DIY Network Cabling
Even with the popularity of wireless networking, cabled networks are often the only solution when bandwidth needs are high. Gigabit Ethernet has become commonplace as more businesses move large data files between servers and workstations. For residential or small business applications, a wired network will help you appreciate the advantages of faster network speeds. Using special "keystone" inserts, you can attach raw CAT-5E cable to wall plates or use RJ-45 plugs for cables that plug directly into network devices.
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Things You'll Need
- CAT-5E cable
- Network cable jacket stripper
- Keystone jacks
- Wall plates
- RJ-45 connectors
- RJ-45 crimper
- Wire cutter
Instructions
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Wall Plate Keystones
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1
Strip about 1 inch of the CAT-5E cable jacket from the end of the cable to expose the color-coded twisted cable pairs.
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2
Separate the four individual wire pairs. Compare the color positions indicated on the keystone jack to the color pairs from the CAT-5E cable. Make sure the pairs remain twisted to within 1/2 inch of the end.
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3
Insert the wire pairs into the matching colored slots of the keystone jack.
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4
Push the plastic "punch down" header supplied with the keystone jack to push the wires into the connectors. Make sure the header is firmly seated against the terminal jack.
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5
Push the bottom of the keystone jack into the wall plate first, securing the bottom latch, and then insert the top of the jack until you hear a "click" that indicates the latch is secure.
RJ-45 Plugs
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6
Strip about 1 inch of the CAT-5E cable jacket from the end of the cable to expose the color-coded twisted cable pairs.
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7
Separate the four individual wire pairs. Compare the color positions indicated on the keystone jack to the color pairs from the CAT-5E cable. Make sure the pairs remain twisted to within 1/2 inch of the end.
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8
Arrange the cable pairs to match color coding to the RJ-45 plug. Use the Resource link to view the pin-out color coding for RJ-45 connectors.
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9
Cut the wire ends with the wire cutter so they line up even with one another.
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10
Slide the wire ends into the RJ-45 connector until the ends touch the front of the connector.
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11
Insert the RJ-45 plug into the crimping tool. Firmly squeeze the crimper to insure a solid connection.
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1
Tips & Warnings
When attaching RJ-45 plugs to CAT-5E cable, compare a pre-made CAT-5E cable to your cable and check for proper placement of the color-coded wires before you crimp the plug onto the cable end.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit network cable image by Radoslav Lazarov from Fotolia.com
