Patent Publication Number: US-7722390-B2

Title: Methods and systems for positioning connectors to minimize alien crosstalk

Description:
RELATED APPLICATIONS 
     This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 10/783,854, filed Feb. 20, 2004, now abandoned, which application is incorporated herein by reference. 
     The present application is related to applications entitled “CABLE WITH OFFSET FILLER” (U.S. Ser. No. 10/746,800) and “CABLE UTILIZING VARYING LAY LENGTH MECHANISMS TO MINIMIZE ALIEN CROSSTALK” (U.S. Ser. No. 10/746,757), each filed Dec. 26, 2003, and each of which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. The present application is also related to applications entitled “METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR MINIMIZING ALIEN CROSSTALK BETWEEN CONNECTORS” and “METHODS AND SYSTEMS FOR COMPENSATING FOR ALIEN CROSSTALK BETWEEN CONNECTORS”, each filed on the same date as the present application. 
    
    
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to methods and systems for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors. Specifically, the methods and systems relate to isolation and compensation techniques for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors for use with high-speed data cabling. 
     In the field of data communications, communications networks typically utilize techniques designed to maintain or improve the integrity of signals being transmitted via the network (“transmission signals”). To protect signal integrity, the communications networks should, at a minimum, satisfy compliance standards that are established by standards committees, such as the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE). The compliance standards help network designers provide communications networks that achieve at least minimum levels of signal integrity as well as some standard of interoperability. 
     One obstacle to maintaining adequate levels of signal integrity, known as crosstalk, adversely affects signal integrity by causing capacitive and inductive coupling between the transmission signals. Specifically, electromagnetic interference produced by one transmission signal may couple to another transmission signal and thereby disrupt or interfere with the affected transmission signal. The electromagnetic interference tends to emanate outwardly from a source transmission signal and undesirably affect any sufficiently proximate transmission signal. As a result, crosstalk tends to compromise signal integrity. 
     The effects of crosstalk increase when transmission signals are more proximate to one another. Consequently, typical communications networks include areas that are especially susceptible to crosstalk because of the proximity of the transmission signals. In particular, the communications networks include connectors that bring transmission signals into close proximity to one another. For example, the conductive pins of a traditional connector, such as a jack, are placed proximate to one another to form a convenient connection configuration, usually within the compact spaces of the connector. While such compact pin arrangements may be physically economical as a convenient connecting medium, the same pin arrangements tend to produce nightmarish crosstalk between the pins. 
     Due to the susceptibility of traditional connectors to crosstalk, conventional communications networks have employed a number of techniques to protect the transmission signals against crosstalk within the connector. For example, different arrangements or orientations of the connector pins have been used to reduce pin-to-pin crosstalk. Another known technique includes connecting the pins to conductive elements that are relationally shaped or positioned to induce coupling that tends to compensate for the crosstalk between the pins. Another compensation technique involves connecting the pins of a connector to conductive elements of a printed circuit board (PCB), with the conductive elements being relationally positioned or shaped to cause compensational coupling between them. 
     Intra-connector techniques for combating crosstalk, such as those described above, have helped to satisfactorily maintain the signal integrity of traditional transmission signals. However, with the widespread and growing use of computers in communications applications, the ensuing volumes of data traffic have accentuated the need for communications networks to transmit the data at higher speeds. When the data is transmitted at higher speeds, signal integrity is more easily compromised due to increased levels of interference between the high-speed transmission signals carrying the data. In particular, the effects of crosstalk are magnified because the high-speed signals produce stronger electromagnetic interference levels as well as increased coupling distances. 
     The magnified crosstalk associated with high-speed signals can significantly disrupt the transmission signals of conventional network connectors. Of special concern is one form of crosstalk that traditional connectors were able to overlook or ignore when transmitting traditional data signals. This form of crosstalk, known as alien crosstalk, describes the coupling effects between connectors. For example, high-speed data signals traveling via a first connector produce electromagnetic interference that couples to high-speed data signals traveling via an adjacent connector, adversely affecting the high-speed data signals of the adjacent jack. The magnified alien crosstalk produced by the high-speed signals can easily compromise the integrity of the transmission signals of an adjacent connector. Consequently, the transmission signals may become unrecognizable to a receiving device, and may even be compromised to the point that the transmission signals no longer comply with the established compliance standards. 
     Conventional connectors are ill-equipped to protect high-speed signals from alien crosstalk. Conventional connectors have largely been able to ignore alien crosstalk when transmitting traditional data signals. Instead, conventional connectors utilize techniques designed to control intra-connector crosstalk. However, these techniques do not provide adequate levels of isolation or compensation to protect from connector-to-connector alien crosstalk at high transmission speeds. Moreover, such techniques cannot be applied to alien crosstalk, which can be much more complicated to compensate for than is intra-connector crosstalk. In particular, alien crosstalk comes from a number of unpredictable sources, especially in the context of high-speed signals that typically use more transmission signals to carry the signal&#39;s increased bandwidth requirements. For example, traditional transmission signals such as 10 megabits per second and 100 megabits per second Ethernet signals typically use only two pin pairs for propagation through conventional connectors. However, higher speed signals require increased bandwidth. Accordingly, high-speed signals, such as 1 gigabit per second and 10 gigabits per second Ethernet signals, are usually transmitted in full-duplex mode (2-way transmission over a pin pair) over more than two pin pairs, thereby increasing the number of sources of crosstalk. Consequently, the known intra-connector techniques of conventional connectors cannot predict or overcome alien crosstalk produced by high-speed signals. 
     Although other types of connectors have achieved levels of isolation that may combat the alien crosstalk produced by high-speed transmission signals, these types of connectors have shortcomings that make their use undesirable in many communications systems, such as LAN communities. For example, shielded connectors exist that may achieve adequate levels of isolation to protect high-speed signal integrity, but these types of shielded connectors typically use a ground connection or can be used only with shielded cabling, which costs considerably more than unshielded cabling. Unshielded systems typically enjoy significant cost savings, which savings increase the desirability of unshielded systems as a transmitting medium. Moreover, conventional unshielded twisted pair cables are already well-established in a substantial number of existing communications systems. Further, inasmuch as ground connections may become faulty, shielded network systems run the risk of the ungrounded shields acting as antennae for electromagnetic interference. 
     In short, alien crosstalk is a significant factor for protecting the signal integrity of high-speed signals being transmitted via data communications networks. Conventional network connectors cannot effectively and accurately transmit high-speed data signals. Specifically, the conventional connectors for use in unshielded cabling networks do not provide adequate levels of compensation or isolation from alien crosstalk. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     The present invention relates to methods and systems for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors. Specifically, the methods and systems relate to isolation and compensation techniques for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors for use with high-speed data cabling. A frame can be configured to receive a number of connectors. A number of shield structures may be positioned to isolate at least a subset of the connectors from one another. The connectors can be positioned to move at least a subset of the connectors away from alignment with a common plane. A signal compensator may be configured to adjust a data signal to compensate for alien crosstalk. The connectors are configured to efficiently and accurately propagate high-speed data signals by, among other functions, minimizing alien crosstalk. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
       Certain embodiments of present methods and systems will now be described, by way of examples, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: 
         FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a jack assembly according to one embodiment of the invention. 
         FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of the frame and the shield structure of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is a perspective view of a shield structure according to the embodiment of  FIG. 3 . 
         FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 6  shows a perspective view of a shield structure according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 5 . 
         FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a shield structure according to the embodiment shown in  FIG. 7 . 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 12  is another perspective view of the jack assembly of  FIG. 11 . 
         FIG. 13  is a perspective view on a panel having multiple jack assemblies of  FIG. 12 . 
         FIG. 14  is another perspective view of the panel of  FIG. 13 . 
         FIG. 15A  is a perspective view of a jack having shielded surfaces. 
         FIG. 15B  is another perspective view of the jack of  FIG. 15A . 
         FIG. 16A  is a perspective view of a shielded termination cap. 
         FIG. 16B  is another perspective view of the shielded termination cap of  FIG. 16A . 
         FIG. 17  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a jack assembly with adjacent jacks positioned at different angles with respect to a surface of the jack assembly. 
         FIG. 18A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a jack assembly with adjacent jacks positioned at different depths with respect to a surface of the jack assembly. 
         FIG. 18B  is a side-view of conductors of the staggered jacks of  FIG. 18A . 
         FIG. 18C  shows a top-view of the conductors of the staggered jacks of  FIG. 18B . 
         FIG. 19A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a jack assembly with adjacent jacks offset from one another. 
         FIG. 19B  is a side-view of conductors of the jack assembly of  FIG. 19A . 
         FIG. 19C  shows a front-view of the conductors of  FIG. 19B . 
         FIG. 19D  is a front-view of another embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 19A . 
         FIG. 19E  is a front-view of another embodiment of the jack assembly of  FIG. 19D . 
         FIG. 20A  is a perspective view of an embodiment of a jack assembly with adjacent jacks inverted with respect to one another. 
         FIG. 20B  is a side-view of conductors of the jack assembly of  FIG. 20A . 
