When to Replace the Jacks - DSX-PCxx Patch Cord Adapters

If you are looking for instructions on how to replace the jacks, see How to Replace the Jacks - DSX-PCxx Adapters.

The RJ45 jacks in the DSX-PCxx adapters are typically good for 5000 insertions when used continuously. When used non-continuously, the lifetime can be reduced to 750 insertions. After 750 insertions, the gold plating that prevents oxidation on the contacts is possibly worn away, but continuous use wipes off the oxidation and extends the life of the contacts.

! Caution !

If you do tests on patch cords that have poorly crimped plugs, you can reduce the life of the patch cord adapter's jacks or make them unusable.

How to Monitor the Number of Insertions for a Jack

To see the number of tests done with a patch cord adapter, attach the adapter to the main tester, then tap TOOLS > Version Information > ADAPTER. These counts show on the VERSION INFORMATION screen:

• - Autotest Count is the number of Autotests done with the adapter.

• - Current Series is an Autotest count that you can reset. Use this counter to monitor the number of insertions for the jack. To reset the counter after you replace a jack, tap Reset Series.

When to Replace the Jacks in the Adapters

Replace the jacks in the adapters when any of these conditions occur:

• - Margins for patch cord tests begin to get smaller.

• - Patch cord tests, especially wire map or return loss tests, begin to give inconsistent results.

• - You have connected patch cords to the jacks more than 5000 times.

• - The characterization test fails or the results are very different from the results you saw when the adapters were new.

See this article for information about adapter characterization tests.

Replacement Part Numbers