Re: POTS and Ethernet over CAT-5 Cable

["BruceR" <brNOSPAM@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Ethernet uses two PAIRS or 4 WIRES leaving 2 pair available for 2 POTS
lines or another ethernet connection or some other low voltage
application.  In theory, using the other two pairs could interfere with
the ethernet connection but I've had no problems where I've had to do
it.  The speeds you're running are probably less than the cable is
capable of anyway so it's not a great concern in a residential
application. If occassionally things slow down by a split second you'll
never notice it anyway.  As for breakout connectors, check www.pimfg.com
and other network hardware sources. It's probably easier to just change
the wallplate to add the additional jacks and reterminate the wires.

From:BrianEWilliams
sorry_no_email@xxxxxxxxx

> Is it possible to use some of the extra wires in CAT-5 cable to run a
> POTS line or two?  I heard that Ethernet only uses two of the eight
> wires.  Is this true?  If so, seems like I could run 3 POTS lines in
> addition to my Ethernet over my CAT-5 home network.
>
> If this is correct, are there any jacks available that would make this
> easier than cutting open my cables?  Thanks.