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How to compress a network cable yourself. How to compress a network cable correctly

You may need to compress the cable for the Internet with your own hands for various reasons.

In some cases, it is necessary to replace a broken tip on the provider's wire because it has worn out.

Someone is trying to connect a PC to a router using twisted pair. Some people look for this information when they want to set up a local area network at home.

In any case, before proceeding to the very process of building a network or repairing a wire, you need to understand some things.

For example:

  • What types of twisted pair are and what is it. Otherwise, how to figure out which wire to buy?
  • What is required to crimp a cable? You need to understand what connectors and tools are currently being used.
  • What types of crimping are there? The type of crimping depends on the purpose for which it is necessary to crimp the cable.
  • How to compress an Internet cable at home? Surely not all ordinary users keep special equipment at home.

After reading this information, you can be sure that the process of twisted pair crimping will become simple and clear. You can easily restore your Internet connection or combine home computers into a local network.

Definition

Twisted pair is one type of communication cable. Most often used in the creation of computer and Internet networks.

Extremely cheap production and ease of installation ensure its widespread use: in offices, apartments, telephony, television.

There are single-pair cables (only two braided wires are used inside) and multi-pair cables - more than two pairs of conductors.

What to use at home

Cable product standards for types of shielding

In home and office environments, a (typically) 4-pin cable is used.

The cheapest type of all is UTP cable.

It does not have any shielding, it is usually laid in walls, cable channels and is very sensitive to any electromagnetic radiation.

More advanced is the FTP standard cable. Inside, a shielding winding is used for all cores of a twisted pair. Such a protection scheme makes it resistant to electromagnetic radiation and can be used for internal external work, depending on the material of manufacture of the outer shell. It can be laid both in the cable plinth and along the walls on the fasteners.

The most secure standard is STP. It has a screen for each pair of cores separately and a common screen in the form of a grid. Very often used in industry and data centers.

Bandwidth Categories

Twisted pair is also divided into categories, depending on its bandwidth.

To create a home LAN, just use cat 5 or 5e. In company offices, 5, 5e are usually used, less often 6, 6a, and 7 and 7a.

  • Cat 5- pairs operate at a frequency of up to 100 MHz, pass up to 100 megabits per second;
  • cat 5e- pairs with an operating frequency of up to 125 MHz, transmits up to 1 thousand megabits per second (1 gigabit per second) .;
  • Cat 6 and Cat 6a- pairs operate at a frequency of 250 and 500 MHz, respectively, can transmit up to 10 gigabits per second;
  • Cat 7 and 7a- pairs operate at a frequency of 600 and 1200 MHz, respectively, can pass up to 100 gigabits per second.

The most popular of them at the time of this writing is the FTP Cat 5e twisted pair, because it can pass data at speeds up to 1 gigabits / sec and is quite cheap. It is this cable that should be purchased to create a local computer network or connect a PC to a router.

What is twisted pair crimping

Twisted pair crimping or crimping is a process during which the cable is stripped of outer insulation, the strands are straightened and untwisted, and then installed in the 8P8C connector (aka RJ45 connector) and clamped.

This procedure may be needed in several cases, for example:

  • the connector on your internet cable is broken;
  • you decide to connect two computers to a wired local area network;
  • you need to connect your computer to the router via cable;
  • it is required to extend the wire through;
  • and in many others.

It is not difficult to crimp an Internet wire at home, however, for an ideal result, you will need some tools and accessories, namely:

  • twisted pair of the required length;
  • press tongs (crimper);
  • one or two connectors (it is better to buy a few in reserve).

At the moment, two types of cable crimping are used. One of them is called straight and the other is called cross (or cross crimp). They differ in the pinout of the cores in the connector and their application in practice.

Straight straight crimp or "computer hub"

This view is used to connect two different types of devices, i.e. when connecting:

  • computer to router
  • TV to router
  • computer to the switch;
  • router to switch
  • computer to modem.

It is called "straight" because on both plugs the wires in rzh 45 will be arranged in the same order:

This type of pinout is used for connections with data rates up to 1 Gbps. At home, most often straight crimp is used to build a local network over a fiber optic cable.

Since most providers offer rates up to 100 Mbps, they use a different wiring, in which only 1, 2, 3 and 6 cores are involved.

If you are repairing an Internet cable run by installers, you will have to use this option:

Always carefully inspect the patch cord that the provider is laying.

