Reworking Gen2 Starlink router from SPX connector to 8P8C (RJ45)

Everyone would agree that the proprietary SPX connector isn’t the best solution. Sometimes it fails, especially when frequently connecting and disconnecting. And there is no easy way to repair or replace this connector.

In this article, I would like to show a method of reworking the Starlink Gen2 router to RJ45 (it’s 8PC, but…).

Wires connection

The best way to get Dishy’s Ethernet lines is to connect directly to the Ethernet transformer.
There are no extra components between the connector and this transformer. The pinout:

Also, I marked the appropriate test points (just in case). All lines could be used as is. You can solder your twisted pair directly to the transformer’s pins, and you are good to go.

Here is an example:

Don’t forget to connect the grounding wire.

Socket installation

At this moment, you can improvise and find your solution. I decided to keep the router visually intact and physically replace the SPX connector with RJ45.

I found that the RJ45 socket fits nicely if cut the PCB.

And it requires extending the bottom hole for the RJ45 plug.

Cutting the PCB requires a minor rework and rearranging of components.

You may note that with PCB cutting, you lose LAN connectivity. Solving this issue requires a direct connection to the PHY IC and EtherMod I described in my previous article.

Work in progress:

And ready to install:

The LAN port is installed inside the stand, as in the previous article:

You can see an extra wire that brings “Earth” to both RJ45 connectors. All the ground wires are connected in the same spot.

The new RJ45 socket is secured with a sealant that gives enough mechanical strength and protects it from dust and water. Sure, it’s not the perfect protection, but it should work fine if the router is not drowned by purpose.

I used a heat gun to bend the Dishy cable. It holds the shape nicely.

An additional thermosetting tube adds protection and friction that helps to fix the connector inside the router.

Thanks for reading!