Wiring Ethernet cables may seem like a simple job to many people. But there are many things that are involved in the process of making sure that everything is in place. In this article, you will learn about all the factors that can affect the quality of the Ethernet cable wiring and how you can use a few simple steps to ensure that the wiring is done correctly.
Step 1- Draw a plan for the wires and cabling.
As we say in networking, measure twice, cut once, it is extremely important that you plan and decide where you will be running the cables. First, start by deciding which room will serve as your server room. Preferably, your server room should offer a moderate temperature throughout the year. It shouldn’t be humid or you run the risk of corrosion on the cables and other accessories. Then, decide where and which devices you will be connecting with your Local Area Ethernet Network. Count the number of devices you will be using and mark the spots for where the cables will be connected. And always make notes as you follow these steps. Now, you should have a blueprint of your ethernet cable wiring. To avoid any mistakes, review it at least once.
Step 2 - Calculate the total number of cables.
The second step is to calculate the number of wires and the total length that you will be needing. If you carefully carry out this step, you will be saving a considerable amount of money. Because most of the time, a fair length of cable is wasted. By saving cable, you will also be contributing to the environment. To calculate your cable requirement, the rule of thumb is to literally run a measuring tape along the lines where you will be running the cable. Then sum up the total lengths and you will have your required length of cable. You can buy a couple of feet extra, just in case.
Step 3 - Planning the server room.
As mentioned earlier, your server room should preferably provide moderate temperatures throughout the year. But if that is not possible, you don’t need to worry because most of the networking equipment and accessories are able to withstand extreme temperatures. Your server room will be hosting a lot of cables, so make sure it is out of reach of children. If that is also not possible, install a wall mount patch panel at a certain height to make it child-proof. Another important thing you should consider in ethernet cable wiring is to decide if you need an ethernet hub or a switch. An ethernet hub is a simple networking accessory that allows multiple Ethernet devices to transmit data in the same network. On the other hand, an ethernet switch performs all the functions of a hub and it is also capable of data transmission to particular devices in one network. The expert advice here is to go for a switch because it is an intelligent accessory and most households and offices use devices that require a switch.
Step 4 - Which ethernet cables do you need?
We will make it simpler for you. If you wiring a home, go get Cat6 cables. More specifically; for plenum spaces, this 1000ft pure copper Cat6 will serve your needs best. It transmits data at bolt speeds of up to 10 Gbps over 50 meters with a bandwidth capacity of 550 MHz. And for riser spaces, buy this Bulk Pure Copper Cat6. It also offers high-speed data transmission and all Cat6 ethernet applications such as gigabit ethernet, 10BASE-T, 100BASE-TX, Fast Ethernet, PoE, PoE++, and 1000BASE-T. If you are planning to wire up an office, use this Cat6a for plenum spaces and this Bulk Cat6A for riser spaces. Cat6A is a premium quality ethernet cable and features a high-quality bare copper conductor. The data transfer rate of this cable is 10Gbps at 100 meters and it provides a bandwidth capacity of 750 MHz. This data transmission speed and bandwidth capacity are sufficient to serve all sorts of office network requirements.
Step 5 - How to wire it all up?
At this point, you should have all of your cables, connectors, and the blueprint of your network plan. Now, cut the cables at required lengths - don’t forget to measure twice. Then run the cables through the riser and plenum spaces. Run through the outdoor spaces as well, if required. Bundle all the cables together in the server room, but not too tightly. Because EMI and external noise can affect the quality of your signals. Use velcro ties to bundle them with an appropriate strength. Strip the tips of the wires with a wire stripper at both ends. And connect the RJ45 connectors. In the server room, connect all of your cables with the switch or the patch panel - if you are using one. And connect your devices to the other ends of the cables. Finally, turn on the connections and check each point for proper functionality. Hopefully, your ethernet network should function smoothly. Now, you may enjoy, the reliable and high-speed ethernet across your network. Expert advice: Take a quick look at all the different connections of your network at least once a month. And offer maintenance, if required.
Conclusion:
Ethernet cables are important for every home, business, and office. In today's world, we rely more on cables and networking in order to use the internet and advance technology. Follow the above-mentioned steps for flawless ethernet cable wiring.
