Reversible dual media adapter cable

摘要

An adapter cable and card for interfacing a personal computer to a local area network or other type of computer network which can operate on either of two types of media. The cable uses a symmetrical plug connector which mates with a receptacle connector on the adapter card in either a first position, or a second position which is 180 degrees rotated from the first position. In the first position, signal lines for one type of media are connected and signal lines for the other type of media are disconnected. In the second position, signal lines for the second type of media are connected, and signal lines for the first type are disconnected. The disconnection of the unused conductors allows the drive circuits for unused type of media to remain active without causing electromagnetic interference problems.