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Integrated vs. Modular RJ45 Connectors – Which Fits Your Ethernet Design?

2025-07-10
Latest company news about Integrated vs. Modular RJ45 Connectors – Which Fits Your Ethernet Design?

Introduction: A Crucial Choice in Ethernet Design

RJ45 connectors are fundamental components in Ethernet systems, but engineers often face a design-level decision: Should you use an Integrated RJ45 (MagJack) or a Modular RJ45 (without discrete magnetics)?

 

This article, tailored for engineers, product designers, and EMS professionals, dives deep into the trade-offs between these two connector architectures—helping you make an informed decision for performance, cost, and manufacturability.

 

 


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What Is an Integrated RJ45 (MagJack)?

 

An Integrated RJ45 combines:

  • Standard RJ45 interface
  • Built-in magnetics (isolation transformers, common-mode chokes)
  • Optional LEDs

 

Advantages:

  • Simplified layout — fewer external parts on the PCB
  • Smaller footprint — ideal for compact designs
  • Faster assembly — reduces BOM count
  • Pre-qualified EMI performance

 

Drawbacks:

  •  Limited tuning flexibility
  •  Harder to service — the entire module needs replacing
  •  Higher cost in low-volume production

 


 

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What Is a Modular RJ45 (Empty Jack)?

A Modular RJ45 provides just the jack. The magnetics are mounted separately as discrete components.

 

Advantages:

  •  High customization — fine-tune magnetic specs
  •  Easier maintenance — replace parts independently
  •  Cost-effective for volume production

 

Drawbacks:

  •  Larger PCB area required
  •  More complex routing
  •  Requires signal integrity expertise

 


 

Feature Comparison Table

Integrated vs. Modular RJ45 Connectors
Feature Integrated RJ45 Modular RJ45
Magnetics Built-in External
PCB Complexity Low High
Layout Flexibility Limited High
EMI/SI Tuning Pre-set Customizable
Assembly Simplified More steps
Servicing Replace full module Replace part
Cost (Low Volume) Higher Lower
Cost (High Volume) Competitive Potentially cheaper

 


 

Design Application Guide

 

Choose Integrated RJ45 when:

  • You need rapid prototyping or fast time-to-market

  • Space is constrained (e.g., IoT boards, routers)

  • You prefer plug-and-play EMI compliance

 

Choose Modular RJ45 when:

  • EMI tuning is critical (e.g., medical, industrial)
  • You build for high-volume production
  • Your team has signal integrity design capabilities

 

Conclusion: Balance Flexibility with Simplicity

The choice between integrated and modular RJ45 designs isn't just about price—it's about control, complexity, and context.

At RJ45-ModularJack.com, we help OEMs and engineers select the best-fit solution from a full range of MagJack and discrete RJ45 options. Whether you're building a compact IoT device or a carrier-grade switch, we support your Ethernet interface design from concept to production.