How to Make Ethernet Cable

On previous blogs we, at Attock Network Products Ltd, have discussed what an ethernet cable is. We discussed some technical and none technical issues. But the real question on your lips is – how does one make an Ethernet Cable?

Here we will discuss how to make crossover ethernet cables.

Making an Ethernet Cable 

Before attempting to construct standard Cat5e patch cables, make sure you have all the necessary tools and materials before you begin. Materials required include a length of Cat5e cable (make sure this is certified Cat5e) and several RJ-45 orRJ45 connectors. For best results, use a quality ratchet tool Tool for cutting and terminating RJ-45 plugs.

1. This Attock crimp tool has two blades: one designed to cut through a cable completely and the other designed to help remove the cable’s outer jacket. Use the first blade to cut the cable to length. Then use the second blade to strip about an inch of the cable’s outer jacket so that all the wires inside are exposed. Be careful not to cut the inside wires when stripping the cable’s jacket insulation. 

2. With the jacket removed, the eight wires within the Cat5e cable are exposed. If a string is present, remove it, and untwist the wires to within a one-eighth inch of the jacket.  

3. Fan the wires out from left to right in the order they are to be crimped. Using the same colour scheme (568A or 568B) at both ends will create a standard patch cable, as shown in the 568A-568A and 568B-568B illustrations below. The schemes 568A and 568B have been discussed in our other blog post that talks about what these schemes are and further inside information for your reference. 

4. With the wires aligned and flattened out, use the cutting blade to evenly trim the wires while leaving approximately one-half inch exposed still gripping the jacket onto the wires with your thumb and forefinger. 

5. With the clip facing away, carefully insert the wires into the RJ45 connector as shown below. 

6. Once two RJ45 connectors have been installed at both ends, the quality of all connections must be tested to ensure the pinouts have been terminated properly. This is a crucial step that is often overlooked due to the expense of the testing equipment.  

Attock Network Products Ltd supply a very inexpensive and simple tester that performs simple and quick tests. 

This product does not certify your cable or install, it will tell you about miss wires, cross wires, shorts etc. To formally certify your cable or install then FLUKE testers are able to do this but they are very much more expensive than this product.