If they use a two-pair crimp, provided that you can re-crimp for all 4 pairs, this will not add speed to you, but it will provide trouble with stuffing all 8 wires.

Cross crimp or "computer-to-computer"

Used to connect devices of the same type to each other, for example:

  • computer - computer;
  • router - router;
  • TV is a computer.

It is called so because of the cross arrangement of the cores in the connector. One end is crimped, as with a direct connection, and the other in a modified sequence.

When cross-crimping, all 8 cores are always taken, the figure shows a method that allows speeds up to 1 Gigabit / s. If the equipment does not work with this bandwidth, then the speed will be reduced.

Now that we have managed to decide which patch cord to use, figured out the necessary pinout and how many strands to use, we can proceed to the process itself.

Use of ticks

The most correct option when crimping the RJ-45 plug and twisted pair is to use special pliers.

In professional language, they are called crimper.

The name comes from the English word crimper - to crimp.

Why it is worth crimping with crimping pliers:

  1. Convenience - they have a convenient form and are so easy to use that everyone can use them.
  2. Saving time - all types of nippers are collected, which will allow you to carry out three procedures with one tool.
  3. Safety - it is impossible to harm yourself with them, only if you do not specifically stick your finger into the cutting pliers.

Everything is ready, now we start crimping.

For this you need:

  1. Bite off the old connector, it can be used as a pinout pattern. If this is not the case, then you can proceed to the next step.
  2. Strip the wires from the outer sheath. The length of the stripped wires should be equal to the length of the connector or slightly less, but not more. You need to measure the length from the cut edge and insert the wire into the stripping area. Now you should bite the cable, remove it from the pliers and remove the outer sheath.
  3. Colored cores, as we already know, are twisted inside the cable. They must be carefully untangled and aligned. If their length differs, then it is necessary to shorten too long ones.
  4. Without inserting into the connector, it is necessary to arrange the wires in the sequence in which the crimping will be carried out.
  5. Next, you need to insert the wires into the connector. It should be inserted so that part of the outer braid climbs inside. In this case, the plug will be strong and the cable will not fly out during use.
  6. Next, you need to carefully place the cable with the connector into the area for crimping the network cable and firmly squeeze the crimper handles. During this movement, the blades of the tongs open the connector terminals, which cut through the insulation of the conductors and fix them in the connector.
  7. The last step is to check that the work is done well. Move the rzh 45 connector, if no wires have jumped out of their places and it has not fallen off, then everything is fine.

Install the crimped cord into the port and check for a connection. If the LAN or WAN port lights blink, the Internet appears, or the desired device appears on the network, the cable is crimped correctly.

Screwdriver application

Using a crimper for crimping is professional. However, not everyone has it available.

In such a case, there is a simple instruction on how to replace the RJ45 jack with a screwdriver at home.

The preparatory sequence is the same as in the previous version:

  • cut off the connector, if any;
  • clean from external insulation, for example, with a knife and;
  • align the length of the wires;
  • arrange the cores in accordance with the desired wiring;
  • plug the wire into the RJ45 plug.

Further, it is necessary to check how the conductors got up. If the order is followed and everyone is in their own track and touches the golden terminal, we proceed to crimping. You need to put the connector on the table so that the latch is at the bottom. Take a screwdriver and push on the mount in the connector, which will fix the cable itself in the connector.

After that, with the same screwdriver, it is necessary to alternately push the terminals of the connectors one at a time. It is necessary to do so that the contact of the terminal pierces the insulation of the core and becomes one with the wire.

You need to perform this step very carefully and calculate the force with each press so as not to pinch the terminal and break the connector.

Once all 8 cores have been clamped, you need to check the work.

This can be done in different ways, depending on the purpose for which the crimp was made.

If you made a wire to connect the computer to the router, then connect one plug to the WAN connector on the router, and the second to the Ethernet connector on the PC. If the results are positive, the lights will “blink” and you will be able to establish an Internet connection.

As practice shows, it is absolutely not difficult to make an independent repair of an Internet cable. This procedure does not require any special knowledge, the main thing is to figure out which wire wiring will be used.

The rest is a matter of technology, you can crimp the Internet wire using a special crimp or limit yourself to a simple screwdriver. Of course, in the first option, this can be done faster. But the main feature of the second is not to buy a tool. The method is especially relevant for those who do not need to do this work all the time.

