How To Make Ethernet Cable RJ45 - Straight Through & Crossover

Summary

This video provides a detailed step-by-step guide on how to create both straight-through and crossover Cat5 Ethernet cables. It covers the essential tools needed, such as a wire stripper and crimping tool, and explains the pinout configurations (EIA 568A and EIA 568B) required for each type of cable. The tutorial includes tips on cable preparation, how to correctly insert wires into RJ45 connectors, and how to crimp them securely. Additionally, it emphasizes the importance of inspecting the finished cable to ensure reliable connections. A brief mention of using a cable tester wraps up the instructions.

Takeaways

• 😀 To make a straight-through Cat5 cable, both ends must have the same pinout (EIA 568A or EIA 568B).
• 😀 For a crossover Cat5 cable, one end must use the EIA 568A pinout and the other end the EIA 568B pinout.
• 😀 The EIA 568A and EIA 568B pinouts differ mainly in the color order of the wires (green and orange are swapped).
• 😀 Memorize the EIA 568A pinout, and to create the EIA 568B pinout, just flip the orange and green wire positions.
• 😀 RJ45 connectors have 8 metal pins, numbered 1 to 8, and are used to crimp the cable ends in Ethernet connections.
• 😀 Use a wire stripper and crimper tool to prepare and attach RJ45 connectors to the cable.
• 😀 After cutting and stripping the cable, untwist the pairs of wires before arranging them according to the pinout.
• 😀 Be careful when inserting the wires into the RJ45 connector to ensure they reach the end of the connector and the jacket is properly seated.
• 😀 A tight crimp ensures a secure connection, but inspect the crimped cables for any misalignment of the pins.
• 😀 Test the finished cables with a cable tester to ensure proper connectivity and that all pins are properly crimped and aligned.

Q & A

What is the difference between a straight-through and a crossover Cat5 cable?

A straight-through Cat5 cable has the same pinout on both ends, while a crossover cable has different pinouts on each end—one end uses the EIA 568A standard and the other uses EIA 568B.

How can you remember the pinouts for Cat5 cables?

You only need to memorize one pinout (either EIA 568A or 568B) because to create a crossover cable, you simply swap the positions of the orange and green wire pairs.

What tools are needed to make a Cat5 cable?

You'll need a wire stripper, crimping tool, RJ45 connectors, and optionally, a cable tester to check the finished cable.

What are some important steps when stripping the cable?

Carefully strip about 1 to 1.5 inches of the outer jacket without cutting into the internal wires, then untwist the pairs of wires so they are ready to be arranged in the correct order.

Why is it important to keep the wires in the correct order?

The order of the wires must follow the specific pinout (either EIA 568A or 568B) for the cable to function correctly. Incorrect wiring can result in network failure or poor connectivity.

What should you check after crimping the RJ45 connector?

After crimping, ensure the wires are securely attached to the connector and the cable jacket is inside the connector to provide strain relief. This helps prevent loose connections and cable damage.

How does the crimping tool work?

The crimping tool presses the metal pins inside the RJ45 connector onto the wires, securing the connection. It also helps cut off excess wire length.

What is the purpose of a cable tester?

A cable tester checks whether the wires inside the cable are correctly connected and ensures there are no open or crossed wires. This step helps confirm that the cable works properly before use.

Why is the jacket insulator important in the cable?

The jacket insulator provides strain relief, ensuring that the weight of the cable does not put pressure on the pins inside the connector, which could cause the cable to malfunction.

What should you do if the wires are not fully inserted into the RJ45 connector?

If the wires aren't fully inserted, the connection may not work. You need to start over, cutting the cable and re-stripping the wires to ensure they reach the end of the connector.