<networking, hardware> A device to connect a network node to
an RG8 thick ethernet cable without affecting other
connected nodes.
A vampire tap has an interface box with a "V" shaped groove
along one side. A sharp needle protrudes from the center of
the groove. The cable is clamped into the groove by a grooved
plate held in position by two thumb screws. With sufficient
practise, tightening the screws forces the needle through the
cable jacket and into contact with the cable's center wire
while other spikes bite into the outer conductor. The
interface box has a 15 pin connector to connect to the network
node.
The vampire tap is often built into the transceiver, with a
more flexible multi-wire "drop cable" to connect the
transceiver to the node.
(2004-08-25)
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