How to Make a Network Cable: 11 Steps
Introduction: Creating your own network cable is a cost-effective and useful skill to have, especially when dealing with computer networks. By following these 11 simple steps, you’ll be able to create a custom network cable in no time.
1. Gather the necessary materials: You will need a CAT5/6 Ethernet cable, RJ-45 connectors, a crimping tool, a wire cutter or stripper, and optional materials such as cable boots and network tester.
2. Choose the appropriate cable length: To avoid any loss in signal quality, try not to create cables that are too long. Measure the distance between devices and ensure that your cable length is suitable.
3. Strip the outer casing: Using a wire cutter or stripper, carefully remove about two inches of the outer casing from both ends of the Ethernet cable to expose the inner color-coded wires.
4. Untwist the wires: Separate and straighten the eight color-coded twisted pairs into individual wires.
5. Arrange the wires according to your desired wiring scheme: There are two common wiring schemes – T568A and T568B. Choose one and arrange the wires in that specific order from left to right.
6. Trim the wires evenly: Using a wire cutter, trim the exposed wires evenly so they are approximately half an inch in length from the base of the outer casing.
7. Insert the wires into an RJ-45 connector: Hold an RJ-45 connector with the clip facing down and guide each wire into its corresponding hole according to your chosen wiring scheme.
8. Check your work: Verify that all eight wires are properly seated in their respective holes within the RJ-45 connector before moving on to crimping.
9. Crimp the RJ-45 connector: Insert the loaded RJ-45 connector into your crimping tool until it clicks into place, squeezing firmly to secure the pins to the wires and the connector to the cable.
10. (Optional) Add a cable boot: To protect your newly crimped RJ-45 connector from wear and tears, apply a cable boot before crimping the other end of your Ethernet cable.
11. Repeat steps 3-10 for the other end of your Ethernet cable: Once you finish crimping both ends, your custom network cable is complete.
Conclusion: With these 11 simple steps, you now know how to make a network cable. This skill can save you money on costly pre-made cables and allow for precise customization to fit your networking needs.