         FIG. 20C  is a front-view of the conductors of  FIG. 20B . 
         FIG. 20D  is a front-view of pins of vertically arranged jacks, where one of the jacks is inverted. 
         FIG. 21  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a jack assembly for use in determining alien crosstalk between jacks. 
         FIG. 22  is a block diagram of a test assembly for determining alien crosstalk between adjacent jacks. 
     
    
    
     The above specification, examples and data provide a complete description of the manufacture and use of the composition of the invention. Since many embodiments of the invention can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention, the invention resides in the claims hereinafter appended. 
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
     I. Introduction and Definitions 
     The present invention relates to methods and systems for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors. Specifically, the methods and systems relate to isolation and compensation techniques for minimizing alien crosstalk between connectors for use with high-speed data cabling. 
     Throughout the detailed description and the claims, the terms “connector” and “jack” are meant to be understood broadly as any mechanism for providing an electrical connection between conductors used for the transmission of data signals. A jack can include but is not limited to a socket for receiving a plug and a number of insulation displacement contacts (IDC) for receiving the insulated conductors of a data cable&#39;s twisted pairs. The jack provides an electrical connection between its IDC&#39;s and the conductors of the socket. 
     Throughout the detailed description and the claims, reference is made to isolation and compensation techniques for minimizing alien crosstalk. An isolation technique is meant to be understood broadly as any system or method that tends to isolate connectors to prevent or at least reduce the effects that the alien crosstalk generated by one connector has on another connector. A compensation technique is meant to be understood broadly as any system or method that tends to adjust a data signal to compensate for the coupling effects of alien crosstalk from another connector. The present methods and systems contemplate using any combination or subset of isolation and compensation techniques to minimize the effects of alien crosstalk between connectors. 
     II. Isolation Views 
     A. Shield Views 
     Referring now to the drawings,  FIG. 1  shows a perspective view of a jack assembly  100  according to one embodiment of the invention. The jack assembly  100  can include a frame  110  and a shield structure  120 . The frame  110  forms a number of jack receptacles  130  for receiving jacks  135 . The shield structure  120  may include a number of shield sections  140 , which are preferably positioned to separate (i.e., isolate) the received jacks  135  from one another. Such a positioning helps minimize alien crosstalk between the jacks  135 , especially between adjacently positioned jacks  135 . 
     The frame  110  is configured to receive and support a number of the jacks  135 . Specifically, the frame  110  can form the jack receptacles  130  for housing the received jacks  135 . The jack receptacles  130  should be shaped to fittingly support the received jacks  135  in fixed positions. The jack receptacles  130  shown in  FIG. 1  comprise walls forming orifices for receiving the jacks  135 . Preferably, the jack receptacles  130  and the jacks  135  are complimentarily shaped to promote secure housing of said jacks  135  in position. 
     The frame  110  is not limited to a specific shape or structure. The frame  110  can be a variety of different shapes so long as the frame  110  can house the jacks  135 . The frame  110  of  FIG. 1  comprises a faceplate. In other embodiments, the frame  110  may be shaped differently for use with other structures, such as a patch panel. Some embodiments of the jack assembly  100  discussed below illustrate different shapes of the frame  110 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the frame  110  can include mounting structures  160  for mounting the frame  110  to a fixture for support. The mounting structures  160  of  FIG. 1  include orifices for receiving a screw or other object capable of fixing the frame  110  to a support structure. 
     The jacks  135  should be configured to electrically connect two separate electrical conductors together. The jack  135  can include insulation displacement contact towers  150  (hereinafter “the IDC towers  150 ”) extending from a surface of the jack  135  to form the IDC&#39;s that can receive and establish electrical contact with the insulated conductors of a cable. Although not shown in  FIG. 1 , the jack  135  also includes a socket  155  (see  FIG. 12 ) having conductors for receiving and establishing electrical contact with a plug. The IDC&#39;s and the socket  155  conductors of the jack  135  are electrically connected to each other by the jack  135 . Accordingly, the jack  135  can establish an electrical connection between the conductors received by the IDC&#39;s and the plug received by the socket  155 . In some embodiments, the jack  135  comprises a recommended jack (RJ), such as an RJ-45 or RJ-48 type jack. 
     The shield structure  120  should be positioned to isolate the adjacent jacks  135  from one another, thereby minimizing alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  135 . As shown in  FIG. 1 , the shield structure  120  can be positioned between the adjacent jacks  135 . Specifically, the shield structure  120  may include any number of the shield sections  140 . The shield sections  140  can be positioned between the adjacent jacks  135 . 
     Preferably, the shield structure  120  isolates the IDC&#39;s of the jack  135  from the IDC&#39;s of an adjacently positioned jack  135 . This isolation helps minimize the alien crosstalk that can otherwise occur between conductors received by the IDC&#39;s of the adjacent jacks  135 . In  FIG. 1 , the shield structure  120  includes shield sections  140  that are positioned between the IDC&#39;s of the adjacent jacks  135 . The shield structure  120  should comprise shapes and materials that function to isolate the adjacent jacks  135 . Preferably, the shield structure  120  extends to a height that is substantially the same as or higher than the height of the jacks  135 . This helps reduce alien crosstalk by separating the IDC&#39;s of the jacks  135  from one another. 
     The shield structure  120 , including the shield sections  140 , may be a wide variety of different shapes, thickness, and/or sizes, so long as the shield structure  120  helps reduce alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  135 . For example, the shield structure  120 , including the shield sections  140 , may be thick to better isolate the adjacent jacks  135 . Alternatively, the shield structure  120  can be thin for logistical purposes, so long as the shield structure  120  reduces alien crosstalk. In regards to shapes of the shield structure  120 ,  FIG. 1  illustrates generally planar shield sections  140  extending away from a surface of the frame  110  to separate the adjacent jacks  135 . Other embodiments discussed below show some of the alternative configurations of the shield structure  120  that can minimize alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  135 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 1 , the shield structure  120  can be fixed to the frame  110 . For example, the shield structure  120  may be permanently part of the frame  110  and extend away from the frame  110  to separate the received jacks  135 . In one embodiment, the shield structure  120  and the frame  110  are formed from a unitary material, and may be molded. Alternatively, the shield structure  120  can be separate from the frame  110 , but configured to be fixed to the frame  110  by some form of securing mechanism, such as a snap-fit mechanism. In other embodiments, the shield structure  120  can be supported by the jack  135 . Examples of different configurations of the shield structure  120  are discussed in detail below. 
     Because the shield structure  120  can physically separate the adjacent jacks  135 , it can also electrically isolate the adjacent jacks  135  from one another. To help facilitate the electrical isolation of the adjacent jacks  135 , the shield structure  120  should comprise a conductive material that functions to obstruct or minimize the flow of electrical signals away from their intended paths, including the coupling signals of alien crosstalk. In other words, the conductive material of the shield structure  120  should act as an electrical barrier between the adjacent jacks  135 . 
     The conductive material can comprise any material and application form that helps to minimize alien crosstalk. The material may include any conductive material, including but not limited to nickel, copper, and conductive paints, inks, and, sprays. For example, the shield structure  120  can include conductive shield sections  140 , such as metal-based members, positioned to separate the adjacent jacks  135 . The conductive material may include a spray-on coating of conductive material applied to at least a portion of the shield structure  120 . The spray-on coating may be applied to a supporting material, such as some type of plastic. 
     The shield structure  120  may comprise conductive elements that disrupt alien crosstalk without making the shield structure  120  a conductive structure. For example, the shield structure  120  can include a non-conductive material, such as a resinous or plastic material, which is impregnated with conductive elements. The conductive elements may include but are not limited to conductive carbon loads, stainless steel fibers, micro-spheres, and plated beads. The conductive elements can be positioned such that the shield structure  120  is not conductive. This helps prevent any undesirable short-circuiting with the shield structure  120 . The conductive elements should be positioned with sufficient density to disrupt alien crosstalk between adjacent jacks  135 . 
     Other members of the jack assembly  100  may include the conductive material to help isolate the jacks  135 . For example, the frame  110  can include the conductive elements. In an embodiment discussed below, the jack  135  includes conductive materials. 
     Preferably, the conductive material of the shield structure  120  is not grounded. An ungrounded conductive shield structure  120  can function to block or at least disrupt alien crosstalk signals. Further, unlike lengthy shields used with shielded cabling, the conductive materials of the shield structure  120  can be sized such that they do not produce harmful capacitances when not grounded. By being able to function without being grounded, the shield structure  120  can isolate the adjacent jacks  135  of unshielded cabling systems, which make up a substantial part of deployed cabling systems. Consequently, the ungrounded shield structure  120  is able to avoid many of the costs, dangers, and hassles that are inherent to a shielded cabling system, including the potentially hazardous effects of a faulty ground connection. 
