Cat 5 Cable

A computer network is defined as a collection of computers joined together in a particular order in order to share resources. A simple network is formed by two or more computers. A Network Interface Controller (NIC) is installed on each computer. The mediums to connect these computers are various network cables. The cables that are used to connect two computers directly are crossover cables while Ethernet cables are used to connect your computer to a hub or a switch. The order in which these networks are formed is called topology.

The wireless networks are slow which is why majority of networks are formed by cables. One important point that you should keep in mind is that the NIC and the cable should match. There are lots of cable types available, but if you are going to set a small LAN, you should consider either twisted pair or coaxial. The twisted pair cables a pair of copper wires twisted together that end up in a connector called RJ-45 that are very similar to the connectors used in telephone wiring. The twisted pair cables are normally used in star or ring topology. The most commonly used twisted pair cables are Category 5 twisted pair cables that could be used for any type of Ethernet networks. Though they are a bit costly. Make sure that you use longer cables for a better performance.

The following are the features of few CAT 5 cables that helps you to choose the right kind of cable: * CAT5e : If you want to run the cable at the rate of 1000 Mbps. CAT5e are most suitable to patch cables and are not very costly when compared to CAT6 cables. * CAT5 : If you want to run at the rate of 100 Mbps. * CAT6 : These are more suitable to areas with lots of noise or other type of interference with a rate of 1000 Mbps.

How to make CAT5 Ethernet network cable?

1. Strip off or pull out the outer covering of the cable exposing about one fourth of the entire portion. While exposing the cable make sure that the internal wiring does not get effected. If somehow the outer sheath of any wire is effected, it will result into crosstalk.

2. Untwist the pairs so that you can hold them easily.

3. Arrange the wires according to the specified methods. Two commonly used methods are 568A and 568B.

4. Hold the wires together and make sure that they are arranged according to the specified color scheme. Cut the wires evenly.

5. Insert the wires inside the RJ-45 plug. Make sure that all the wires are inserted properly inside the plug.

6. Crimp the plug by using crimping tool.

7. Finally test for proper connectivity using cable tester.