Black Box Explains...

Local Multiplexors:

Local multiplexors extend the distance between computers and terminals or printers
that are connected via customer-installed or telco-supplied cable.

Like line drivers, local multiplexors extend RS-232 communications and must be
used in pairs. The difference between the two is that multiplexors merge several
transmissions into one transmission over a single channel; line drivers generally
transmit data over a single channel.

Local multiplexors operate over ordinary twisted-pair copper cable or fiber optic
cable. Copper cable is typically used within buildings while fiber optic cable is
the most common choice for connecting buildings in a campus environment. For in-
building connections, copper cable is widely used because it’s comparatively
inexpensive and easy to install. Your building might even have unshielded twisted-
pair cable already in place.

The twisted-pair copper cable used for local multiplexors is run throughout
buildings from the wallplates of each office or work area to a central wiring
closet within the building. Wiring closets have centrally located punchdown blocks
where all cables from the building are terminated. That way, when a connection
needs to be changed or a new one needs to be made within the building, wiring can
be easily rerouted on the punchdown blocks.

Selecting a local multiplexor.

When selecting a local multiplexor, keep in mind that copper-based multiplexors
come in a vast array of types. You’ll find multiplexors available with RJ-11, RJ-
45, or terminal block connections for your in-house wiring and with RS-232
connections for your computer equipment. All these multiplexors can be used to
link a local device to a remote device within a building.