     Further, the conductive materials of the shield structure  120  can be electrically isolated such that they do not interfere with the data signals transmitted via the jacks  135 . For example, the shield structure  120  may include an insulator to prevent its conductive materials from making electrical contact with any conductors associated with the jacks  135 . The insulator can be applied over the conductive materials of the shield structure  120 . For example, the insulator may be any non-conductive material that can be applied to the conductive materials, including a spray-on material. When applied, the insulator is helpful for preventing the conductors of an attached cable from inadvertently shorting via the shield structure  120 . This is especially beneficial when the IDC towers  150  of one jack  135  are positioned proximate to the IDC towers  150  of an adjacent jack  135 . 
     Further, the shield structure  120  may be positioned or shaped to keep its conductive materials electrically isolated. For example, the shield structure  120  can include thin shield sections  140  configured to fit between the adjacent jacks  135  without electrically contacting cabling conductors that are connected to the IDC&#39;s of the jacks  135 . 
       FIG. 2  shows a perspective view of the frame  110  and the shield structure  120  of  FIG. 1 . As shown in  FIG. 2 , the shield structure  120  can be permanently fixed to the frame  110  and extend away from the frame  110  at positions between the jack receptacles  130 . Accordingly, the shield structure  120  is positioned to separate the jacks  135  when the jacks  135  have been received by the jack receptacles  130 . The shield structure  120  shown in  FIG. 2  includes four shield sections  140 , and each shield section  140  is positioned between the adjacent jack receptacles  130 . 
     The frame  110  and shield structure  120  shown in  FIG. 2  can be conveniently installed in a data network to reduce alien crosstalk, even in an existing data network. For example, the frame  110  can be easily substituted for already deployed faceplates or panels, thereby providing the shield structure  120  between the connectors of an existing data network. 
       FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a second embodiment of the jack assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 . The jack assembly  100 - 1  shown in  FIG. 3  includes a shield structure  120 - 1 . The shield structure  120 - 1  includes the features of the shield structure  120  and further includes a number of outer shield sections  340  positioned along the outer edges of the jacks  135  to shield the jacks  135  from alien crosstalk generated by sources external of the jack assembly  100 - 1 . For example, the outer shield sections  340  can isolate the jacks  135  of the jack assembly  100 - 1  from alien crosstalk generated by external jacks of adjacent jack assemblies, which may lack a shield structure  120 - 1 . The jacks  135  positioned generally lateral from the jacks  135  of the jack assembly  100 - 1  are of particular concern. In  FIG. 3 , the outer shield sections  340  are positioned along each outer edge of the jacks  135 , forming a perimeter of outer shield sections  340  about the jacks  135 . The outer shield sections  340  should form at least a partial perimeter about the jacks  135 . 
       FIG. 4  provides a perspective view of the shield structure  120 - 1  of  FIG. 3 . The outer shield sections  340  include the same features described above in relation to the shield sections  140  of the shield structure  120 , including the conductive material that functions to obstruct alien crosstalk. 
       FIG. 5  shows a perspective view of a third embodiment of the jack assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 .  FIG. 5  shows a jack assembly  100 - 2  that includes a shield structure  120 - 2  inserted between the jack receptacles  130  to separate the received jacks  135 . The shield structure  120 - 2  includes the same features of the shield structure  120 . Further, the shield structure  120 - 2  can be configured to fittingly couple to the frame  110  to separate the adjacent jacks  135 . Specifically, the shield structure  120 - 2  includes shield sections  140 - 2  configured to facilitate an easy insertion and/or removal of the shield structure  120 - 2  between the jacks  135 . 
     The shield sections  140 - 2  can be arranged in wide variety of ways such that they can be fittingly coupled to the frame  110  and separate the jacks  135 . As shown in  FIG. 5 , the shield sections  140 - 2  can be joined together by a joining member  510  such that the shield sections  140 - 2  and the joining member  510  form a generally V-shaped structure. 
     The joining member  510  can be any size that provides an optimal distance between the shield sections  140 - 2  so that the shield structure  120 - 2  can be fittingly coupled between the jack receptacles  130 .  FIG. 6  is a perspective view of the shield structure  120 - 2 , where the distance (d) between the shield sections is indicated. The distance (d) should correspond with a space between the adjacent jack receptacles  135 . The joining member  510  also provides stability to the shield structure  120 - 2 . 
     The shield structure  120 - 2  should include a structure and/or aperture for coupling to the frame  110 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , the shield sections  140 - 2  can include coupling apertures  620  for coupling to the frame  110 . When the shield sections  140 - 2  are spaced apart by the specific distance (d), the coupling apertures  620  are configured to receive complimentary protrusions of the frame  110  to fix the shield structure  120 - 2  at a position between the adjacent jack receptacles  130 . The shield sections  140 - 2  in combination with the joining member  510  should have spring-like characteristics. Accordingly, in some embodiments, the shield structure  120 - 2  is configured to snap-fit to the frame  110  at a position between the adjacent jack receptacles  130  such that when the shield structure  120 - 2  is in its final orientation, the apertures  620  are biased into engagement with their mating male members. 
     Further, as shown in  FIG. 6 , the shield sections  140 - 2  may include a sloped extension  630  configured to facilitate the coupling of the shield structure  120 - 2  to the frame  110 . Specifically, the sloped extension  630  is configured to help the shield sections  140 - 2  compact together as the shield structure  120 - 2  moves into position to couple to the frame  110 . Other mechanisms can be used to fix the shield structure  120 - 2  to the frame  110  so long as the shield structure  120 - 2  is positioned to separate the adjacent jacks  135  from one another. 
     The shield structure  120 - 2  can be configured to separate various arrangements of adjacent jacks  135 . For example, the shield structure  120 - 2  may be configured to separate four jacks  135  into quadrant regions. Specifically, the shield sections  140 - 2  run parallel to a first axis and separate the four jacks  135  into two areas. The shield sections  140 - 2  include slots  640  for receiving a number of the shield sections  140 . As shown in  FIG. 6 , slots  640  may receive the shield sections  140  such that the shield sections  140  run along a second axis generally perpendicular to the first axis such that the shield sections  140  half each of the two areas, thereby separating the jacks  135  into quadrants. Other embodiments of the shield structure  120 - 2  can be used to separate different numbers or arrangements of adjacent jacks  135  from one another. 
       FIG. 7  is a perspective view of a fourth embodiment of the jack assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 . The jack assembly  100 - 3  shown in  FIG. 7  includes a number of shield structures  120 - 3  positioned to isolate the received jacks  135 . The shield structure  120 - 3  can be fixedly coupled to the jack  135  or to the jack receptacle  130  such that the shield structure  120 - 3  forms a perimeter about the jack  135 . In  FIG. 7 , the shield structure  120 - 3  forms a perimeter about the lateral sides of the jack  135 , and is thereby positioned to act as a barrier to alien crosstalk on the lateral sides of the jack  135 . When the adjacent jacks  135  are each fitted with the shield structure  120 - 3 , the shield structure  120 - 3  reduces alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  135 . Other embodiments of the shield structure  120 - 3 , some of which will be discussed below, form only a partial perimeter about the jack  135 . 
       FIG. 8  shows a perspective view of the shield structure  120 - 3  of  FIG. 7 . The shield structure  120 - 3  shown in  FIG. 8  can include a number of the shield sections  140  that are configured to fit between the adjacent jacks  135  when the shield structure  120 - 3  is positioned about the jack  135 , thereby isolating the adjacent jacks  135  from one another. In  FIG. 8 , the shield structure  120 - 3  includes two shield sections  140  spaced apart from and generally parallel to one another such that they can fit along opposite sides of the jack  135 . Preferably, the shield sections  140  are positioned along the sides of the jack  135  having the IDC towers  150  to obstruct the alien crosstalk generated at the IDC&#39;s of the jack  135 . 
     The two shield sections  140  can be joined together by shield members  840 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , opposite edges of each of the shield sections  140  is attached to two shield members  840 . The shield members  840  extend away from the shield section  140  at an angle generally perpendicular to the plane of the shield section  140  such that the two shield members  840  are generally parallel to each other and separated by approximately the length of the shield section  140 . The two shield sections  140  with their respective shield members  840  should be oppositely oriented so that when placed next to each other, the shield members  840  of a first of the shield sections  140  couples to the shield members  840  of a second of the shield sections  140 . This configuration forms the rectangular-shaped shield structure  120 - 3  shown in  FIG. 8 . Accordingly, the shield structure  120 - 3  can comprise two parts that can be combined to form a perimeter about the jack  135 . The perimeter of the shield structure  120 - 3  should be configured to fit around the lateral edges of the jack  135 . Other embodiments of the shield structure  120 - 3  can be shaped differently, so long as the shield structure  120 - 3  forms a shielding perimeter about the jack  135  that functions to minimize alien crosstalk. 
     The shield members  840  may include any of the features discussed above in relation to the shield sections  140 . For example, the shield members  840  should include a conductive material for obstructing alien crosstalk. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the shield members  840  may be positioned next to the corner IDC towers  150  of the jack  135  to obstruct alien crosstalk near the corner IDC&#39;s of the jack  135 . 
