2 Gang Ethernet Socket - Midnight Blue

This is a data plate in a deep midnight blue, carrying two ports for Cat 5 and Cat 6 network cable on a small square face. The plate measures 88mm across, so it sits in the same footprint as a standard single plate, and the screwless front gives a clean face with no screw heads showing. The blue is dark and even, closer to ink than navy, and it reads as a considered choice rather than an afterthought on a painted or papered wall.

Wired networking still beats wireless for anything that matters, and this is where we would put a hard line: a home office desk, a study alcove, a media wall behind the television, or a landing cupboard where a router and switch live. Two ports on one plate means a computer and a printer, or a games console and a set-top box, can both be fed from the same point. It works on low voltage data circuits only and belongs in dry indoor rooms. We stock it for people fitting out a whole house in one colour rather than patching in whatever is to hand.

The plate and its ports are moulded in ABS, which takes colour well and keeps its shade without the yellowing that catches out cheaper mouldings. For cleaning, a dry microfibre cloth lifts dust and fingerprints from the face; if something greasier has landed on it, a barely damp cloth and a little patience will do, though we would keep sprays and kitchen cleaners well away, as they can leave a bloom on the finish that will not buff out. It carries a ten year warranty. Darker plates suit rooms with strong wall colour, panelling or exposed brick, where a white plate tends to stand out as a bright square you cannot stop noticing. Cable and connectors are supplied separately.

What cable does this take?

It is designed for Cat 5 and Cat 6 network cable, which covers most domestic and small office data installations.

How many devices can it serve?

Two. There are two data ports on the single plate, so a pair of devices can be fed from one point on the wall.

What size is the plate?

The face is 88mm square, matching the footprint of a standard single plate, with a 35mm depth behind it.

Is it suitable for a bathroom or outdoor use?

No. It is rated for indoor use only, in dry rooms, and carries an IP20 rating.

Can I use household cleaner on the blue finish?

Better not to. Sprays and degreasers can dull or mark the ABS. Use a dry cloth, or a barely damp one for stubborn marks.

Does it carry mains power?

No. It handles data circuits only and is classed as low voltage.