AUI/DIX

Commonly referred to as “D-connectors” because of their distinctive shape, these come in rows of pins (male) or sockets (female). An Attachment Universal Interface (AUI) cable with a DIX connector at each end is used to connect a NIC to an external transceiver. These are used on 10base5 (thicknet) networks and defined in IEEE 802.3. A 50ohm cable is used to connect the stations. Terminators are used at both ends of the segment to prevent signal bounceback.

AUI/DIS Pinouts

BNC

Used with coaxial cable, BNC connectors are tube-shaped. You’ll find them most often on 10base2 thinnet and ARCnet networks, but they can be used on any network that uses coaxial cable. The connector looks something like a television coaxial screw-on connector but with a twist-lock mechanism which prevents the cable from disconnecting. It attaches to a T-connector which in turn attaches to a network interface card.

As for what BNC stands for, well . . .

There’s enough debate on this subject that you’re not likely to see this on the test. However, in case you do, here are the ranges of opinions:

• Some say it’s for the connectors creator, Bayonet, Neil and Concelman.
• Others say it stand for what it looks like, Bayonet Nut Connector (you had to be there).
• Still others say it’s from the connector’s first use, British Naval Connector.