How to Configure Ethernet Patch Panel for 10Base-T?
What does it mean when a technician punches down only the middle two pins (pins 4 and 5) on an Ethernet patch panel?
A) The technician has configured the Ethernet patch panel for 100Base-TX
B) The technician has configured the Ethernet patch panel for 1000Base-T
C) The technician has configured the Ethernet patch panel for 10Base-T
D) The technician has configured the Ethernet patch panel for 100Base-FX
Answer:
The technician has configured the Ethernet patch panel for 10Base-T.
When a technician punches down only the middle two pins (pins 4 and 5) on an Ethernet patch panel, it means that the port is configured for 10Base-T Ethernet. This configuration allows the Ethernet patch panel to operate over just two pins, which is one pair of wires (pins 4 and 5).
Ethernet standards like 100Base-TX and 1000Base-T require more than two pairs of wires to operate, specifically pins 1, 2, 3, and 6. By choosing 10Base-T, the technician ensures that the Ethernet patch panel is compatible with the configuration of connecting only pins 4 and 5.
It's important for technicians to correctly configure Ethernet patch panels to ensure proper operation of network connections.