How to Make Custom Length CAT 5 Cable

Make custom length CAT 5 Ethernet cables.

Category 5 cables are essential cables in any networked computer environment. On occasion, prepackaged CAT 5 cables are of the wrong length, necessitating the creation of custom wiring. Category 5 cables require precise cutting and crimping techniques to prevent signal dropouts and inconsistencies. However, the tools and materials required for the task are readily available and inexpensive, allowing you to make custom length cables for the networked environment.

Things You'll Need

• CAT 5 cable
• Wire cutters
• Wire strippers
• RJ-45 connectors
• Ethernet crimp tool

Instructions

1. Cut the CAT 5 cable to the desired length, using the wire cutters. Make the end of the cable as straight as possible when making this cut.

2. Set the cable into the strip tool, roughly 2 inches from the end. Grip the handles and rotate the tool, scoring the outer insulation.

3. Grip the base the jacket with one hand, separating the wires with the other. Do not untwist the white/colored pairs.

4. Snip the end of the wires evenly, 1/2 inch above the outer jacket.

5. Slide the connector over the end of the wires. Ensure that all wires are inserted fully, and that the connector overlaps the outer jacket by at least 1/2 inch for strain relief purposes.

6. Place the connector under the RJ-45 crimp die in the tool. Squeeze the handles firmly to press the connector plate firmly over the wires.

Tips & Warnings

• Make a crossover cable by swapping the green/white and orange/white pairs at one end of the cable.

• If you nick an inner wire pair at any point, start over.

References

• LittleWhiteDog.com: How To Make a Crossover Cable
• How-To Geek: The How-To Geek Guide to Making Your Own Custom Ethernet Cables