interruptions to system power. Molex said that the adapter adheres to the industry's SFP MSA, which allows 12-, 24-, 36-, and 48-port densities.

With a zinc die-cast back shell to improve heat dissipation and EMI performance, the design features a bail latch that makes it easier to extract the adapter from the SFP EMI cage. The adapter supports auto-negotiation for full-duplex, master/slave, automatic MDI crossover, and pause-flow control over the host serdes or Cat.5 interface.

Fosnaught pointed to what Molex claims is a unique feature of the product: its ability to allow side-to-side stacking of the SFP RJ-45 1000Base-T for space savings.

To offer a total GbE solution, Molex's SFP 1000Base-T transceiver adapter module works in conjunction with other components of the company's SFP solution. They include short-reach copper transceivers, copper patch cords, EMI cages, and 20-pin surface-mount connectors.

Other new products

Typical pricing for the SFP 1000Base-T transceiver adapter module is $106.44 each in quantities of 100. Samples are available. Production quantities will be available in July or August.

Molex also plans to unveil its Power Dock modular, board-to-board connector system, and a family of polarization-maintaining cable assemblies at Supercomm. The board-to-board connector system includes hot-pluggable power contacts with a variety of options for board orientation, power-mating sequences, termination and guide pins for power supplies in high-end computers and telecom equipment.

This system is available with either six or 24 signal modules. The company said it will soon launch a configurator Web site where customers can order the PowerDock connector system online.

As for the cable assembly, Molex said it offers high extinction ratios and low insertion losses. The single-mode fiber assemblies can be terminated to industry-standard SC, FC, LC, MU, and blind-mate backplane connectors for use at 1,300nm or 1,550nm.

- Gina Ross

EE Times