Watch the video in which the specialist explains in detail how to crimp the cable for the Internet with your own hands:

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The cores of the data cable are made of very thin metal wires. That is why they are easy to break with careless handling, by accident. In such situations, most likely, it will be necessary to crimp it again.

This process is not complicated, but has its own tricks and nuances. Also, for its implementation, special pliers will be needed, but their presence is not necessary - you can carry out the process using a conventional slotted screwdriver and a clerical knife.

Photo: twisted pair cable distribution and termination

Before proceeding with the crimping of the cable, it is imperative to prepare everything you need. And also make sure that you purchased exactly those connectors that are required in a particular case. Connectors come in a variety of types, to connect a computer to a network, an RJ-45 type is usually required.

Cable varieties

There are many different types of cable used to create a network between different computers as well as network equipment.

Three types of communication cables are most common today:


Coaxial (coaxial) first began to be used to build local networks of various kinds.

Crimping this kind of Internet cable at home is quite simple, this does not even require a specialized tool - just a regular clerical knife and a screwdriver. This is where the benefits end.

This wire consists of three main parts:


The data transfer rate with this cable is only 10 Mbps. It is extremely susceptible to various kinds of electromagnetic pickups, repairing damage to this type of wire is very difficult and problematic. To date, it is practically not used anywhere.

Optical fiber (Optic Fiber) is the most modern way to transmit data today.

It consists of the following components:


Optical fiber is not subject to any type of interference, the data transfer rate with its help is 2 Gbps. The distance between the individual nodes that this type of wire connects can reach 100 km. There is only one drawback - the rather high cost.

Twisted Pair (twisted pair) - most often used both for building local networks and for connecting to the Internet.

It consists of the following components:


It can provide a relatively high data transfer rate - from 10 Mbps to 1 Gbps.

Twisted pair can be:


Twisted pair is little susceptible to various kinds of interference, it is easily repaired. Correctly crimping a wire for this type of Internet is quite simple, but a special tool is required - crimping.

Video: Twisted Pair Installation

Mounting diagrams

The twisted pair wiring diagram is the order of the wires by color. Another name is pinout.

The following types of pinouts are most often used today:


The pins are numbered from left to right with the copper conductors on top and the connector itself facing the front of the user.

Each type of wiring diagram has its own purpose. Scheme of the first type STRAIGHT-THROUGHT(also marked as T568) is designed to connect the end equipment (personal PC, printer) with any switching equipment (router, hub).


The cross scheme (CrossOver) is used when there is a need to connect two instances of network equipment - a router, a computer.

Straight-through

A straight wiring diagram called Straight-through can be implemented in two ways - there are two standards:


The first option is generally accepted, but there are situations in which only the second option can be implemented.

Color order when using 568 A:

Colour Colour
white-green 1 white-green
green 2 green
yellow-white 3 yellow-white
blue 4
5 white-blue 5

white-blue

6 yellow 6
7 white-brown 7

white-brown

8 brown 8

brown

Color order when using 568 B:

Colour

Colour

white-yellow 1 white-yellow
yellow 2 yellow
white-green 3 white-green
blue 4 blue
white-blue 5

white-blue

6 green 6
7 white-brown 7

white-brown

8 brown 8

brown

Cross-over

The Cross-Over scheme is more complex in terms of marking colors - their order is somewhat confusing.

There are also two standards, they differ depending on the network bandwidth:


The standard for a 100-megabit network has the following color order:

Number

Colour Number

Colour

white-yellow 1 white-green
yellow 2 green
white-green 3 white-yellow
blue 4 blue
5 white-blue 5

white-blue

6 green 6
7 white-brown 7

white-brown

8 brown 8

brown

The standard of the second type - for a network with a transmission rate of this 1 Gb / s - requires the pinout of the wire as follows:

№1 №2
Number Colour Number Colour
1 white-yellow 1 white-green
2 yellow 2 green
3 white-green 3 white-yellow
4 blue 4 white-brown
5 white-blue 5 brown
6 green 6 yellow
7 white-brown 7 blue
8 brown 8 white-blue

Today, almost all network devices are able to recognize the connection method on their own (they have a feature called Auto-MDIX). But there is a fairly large number of equipment still in operation that does not know how to do this.

