The Cisco 1000BASE-T Gigabit Interface Converter (GBIC) is an ideal solution for Catalyst ® 6500, 4000, 3550, 2950, 3500 XL and 2900 XL Series switch customers, providing full duplex Gigabit Ethernet connectivity to high-end workstations and between wiring closets over existing copper network infrastructures. This GBIC technology leverages the industry’s flexible, standards-based 1000BASE-X design, allowing for a simple and low-cost migration path to Gigabit Ethernet. There are two key product applications for the Cisco 1000BASE-T GBIC: connectivity to high-end workstations and distribution and wiring closet interconnectivity.

The Cisco 1000BASE-T GBIC (product number WS-G5483) connects a GBIC port to Category 5 wiring using a standard RJ-45 interface. The maximum Category 5 wiring distance is 328 feet (100 meters).