     The shield structure  120 - 3  can include any mechanism for coupling to the jack  135  or the jack receptacle  130 . For example, the shield structure  120 - 3  may include a number of coupling apertures  850  configured to receive a complementary protrusion of the jack  135  or of the jack receptacle  130 . In  FIG. 8 , the shield members  840  each include two coupling apertures  850 . Further, oppositely positioned shield members  840  should be separated by a distance conducive to the coupling apertures receiving the protrusions. 
     The shield structure  120 - 3  can be configured for easy installation about the jack  135 , even when a cable is connected to the IDC&#39;s of the jack  135 . For example, the shield structure  120 - 3  of  FIG. 8  includes two halves that can be coupled to the jack  135 , without having to be slid from the end of the attached cable up to the jack  135 . Therefore, the shield structure  120 - 3  can be easily installed on the jacks  135  of existing cabling systems. As shown in  FIG. 8 , the shield structure  120 - 3  forms at least one recess  860  for receiving a cable that may be attached to the jack  135 . 
     The shield members  840  can include brackets  870  that are configured to help the shield structure  120 - 3  fit about the jack  135 . As shown in  FIG. 8 , the brackets  870  may be folded at some angle such that the brackets  845  are configured to rest against the corner IDC towers  150  of the jack  135  when the shield structure  120 - 3  is positioned about the jack  135 . In addition, the brackets  870  can comprise a conductive material to help obstruct alien crosstalk near the top of the IDC towers  150 . 
     As mentioned above, the shield structure  120 - 3  can be configured to shield any number of sides of the jack  135  from alien crosstalk. For example, the number of shield sections  140  positioned along the jack  135  can vary.  FIGS. 9-10  show embodiments for shielding two and three sides of the jack  135  respectively. 
       FIG. 9  is a perspective view of a fifth embodiment of the jack assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 . The jack assembly  100 - 4  shown in  FIG. 9  includes a number of shield structures  120 - 4  positioned adjacent to the received jacks  135  in a configuration that will reduce alien crosstalk. The shield structure  120 - 4  includes two shield sections  140  that are positioned about two adjoining sides of the jack  135 . When each of the shield structures  120 - 4  is positioned about the same sides of each of the received jacks  135 , then there is at least one shield section  140  between each pair of adjacent jacks  135  of the jack assembly  100 - 4 . 
     The shield sections  140  may be coupled to the jack  135  or the frame  110  (including the jack receptacles  135 ) in a number of different ways, including any of the ways discussed above. For example, although  FIG. 8  shows the shield structure  120 - 4  coupled to the jack  135 , the shield structure  120 - 4  can be coupled to the frame  110 , including permanently coupled to the frame  110  as discussed in relation to the shield structure  120 . 
       FIG. 10  is a perspective view of a sixth embodiment of the jack assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 . Similar to the jack assembly  100 - 4  shown in  FIG. 9 , the jack assembly  100 - 5  of  FIG. 10  can include a shield structure  100 - 5  that is configured to shield a subset of sides of the jack  135 . Specifically, the shield structure  120 - 5  is configured to shield three sides of the jack  135  rather than two as discussed in relation to  FIG. 9 . Accordingly, the shield structure  120 - 5  includes the same features discussed in relation to the shield structure  120 - 4 . 
       FIG. 11  is a perspective view of a seventh embodiment of the jack assembly  100  of  FIG. 1 . The jack assembly  100 - 6  shown in  FIG. 11  includes the frame  110 - 6  configured to support a number of the jacks  135  in a row. As shown in  FIG. 11 , the jack assembly  100 - 6  can include six jacks  135  positioned in a row. The jack assembly  100 - 6  includes a number of shield structures  120 - 6  positioned between the adjacent jacks  135  to minimize alien crosstalk. The shield structures  120 - 6  can comprise a number of the shield sections  140 . 
     As shown in  FIG. 11 , the shield structures  120 - 6  can be positioned between the IDC towers  150  of adjacent jacks  135 . Preferably, at least one shield structure  120 - 6  is positioned between each pair the IDC towers  150  of each pair of adjacent jacks  135 . This helps minimize alien crosstalk between potentially harmful generators of alien crosstalk—the IDC&#39;s of the adjacent jacks  135 . The shield structures  120 - 6  can be positioned between the IDC towers  150  of adjacent jack  135  in other configurations. For example, the jacks  135  can be arranged in a column with the shield structures  120 - 6  positioned between the adjacent IDC towers  150  of adjacent jacks  135 . 
       FIG. 12  is another perspective view of the jack assembly  100 - 6  of  FIG. 11 .  FIG. 12  shows a front perspective view of the jack assembly  100 - 6 . Again, the frame  110 - 6  is configured to support a number of jacks  135  in a row. The forward portion of each of the jacks  135  includes the socket  155  configured to receive a plug as described above. The jack assembly  100 - 6  shown in  FIG. 12  includes an embodiment of a shield assembly  120 - 7  configured to isolate the jacks  135  from one another. As shown in  FIG. 12 , the shield structure  120 - 7  can include a number of the shield sections  140  configured to form a perimeter about each of the jacks  135 . Specifically, the shield structure  120 - 7  can form a complete perimeter about the lateral sides of the socket  155  of each of the jacks  135 . This helps minimize alien crosstalk between the conductor pins of the sockets  155  of the adjacent jacks  135 . 
     Further, the jack assembly  100 - 6  can include a circuit board  1210  having a number of compensation mechanisms  1220  configured to adjust data signals to compensate for the effects of alien crosstalk. The circuit board  1210 , compensation mechanisms  1220 , and other compensation techniques will be discussed below in relation to various compensation views. 
     The jack assembly  100 - 6  can be positioned next to another jack assembly  1006  and still isolate the adjacent jacks  135  from one another. Specifically, the shield structure  120 - 7  forms an outer perimeter about the jacks  135  that can obstruct alien crosstalk from external sources. Accordingly, the forward portion of the adjacent jacks  135  of the jack assembly  100 - 6  remain isolated when multiple jack assemblies  100 - 6  are positioned in a row, such as in configuration shown in  FIG. 13 . 
       FIG. 13  is a perspective view of a panel  1300  having multiple jack assemblies  100 - 6  positioned in a row. As shown, the shield structures  120 - 7  of each of the jack assemblies  100 - 6  functions to keep each of the jacks  135  of the panel separated from one another. The jack assemblies  100 - 6  may be arranged differently, such as stacked in a column, and the shield structures  120 - 7  continue to keep each of the jacks  135  isolated. The shield structure  120 - 7  includes all of the features for minimizing alien crosstalk discussed above in relation to the shield structure  120 .  FIG. 14  shows another perspective view of the panel  1300 . 
       FIG. 15A  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the jack  135 . The jack  135 - 1  shown in  FIG. 15A  can be included in any of the embodiments of the jack assemblies discussed above. The jack  135 - 1  includes the same features discussed above in relation to the jack  135 . Further, the jack  135 - 1  can include a number of shield sections  140  on any combination of surfaces of the jack  135 - 1 . Preferably, the shield sections  140  are thin such that the jack  135  can still be received and fit within said frame  110 . The shield sections  140  can minimize alien crosstalk by being positioned on surfaces of the jack  135 - 1  that tend to be located between the conductors of the jack  135 - 1  and the conductors of an adjacent jack  135 - 1 , such as lateral surfaces of the jack  135 - 1 . 
     As mentioned above, the shield sections  140  can comprise a spray-on coating of conductive material applied to a surface of the jack  135 - 1 . Preferably, the shield sections  140  are applied to surfaces of the jack  135 - 1  that are likely to be positioned such that the shield sections  140  are between the jack  135 - 1  and any adjacent jacks  135 - 1 . For example, the shield sections  140  can be applied to the lateral surfaces of the jack  135 - 1  to help isolate the jack  135 - 1  from any laterally positioned adjacent jacks  135 - 1 , such as other jacks  135 - 1  included in a faceplate or panel. In one embodiment, the surfaces of the IDC towers  150  include the shield sections  140  to help minimize alien crosstalk between the IDC&#39;s of the jack  135 - 1 . 
       FIG. 15B  shows another perspective view of the jack  135 - 1  of  FIG. 15A , including the shield sections  140  located on surfaces of the jack  135 - 1 . The jacks  135 - 1  can be used in combination with any of the embodiments of the shield structures  120  discussed above to increase the shielding about the jack  135 - 1 . 
       FIG. 16A  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the shield structure  120 . As shown in  FIG. 16A , a shield structure  120 - 8  can comprise a termination cap configured to fit about the jack  135 . The shield structure  120 - 8  may include a conductive material, such as any conductive material of the shield sections  140 , to help reduce alien crosstalk between adjacent jacks  135 . Any number of surfaces of the shield structure  120 - 8  can include the conductive material. Preferably, the lateral sides of the shield structure  120 - 8  include the conductive material to reduce alien crosstalk between laterally adjacent jacks  135 . 
