RJ-45 Connectors Made Easy

RJ-45 Connectors Made Easy

What is the difference between a Cat5 and a Cat6 RJ45 connector? The easy answer is:  they are both cable connectors with a standard network plug and socket, often called an “Ethernet jack”. Cat 5 and Cat 6 are UTP, or Unshielded Twisted Pair cables.  The difference...
Cabling Issues

Cabling Issues

One of the most important things about cabling is to purchase cable not just for what you’re using now but for what you may run in the future.   A rule of thumb is to install the highest-grade cable that your budget allows. The standard is Ethernet. That means there...
Basic Structured Cabling

Basic Structured Cabling

“Structured cabling” is a complete system of cabling and associated hardware which creates a telecommunications infrastructure. This infrastructure can serve a range of tasks, such as providing telephone service or data transmission through a computer network....
Network Cabling Issues

Network Cabling Issues

A major part of creating a viable network involves the installation of a cabling system. A solid cabling system is a good investment that will not only meet your current networking needs, but will last through your next-generation network as well. Modern Ethernet...
What is “Alien Crosstalk”?

What is “Alien Crosstalk”?

No, it’s not ET calling home. “Alien Crosstalk” is defined as “unwanted signal coupling from one balanced twisted-pair component, channel, or permanent link to another”. Alien crosstalk is not generally affected by common noise from motors, transformers, or florescent...