Specifies requirements for dimensions, mechanical and electrical performance and tests for plugs suitable for connecting telecommunication apparatus to telecommunication systems.

This Part of BS 6312 specifies requirements for dimensions, mechanical and electrical performance and tests for plugs suitable for connecting telecommunication apparatus to telecommunication systems through a socket having the mating characteristics shown in figure 1.

The requirements are specified to ensure mechanical compatibility and reliable electrical contact between the plug and the socket, and to ensure that access by hand to the electrical connections is prevented when the plug and socket have made electrical contact.

This standard applies to external dimensions and to electrical contacts. This standard does not limit the method by which cordage may be attached to a plug. The requirements specified for the plug, with the exception of those in clause 6, do not extend beyond the plane 21 mm from the front face (see figure 2). As the plug is not specified beyond this point, and although any reasonably sized plug will mate with all standard front entry sockets, the entry into sockets of special purpose plugs that are enlarged in the undefined area may be inhibited by the juxtaposition of the apparatus, furniture or surfaces in, on or beside which these special sockets are mounted.

This standard applies to plugs with 2, 3, 4, 5 or 6 contacts and with a latch adjacent to the position for contact number 6 (see figure 2).

Requirements for electromagnetic compatibility are not given as plugs do not in themselves produce extraneous emissions, nor is their functioning affected by external emissions. Therefore no emission or immunity tests are necessary.

NOTE. The plug specified in this Part of BS 6312 is subject to intellectual property rights. See annex A for information on licensing of these rights.