       FIG. 16B  shows another perspective view of the shield structure  120 - 8  of  FIG. 16A . As shown in  FIG. 16B , the shield structure  120 - 8  may also include a shield section  1640  positioned at the back of the jack  135 . The shield section  1640  can include any of the characteristics discussed above in relation to the shield section  140 . Further, the shield section  1640  may be positioned at the back of the jack  135  and include an orifice for receiving a cable for attachment to the jack  135 . When the jacks  135  of a jack assembly include the shield structures  120 - 8 , alien crosstalk is reduced between the adjacent jacks  135 . 
     The shield structure  120 - 8  can conveniently fit about the jack  135  like any termination cap. This allows the shield structure  120 - 8  to easily fit the jack  135  that is already deployed in a jack assembly of a data network. 
     The embodiments discussed above are provided as examples. The invention includes other embodiments of the jack assembly  100  and the shield structure  120  that can be configured to position a shield between the adjacent jacks  135  to reduce alien crosstalk between them. Preferably, the different embodiments of the shield structures  120  are configured to separate each set of adjacent jacks  135 . 
     B. Position Views 
     Alien crosstalk between jacks  135  can be minimized by selectively positioning the jacks  135  in relation to one another. Adjacent jacks  135  are of particular concern. When the conductors, e.g., the pins, of the adjacent jacks  135  share a generally parallel orientation, they are more prone to the coupling effects of alien crosstalk. Accordingly, alien crosstalk can be reduced by positioning the adjacent jacks  135  such that the conductors of one jack  135  are not parallel to the conductors of an adjacent jack  135 . Preferably, the adjacent jacks  135  are moved away from a parallel position by at least a predetermined extent such that the adjacent jacks  135  are far enough away from being parallel that alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  135  is effectively reduced. The adjacent jacks  135  can be moved away from being parallel in a wide variety of ways, including positioning or orienting each of the adjacent jacks  135  differently with respect to one another. 
     Further, alien crosstalk between the jacks  135  can be minimized by selectively positioning the jacks  135  so that they are not aligned with one another. Again, adjacent jacks  135  are of particular concern. When the conductors of a first adjacent jack  135  are aligned with the conductors of a second adjacent jack  135 , the adjacent jacks  135  are more prone to the coupling effects of alien crosstalk. Accordingly, alien crosstalk can be reduced by positioning the adjacent jacks  135  such that the conductors of one jack  135  are not aligned with the conductors of an adjacent jack  135 . Preferably, the adjacent jacks  135  are moved away from an aligned position such that the number of adjacent jacks  135  within a common plane, e.g., an orthogonal plane, is minimized. This helps to reduce alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  135 . The adjacent jacks  135  can be moved away from being aligned in a wide variety of ways, including staggering, offsetting, and inverting the jacks with respect to one another. Some positional embodiments are described below. 
     1. Angled Views 
       FIG. 17  shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a jack assembly  1700  with the jacks  135  positioned at different angles with respect to a surface of the jack assembly  1700 . Accordingly, the adjacent jacks  135  are positioned at dissimilar angles with respect to one another. By positioning the adjacent jacks  135  at different angles, the conductors of the adjacent jacks  135  are moved away from becoming parallel, which helps reduce alien crosstalk. 
     Preferably, the jacks  135  of each set of adjacent jacks  135  should be oriented at angles that differ by at least a predetermined extent. The predetermined extent of position differentiation, e.g., angle differentiation, should move the jacks  135  far enough from being parallel to effectively reduce alien crosstalk between them. In some embodiments, the predetermined extent is no less than approximately eight degrees. In some embodiments, no two of the jacks  135  of the jack assembly  1700  have generally parallel orientations. 
     The jacks  135  can be positioned at different respective angles in a wide variety of ways. For example, the jack assembly  1700  includes a frame  1710  that can be configured to receive and position the jacks  135  at different angles with respect to a surface of the frame  1710 . Further, the jacks  135  can be shaped to allow them to be positioned at different angles. 
     The dissimilarly angled jacks  135  can further reduce alien crosstalk by moving the cables attached to the jacks  135  away from becoming parallel with respect to one another. When the cables are attached to the adjacent jacks  135 , a certain length of each of the attached cables extending away from the jacks  135  tends to become oriented similar to the angles of the jacks  135 . Therefore, the positioning of the adjacent jacks  135  at different angles helps move the attached cables away from becoming parallel at least over some cable length extending away from the jack assembly  1700 . This is true for both the cables attached to the rear of the jack  135  and the cables or plugs attached to the front socket  155  of the jack  135 . By moving a certain length of the attached cables away from becoming parallel, the conductors in adjacent cables are prevented from becoming parallel near the jacks  135 . This reduces alien crosstalk between adjacent cables over at least part of their lengths. 
     2. Staggered Views 
       FIG. 18A  shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a jack assembly  1800  with jacks  1835 - 1 ,  1835 - 2 ,  1835 - 3 ,  1835 - 4  (collectively the “jacks  1835 ”) positioned at different depths with respect to a surface of the jack assembly  1800 , such as the front surface. The jacks  1835  include the features discussed above in relation to the jacks  135 . Further, the jacks  1835  are positioned at staggered depths with respect to one another. This configuration of the jack assembly  1800  helps minimize alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  1835  by moving the conductors of the jacks  1835  such that they are not aligned with respect to each other. Further, the resultant increase in distance between the staggered conductors of the adjacent jacks  1835  helps reduce alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  1835 . Accordingly, the staggered depths of adjacent jacks  1835  help reduce alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  1835 . 
     The jacks  1835  can be positioned at different respective depths in a wide variety of ways. For example, the jack assembly  1800  includes the frame  110 . A number of jack mounts  1830  can be coupled to the frame. As shown in  FIG. 18A , the jack mounts  1830  can extend at different lengths away from the frame  110  to receive the jacks  1835  at staggered depths in relation to a surface of the frame  110 . In  FIG. 18A , the jack assembly  1800  includes a number of jacks  1835  received by the jack mounts  1830 - 1 ,  1830 - 2 ,  18303 ,  1830 - 4  (collectively “the jack mounts  1830 ”), which are distinguished by their dissimilar depths. The jack mounts  1830  can extend at any direction away from the frame  110 , including a generally forward direction and a generally rearward direction. Preferably, the jack mounts  1830  are differentiated such that adjacent jacks  1835  are staggered by at least approximately the predetermined distance. 
       FIG. 18B  is a side-view of conductors of the jacks  1835  of  FIG. 18A . As shown in  FIG. 18B , the conductors of the jacks  1835  can include mating pins  1840  connected to insulated displacement contacts  1850  (hereinafter “IDC&#39;s  1850 ”) by a circuit board  1860 . In  FIG. 18B , the jacks  1835  are staggered with respect to one another. The jack  1835 - 1  is positioned such that its circuit board  1860  is within a first lateral plane (LL- 1 ). The circuit board  1860  of the jacks  1835 - 2  is positioned along a second lateral plane (LL- 2 ) that is not within the first lateral plane (LL- 1 ). Similarly, the circuit boards  1860  of the jacks  1835 - 3 ,  1835 - 4  are positioned along other unique lateral planes (LL- 3 , LL- 4 ) that are not within the first lateral plane (LL- 1 ). Preferably, none of the jacks  1835  of the jack assembly  1800  shares a common lateral plane with an adjacent jack  1835 . In some embodiments, the jacks  1835  of the jack assembly  1800  are staggered such that no more than two jacks  1835  are co-planar. 
     By staggering the adjacent jacks  1835  at different depths in relation to one another, the mating pins  1840 , the circuit boards  1860 , and the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the respective jacks  1835  are moved away from being laterally aligned with each other. For example,  FIG. 18B  shows that the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the jack  1835 - 1  are not completely aligned with the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the adjacent jack  1835 - 2 . In other words, the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the jack  1835 - 1  are not completely within the orthogonal plane of the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the adjacent jack  1835 - 2 . Accordingly, the distance between at least a portion of the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the respective jacks  1835  is increased, and alien crosstalk between the IDC&#39;s  1850  of the respective jacks  135  is reduced. As discussed further below, the adjacent jacks  1835 - 1 ,  1835 - 2  should be staggered enough to effectively reduce alien crosstalk between them. 
       FIG. 18C  shows a top-view of the staggered jacks  1835  of  FIG. 18B . In  FIG. 18C , a distance (Z) indicates the distance that the adjacent jacks  1835 - 1 ,  1835 - 4  are staggered in relation to one another. For example, the jacks  1835  can be staggered generally forward or backward in relation to an adjacent jack  1835  by the distance (Z). The distance (Z) should be at least approximately a predetermined distance such that the conductors of the adjacent jacks  135  are staggered far enough from alignment to reduce alien crosstalk. Although it is preferable to staggered the adjacent jacks  1835  enough to remove their IDC&#39;s from overlapping in a common plane, as mentioned above, a partial overlap of the conductors of adjacent jacks  135  can still function to reduce alien crosstalk because the conductors are no longer completely within a common plane. By moving even a partial length of the conductors of a particular jack  1835  out of alignment with at least a portion the conductors of an adjacent jack  1835 , alien crosstalk is reduced between the conductors of the respective adjacent jacks  1835 . 
