Abstract: A distribution device (1) for distributed wiring is constructed with multiple modules (3) that have, respective disconnect hinges (14) mounted disconnectedly to a first rail (4) on a distribution backbone (2), and quick disconnect fasteners (11) disconnectedly secured to a corresponding other rail (4) on the distribution backbone (2).

Abstract: Modules (3) for distributing a local area network have, a network hub module (3a) containing network hub circuitry, multiple communication ports (17) on the network hub module (3a), a network interface module (3a) having output connectors (20) electrically terminating cables (26) extending to outlets (27) in various rooms of a building, the network interface module (3b) having input connectors (17) connected to respective output connectors (20), said input connectors (17) being connected by jumper cables (26) to respective ports (17) on the network hub module (3a).

Abstract: An expansion module for connecting additional communication ports (64) to a hub (10) of a communications network, an enclosure containing additional communication ports (64) on a motherboard (43), a hub receiving portion on an exterior of the enclosure, the hub receiving portion being adapted for mounting to a hub (10) of a communications network, a hub receiving opening (37) in the enclosure, a mating interconnection board (121) connected to the motherboard (43) and facing the hub receiving opening (37), the mating interconnection board (121) being adapted for electrical connection with a card edge connector (45) on the hub (10).

Abstract: A network apparatus in the form of a base hub (10) containing a motherboard (43) and active circuitry (62) on the motherboard (43) for operation in a communications network and multiple communication ports (64) connected to the active circuitry (62), an expansion module (20) containing additional communication ports (64), and an interconnection mechanism (16) for connecting the additional communication ports (64) and the active circuitry (62).

Abstract: A hub for a communications network, a base hub (10), multiple communications ports (64) on the base hub (10), a motherboard (13) on which is mounted circuitry (62) for operation in a communications network, an expansion port opening (101) in the base hub (10), an interconnection board (42) in the base hub (10) carrying circuitry for operation in a communications network, the interconnection board (42) pointing toward the expansion port opening (101) for electrical connection to an expansion module (20) containing additional communication ports (64), and containing a mating interconnection board (121) for connection to the interconnection board (42) in the base hub (10).

Abstract: An interconnection mechanism for a communications network is described with communication ports (64) and active circuitry (62) on a motherboard (43), a second motherboard (43) without the active circuitry (62) and on which are mounted additional communication ports (64), and the two motherboards (43) being disconnectedly mated to each other through an interconnect board (42) in a base hub (10) and a mating interconnect board (121) in an expansion module (20) that mates with a card edge connector (45) on the interconnect board (42).