PathWay® Model 7121 18-Channel RJ45 Cat5 A/B Switch with RS232 Remote and Simultaneous Channel Control
Overview
The PathWay® Model 7121 18-Channel RJ45 Cat5 A/B Switch with RS-232 Remote allows the user the capability of accessing, on each channel, one of two separate devices via a device connected into the channel’s Common port. The Model 7121 is enclosed in a 3U, full rack size, black anodized chassis designed to provide EMI/RFI shielding and fit in a standard 19” rack.
The switch may be controlled manually by a front panel push button or remotely from an RS-232 serial control port located on the rear of the unit. Switch position status may be attained via the front panel LED display or remote RS-232 serial port (DB9) located on the rear of the unit.
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Applicable to switching ANY RJ45 interface networks or devices
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Certified Cat5 Compliance
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Over 45 years of being a key supplier to the MIL/COTS industry
FEATURES OF THE MODEL 7121 18 CHANNEL A/B SWITCH:
- Each channel allows access to two RJ45 networks from one COMMON network or device.
- The switch ports are transparent to data.
- All 8 pins of the RJ45 interface are switched via a break-before-make electromechanical relays.
- The unit maintains last set position on power loss and continues to pass data.
- Simultaneous control of all channels.
- Front panel pushbutton control.
- REMOTE RS232 ASCII commands that allow the user to control switch position, lockout front panel operations, obtain switch status, as well as query firmware version number, query serial number, and enable/disable autosend of switch positions.
- Front panel LED's display present position and power status.
- Certified for Cat 5 Compliance.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
- FRONT PANEL CONTROLS: (1) Manual pushbutton allows local switching.
- PORT CONNECTORS: (3) RJ45 female connectors labeled A, B, and COMMON for each of the eighteen channels.
- DISPLAY: (2) Front panel LED's display switch position and power status.
- REMOTE: (1) DB9 female connector on rear panel accepts RS232 Serial Data for Remote Control operation.
- POWER: UL approved 100VAC/240VAC, 50Hz/60Hz wall mount power module supplies 12VDC, 500mA to the unit. Has 2-prong, US, non-polarized plug.
- Dimensions: Rackmount 19.0" W x 5.25" H (3U) x 10.25" D. (48.3 x 13.3 x 26.0 cm)
- WEIGHT: 8.6 lbs. (3.9 kg)
Option: Wide Range Power Supply: (Cat No 517277) CE, RoHS, and UL listed table mount power module, 100 VAC-240 VAC, 50Hz-60Hz for use in place of standard power module that is included with the unit. Has IEC 60320 C14 inlet. Ideal for international applications.
PathWay® Model 7238 18-Channel RJ45 Cat5 A/B Switch Application with Remote Control:
- The diagram shows eighteen RJ45 Cat5 A/B channels.
- Each channel has a COMMON device with access to a Device connected to either the A port or to the B port.
- The DB9 Remote port allows control of the unit via RS232 ASCII commands.

Examples of How Model 7121 18-Channel Cat5 Switch Can be Used:
- When Network Administrators need simultaneous control over which physical connection is active, need to alternate paths (e.g. for redundancy, testing, secure vs open networks), or need to share limited ports among many devices — all while having the ability to control that switching programmatically or manually without re-plugging hardware.
- When IT Technicians need to switch 18 devices simultaneously between primary and redundant networks (A and B) or for quickly shifting 18 devices between two network paths (A and B) (e.g. for maintenance, failover, testing).
Ordering Information
- Catalog Number: 307121
- Model Number: 7121
- Base Price: See website or contact us for current pricing and availability.
- Optional Wide-Range power supply: Catalog Number 517277 IEC C14 Inlet, 100-240VAC, 12 VDC
Documentation & Support
- Specification Sheet (PDF) Download Available.
- Product Manual available upon request.
- For custom fiber optic network switch requirements contact our sales support team 401-943-1164 or email eslab@electrostandards.com
- We welcome international inquiries and ship worldwide.
Shipping and Returns 
- Shipped via UPS ground (unless otherwise requested).
- Freight Charges prepaid and added to invoice. We can estimate freight charges for you.
- Return policy: contact us within 30 days of shipment for an RMA number. Items returned without RMA not accepted. Please refer to our full return policy in our Terms and Conditions found on our website.
Electro Standards can supply all your Network Cable requirements. Click here to reach our CABLES, COPPER NETWORK Webpage.
For custom network switches call our friendly customer support staff at 401-943-1164, email eslab@electrostandards.com, or complete our online form: /Products-Custom/Copper-Switch/
All data switches, data communication products, and data acquisition products are subject to a one year warranty against manufacturing defects. The limit of ESL liability is limited to the cost of the ESL product provided.
*Prices online are subject to change and verification.
All ESL products are available for export.
Electro Standards welcomes International inquiries: commutateur d'ordinateur, equipo interruptor, interruttore del calcolatore, interruptor do computador, dator switch.