Motorola RJ45 Mic Connector Repair Question

Rayjk110 · Post by **Rayjk110** » Sun Jan 15, 2006 8:21 pm

Hello. I have a few Motorola Mic's (both for mobiles and base) that utilize the RJ45 type connector (for Radius, CDM, Maxtrac, etc..) and the little pin that 'clips' the connector into place on the radio has broken off on these mics. Does anyone know how I could possibly repair these (or if there are any tools avaliable to do this?) I'd really hate to throw out good mic's because of this.

Thanks for any help.
-Ray

firegood · Post by **firegood** » Sun Jan 15, 2006 8:31 pm

yes all you need is a pair of rj45 crimpers, and some clips. granted the plugs are the standard 8 pin and not the 10 pin. if you have some buddies that are into computers or networking see if they have the materials, Its the same equipment used to make networking cables.

kb0nly · Post by **kb0nly** » Sun Jan 15, 2006 9:20 pm

Yep, firegood is correct.

All you need is a RJ-45 plug and crimper, cut the old one off and crimp on the new one.

If you got any good computer stores around you ask and see if they can make custom length network/patch cables. Most of them buy the CAT5 in bulk and make the lengths needed. If they do that then they have the connectors and the crimper to install them.

You can get a crimper for around $10 and the plugs are pennies a piece. A good tool to add to the toolbox along with some plugs for quick on the spot repairs. They all fail eventually.

440roadrunner · Post by **440roadrunner** » Sun Jan 15, 2006 9:21 pm

Not QUITE that simple. There ARE different types of RJ series connectors, not only including a few "weirdo's" for special connectors, but different configurations for different size wire, as well as stranded vs solid wire.

The el cheapo ones Radio Shack and the like sell, "kinda" work, but not always.

It's best to actually use a replacement connector actually meant for the job.

kb0nly · Post by **kb0nly** » Sun Jan 15, 2006 9:27 pm

I haven't had the slightest problem using a good quality RJ-45 meant for network cable. Of course you need to observe that you get the plugs for rounded versus flat cable to suite your needs.

I've saved a dozen or so mics now by spending a couple minutes to crimp on a new connector.

There is keyed and non-keyed versions of the RJ-45, and also offset versions with the lock tab to the left or right of center, but the network cable variety are the common every day RJ-45 used on just about everything these days.