     3. Offset Views 
       FIG. 19A  shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a jack assembly  1900 . The jack assembly  1900  comprises a frame  1910  configured to receive jacks  1935  offset with respect to one another. The jacks  1935 - 1 ,  1935 - 2 ,  1935 - 3 ,  1935 - 4  (collectively the “jacks  1935 ”) include all the features discussed above in relation to the jacks  135 . Further, the jacks  1935  can be offset from one another. An offset configuration of the jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900  helps minimize alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  1935  by moving the conductors of the jacks  1935  away from alignment and by increasing the distances between the respective conductors of the adjacent jacks  1935 . In particular, the distance can be increased by positioning the jacks  1935  away from an orthogonal alignment. For example, the jack  1935 - 1  can be offset so that the adjacent jack  1935 - 2  is not directly above, below, or to the side of the jack  19351 . 
     By offsetting the jacks  1935  from each other, the conductors of the respective jacks  1935  are offset.  FIG. 19B  shows a side-view of the conductors of the jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900  of  FIG. 19A . Each of the jacks  1935  include the mating pins  1840  and the IDC&#39;s  1850  connected by the circuit board  1860 . As shown in  FIG. 19B , the jacks  1935  are positioned along different horizontal planes: jack  1935 - 1  is positioned at horizontal plane (HH- 1 ); jack  1935 - 2  is positioned at horizontal plane (HH- 2 ); jack  19353  is positioned at horizontal plane (HH- 3 ); and jack  1935 - 4  is positioned at horizontal plane (HH- 4 ). For purposes of illustration, the horizontal planes HH-l, HH- 2 , HH- 3 , and HH- 4  (collectively the “horizontal planes (HH)”) are shown to intersect the approximate center-points of the individual jacks  1935 . This offset configuration reduces alien crosstalk by distancing the conductors of the jacks  1935  farther apart than in a non-offset configuration. 
     To offset the jacks  1935  from one another, at least a subset of the jacks  1935  shown in  FIG. 19B  have been vertically offset such that the jacks  1935  do not share common horizontal planes. For example, the jack  1935 - 1  and/or the jack  1935 - 2  have been shifted vertically to form a distance (Y- 1 ) between the horizontal plane (HH- 1 ) and the horizontal plane (HH- 2 ). 
       FIG. 19C  shows a front-view of the jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900 . Similar to  FIG. 19B ,  FIG. 19C  shows the distance of offset between the jack  1935 - 1  and the jack  1935 - 2 , as well as jacks  1935  positioned at the different horizontal planes (HH).  FIG. 19C  also shows a distance (X- 1 ) that represents a generally horizontal distance between the jack  1935 - 1  and the jack  1935 - 2 . 
     The distance between the offset jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900  can be easily determined using the vertical and horizontal offset distances between the jacks  1935 . For example, the distance (X- 1 ) and the distance (Y- 1 ) between the jacks  1935 - 1 ,  1935 - 2  can be measured or otherwise determined. From the distances (X- 1 , Y- 1 ), an angle (A- 1 ) between the horizontal plane (H- 2 ) of the jack  1935 - 2  and a line (MM) intersecting the two jacks  1935 - 1 ,  1935 - 2  at their approximate center points can be easily determined. Any of these determined characteristics can be easily used to determine the distance of the line (MM) between the center points of the jacks  1935 - 1 ,  1935 - 2 . It is well-known that the line (MM) is a greater distance than either of the distances (X- 1 , Y 1 ). Accordingly, the distance (MM) between the jacks  1935 - 1 ,  1935 - 2  is increased by offsetting the same jacks  1935 - 1 ,  1935 - 2  such that they do not share common horizontal or vertical planes. The same operations can be used to determine angles and distances between other adjacent jacks  1935 , such as an angle (A- 2 ) related to the jacks  1935 - 2 ,  1935 - 3 . Similar operations can be used to determine that the distance between the offset jacks  1935  has been increased enough to reduce alien crosstalk. 
     The adjacent jacks  1935  should be offset by at least a predetermined distance such that alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  1935  is effectively reduced. While the goal is to maximize the extent of the line (MM), in one preferred embodiment the starting point is to establish a minimum predetermined distance component that is no less than approximately one-half the height (H) of the jack  1935 . By being offset at least by a component of one-half the height (H), the conductors of the adjacent jacks  1935  are moved far enough out of the common horizontal plane (HH) to effectively help minimize alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  1935 . 
     In some embodiments, the height (H) of the jack  1935  is approximately 0.6 inches (15.24 mm). Accordingly, the predetermined distance is at least approximately 0.3 inches (7.62 mm). Thus, for example, Y- 1  would be approximately 0.3 inches (7.62 mm). 
     While it would be desirable to have a maximum horizontal displacement as well, in practice, a minimum horizontal displacement is at least approximately 2 inches (50.8 mm). Thus, for example, the distance (X- 1 ) would be 2 inches (50.8 mm). Based on the distance (X- 1 ) being approximately 2 inches (50.8 mm) and the distances (Y- 1 ) being approximately 0.3 inches (7.62 mm), the angle (A- 1 ) between adjacent jacks  1935  should be at least approximately 8.5 degrees and the extent of line (MM) should be approximately 2.02 inches (51.31 mm) to help minimize alien crosstalk effectively. The offset distance (MM) and the angle (A- 1 ) should be at least approximately predetermined values that function to effectively reduce alien crosstalk. 
     The jack assembly  1900  can be configured for offsetting the adjacent jacks  1935  in a number of different ways. As shown in  FIG. 19C , at least a subset of the jacks  1935  can be offset in a generally vertical direction. Although not shown in  FIG. 19C , at least a subset of the jacks  1935  can be offset in a generally horizontal direction. Similarly, at least a subset of the jacks  1935  may be offset in any combination of generally vertical and generally horizontal directions. An example of horizontally shifted jacks  1935  is illustrated by  FIG. 19D . 
     Because the offset distance (MM) can be a function of both the vertical displacement (X- 1 ) and the horizontal displacement (Y- 1 ), a change to the distances (X- 1 , Y- 1 ) also adjusts the effects of alien crosstalk. Specifically, the distance (MM) can be increased to improve isolation from alien crosstalk by increasing the distance (Y- 1 ) and/or the distance (X- 1 ). Similarly, the angle (A- 1 ) also affects the isolation against alien crosstalk. For example, if the angle (A- 1 ) is increased up to a certain threshold, e.g., 45 degrees, then the distance (X- 1 ) and/or the distance (Y- 1 ) can be decreased while still maintaining an adequate offset distance and angle for reducing alien crosstalk. On the other hand, if the angle (A- 1 ) is decreased up to some threshold, then the offset distance (MM) should be increased to still effectively reduce alien crosstalk. 
       FIG. 19D  shows another embodiment of the jack assembly  1900  of  FIG. 19A .  FIG. 19D  shows a jack assembly  1900 - 1  that includes a number of the jack  1935  received by a frame  1910 - 1 . The frame  1910 - 1  can be configured for use with any size of panel, including a 24-jack patch panel. The jacks  1935  are horizontally offset such that they do not share a common vertical plane. For example, the jack  1935 - 1  is positioned along vertical plane (VV- 1 ), the jack  1935 - 2  is positioned along vertical plane (VV- 2 ), the jack  1935 - 3  is positioned at vertical plane (VV- 3 ), and so on for “n” number of the jacks  1935 . As shown, the jacks  1935  can be offset such that none of the jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900 - 1  shares a common vertical plane. 
     In the jack assembly  1900 - 1  of  FIG. 19D , the vertical displacement (Y- 1 ) is approximately the entire height of the jack  1935  as opposed to one half the height of the jack  1935 . If the distance between the vertical planes (VV) is kept the same as the horizontal displacement (X- 1 ) shown in  FIG. 19C , the offset distance (MM) is increased because of the increased vertical displacement (Y- 1 ) between the jacks  1935 . For example, if the distance (X- 1 ) is approximately 2 inches (50.8 mm) as discussed above in relation to  FIG. 19C  while the distance (Y- 1 ) is increased from approximately 0.3 inches (7.62 mm) to approximately 0.6 inches (15.24 mm), then the offset distance (MM) is increased to approximately 2.09 inches (53.09 mm). Thus, the alien crosstalk is reduced even further. 
     The discussion above relating to the vertical offset configurations of  FIGS. 19A-C  also applies to the horizontally offset configuration shown in  FIG. 19D . Further, any combination of vertical and horizontal offsets can be used to offset the jacks  1935 . Preferably, the jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900  are arranged such that none of the jacks  1935  shares a vertical or a horizontal plane with an adjacent jack  1935 . In some embodiments, the jacks  1935  of the jack assembly  1900  are offset such that no more than two jacks  1935  share a common orthogonal plane. 
     Preferably, the number of adjacent jacks  1935  within a common plane should be minimized. For example, the jacks  1935  can be offset such that any common plane includes no more than two jacks  1935 . In many embodiments, adjacent jacks  1935  comprise any jacks  1935  within approximately two inches (50.8 mm) of one another. 