How to compress the Internet cable with your own hands

Do-it-yourself pinout of the communication wire is quite simple. This will require only a few items, you can find and purchase them at the nearest computer store. You also need to know the parameters of your network equipment that you want to connect. Because the type of crimp (straight or cross) is selected depending on whether Auto-MDIX is supported.

Tools and accessories

To manually crimp a twisted pair of eight strands, you need the following tools:


Also, in addition to the tool itself, it is advisable to stock up on several connectors, in case the first attempt is unsuccessful.

Work order

The process itself is not difficult, it is only important to follow the procedure:


When all of the above operations are completed, it is necessary to perform pressure testing. This can be done both with the help of special pliers, and with the help of a conventional slotted screwdriver.

Cable check

It is quite simple to check a compressed twisted pair with a multimeter set to continuity mode. It is necessary to connect the wires by color with contact probes - they should all ring well. If the sound signal is not heard, you should squeeze the connector contacts - they are loosely pressed against the copper conductors.

You can also check the connection using a special device. It checks the strength of the transmitted signal - accordingly, this device will make it easy to detect poor-quality pinouts.

When working with a twisted pair cable, you must follow some rules, they will make it possible to avoid communication problems in the future:


Crimping a twisted pair with pliers or even a slotted screwdriver is not a complicated process. It is only important to follow the technology and do everything as carefully as possible. Since a high-quality compressed twisted pair is the key to a high data transfer rate. Therefore, before calling a specialist and paying him money, you should try to perform this simple operation yourself.

Today, multicore twisted pair is the most popular and reliable way to transmit information over the Internet or LAN.

As a rule, this problem is most often encountered by Internet users. One of the common reasons for the lack of access to the World Wide Web is inaccurate line switching, when cables literally lie under the computer desk and systematically break at the connection points.

Although it is often necessary to change its tracing, while increasing the length. For example, when changing the position of a PC or telephone in a home. In any case, you cannot do without reinstalling (or attaching a new one) the RJ-45 connector. Let's figure out how and with what at home you can compress a network cable with an RJ-45 connector.

The RJ-45 connector is often referred to as "8p8c". It is deciphered simply - in this connector there are 8 contacts and inserts (the so-called knives). There are several modifications of this switching element. Depending on the design features, the specifics of its application also differ. RJ-45 with 3 protrusions are considered universal. They are used for crimping both single and stranded cables, which is why all patch cords are made with their help. The connector diagram is shown in the figure.

Required tool

In fact, all you need is a special tool for crimping RJ-45 cables - a crimper.

It is inexpensive (within 638 - 689 rubles), and in order not to constantly call the master, it is advisable to purchase, although the crimper does not belong to the class of household tools. In any house there are many places for connecting lines (telephone, computer), which are organized using RJ-45, and this device will definitely be needed again, and more than once.

Sharp sharpened cutting tool. As a rule, a scalpel is used to prepare the cable for crimping. They work much more conveniently than with a knife. Yes, and cutting the conductor is more accurate.

Before starting the crimping process, you should make sure that the RJ-45 is suitable for the type of cable you have. Although you should think about this when choosing a connector in a store.

Network cable crimping technology

Twisted pair (network cable) is sold in coils. Therefore, it is necessary to lay the cable around the room according to the selected (drawn up) scheme and cut it to length, taking into account a small margin.

The outer insulation layer is removed (by 2.5 ± 0.5 cm) at the end of the cable that is supposed to be crimped. Or a scalpel, or a miniature knife (there is on the crimper itself). It is necessary to carry out the work so that the coating of the cores themselves is not damaged. That is why those who do not have sufficient experience in this area are advised to cut the twisted pair cable, leaving some margin in length. The explanation is simple - it is not a fact that this operation will be accurately performed the first time.

The veins are untwisted and straightened. If their tips do not line up, they can be bitten off (with side cutters, one and a half millimeters). Otherwise, it will not be possible to arrange them correctly in RJ-45. The standard by which the connection to the network is made is also taken into account.

Crimp directly. There are two methods - direct and cross (oblique). The first method is implemented when connecting a PC to the Internet line. The second - when creating a local network, that is, when connecting two computers.

Feature of the operation

  • When laying conductors in RJ-45, the cores should not cross, and even more so, they should not go in pairs in 1 connector socket - only one at a time. This is typical of their tips, which can twist as they are pressed into the connector housing.
  • Before proceeding with crimping, it is recommended to check the wiring diagram again. That is, to carry out a control inspection, since it will be impossible to redo something later.
  • Installation of the crimper at the place of cable crimping. Then it's easy - to squeeze the handles of the tool. The main thing is not to overdo it.

