Topology

10BaseT uses a hub-based star physical topology. Each station is individually connected to a port on a central multiport repeater, concentrator, or hub. The basic functions of the 10BaseT hub are described below.

The 10BaseT hub provides a central wiring point for each station connection, or segment. Circuitry in the hub provides a repeater and transceiver function, broadcasting each network packet to every station attached to the hub. Hubs can be interconnected to extend the LAN. The 10BaseT Star Topology Diagram presents this type of configuration.

The UTP cable used with 10BaseT is connectorized, with each component and cable using the RJ-45 connector. This easy-to-manipulate connector allows quick reconfiguration as necessary. The RJ-45 connector is similar to a standard telephone connector in its ease of use. The RJ-45 Plug and Receptacle for UTP Diagram illustrates these components.

10BaseT adapter boards connect by means of an RJ-45 port on the adapter and a standard RJ-45 connector on the UTP cable. 10BaseT adapters typically include the transceiver circuitry, and like 10Base2 adapters, do not require an external transceiver. In many cases, the UTP cable from the station interconnects with the building wiring at a wall plate near the workstation. The UTP Connections at Wall Plate Diagram illustrates this setup.

10BaseT is rapidly becoming one of the most popular wiring standards, due to its lower cost and relative ease of installation. In addition, its centralized hub topology allows efficient management, maintenance, fault isolation, and reconfiguration of a LAN.

Rules for installing 10BaseT are listed in the 10BaseT Wiring Rules Table.