The Rj11 vs. Rj9 Connectors – Which one is a better performer?
These two small devices are essentially used to link phone cables to networks. They may seem similar, but they have a number of differences that set them apart.
Most of the time, when we pick up the telephone to make a call, we hardly think of the intricate details that enable us to make these calls. Devices such as connectors are pretty small, but they are incredibly essential. There are different connectors for different cables such as Ethernet cables, telephone lines and modems.
The Rj11 is most commonly used for telephone and modem connections, and it has two configuration types. The Rj9 is not a connector you will come across every now and then. It is actually at times denoted as the Rj10 or Rj22, and it also has a unique configuration type.
But are they the same, and can one be used in place of the other? What exactly are their main characteristics, and what attributes set them apart? This article will delve into each cable in detail and bring to light the main differences between these two connectors, especially their physical attributes and functionality. Eventually, you will be able to decide the best connector for your applications.
Let’s jump in!
Table of Contents
What are the differences between the Rj11 and Rj9 Connectors?
Connector Type |
Rj11 Connector (Winner) |
Rj9 Connector |
Physical Characteristics |
Square shaped |
Rectangular |
Functionality |
Modem cables and Phones |
Telephone handset cables |
Configuration |
6P2C / 6P4C Configuration |
4P4C Configuration |
The Rj11 vs. Rj9 Connectors – How do they compare?
Physical Characteristics
The Rj11 is a connector that has a square shaped. It has a width of about 9.6mm. It has a unique transparent look that allows you to see the intricate connection of wires. It is made using plastic that is strong and quite stiff. It is quite small and only weighs in at 0.16 ounces.
The Rj9 has a slightly different shape than the Rj11. It has a rectangular shape, but it is actually smaller than the Rj11. It is made with plastic and is also clear, allowing you to see the connection of wires inside.
Configuration
The Rj11 connector essentially comes in two types of configuration. One has a 6P2C configuration, meaning that it has 6 positions and 2 connection points. This connector is unable to transmit large amounts of data at a time. It is ideal for applications such as phone lines.
The other configuration type is the 6P4C configuration. It has 6 positions and 4 connection points. It has a broader bandwidth that the 6P2C connector, making it ideal for modem connections.
The Rj9 has just one configuration type which is the 4P4C connection type, indicating that it has 4 positions and 4 connection points. It gives it the ability to handle telephone handset cables.
Functionality/ Usability
The Rj11 connector is ideal for phone lines and modem connections. The reason behind this is that it can only handle a maximum of 4 wires at a time.
The 4P4C configuration of the Rj9 connector makes it ideal for use in connecting telephone handset cables. It has 3 prongs in its crimps that make compatible with both solid and stranded wires.
Rj11 v. Rj9 Connectors Overview
The Rj11 Connector
- RJ11 connectors for 4 Conductor Stranded Wire Round Phone Cables
- Crimp on RJ11 connectors
This connector that has a compact square shape is quite common. It is made using strong plastic that makes it quite strong. The interesting thing about the material used is that it is see-through which makes for a visually intriguing device. This connector mainly comes in two configuration types.
The first configuration type is the 6P2C connector. This device has 6 positions and 2 connection points. The connection points are the components that come into contact with the copper wires and are, therefore, the conductors. The Rj11 connector with this configuration type has only the capacity to transmit at small speeds. It is used for the connection of phone lines.
The second variation has a 6P4C configuration. This means that it has 6 positions and 4 connection points. It, therefore, has 2 extra conductors as compared to the 6P2C Rj11 conductor. It is ideal for connection of ADSL lines and modems.
This connector has copper pins that act as the conductors of impulses. They are coated in gold to prevent them from rusting.
Pros
- It has two configuration types
- It is made with durable material
- It is aesthetically pleasing
- It is easy to attach and terminate
- Its pins are gold coated to prevent rusting
Cons
- It may not be ideal for heavy transmissions and cables with many wires
The Rj9 Connector
- 4P4C Modular Plug for Handset Cable
- 4 Pin Connector for Flat Stranded Cable
There is a lot of confusion around this connector type. At times it is referred to as the Rj10 and it may also be identified as the Rj22. The reason behind this is that all these connector types have similar dimensions and configurations.
This connector is more rectangular than it is square. It has a width of 7.6mm, making it a bit smaller than the Rj11 connector. It has an almost similar build, though. It is made from rigid and durable plastic that is also clear. This plastic exposes the connection of wires.
This connection has a 4P4C configuration, which is similar to that of the Rj10 and Rj22, which is the reason they are viewed as the same. Its configuration means that it has 4 positions and 4 connection points. It is ideal for connecting telephone handset cables.
It has alloy pins that are made of copper. The top coat of these pins is treated with an alloy of 30 microns of gold and 30 microns of nickel. This prevents the copper pins from rusting and also gives it a more aesthetically appealing look.
Pros
- It is made with durable see through plastic
- It has pins that are gold and nickel coated to prevent them from rusting
- It is aesthetically appealing
- It is easy to attach and terminate
Cons
- It can only take 4 wires at a time
Conclusion
Both the Rj11 and Rj9 connectors are very essential in connecting devices and transmitting data from sources to devices. They have different characteristics and are compatible with different cables. They also have unique builds that make it possible to see the actual connection of the wires.
Verdict: So, which one is a better connector – Rj11 or Rj9?
The fact that the Rj11 and Rj9 are connectors meant for different applications makes it almost impossible to determine the better one of the two. However, the Rj11 seems like a more deliberate connector because it has two different builds that come with two different configuration types. This gives the connector more versatility since it has a broader range of cables with which it can be connected. For this reason, it stands out as the better performer.
FAQs
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Can the Rj9 connector be used for telephone line cords?
This is another confusion point. The answer is no. It is only meant to connect telephone handset cords and not telephone line cords. Ensure that you confirm this before purchase.
-
Can the Rj9 connector be used for flat cables?
Yes, it is well suited to handle both round and flat cables.
