Getting Started With Ethernet Cabling

Here's a new business opportunity for system builders: Instead of letting an electrician or specialized telecom contractor install the cabling when your SOHO (small office, home office) customers need a new network setup, learn to do it yourself.

While many sites are installing wireless networks, wireless is not always the best choice. Security needs, building construction, and other reasons can lead a company to link its computers using old-fashioned wired Ethernet.

To tap into the Ethernet cabling market, a system builder needs to know three basic things: which special tools are needed, how to choose the right cable, and how to terminate the ends of a cable run for a reliable connection. Let's look at each of these three need-to-know factors.

Choosing the Right Tools

As with any job, having the proper tools for installing Ethernet cabling will make the work go faster and easier. Plus, you'll have a better chance of doing it right the first time.

To get started, you'll need to acquire some specialized network tools, which you can buy at either electrical-supply houses or retailers like Home Depot, or Lowe’s:

• Fish tape: A fish tape (or "fish") is a long, semi-rigid piece of flat spring steel used to pull cable. Basically, you unwind it, poke it through a narrow space, and then fasten it to the cable you want to pull.

• A length of 3/4-inch diameter PVC pipe: This is useful for poking a cable through any area you can't get the fish into. Drill a 3/8-inch hole through the wall of the pipe near one end; that's where you'll secure the cable.

• Electrical tape: You will use this for securing the cable to the fish tape or pole while you’re pulling it.

• Crimper for RJ45 connectors: Useful for making patch cords.

• Punch-down tool with correct blades: Needed for the RJ45 jacks.

• At least one sturdy ladder.

• Drywall saw: Handy for making holes for the network cables and jacks.

• Flashlights: Headlamps or small LED task lights that can clip to the brim of a cap let you see into dark corners while still keeping both hands free.

• Cable tester: Use this to verify that cable runs and patch cords are properly terminated.

• Label maker: While a Sharpie or other permanent marker will work in a pinch, the results aren't professional looking. Use this instead.

You’ll need more than just bulk Ethernet cable to properly install a network infrastructure. Among the consumable items you’ll need are:

• The proper type of Ethernet cabling (discussed in detail below).

• RJ45 connectors, if you’ll be making patch cables.

• RJ45 jacks, wall mounting plates, and connection boxes.

• Surface-mount boxes for mounting jacks, if you're working in an area where the jacks cannot be mounted flush with the wall surface (for example, on a cinder block wall).

• Patch panel(s) to terminate the cable runs in the wiring closet.

• Cable ties and Velcro wraps for securing bundles of cables.

• D-rings for securing bunches of cables to a wall.

• Conduit for protecting cables in exposed areas.

• Labels for the label maker.