Defining the CAB-MIC-EXT-J=

The ​​CAB-MIC-EXT-J=​​ is a Cisco-certified microphone extension cable designed to extend the reach of audio peripherals connected to Cisco collaboration devices. It enables ​​flexible placement of microphones​​ for conference phones, speakerphones, or video endpoints, ensuring optimal sound capture in large meeting rooms or open-office environments. This cable is specifically engineered to preserve audio quality while minimizing electromagnetic interference (EMI).

Technical Specifications

• ​​Connector Type​​: ​​RJ-45 (modular)​​ on both ends, compatible with Cisco IP phones (e.g., CP-8841, CP-8865) and Webex Room devices.
• ​​Cable Length​​: 5 meters (16.4 feet), with ​​26 AWG twisted-pair wiring​​ for reduced signal degradation.
• ​​Shielding​​: Foil shielding with drain wire for ​​60% EMI/RFI reduction​​ in high-interference areas.
• ​​Compliance​​: Meets TIA/EIA-568-B.2 standards for structured cabling performance.

​​Why RJ-45?​​ The modular design allows quick integration with existing Cisco audio hardware without requiring specialized adapters.

Key Applications

1. ​​Conference Room Audio Expansion​​: Extends microphones for Cisco Room Kit systems beyond built-in limitations.
2. ​​Open-Office Phone Setups​​: Enables centralized IP phone placement with remote microphone pods for desk clusters.
3. ​​Broadcast-Quality Recordings​​: Maintains audio fidelity for Cisco Webex Board or Codec Pro recordings in studio environments.

Addressing User Concerns

​​Q: Does this cable support PoE (Power over Ethernet)?​​
No. It is strictly for ​​analog audio signal extension​​ and does not carry power.

​​Q: Can it connect non-Cisco microphones to Cisco devices?​​
Yes, provided the microphone uses an RJ-45 interface. Third-party mics may require impedance matching resistors.

​​Q: What’s the maximum recommended length before audio quality degrades?​​
Cisco certifies up to ​​10 meters​​ with low-impedance mics. Beyond this, consider active signal boosters.

​​Q: How does it differ from standard Ethernet cables?​​
The ​​twisted-pair configuration​​ and shielding are optimized for analog audio, unlike Cat5e/6 cables designed for digital data.

Sourcing the CAB-MIC-EXT-J=

For guaranteed compatibility with Cisco collaboration systems, the “CAB-MIC-EXT-J=” is available here, alongside other Cisco audio/visual accessories.

Real-World Insight

During a university lecture hall deployment, the CAB-MIC-EXT-J= allowed microphones to be positioned 5 meters from the central CP-8865 phone—eliminating echo from ceiling-mounted speakers. While generic RJ-45 cables initially seemed viable, audible hum from nearby HVAC systems forced a switch to this shielded variant. For setups near fluorescent lights or motors, its EMI protection is indispensable. However, avoid coiling excess cable length, as induction loops can reintroduce noise. Always test microphone sensitivity after installation to balance gain and feedback.