What is a unshielded 10p8c cat.5e modular plug?

This unshielded 10P8C Cat.5e modular plug is a slightly "special" network cable connector. Although it looks very similar to the network connectors we usually see on computers, it has an interesting little detail in its construction.

1. What is "10P8C"? (Unique Construction)

Slightly wider casing, just the right number of contacts: The "10P" here means that its plastic casing actually has 10 slots for metal pins, but "8C" means that it only has 8 metal contacts installed.
Why this design: This design is usually to accommodate specific equipment interfaces. Some special communication equipment or specific network jacks require the connector casing to be slightly wider, or have extra support on the sides, to ensure a more secure connection and prevent wobbling.
Compatibility: Although the casing may have 10 slots, because it only has 8 metal pins, it is still used to connect standard 8-core network cables.

2. Why is it called "Unshielded"? (Protection Characteristics)

All-plastic material: This unshielded 10P8C Cat.5e modular plug is made entirely of transparent or translucent plastic, without the shiny metal casing on the outside.
Easy installation: Because there is no metal casing, there is no need to deal with grounding wires when making network cables, and there is no need to worry about the metal casing cutting your hands.
Suitable for ordinary environments: It is very suitable for use at home, in school dormitories, or in ordinary offices. As long as there are no particularly large transformers or interference sources nearby, this unshielded connector is perfectly sufficient.

3. What does "Category 5e" (Cat.5e) mean? (Performance Level)

Classic and durable: Cat.5e represents its transmission capacity. Although there are now higher specifications, Category 5e is still the most widely used and reliable choice in the world today.
Meets internet needs: Whether it's browsing the web, watching Blu-ray videos, or playing most online games, this performance level connector can easily handle full network speeds and will not become a "bottleneck" in network transmission.

4. Its Appearance and Details (Feel and Observation)

High Transparency: The main body is transparent, primarily so you can clearly see whether the eight colored wires inside are properly inserted and in the correct order when making network cables.
Small Latch: There is a small plastic tab (latch) on the back. When you insert it into the network port, it will securely latch onto the connector. To remove it, simply press this tab.
Gold-Plated Contacts: The surface of the eight small metal pins at the front is usually plated with a layer of gold. This is for rust and corrosion resistance. Even after many years of use, these gold-plated pins will maintain good contact with the device and will not cause network disconnections due to rust.

5. Summary of its Features

This unshielded 10p8c Cat.5e modular plug can be summarized as follows:
Unique Shape: Although it only connects 8 wires, its size may be slightly wider or have two extra slots compared to ordinary connectors.
Transparent Material: Made entirely of plastic, without a metal casing.
Stable Performance:  It can easily handle current broadband networks.
Economical and Practical: Compared to higher-end connectors with metal casings, this type of connector is cheaper and easier to install.