Black Box GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack

The Black Box GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack is a high-performance modular jack engineered for fast, reliable Ethernet terminations in professional networks. Designed for versatility and longevity, it supports universal wiring and is labeled with both T568A and T568B schemes, making it ideal for diverse installations—from data centers and server rooms to wall outlets and patch panels. Built to withstand the rigors of demanding environments, this jack delivers consistent performance across Cat.5e applications, including Gigabit Ethernet, with a focus on precision, durability, and ease of installation.

At the core of the GigaBase2 jack are high-quality materials and meticulous engineering. The IDC contacts are made from phosphor bronze with tin plating, providing excellent conductivity and corrosion resistance while maintaining a reliable grip on conductors. The nose contacts feature 50-micron gold plating over a 100-micron nickel underplating, giving superior surface stability and durability for repeated terminations and field use. These features translate into stable impedance, minimized insertion loss, and robust performance across long cable runs and varying environmental conditions. The jack is also designed to be user-friendly in the field, allowing easy terminations with a standard 110 tooling system, so technicians can achieve repeatable, professional results without specialized equipment.

One of the standout benefits of the GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack is its termination retention stuffer cap, which provides strain relief to protect the termination from cable movement and stress. This simple yet effective component reduces the likelihood of connection degradation due to tugging or bending, helping maintain network reliability over time. For installers, the combination of universal wiring labeling, durable contact materials, and a tool-friendly termination process translates into faster installation times, fewer re-terminations, and improved overall project efficiency. Whether configuring a new network or upgrading existing infrastructure, the GigaBase2 jack delivers consistent results that network professionals can trust.

In addition to its performance advantages, the Black Box GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack is designed with compatibility and ease of integration in mind. The labeling includes both T568A and T568B wiring schemes, allowing technicians to adapt quickly to different network standards without confusion. The black finish provides a discreet, professional appearance in panels and enclosures, while the rugged construction ensures reliable operation in high-density environments. By combining reliable materials, precise manufacturing, and thoughtful design features, Black Box delivers a Cat.5e jack that meets the needs of modern networks while offering peace of mind on installation days and in ongoing maintenance.

• Universal wiring support with clear T568A and T568B labeling for flexible network deployments.
• IDC contacts crafted from phosphor bronze with tin plating for durable, low-resistance terminations.
• Nose contacts plated with 50-micron gold over 100-micron nickel underplating for superior wear and corrosion resistance.
• Easy terminations using a standard 110 tool for fast, repeatable installations.
• Termination retention stuffer cap provides strain relief to protect terminations from cable movement and stress.

Technical Details of Black Box GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack

• Wiring: Universal with labeling for both T568A and T568B schemes.
• IDC contacts: Phosphor bronze with tin plating for reliable, low-resistance terminations.
• Nose contacts: 50-micron gold plating over 100-micron nickel underplating for durability and corrosion resistance.
• Termination method: Designed for easy terminations using a standard 110 tooling system.
• Strain relief: Termination retention stuffer cap provides robust strain relief to protect the connection from movement and stress.
• Finish: Black body with professional, low-profile appearance suitable for panels, patch panels, and wall outlets.

how to install Black Box GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack

Preparing for installation starts with selecting the correct wiring scheme for your network—T568A or T568B—based on existing standards in the environment. Verify labeling on the jack to ensure you terminate the conductors in the intended pattern. Before you begin, gather a standard 110 punch-down tool, Cat.5e cable, wire stripper, and a cable tester to confirm proper termination after completion.

Step 1: Prepare the cable. Strip the outer jacket to expose the individual pairs while maintaining appropriate conductor length. Untwist a small amount of each pair and align the conductors in the correct order for your chosen wiring scheme. Keep conductors neat and aligned to prevent mis-termination or cross-pair noise.

Step 2: Terminate using the 110 tool. Place conductors into the IDC contacts of the jack according to T568A or T568B. Apply even pressure with the 110 tool to ensure a solid, secure connection, and avoid over-stripping conductors. The phosphor bronze IDC contacts and the gold/fl innish nose contacts are designed to establish a reliable connection with minimal insertion loss when properly terminated.

Step 3: Secure termination with the stuffer cap. Once all conductors are seated, engage the termination retention stuffer cap to provide strain relief. This helps protect the termination from cable movement and reduces the potential for performance degradation due to mechanical stress in the field. Ensure the cap is fully seated and locked into place before testing.

Step 4: Inspect and test. Visually inspect the termination for proper conductor seating and ensure there are no stray strands or uncaptured conductors. Use a cable tester to verify continuity, proper pair alignment, and absence of short circuits or opens. A successful test confirms that the jack will perform as expected in the network environment and helps identify any issues before the installation becomes operational.

Step 5: Integrate into the system. Once tested, mount the jack into the panel or outlet, route the cable neatly, and secure it to minimize movement and strain. Confirm that there is no undue stress on the terminated area and that the path from the wall or panel to the patch panel remains clean and organized. Employ cable management practices to maintain signal integrity and facilitate future maintenance or upgrades.

Frequently asked questions

Q: What applications is the Black Box GigaBase2 Cat.5e Jack suitable for?

A: It is designed for Cat.5e Ethernet terminations in a variety of settings, including data centers, network closets, patch panels, and wall outlets. Its universal wiring, robust contact materials, and strain-relief features make it appropriate for Gigabit Ethernet deployments, general office networks, and other standard Cat.5e use cases.

Q: What makes this jack different from standard Cat.5e jacks?

A: The GigaBase2 jack combines high-quality phosphor bronze IDC contacts with tin plating, gold-plated nose contacts over nickel underplating, and a dedicated stuffer cap for strain relief, all labeled for both T568A and T568B. It is designed to support easy terminations with a 110 tool, delivering consistent, reliable results in professional installations.

Q: Do I need special training to install this jack?

A: No specialized training is required beyond familiarity with standard 110 tooling and Cat.5e termination practices. The dual labeling (T568A/T568B) helps installers avoid mistakes, and the stuffer cap provides an added layer of protection for terminations during and after installation.