Line performance check. In practice, this is done by connecting a cable to a PC. The result will be clear immediately.

If a patch cord is made (with rj-45 at both ends of a piece of cable), then it will be necessary, for lack of a special test device,. To do this, its probes should be sharpened so that they can ensure tight contact with the miniature connector lamellae. Next - dialing for each conductor. If everything is in order, you can connect both PCs to each other.

In principle, there is nothing complicated in crimping cables. If there is a crimper, then installing one RJ-45 takes a few minutes.

In many families, several devices are connected to the Internet: we cannot imagine life without the World Wide Web, therefore everyone needs their own line. They work mainly on a wireless protocol - Wi-Fi, but there is still a wire, since so far the wired Internet is more stable than wireless. During repairs, all the wires are hidden in the walls and the "Internet" ones are no exception. They, like electric ones, are plugged into sockets, only of a different standard: they are called computer or information. They can be with different connectors, but the most common is RJ 45. Installation and connection can be done independently, but since the connector looks unusual, there are more than two or three wires in it, and the connection is not provided by soldering or twisting, you need to know how to connect an internet outlet as well as the connector that should be inserted into it.

RJ-45 connector crimp

An Internet cable that enters an apartment or house, which is most often called a twisted pair cable, often ends in a small plastic connector. This plastic device is the connector, and usually RJ45. In professional jargon, they are also called "Jack".

Its case is transparent, due to which the wires of different colors are visible. The same devices are used on connecting wires that connect computers to each other or to a modem. Only the order of location (or, as computer scientists say, pinouts) of wires can differ. The same connector is inserted into a computer outlet. If you understand how the wires are distributed in the connector, there will be no problems connecting an Internet outlet.

Internet cable connection scheme by color

There are two connection schemes: T568A and T568B. The first option - "A" is practically not used in our country, and everywhere the wires are arranged according to the "B" scheme. It must be remembered, since it is it that is required in most cases.

To finally clarify all the issues, let's talk about the number of wires in a twisted pair. This internet cable comes in 2-pair and 4-pair. For data transfer at speeds up to 1 Gb / s, 2-pair cables are used, from 1 to 10 Gb / s - 4-pair. In apartments and private houses today, mainly, streams up to 100 Mb / s are brought. But with the current pace of development of Internet technology, it is quite possible that in a couple of years the speeds will be calculated in Megabits. It is for this reason that it is better to immediately expand the network of eight, and not of 4 conductors. Then when you change the speed you do not have to redo anything. It's just that the equipment will use more conductors. The difference in cable price is small, and sockets and Internet connectors still use eight-pin.

If the network is already wired in two-pair, use the same connectors, only after the first three conductors laid according to scheme B, skip two contacts and lay the green conductor in place of the sixth (see photo).

Crimping a twisted pair in a connector

There are special pliers for crimping wires in the connector. They cost about $6-10 depending on the manufacturer. It is more convenient to work with them, although you can get by with a regular screwdriver and wire cutters.

First, insulation is removed from the twisted pair. It is removed at a distance of 7-8 cm from the end of the cable. Under it there are four pairs of conductors of different colors, twisted in twos. Sometimes there is also a thin shielding wire, we simply bend it to the side - we do not need it. We unwind the pairs, align the wires, spreading them in different directions. Then fold according to the scheme "B".

How to terminate an RJ-45 connector in a connector

We clamp the wires in the right order between the thumb and forefinger, lay out the wires evenly, tightly to each other. Having aligned everything, we take wire cutters and cut off the excess length of the wires laid out in order: 10-12 mm should remain. If you attach the connector as in the photo, the twisted pair insulation should start above the latch.

We put a twisted pair with cut wires into the connector. Please note that you need to take it with the latch (protrusion on the cover) down.

Each conductor must get into a special track. Insert the wires all the way - they should reach the edge of the connector. Holding the cable at the edge of the connector, insert it into the pliers. The handles of the pliers are brought together smoothly. If the body has become normal, no special efforts are required. If you feel that it “does not work”, double-check whether the RJ45 is in the socket correctly. If everything is fine, try again.

When pressed, the protrusions in the tongs will move the conductors to the micro-knives, which will cut through the protective sheath and provide contact.