       FIG. 19E  is a perspective view of another embodiment of the jack assembly  1900 - 1  of  FIG. 19D . As shown in  FIG. 19E , the jack assembly  1900 - 2  can include the features of the jack assembly  1900 - 1 . Further, the jack assembly  1900 - 2  may include a shield structure  120 - 9 . The shield structure  120 - 9  includes the features discussed above in relation to the shield structure  120 . The shield structure  120 - 9  can be positioned between subsets of the jacks  1935 . For example, the shield structure  120 - 9  separates a first row of jacks  1935  from a second row of jacks  1935 . 
     The jack assembly  1900 - 2  may include the shield structure  120 - 9  to help reduce alien crosstalk. In particular, if any of the jacks  1935  are offset from each other by less than approximately the predetermined distance, the shield structure  120 - 9  can be configured to separate the same jacks  1935 . Alternatively, where the offset is at least approximately the predetermined distance, the shield structure  120 - 9  may be omitted as shown in  FIG. 19D . Further, many of the shield structures discussed above can be used with the jack assembly  1900 - 2  to help reduce alien crosstalk if an offset is less than the predetermined distance. 
     The jacks  1935  can be offset by various horizontal and vertical distances providing a minimum acceptable distance (MM) and minimum acceptable angle (A- 1 ). As noted above, it is not enough that distance (MM) be a certain extent; the existence of angle (A- 1 ) helps to prevent undesirable planar alignment between adjacent jacks. For example, the jack  1935 - 2  can be offset from the jack  1935 - 1  by a first vertical distance and a second horizontal distance. The jack  1935 - 2  can be offset from the jack  1935 - 3  by a third horizontal distance and a fourth vertical distance. By varying the offset distances between the jacks  1935 , patterns can be avoided that may tend to align jacks  1935  while still providing an overall acceptable distance (MM) and angle (A- 1 ) between them. This is especially helpful for jack assemblies having numerous jacks  1935 . 
     4. Inverted Views 
       FIG. 20A  shows a perspective view of another embodiment of a jack assembly  2000  with adjacent jacks  2035 - 1 ,  2035 - 2 ,  2035 - 3 ,  2035 - 4  (collectively the “jacks  2035 ”) inverted with respect to one another. This configuration of the jack assembly  2000  helps minimize alien crosstalk between the adjacent jacks  2035  by positioning the adjacent jacks  2035  away from alignment with one another. Specifically, one of the jacks  2035  of a pair of adjacent jacks  2035  can be inverted so that its mating pins  1840  (not shown; see  FIG. 20B ) are not positioned within a horizontal plane of the mating pins  1840  of the other adjacent jack  2035 . This increases the distance between the mating pins  1840  of the respective adjacent jacks  2035  and minimizes the alien crosstalk between them. 
     The jack assembly  2000  can be configured to invert the adjacent jacks  2035  in a number of different ways. For example, laterally adjacent jacks  2035  can be inverted with respect to one another. Further, longitudinally adjacent jacks  2035  can be inverted with respect to one another. To facilitate inverting adjacent jacks  2035  with respect to one another, a frame  2010  of the jack assembly  2000  may be configured to receive some of the jacks  2035  in inverted positions. Alternatively, the frame  2010  can be configured to receive a number of jack mounts  2030  that are configured to receive the jacks  2035 . The jack mounts  2030  can include uptight jack mounts  2030 - 1  and inverted jack mounts  2030 - 2 . As shown in  FIG. 20A , the inverted jack mounts  2030 - 2  can be positioned adjacent to the upright jack mounts  2030 - 1  such that when the jacks  2035  are received, the jacks  2035  of each pair of adjacent jacks  2035  is inverted with respect to each other. 
       FIG. 20B  shows a side-view of conductors of the jacks  2035  of the jack assembly  2000 . The jacks  2035  may include any of the features discussed above in relation to the jacks  135 . As shown in  FIG. 20B , the mating pins  1840  of upright jacks  2035 - 1  are positioned in different horizontal planes than are mating pins  1840 - 1  of inverted jacks  2035 - 2 . Specifically, the mating pins  1840  of the jack  2035 - 1  are positioned at the horizontal plane (HH- 5 ), the mating pins  1840 - 1  of the jack  2035 - 2  are positioned at the horizontal plane (HH- 6 ), the mating pins  1840  of the jack  2035 - 3  are positioned at the horizontal plane (HH- 7 ), and the mating pins  1840 - 1  of the jack  2035 - 4  are positioned at the horizontal plane (HH- 8 ).  FIG. 20C  is a front-view of the conductors of the jacks  2035  of  FIG. 20B  that further illustrates the unique horizontal planes (HH- 5 , HH- 6 , HH- 7 , HH- 8 ) of the mating pins  1840 ,  1840 - 2  of the jacks  2035 . This configuration helps minimize alien crosstalk between the mating pins ( 1840 ,  1840 - 1 ) of the adjacent jacks  2035 . 
     Further, the inverted relationship of the adjacent jacks  2035  can position the mating pins  1840 ,  1840 - 1  of vertically adjacent jacks  2035 , e.g., the jacks  2035 - 1 ,  20352 , out of vertical alignment to reduce alien crosstalk. Specifically, the mating pins  1840 - 1  of the inverted jacks  2035 - 2  are reversed from the corresponding mating pins  1840  of the upright jacks  2035 - 1 .  FIG. 20D  shows the relationship of the upright mating pins  1840  and the inverted mating pins  1840 - 1  of the vertically adjacent jacks  2035 - 1 ,  2035 - 2 . As shown in  FIG. 20D , each of the jacks  2035 - 1 ,  2035 - 2  includes pins  2050 - 1 , 2050 - 2 , 20503 ,  2050 - 4 ,  2050 - 5 ,  2050 - 6 ,  2050 - 7 ,  2050 - 8  (collectively the “pins  2050 ”) arranged for compatibility with complimentary plugs. When an upright jack  2035 - 1  is inverted, the arrangement of the pins  2050  is also inverted. Accordingly, when the adjacent jacks  2035 - 1 ,  2035 - 2  are positioned generally vertical to one another, the pairs  2050  of the upright jack  2035 - 1  are not aligned with the pins  2050  of the inverted jack  2035 - 2 . For example, the pin  2050 - 1  of the uptight jack  2035 - 1  is not in the same vertical plane (V- 1 ) as the pin  2050 - 1  of the inverted jack  2035 - 2 , which is in vertical plane (V- 2 ). This helps to reduce alien crosstalk by distancing the corresponding pins  2050  of the jacks  2035 - 1 ,  2035 - 2  apart. 
     III. Compensation Views 
     Connectors may be configured to compensate for alien crosstalk by adjusting the data signals being transmitted through the connectors. In particular, the effects of alien crosstalk on a connector&#39;s signal can be determined, and the connector can be configured to adjust its signal to compensate for the alien crosstalk effects. Many methods and mechanisms are known for adjusting data signals to compensate for intra-connector crosstalk between the pins of a connector. However, as discussed above, intra-connector methods are not used to compensate for alien crosstalk. 
     Techniques for determining and compensating for alien crosstalk between connectors are discussed below. In particular, the effects of alien crosstalk on a victim signal can be determined. From this determination, signal compensators can be provided to adjust the victim signal to compensate for the determined alien crosstalk effects. 
     A. Alien Crosstalk Determination Techniques 
       FIG. 21  is a block diagram of an embodiment of a jack assembly  2100  that may be used with a test assembly to determine the effects of alien crosstalk between connectors. As discussed above, when the connectors are transmitting data signals, each connector of the jack assembly  2100  can be affected by alien crosstalk from adjacent connectors. Therefore, to determine the effects of alien crosstalk on each connector, a test assembly can be used to generate transmission signals through a first connector and measure the effects of coupled signals on an adjacent connector. The jack assembly  2100  is shown for illustrative purposes. Many other connector configurations can be used with the test assembly to determine the effects of alien crosstalk. 
     As  FIG. 21  shows, the jack assembly  2100  can include a victim jack  2110  positioned adjacent to a number of disturber jacks  2120 - 1 ,  2120 - 2 ,  2120 - 3 ,  2120 - 4 ,  21205 , 2120 - 6 , 2120 - 7 , 2120 - 8  (collectively “the disturber jacks  2120 ”). The victim jack  2110  and the disturber jacks  2120  share the same features discussed above in relation to the jack  135 . Different methods and techniques can be used to determine the alien crosstalk effects that each transmitting disturber jack  2120  induces on the victim jack  2110 . One such embodiment is discussed below in relation to  FIG. 22 . 
     It will be appreciated by one of skill in the art that any of the jacks  2110 ,  2120  of  FIG. 21  can be the victim jack  2110  with the other jacks  2120  being the disturber jacks  2120 . Accordingly, alien crosstalk effects can be determined for each of the jacks  2110 ,  2120  of the jack assembly  2100 . 
