GB2349282A - Adapter for connecting four telephone lines using an eight-wire computer network link - Google Patents

Abstract

An adapter allows four telephones to be connected to a single Category 5 or 6 eight-wire computer network socket. Each telephone uses two of the eight available wires. The device has switches (3, Figure 2) to select which two pins of the telephone sockets the wires are connected to, as analogue and digital telephones use different pairs. The device may use standard RJ45 sockets, four for the telephones (1) and one for the network (2). Two devices are required, one at each end of the eight-wire link. The device may have rubber feet (4, Figure 2) so that it can stand on a desk or table.

Description

DESCRIPTION Telephone Multiple-terminal Access (TMAU page 1/1 Many of today's companies have invested in structured cabling systems to cater for their computer network and telecommunications needs. A comprehensive system will normally allow every employee to have their computer and telephone services provided directly to their desk with capacity to spare for future expansion.

In reality cabling systems are often under specified or are put under strain by unforeseen office reorganisations. Expanding existing cabling systems can be an expensive and messy business.

TMAU's may be used as a temporary or permanent solution for connecting multiple (up to 4) digital or analogue telephones to a single network socket.

The TMAU works on the principle that Category 5 and Category 6 cabling systems contain four"pairs"of wires per network connection.

Standard telephone systems only utilise one"pair"to carry their signal.

The TMAU units contain five 8 pin RJ45 sockets (the type used in network systems). Four of the sockets are grouped together and carry individual telephone signals (Figure 1, 1). The fifth socket carries the concentrated signal of the four telephones (Figure 1,2). A row of 8 miniature switches (Figure 2,3) are provided to configure the unit for analogue or digital use by connecting different pins on the telephone sockets (1 & 2 for digital, 4 & 5 for analogue). A combination of analogue and digital telephones can be used.

TMAU units must be used in pairs. The telephone signals must be combined with a TMAU at the network cabinet, then separated with another TMAU at the network socket.

The TMAU has four rubber feet (Figure 2,4) so that it may stand on a desk or table top.

Claims (4)

1. CLAIMS 1. A device for connecting up to four telephones to a single network socket on a Category 5 or 6 cabling system
2. 2. A device as claimed in Claim 1 which is fitted with switches to allow it to be used with digital or analogue telephone systems
3. 3. A device as claimed in Claim 1 or Claim 2 which uses RJ45 sockets to make connections to aforementioned cabling systems and telephones
4. 4. A device substantially as herein described and illustrated in the accompanying drawings