Extending CAT5 Cable

JPV123

The builder ran a cable and CAT5 wire to a 3rd floor for future use. Now we are finishing the 3rd floor and the customer wants it in a different location. The builder didn't leave any extra lenth in the cables. What's the best way to extend the CAT5 cable? Thanks.

mdshunk

The best way? Run a new cable.

What's this cable for? Network? or voice?

For voice, I'd just use what's called "UR" connectors. For network, that's a little touchy. I'd probably crimp on an RJ45 end on the existing piece and get an RJ45 modular coupler and go from there with the extra piece.

JPV123

There is actually 2 of them. one will be for voice and the other for a network.

Greg Di

Yep...run a new home run if at all possible.

I would be leary of burying an RJ45 and coupler in the wall. CAT5 can be sensitive--especially if you are trying to maximize network speed. Try to run a new home run!

Ken@K&R

The voice cable can be extended with no problem just like anyother voice line. You should never extend Cat 5e data cable. Im guessing on the 3rd floor a new homerun would not be a very plesent thing to do. It's not recomended by cisco or Net + training. I would do 1 of 2 thing if possiable.

Option 1 is try and talk the customer into going wireless and attiching the access point to that jack. Then the wireless network card in his computer. This option is about $100 parts an hour to set up and out the door.

Option 2 would be to install a Network hub at the jack and run another cat 5e cable through the wall and behind his computer area. This option is about $70 and however long it would take for the new wire and out the door. Just remeber that the ends on the existing cable running from the router to the hub would need changed over to be a crossover cable.

Both these options allows for very easy network expansion also.

__________________
Ken

JPV123

Thanks, I'll give the Homeowner the options. (I smell a Change Order )

ABLE1

BTW for what it is worth some 66 blocks are rated CAT5. Keep the twist tight to the connector and you should be ok. Also keep it accessible for any future concerns. Maybe a small loss in transmission speed but for a residential application the homeowner will never notice the loss. Use the same 66 block for the phone and your good to go. Cost of 66 block and standoff maybe $15.00, Do a neat job and use a punch down tool.