Devices for interchanging connection modes

摘要

A device (21) includes a first alternative port (23) for making crossover connection, a second alternative port (25) for making straight connection and a plug portion (27) for connecting with a hub unit (9). Each of the first alternative port, the second alternative port and the plug portion includes terminal connectors (23a, 25a, 27a). The terminal connectors of the first alternative port (23) and those of the plug portion (27) -are wired, such that a pair of transmission connectors (23a) of the first alternative port (23) is connected to a pair of reception connectors (27a) of the plug portion (27), thereby interchanging the connection mode. Alternatively, the terminal connectors (25) of the second alternative port (25) and those of the plug portion (27) are wired, such that a pair of transmission connectors (25a) of the second alternative port (25) is connected to a pair of transmission connectors (27a) of the plug portion (27), thereby maintaining the connection mode. A cable (5) has either straight or crossover connection mode and is provided with a cable plug (6) at end portions thereof. By connecting the cable plug (6) either to the first alternative port (23) or to the second alternative port (25) of the device (21), connection mode of the cable (5) can be interchanged between crossover connection and straight connection. The connection mode can thus be modified without replacing the cable plug (6).