Want to make / crimp a network cable yourself or extend a network cable? On this page we explain how to do this. For your business environment, we recommend having an e-installer do this. They can also certify and test the network points.
Network cable color code
This blog provides information on the different standards for network cables, with CAT6a and CAT5e being the most common types. CAT5e network cables support speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps (1 Gigabit), while CAT6a cables can reach speeds of up to 10,000 Mbps (10 Gigabit).
Both types of cables consist of 8 cores and follow the same color scheme for connections. This ensures uniformity and compatibility when installing your network infrastructure, regardless of the speed and type of cable chosen.
RJ-45 plug assembly
As you can see from the image below, making a network cable is a piece of cake. After you get the colors in the right order, use RJ-45 Crimping Pliers to connect the cable to the RJ-45 plug. Inside the RJ-45 plug are small teeth that push through the sheath of the 8 wires so you don't have to strip them beforehand.
Insert the 8 wires into the RJ-45 connector in the correct order, then place the connector in the crimping tool and squeeze it closed. If all went well, the cable is then ready for use.
UTP Cable with hard or soft core icm an LSA socket
If you are using a wall outlet with LSA strip, please note that in this case only hard-core UTP cables can be used.
Using an LSA punchdown tool in conjunction with soft-core UTP cables can lead to speed problems. A common issue is that the soft core material does not always make good contact in the LSA strip, which can result in speeds that drop to as low as 10 Mbps.
To achieve higher speeds, such as 1 Gbps or 10 Gbps, we strongly recommend using hard-core UTP cables. These are better suited for a solid connection in an LSA wall outlet, ensuring reliable and fast data traffic.
Need help?
Are you going to build, renovate, build new, we from Analyst ICT like to think along with you about which connections should go where. We also work together with a large number of different e-installers with whom we would like to put you in contact.
