Running Cat 5e

[gkamieneski]

I am trying to run some cable between my 2nd floor where the router(s) are and a need on the 1st floor. It is convenient for me to use a patch cord from the router over to a point in a 2nd floor wall where I could put in a box and drill below to the location I need it on the 1st floor. I'll use flush mount jacks and decora plates and once I've opened up the wall, I'll run the cable down to the 1st floor where there is already a plate hosting an F-video jack.

What details do I have to pay attention to if I plan to terminate both ends of the cable that runs between floors 2 and 1? Do I terminate them both the same knowing that one end is going to be enlivened by means of a patch cord coming from the 2nd floor router? thx for help

[hieronymous]

O.K., I'll bite (haven't done this for awhile and I'm a newb here, but it's not complicated). For basic technical info on the Cat 5 standards, read this: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category_5_cable

For a practical cabling primer, read this: http://donutey.com/ethernet.php

Without knowing specifically what you're connecting, I'd suggest you use a straight-through (patch type) termination for your wall jacks which simply means connect them exactly the same on both ends. If you need a crossover (depends on the device) you can do it between the wall jack and the equipment you're connecting.

Practically speaking, use good wiring practice when terminating, i.e. don't kink or damage the cable, don't nick the conductors when stripping and maintain the twist in each pair as close to the jack as you can for the best noise immunity. There's nothing worse than trying to troubleshoot a bad cable or termination unless you have access to professional diagnostic tools.

Hope this helps ...

[claykin]

Yes, terminate the same. Does not matter is you use 586A or B, just pick one and terminate the same on both ends.

[thiggins]

Terminate them the same.

Have a look at the How To: Diary of a New Home Network- Part 2 (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/24217/229/) and Part 3 (http://www.smallnetbuilder.com/content/view/24835/229/).