       FIG. 22  is a block diagram of an exemplary test assembly  2200  useful for determining the effects of alien crosstalk on the victim jack  2110 . In general, the test assembly  2200  can be used to measure the alien crosstalk effects that each disturber jack  2120  induces on the victim jack  2110 . Preferably, the test assembly  2200  determines the effects of alien crosstalk generated by each disturber jack  2120  in turn. As shown in  FIG. 22 , the test setup  2200  includes a network analyzer  2205  having a transmitter coupled to disturber pairs  2220  of one of the disturber jacks  2120 , such as the disturber jack  2120 - 1 . The network analyzer  2205  further includes a receiver coupled to victim pairs  2210  of the victim jack  2110 . The disturber jack  2120 - 1  is coupled to a disturber termination  2240  by a cable  2230 . The victim jack  2110  is coupled to a victim termination  2250  by a separate cable  2230 . 
     Preferably, the test assembly  2200  simulates at least a part of a data network. Accordingly, the disturber termination  2240  and the victim termination  2250  can include properties that are characteristic of a data network. For example, the disturber termination  2240  and the victim termination  2250  may include resistors having appropriate properties for simulating a network. The cable  2230  can comprise a network-type cable that tends to help simulate a network connection. 
     In an exemplary process for determining the effects of alien crosstalk generated by the disturber jack  2120 - 1 , the network analyzer  2205  can transmit a test signal to a disturber pair  2220 - 1  of the disturber jack  2120 - 1 . Preferably, a swept frequency is transmitted to the disturber pair  2220 - 1 . When the transmitted signal travels along the disturber pair  2220 - 1  of the disturber jack  2120 - 1 , a coupling signal may couple from the disturber pair  2220 - 1  to any of the victim pairs  2210  of the victim jack  2110 . The coupling signal is representative of alien crosstalk induced on the victim pairs  2210 . 
     The coupling signals, i.e. alien crosstalk, can be measured, preferably in turn, on the victim pair  2210 -  1 , victim pair  2210 - 2 , victim pair  2210 - 3 , and victim pair  2210 - 4 . Specifically, the network analyzer  2205  can be used to measure the coupling signals associated with each victim pair  2210 . Each measured signal can then be used to determine the effects of alien crosstalk that the transmitted signal induced on the victim pairs  2210 . 
     The network analyzer  2205  can then transmit the signal along a different disturber pair  2220 - 2 . As discussed above, the transmitted signal generates coupling signals at the victim jack  2110 . Again, the coupling signals can be measured on the victim pair  2210 - 1 , the victim pair  2210 - 2 , the victim pair  2210 - 3 , and the victim pair  2210 - 4 . With this iteration, the measurements can be used to determine the effects of alien crosstalk that the transmitted signal on the disturber pair  2220 - 2  induced on the victim pairs  2210 . This process can be repeated for the disturber pair  2220 - 3  and again for the disturber pair  2220 - 4 . 
     The measurements from the iterations can be aggregated to determine a sum alien crosstalk effect for each individual victim pair  2210 . For example, the measurements on victim pair  2210 - 1  can be aggregated and used to determine a sum alien crosstalk effect that the disturber pairs  2220  of the disturber jack  2120 - 1  aggregately induced on the victim pair  2210 - 1 . The same holds true for each of the victim pairs  2210  of the victim jack  2110 . Alternatively, the network analyzer  2205  may transmit the signal to all of the disturber pairs  2220  simultaneously, and the sum alien crosstalk effects from the disturber pairs  2220  can be measured for each of the victim pairs  2120 . 
     The process described above for determining the sum alien crosstalk effect that the disturber jack  2120 - 1  has on the individual victim pairs  2210  of the victim jack  2110  can be repeated for the other disturber jacks  2120 - 2 ,  2120 - 3 ,  2120 - 4 ,  2120 - 5 ,  21206 ,  2120 - 7 ,  2120 - 8 . For example, the transmitter of the network analyzer  2205  can be coupled to different disturber jack  2120 - 2  and the process repeated. Preferably, the process is repeated for each of the disturber jacks  2120  of the jack assembly  2100 . Once the process has been repeated and the sum alien crosstalk effect from each disturber jack  2120  measured, the sum alien crosstalk effects can be aggregated to determine a total alien crosstalk effect on each victim pair  2210  of the victim jack  2110 . The total alien crosstalk effect represents how much each victim pair  2210  should be adjusted to compensate for the alien crosstalk effects induced by the disturber jacks  2120 . Techniques for applying signal compensators to the pairs of the jacks  2110 ,  2220  are discussed below. 
     The process described above can be varied so long as it still accurately measures the effects of alien crosstalk between the jacks  2110 ,  2120 . For example, the process can be performed in a different order than described above. The process may be applied to measure any subset of the disturber pairs  2220  of any subset of the disturber jacks  2220 . This allows a connector to be adjusted to compensate for some alien crosstalk without having to compensate for other alien crosstalk. For example, some of the disturber pairs  2220  may generate only a relatively insignificant amount of alien crosstalk on a particular victim pair  2210 . Accordingly, the signal compensator for the victim pair  2210  may be configured not to compensate for the alien crosstalk of that particular disturber pair  2220 . This allows the jacks  2110 ,  2120  to be configured for many different connector arrangements and network signals. 
     Further, the test assembly  2200  can be configured in any way that allows alien crosstalk to be accurately measured. A variety of different measurements may be used to help determine a signal compensator. For example, measurements can be taken of near-end alien crosstalk (ANEXT) and/or far-end alien crosstalk (AFEXT). In the test assembly  2200  of  FIG. 22 , ANEXT can be measured on the side of the victim jack  2110  nearer to the receiver of the network analyze  2205 , while AFEXT may be measured on the victim termination  2250  side of the victim jack  2110 . Both of these measurements may be used to help determine an appropriate signal compensator. For example, the ANEXT should be compensated with a signal compensator that does not produce undesirable AFEXT signals. 
     B. Compensation Techniques 
     Once the alien crosstalk effect has been determined for a particular victim pair  2210 , signal compensators can be provided to compensate for the alien crosstalk effect. The signal compensators should be of magnitudes and phases that effectively compensate for the alien crosstalk effects produced by at least a subset of the disturber pairs  2220  of at least a subset of the disturber jacks  2120 . Preferably, the signal compensators are configured to compensate for the sum alien crosstalk effect or the total alien crosstalk effect discussed above. 
     A variety of techniques can be used to generate any number of signal compensators for the particular pair  2210 . For example, the jack assembly  100 - 6  of  FIG. 12  includes the circuit board  1210  having a number of compensation mechanisms  1220 . The compensation mechanisms  1220  can be configured to generate the signal compensators for each pair of the jacks  135 . Specifically, the compensation mechanisms  1220  can include conductive elements shaped and positioned to generate specific signal compensators. For example, the conductive elements can be positioned to use other signals traveling through the circuit board  1210  to produce desired coupling effects that generate the signal compensators. The coupling effects can include inductive and/or capacitive coupling. 
     The signal compensators may be configured to compensate for the alien crosstalk from any number of disturber pairs  2220 , including a single disturber pair  2220 . Accordingly, many signal compensators can be used with a single victim pair  2210  to compensate for multiple sources of alien crosstalk. Preferably, each signal compensator is configured to utilize a signal from the associated disturber pair  2220  to compensate for the alien crosstalk effect from the same disturber pair  2220 . The compensation mechanisms  1220  can be configured to generate each signal compensator. 
     Further, the jack assembly  100 - 6  can include a mechanism for generating another signal compensator that compensates for intra-connector crosstalk between the victim pairs  2210  of the victim jack  2110 . Many such mechanisms are known. Accordingly, the jack assembly  100 - 6  can include mechanisms configured to generate a first signal compensator that compensates for intra-connector crosstalk and second signal compensator that compensates for alien crosstalk from a number of adjacent connectors  2120 . In some embodiments, the number of adjacent connectors  2120  includes each connector  2120  within approximately two inches of the victim connector  2110 . 
     The compensation techniques are not limited to compensation mechanisms  1220  of the circuit board  1210 . Many other compensation techniques can be used to generate the signal compensators for compensating against the effects of alien crosstalk. For example, digital signal processing may be used to produce signal compensators designed to compensate for the determined alien crosstalk effects. Arrangements of wires or conductive leads can also be used to produce the signal compensator. Inductive and/or capacitive coupling may be used to generate the signal compensator. In short, many different mechanisms can be used to generate the signal compensator to compensate for the determined alien crosstalk effects. 
     The determination and compensation techniques discussed above can be applied to any jack assembly, including any of the jack assemblies discussed herein. Accordingly, the compensation views can be effectively applied in combination with any of the shield views and/or positional views discussed above. By using a combination of shield views, positional views, and compensation views, alien crosstalk between adjacent connectors of a jack assembly can be further reduced. 
     IV. Alternative Embodiments 
     The above description is intended to be illustrative and not restrictive. Many embodiments and applications other than the examples provided would be apparent to those of skill in the art upon reading the above description. The scope of the invention should be determined, not with reference to the above description, but should instead be determined with reference to the appended claims, along with the full scope of equivalents to which such claims are entitled. It is anticipated and intended that future developments will occur in connector configurations, and that the invention will be incorporated into such future embodiments.