Rj11 vs. Rj14 Connectors – Which one is a better connector?
The Rj11 and Rj14 are devices used in connecting different devices to network sources. They have a number of similarities, but what characteristics set them apart?
The Rj11 and Rj14 are the two most commonly used connectors when it comes to telephone connections. They are so similar that it is almost impossible to tell them apart just by looking at them.
They are both made from clear plastic that is rigid and strong, making them small but durable. The main thing that separates them is that the Rj11 can only connect on telephone unit at a time due to its connection method. The Rj14 has the capacity to host two telephone units at a time, giving it an advantage over the Rj11 connector.
But which one of these connectors is the most ideal and why? Since it is almost impossible to visually tell them apart, this article will look into each one and outline their differences and similarities so you can be able to decide between the two. Here is a brief breakdown of each of the connector’s characteristics.
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Rj11 and the Rj14?
Connector |
Rj11 |
Rj14 (Winner) |
Physical characteristics |
Compact, square shaped |
Compact, square shaped |
Configuration |
6P2C or 6P4C |
6P4C |
Uses |
Telephone connection |
Telephone connection |
Rj11 vs. Rj14 Connectors – How do they differ?
Physical Characteristics
The Rj11 is a small device that has a compact square shape. It has a width of 9.66mm. It is made using rigid plastic that is clear, allowing you to see the actual connection of the wires inside. It is a light device that only weighs in at 0.16 ounces.
The Rj14 connector is an exact replica of the Rj11. It is also compact and square shaped and has a width of 9.66mm. The body is also made using rigid plastic that is clear, allowing the connection of wires to be visible. It also has a weight of 0.16 ounces.
Configuration
The Rj11 has two different methods of configuration. The first one is a 6P2C configuration. This indicates that it has 6 positions and 2 connection points. This type of connector is designed to hold two wires at a time. The second connector has a 6P4C configuration, meaning that it has 6 positions and 4 connection points.
Unlike the Rj11, the Rj14 has only one configuration type. It uses the 6P4C wiring method, meaning that it has 6 positions and 4 connection points. The interesting bit about this connector is its ability to connect two telephone units at the same time. It is an ideal connector for when you have two telephone lines that lead to the same telephone.
Uses
Seeing that both connectors are identical copies of each other, it is expected that they are also use in the same applications. They are both used in telephone line connections.
Rj11 vs. Rj14 Connectors Overview
The Rj11 Connector
- RJ11 connectors for 4 Conductor Stranded Wire Round Phone Cables
- Crimp on RJ11 connectors
This connector is commonly used in telephone lines and modem connections. It is a compact square shaped device that is quite small. This connector has a width of 9.66 mm and it is made with rigid plastic. It has a weight of 0.16 ounces which makes it a very light device. It is a see-through device that allows you to see the intricate connection of wires.
This connector has copper pins act as the conductors of the electromagnetic impulses. They are coated in gold to prevent them from rusting. The Rj11 has two different configuration types. It has a 6P2C configuration that has 6 positions and 2 contact points. It can connect two wires at a time. The other configuration type has a 6P4C configuration, meaning that it is possible to connect 4 wires at a time.
This connector is mostly used to connect telephone lines and modems. The method of attaching the copper wires from the telephone line to this connector is to strip back a quarter of the wires insulation and put the wires through the contact points. When this is done, crimp the wire to make it secure.
Pros
- It has 2 connection configurations
- It is easy to attach and terminate
- It is made with strong and durable material
- Its copper pins are gold coated to prevent them from rusting
- It is aesthetically appealing
Cons
- It does not have the capacity to handle heavy transmissions
The Rj14 Connector
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This connector is an exact make as the Rj11. It is virtually impossible to tell the two apart since they have the same measurements and weight. The unique thing about this connector is that while the Rj11 can only connect one telephone unit, it can connect two units at a time.
This connector is also made with rigid plastic that has see-through characteristics. It allows for you to see the connection of wires inside. The Rj14 uses copper pins to transmit electromagnetic impulses from the router to the Ethernet cable and vice versa. These pins are coated in gold to prevent them from rusting. It is a compact square shaped device with a length of 9.66mm. It also has a similar weight as the Rj11, weighing only 0.16 ounces.
This connector has a 6P4C configuration. This indicates that it has 6 contacts and 4 connection point. This allows for 4 wires to be connected at the same time. To attach the wires to this connector, you need to strip back a quarter of the exposed copper wires’ insulation on the cable, put them through the connection points and crimp. This is quite easy to do, and once crimped it remains very secure.
Pros
- It is made with strong and durable plastic
- It has copper pins that are treated in gold to keep them from rusting
- It is easy to attach and remove
- It can accommodate two telephone units at a go
- The clear see-through quality makes it aesthetically appealing
Cons
- It has only one configuration method
- It cannot handle heavy transmissions
Conclusion
It is quite unique to find two different devices that have exact characteristics that can hardly be identified just by looking at them. The Rj11 and Rj14 are very similar and are no doubt very essential when it comes to telephone and modem connections.
Verdict: So, which one is better – Rj11 or Rj14?
The Rj11 is without a doubt a strong contender for its two configuration options. However, the Rj14 stands out for its ability to host two telephone devices at the same time. This makes it a better device. You only need one of the Rj14 in the place of two Rj11 connectors.
FAQs
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Can I use my Rj11 connector for electric transmission?
This is highly discouraged. The RJ11 is a high resistance connector, and the connection may result in the generation of a lot of heat. This may damage your connector.
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Is the Rj14 connector ideal for Ethernet cable connections?
It would be advisable to use each connector for its intended purpose for best results. The recommended connector for Ethernet cable is the Rj45 which is bigger and has a capacity to transmit high volumes of data at a time and has an 8P8C configuration.
