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Before You Begin - Modular Cables Are Not All The Same
EasyDCC uses regular telephone style 6 conductor modular cables. These are inexpensive, easy
to build yourself and readily available. CVP Products offers custom lengths of cable with or
without modular plugs attached. See the price sheet for details. Also, Radio Shack sells several
lengths of 6 conductor modular cables with plugs already attached. Home Depot and similar
large hardware stores sell modular telephone cable in their electrical wiring department.
Two Types Of Modular Cables
The first type is the standard telco modular cable sold for telephone applications. We call this
Telco cable. You must use this type of cable for connections between the Command Station and
wireless receivers and Extenders. It can also be used with ZoneMaster boosters but this is not
mandatory. This type of cable is what’s included with the Extender and the Wireless Receiver.
The second type is modular data cable sold for use in creating local area networks. It cannot be
used to make connections between the Command Station, Extender or Wireless Receiver.
However, it is OK for use with ZoneMaster boosters.
Proper Polarization Mandatory
When building your own cables, be sure to polarize the plugs properly. The illustration shows an
easy way to remember the proper orientation for telco style cables – everything UP. The cable’s
molding ridge is easily seen running down the center of the cable. Just make sure to have it face
up along with the tabs on the two plugs.
If making data cables, the tab is up on one end and down on the other end, relative to the cable’s
molding ridge.
Cable making is easy when the correct tool, plugs and modular cable are used. Modular cable
may be constructed with either solid wire or stranded wire for the individual conductors and the
correct plug must be used to insure a reliable connection. Do not use a plug designed for stranded
wire on solid conductor modular cable.
Modular Cable Supplies
Item Radio Shack Stock # Mouser Stock #
6 conductor crimp plug (for stranded type) 279-421 154-UL6236
6 conductor cable (stranded type) 278-874 n/a
Crimp tool (for attaching plug to cable) 279-405 n/a
Telco Cable and Plug Orientation
Data Cable and Plug Orientation
Tab
Tab
Tab
Tab
Molding Ridge
Tab
Molding Ridge On top
Molding Ridge On top
Do not use 4-conductor modular cables and plugs. Doing so
will damage 6-conductor modular connectors. The repair
charges are not covered by warranty.
Warning
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