Such a connection is reliable and problems with it rarely occur. And if something happens, it's easy to remake the cable: cut off and repeat the process with another "jack".

Video lesson: crimping the RJ-45 connector with pliers and a screwdriver

The procedure is simple and easy to repeat. It may be easier for you to do everything after the video. It shows how to work with pliers, as well as how to do without them, and do everything with a regular straight screwdriver.

How to connect an internet cable to a power outlet

Now we come directly to how to connect the Internet outlet. Let's start with varieties. Like conventional electrical outlets, information ones come in two modifications:


By the number of connection points, there are single and double computer sockets.

Although outwardly computer sockets differ, the principle of connecting conductors is the same for them. There are special contacts equipped with micro-knives. At the inserted conductor, the protective sheath is cut through. As a result, the metal of the microknife contacts fits snugly against the metal of the conductor.

How to connect a computer wall outlet

Inside each socket there is a hint on how to place the wires when connecting the Internet cable. Manufacturers stick on the color scheme that we saw when crimping the connector. There are also two options - "A" and "B", and we use the same option "B".

The case is mounted on the wall, usually with the cable inlet up, the computer connector down. The next steps are simple:


Connecting a twisted pair to an outlet is really a simple procedure. Even the first time it will take a few minutes. Once again, you can see what and how they do in the video. It first shows the connection of an Internet cable with 4 wires, then with 8.

How to connect an internal internet outlet

We will not describe the installation of a plastic box - this is another topic. We will understand the features of connection and assembly. The main snag here is how to disassemble computer sockets. When connecting conductors to them, it is necessary to get to the contact part: a small ceramic or plastic case with built-in microknife contacts. The conductors are connected to this mounting plate, and then the case is assembled again. And the whole problem is that they are assembled / disassembled by different manufacturers in different ways.

For example, at the popular manufacturer of computer sockets Legrand (Legrand), in order to get to the connectors in the Legrand Valena RJ45 computer socket, you need to remove the front cover. Under it, a white plastic impeller (as in the photo) will be found, on which an arrow is applied.

It is necessary to turn the impeller in the direction of the arrow, after which the case and the contact plate will remain in your hands. It has color-coded conductors. The connection is no different, except that - first, you need to thread a twisted pair into the hole on the plate, and then spread the wires.

For clarity, watch the video.

Another popular manufacturer of such equipment is Lezard (Lezard). He has a different system. The front panel and metal frame are fixed with small bolts. They are easy to unscrew, but the internal contact plate is held on by clamps. When assembling and disassembling Lezard computer sockets (Lezard) in the right places, it is necessary to wring out the contacts with a screwdriver.

To remove the plastic contact group from the housing, it is necessary to press on the latch located at the top. After that, you will have a small box in your hands. But that's not all. It is necessary to remove the plastic cover that closes and presses the conductors. Remove it by prying the side petals with a screwdriver. The plastic is elastic and the effort required is quite decent. Just do not overdo it: it's still plastic. After that, the wiring is standard: according to the markings applied on the sides (do not forget that we use the "B" scheme).

If you know how to connect an Internet outlet, even with an unfamiliar model, it’s easy to figure it out. And now you can upgrade your network yourself (increase the length of the twisted pair cable, move the computer to another location, make another connection point, etc.), without involving specialists. One more question remains: how to connect double sockets. Two cables are brought to them and then there is a color scheme. This is possible when your network is formed by a modem or two Internet lines come in. Is it possible to embroider both inputs with one cable? It is possible, but you need not get confused in the color designation of the wires in the further wiring of the network (remember which color you used instead of which one).

In the age of wireless data transmission, many have already forgotten about cables, connectors and others like them. But everyone knows that a wired connection is much more reliable.

And the data transfer speed is often higher. Therefore, you need to know everything about how to crimp an Internet cable.

It should be noted right away that there is nothing complicated in crimping the cable. It can be performed even if there is no special tool (crimper) at hand. But in this case, extreme caution is required.

Crimping schemes

There are several crimping schemes (2). They are used for various types of connections. If the cable is not crimped correctly, then there may not be a connection. So the main thing here is not to confuse. So what are the patterns?

  • Straight cable. Used to connect a computer with, and other devices of the same type. It is this scheme that is used when crimping the cable to provide access to the Internet.

