Description
3Com 3C588 MultiConnect Repeater Loaded 10-Slot Chassis BNC AUI RJ45 Modules
The 3Com 3C588 MultiConnect Repeater is a modular 10 Mbps Ethernet repeater chassis designed to accept a range of 3Com plug-in interface cards. Each module slot supports a different media type or port configuration, allowing a single chassis to bridge coaxial (10BASE-2/BNC), thick Ethernet (10BASE-5/AUI), and twisted-pair (10BASE-T/RJ45) segments simultaneously. This unit ships with approximately 13 of its slots populated with genuine 3Com plug-in modules across all three interface types, making it ready to integrate into a mixed-media Ethernet environment.
Specifications & What's Included
- Manufacturer: 3Com Corporation, Santa Clara, CA
- Model: 3C588 MultiConnect Repeater
- Chassis slots: 16 total; approximately 13 populated with 3Com modules, 1 slot visibly empty
- Installed module interface types: BNC (10BASE-2 coax), DB15 AUI (10BASE-5), RJ45 (10BASE-T)
- Each module features per-port Partition, Reset, Act, and Part status LEDs
- Data rate: 10 Mbps Ethernet
- Power input: 120/240 VAC, 3A, 60/50 Hz
- Rear power switch: rocker ON/OFF, IEC C14 AC inlet, labeled 115/220V
- Internal cooling: brushless fan (Matsushita-style 120mm)
- Country of manufacture: USA
- Compliance: FCC Class B, VDE Level B, CSA No. 154-M 1983; ANSI 478-1984, IEC 435-1983, IEC 380-1982
- Included: repeater chassis with all installed 3Com plug-in modules as configured
Applications
The 3Com MultiConnect Repeater family was a popular modular Ethernet hub platform from the late 1980s through the mid-1990s, designed for building-wide LAN installations during the transition from coaxial Ethernet (10BASE-2 thinnet and 10BASE-5 thicknet) to twisted-pair 10BASE-T wiring. By accepting interchangeable port cards in a single chassis, network administrators could connect workstations and servers across multiple wiring types from one central repeater — a key capability during that era when mixed-media networks were common. The 3C588 was typically rack-mounted or placed in a wiring closet as the central aggregation point for departmental or floor-level Ethernet segments. Today these units are sought by collectors of vintage networking equipment, museum/display installations, and legacy IT environments that still maintain original 10 Mbps Ethernet infrastructure.
This 3Com 3C588 MultiConnect Repeater has been inspected and appears to be in good used condition. The chassis is loaded with multiple 3Com plug-in modules including BNC, AUI, and RJ45 cards; one slot is visibly empty. The top panel shows some light surface scuffing as seen in the photos. It has not been powered up or tested at our facility, but was pulled from a working environment where it was previously in use. Please view our photo set and contact us if you have any questions.
Warranty Information
Additional Information
Brand: |
3Com |
Model: |
3C588 |
MPN: |
3C588 |
Type: |
Modular Ethernet Repeater |
SKU: |
34513 |
Number of Module Slots: |
16 (approx. 13 occupied, 1 empty visible) |
Modules Included: |
Multiple 3Com plug-in cards: BNC, AUI, RJ45 |
Interface Type: |
BNC (10BASE-2), AUI (10BASE-5), RJ45 (10BASE-T) |
Data Rate: |
10 Mbps Ethernet |
Power Requirements: |
120/240 VAC, 3A, 60/50 Hz |
Voltage: |
115/220V (switchable) |
Cooling: |
Internal brushless fan |
Country/Region of Manufacture: |
USA |
Compliance: |
FCC Class B, VDE Level B, CSA No. 154-M 1983 |
Standards: |
ANSI 478-1984, IEC 435-1983, IEC 380-1982 |
Form Factor: |
Rack Mount / Desktop Chassis |
Compatible With: |
3Com MultiConnect plug-in expansion modules |
Seller Notes: |
Includes chassis loaded with multiple 3Com plug-in modules (BNC, AUI, RJ45 cards). One slot visibly empty. |
Condition Notes: |
This 3Com 3C588 MultiConnect Repeater has been inspected and is in good used condition. Loaded with multiple 3Com BNC, AUI, and RJ45 plug-in modules; one slot empty. Light surface scuffing on top. |
California Prop 65 Warning: |
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including lead and lead compounds, and DEHP (a phthalate), which are known to the State of California to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Go to P65Warnings.ca.gov |
