How to Use a Cat 5E Patch Cable

Cat 5E patch cables are a category of Ethernet cable that network devices together such as computers, printers and routers. If you run patch cables from a router that is connected to a broadband modem to the computers in your home or office, you can share your Internet connection between all of the devices.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   The RJ-45 Connector

   Attach the plastic RJ-45 connector at either end of the Cat 5E patch cable into one of the open Ethernet ports on the networking device, such as a switch or router.

2. 
   Cable Ties

   Attach all the patch cables that will be run into the same general area together with a cable tie a few inches from the networking devices. Use additional cable ties of different colors if there will be patch cables running into multiple rooms or areas. Keep a record of which color designates which area in case you need to replace or remove patch cables later.

3. Run the Cat 5E patch cable from the networking device to the destination computers. Keep the cable off the floor and away from anything that could potentially damage it by placing cable runners on the walls or ceilings and then thread the cable through the runners (see link in Resources).

4. Keep the cables organized at the destination computers by holding them together with a cable tie that corresponds to the same color used at the networking device.

5. Plug the RJ-45 plastic connector on the other end of the patch cable into an open Ethernet port on the destination device, such as a computer or network printer.

Tips & Warnings

• Leave enough room between the networking device and the cable ties so that there is space to maneuver if you need to remove or rearrange any of the patch cables. Cat 5E patch cables are compatible with all Ethernet ports even though they are built differently than standard Cat 5 patch cables. The only difference is that Cat 5E cables are less susceptible to problems from multiple devices sending data at the same time.
• Do not run the patch cable along the floor from the networking device to the destination device as it can easily be damaged by foot traffic or pets.

Resources

• Purchase Ethernet Patch Cables at TigerDirect
• Buy Patch Cable Organizers