  • Cross cable (Crossover). Used exclusively to combine two or more computers into one network. In this case, the use of routers, hubs and other equipment is not expected. Exclusively PC with another PC. Directly.

If you need to make a cable specifically for and provide access to the Internet, then you need to use only the first option. If you compress the crossover, then there will be no connection.

What is needed for crimping?

In general, it is advisable not to use improvised means, but to compress the twisted pair with a special tool.

This will give you the best possible connection. But not always a crimper is at hand. What is needed to perform the crimping operation?

  • Network cable type "twisted pair" desired length.
  • Connector kit. Minimum - 2 pieces. To one end and the other. But it's better to have 4. Just in case.
  • insulating cap. Plastic or rubber. It is installed at the junction of the cable with the connector and prevents fractures and bends. Not required.
  • Crimping tool (crimper). It is inexpensive and is able to quickly fix the connectors on the cable without any problems.
  • If there is no crimper, then you can use a flat screwdriver. And a knife for stripping contacts.

Nothing else is required. A sort of "gentleman's set of an IT specialist." After the complete set is assembled, you can proceed to the crimp itself. We will analyze two options: with and without a crimper.

Method number 1. We use a crimper

This option is the easiest and fastest. It consists in using a special tool for crimping the cable.

The crimper is able to replace all other tools. Therefore, many professionals are very fond of using it.

The design of the crimper is such that it can be used to easily perform all cable crimping operations. There are even special blades on the handles for easy cutting and comfortable stripping.

  • So, first you need to remove the cable insulation. We insert it between the blades on the crimper and slightly squeeze the handles. Turn the tool clockwise. After that, we simply tighten the already incised shell.
  • Now we straighten the twisted cores so that they lie flat.
  • We trim the veins with a crimper.
  • We take the connector and insert each wire into a separate groove in accordance with the direct crimping scheme.
  • We try to make the connector grab the cable insulation a little. So the connection will be more reliable.
  • If all the cores are distributed, then we insert the connector into a special crimper socket.
  • We squeeze the handles of the tool until a characteristic click.
  • We repeat everything that was done above for the second end of the twisted pair.

That's the whole crimp. Now you can connect the router to the computer's network card and try to install.

If everything is done correctly, then the connection will appear in a matter of seconds. If something is wrong, then you will have to redo the entire cable.

Method number 2. We use a knife, screwdriver and other improvised means

Everything is much more complicated here. It will take much more time to crimp the cable with the help of improvised means.

And it’s not a fact that the operation will be crowned with success the first time. Moreover, certain skills in working with the relevant tools will be required.

To carry out the crimping procedure, you will need a sharp knife, a flat screwdriver, a twisted pair of the required length and a set of connectors.

The algorithm of actions is simple, but some skill and extreme caution will be required.

  • First, remove the cable insulation. To do this, carefully cut the rubber tube of the cable with a nome. The incision should be minimal, since it is required not to damage the cores. After making an incision, you can pull off the insulation with your fingers.
  • We cut the sharpening veins with any wire cutters. 20mm wire is enough. They fit in just fine.
  • Now you need to take the connector and carefully insert the wires into the grooves according to the straight twisted pair crimping scheme. It is advisable to somehow fix the cable itself and the connector, since further actions will require complete immobility of the components.
  • We take a flat screwdriver and carefully press the metal contacts on the connector. Care must be taken here, as pressing too hard can damage the contacts. And they won't work.
  • We press in the same way the plastic clip of the connector, which should capture the cable insulation.
  • We put on an insulating cap.
  • Repeat the operation for the second end of the cable.

Now you can check the twisted pair cable for operability. The disadvantage of this method is that you can easily ruin the connector without even knowing it. The pressure on the contacts should not be excessively strong.

Checking cable health

There are several options for checking the performance of a freshly crimped twisted pair. This must be done before using the cable.

So you can correct the shortcomings even before connecting the cable to the network.

Method number 1. Using a simple tester (multimeter)

This option is the most acceptable, as it allows you to check the cable's performance even before plugging it into the network.

It can be used by both professional "IT people" and ordinary users.

All that is needed is a conventional tester (multimeter) used to check the current. It allows you to quickly identify the problem and fix it.

And using this device is quite simple. No one will have problems.

