A range of low-profile RJ45 network sockets with integrated status LEDs (light emitting diodes) has been introduced by connector manufacturer GTK. The GTK Light Jack range is designed for manufacturers of networking devices — such as routers, hubs and switches — as well as telecommunications systems, PCs and servers, office equipment, medical equipment and industrial control systems.

GTK Light Jacks can be specified to incorporate either one or two LEDs per socket, in various colour combinations selected from red, green, yellow and bicolour yellow/green or red/green. Located on top of the socket for easy visibility, the LEDs can be programmed to perform different functions, e.g. on/off status indicator or flashing indicator of data traffic.

Both unshielded and shielded Light Jacks are available, the latter incorporating conductive tabs to ground directly to the panel. By integrating the status LEDs within the RJ45 socket itself, GTK has kept the size of single-socket unshielded and shielded packages, respectively, down to 15.15 mm and 15.75 mm deep, and 13.15 mm and 13.46 mm high. This allows OEMs to reduce both PCB real estate and board spacing within their systems.

In addition to single-socket connectors, ‘harmonica’ variants are available incorporating up to eight sockets and 16 LEDs. A specially developed inverted latch on top of each socket allows easy plug insertion and removal.

GTK Light Jacks take the form of through-hole mounted or SMT components moulded in engineering thermoplastic, with a range of contact options including 50 micro-inch gold plated nickel. All Light Jacks meet or exceed FCC Part 68 specifications.