Exploring Ethernet options in the attic – unclear on what to purchase
Exploring Ethernet options in the attic – unclear on what to purchase
Hey there! I recently started setting up an Ethernet connection from the router to my living room. I need about 100 feet of Cat 6 cable, but I'm a bit unsure where to buy it. Many DIY guides show people using cables without connectors on each end, then plugging them into keystone jacks at the end. I discovered a site with a similar product, but some reviews mention it tends to kink easily. I’m not sure if I should opt for a thicker cable to protect against that when using staples to secure the wires. I also learned that patch cables usually have connectors on both ends, while keystone jacks don’t. I was wondering if using a thicker patch cable would work better—maybe running it through the wall and connecting it to an adapter for the router. Some sources say this could slow things down compared to using a keystone jack. I read that keystones only work with solid-core cables, and if it’s a stranded patch cable, it might be slower. This particular one I found is stranded, which fits my concern. Do stranded versus solid-core cables really affect speed? If I have to choose, can I just modify the patch cable by cutting the connectors and using the keystone directly? This is my first project, so I’m a bit nervous about bending or damaging the cable. Here are the links I came across... If you have any better options, please share them! Thanks!
Simple crimping refers to attaching connectors at the ends, not about being crushed by PE staples. Crimping serves its purpose when securing connectors, and using a female-to-female setup won’t affect your speed. It makes it much simpler to run cables through walls without pre-attached connectors or keystone jacks. "Patch cable" typically indicates existing connectors, but you can remove them if needed.
If you have the budget, buying bulk cable without ends, a crimping tool, and jacks will simplify the process. Alternatively, opt for punch-down keystone jacks if you don’t need a crimping tool. Attempting to run a patch cable with ends already attached will be challenging. You’ll also need a drill, fishing tape, low-voltage wall brackets, and keystone plates for the wall. Using C metal clips with spacing is better than staples since you don’t want to damage the Ethernet cable. This isn’t the same as ROMEX electrical cable—it also leaves room for future expansions. I favor female-to-female coupler keystone jacks over punchdowns mainly because my experience with punchdowns hasn’t been ideal. On my server rack, some punch-down attempts failed to connect wires properly even after multiple retries. I’ve never faced problems with crimping jacks or using couplers, though they can be bulky—especially with thin walls. The full female-to-female coupler plus jack on the back is quite large, which can be an issue in tight spaces.
Thanks for the input! The choice between stranded and solid-core cables isn't a big deal for most applications. It mainly affects performance in high-frequency or heavy-load scenarios, but for standard use it shouldn't make a noticeable difference.
Choose a solid foundation for wall running; stranded wires are extremely difficult to secure into keystone jacks because the strands tend to move and create weak joints. For wires with connectors at both ends, this problem disappears, making stranded connections acceptable for running from a wall jack to a device. It's also recommended to use pass-through RJ45 connectors. You'll need a specialized crimping tool for them, which is a bit pricier per connector, but it makes the process much simpler and more reliable.
Sure, opt for solid wire. It's much simpler to crimp or punch it. Also, steer clear of CCA (Copper Clad Aluminum) Ethernet cables—they're not as good as solid copper.