  • So, first switch the tester to resistance or beep mode. This is done using the mode switch. It may look different. Depending on the model of the tester. Just set the switch to the speaker icon.
  • Now we “poke” one tester probe into any contact on the connector, and the second into contact with the same color of the core on another connector.
  • If there is a sound signal, then there is resistance. So there is also contact.
  • Let's move on to another contact.
  • We check the rest in the same way.
  • If there is no signal somewhere, then we try to squeeze the contact manually and check again.
  • If everything is in order, then we turn on the cable to the network and enjoy a high-speed connection.

This method of testing a twisted pair cable helps to quickly identify a malfunction and fix it.

Moreover, for the most part, the malfunction lies in the insufficient connection of the contact with the residential cable. Normal boost will help.

Method number 2. Connecting the cable to the network

The most simple and affordable way for anyone to check. It does not involve the use of any specialized tools.

It also does not allow you to determine which part of the twisted pair has a problem.

All that is needed for such a check is a computer with a network card on board (switch, hub, modem, and so on) and the cable itself.

In the future, you may need a multimeter. To pinpoint the exact location of the problem.

  • So, we insert one end of the cable into the RJ-45 connector on the user's computer.
  • The second connector is inserted into the router.
  • We start the PC.
  • The network card should automatically detect the cable and connect.
  • If this does not happen, check the relevance of the installed drivers.
  • If everything is in order with them, then the problem is definitely in the twisted pair cable.
  • We take a tester (multimeter) and look for a specific place of the problem.
  • We fix the problem and try to connect again.

This option is good because if during the check no problems arose, then you can immediately start using the Internet.

No need to waste time connecting and setting up. Very convenient for those who do not have free time.

A little about connecting cables

It will not be superfluous to talk a little about the cables themselves. So it will be easier for the user to understand what he is dealing with.

And if he has some non-standard cable at his disposal, he will know everything about it.

Categories of cables by protection class

Data cable protection is needed in cases where you need to connect a device to a computer that is located at a decent distance from it.

If you use a protected cable, you can minimize speed losses. According to the protection class, the following types are distinguished.

  • UTP. The most common type of cable used when connecting a router to a PC or two computers in a network. Also called "twisted pair". It does not have any protection (except for the insulating material).
  • FTP. A network cable that is equipped with a protective foil layer. This layer is located immediately after the insulating material. Such a cable is more protected from any magnetic radiation than the notorious "twisted pair".
  • SSTP. A cable that is not only protected by a common foil shield. It also shielded each core. It is used in cases where it is necessary to conduct a network over decent distances with minimal speed losses.
  • SFTP. The most secure of all cables. There is a protective foil screen for each pair of cores, a copper braided mesh and a common foil screen. Used in the most difficult situations. Provides full speed protection. But it's well worth it.

Categories of cables by purpose

According to this criterion, cables are divided into categories according to the area of ​​application.

It makes sense to list only those that can be used solely to ensure quality.

  • Cat 5D. Classic eight-core cable. It can provide 100 megabits of speed when using two pairs of cores and 1000 megabits per second when using all four pairs. Currently the most popular option.
  • Cat 5E. A cable that is designed to work in Fast and Gigabit Ethernet networks. It is thinner and lighter than the usual twisted pair cable. It also costs much less. But for some reason it is not very popular.
  • Cat 6E. Unprotected 16-core cable designed for Ethernet networks. The maximum data transfer rate is 10 gigabits per second. However, it is only achieved if the distance between devices does not exceed 55 meters.
  • cat 6 A. Eight-core cable with S/FTP or F/FTP protection system. Provides speeds of 10 gigabits per second at a maximum distance of 200 meters. Already more interesting characteristics.
  • cat 7 F. The same 8 lived. S/FTP class protection. The maximum speed is 10 gigabits per second. However, this speed is available only if the distance between devices does not exceed 50 meters.
  • cat 7 A. The coolest type of cable. It has the most advanced protection and has 8 cores. Capable of providing a data transfer rate of 100 gigabits per second at a distance of 15 meters. It is very expensive.

It is worth noting that it makes no sense to purchase the coolest cable for use at home.

Standard hardware in routers and PCs simply won't be able to unlock its full potential. There is no point in overpaying.

Important! Before crimping the cable, it is worth checking it for mechanical damage. If there are strong kinks, incomprehensible cuts and other damage, then it is better not to use such a cable. It will only do harm. Not only will he not be able to provide an acceptable, so he may well disable your equipment. It's not worth the risk. If the cable is damaged, it is better to purchase a new one.

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