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Ask HN: Why haven't we miniaturized the Ethernet RJ45?

10 points linuxlizard | 1 comments | 15 Oct 24 14:50 UTC | HN request time: 0.204s | source

Why is the Ethernet jack still a huge monstrosity? I see these small boards appearing and the ridiculous sized Ethernet jack looms over the PCB.

https://www.cnx-software.com/2024/10/14/wiznet-w55rp20-evb-pico-board-features-w55rp20-sip-with-w5500-ethernet-controller-and-rp2040-mcu/

We have gone from giant USB-A to the slim USB-C and converters are available. We have mini Display Port and converters are available. Why has no one tried to miniaturize RJ45?

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i0nutzb ◴[15 Oct 24 15:04 UTC] No.41849367[source]▶
Probably because you have to be able to crimp that connector as simple as possible, without too much tooling OR training needed.

You literally can train anyone, as non-tech as possible, to crimp 8 wires with a $5 tool in 5-10 minutes.

replies(1): >>41849412 #
linuxlizard ◴[15 Oct 24 15:07 UTC] No.41849412[source]▶
Crimping our own cables is more common in data center or IT. Normal people wouldn't cut their own cables. I've given up cutting my own cables for home use (fixing busted heads) because it's easier to just grab a new cable.
replies(1): >>41849441 #
pavel_lishin ◴[15 Oct 24 15:10 UTC] No.41849441[source]▶
The last time I crimped one was three years ago when we moved into this house - I wanted a particularly long run of cable, and it was difficult to buy Just One.

The last time before that was when I was working as an IT tech in high school 20 years ago.

But yeah - I'm not even sure if "normal" people know you can make your own cables.

replies(1): >>41850083 #
1. ◴[15 Oct 24 16:13 UTC] No.41850083[source]▶