How to Make Your Own Ethernet Cables

Interconnect Cable Assemblies
, , ,
1

To make your own Cat5e or Cat6 cable you will need a few things to get you started:
We do have a kit that comes with these components, (except the cable) Digi-Key part number 2329-HS-TK-ND

  • RJ45 Connector (8P8C)
    • You can find our magnetic options here.
  • Crimp tool - the specific tool you need will vary depending on the connector you choose
  • Cable Stripper
  • Network Tester
  • The type of cable you will be using either Cat5e or Cat6

When assembling your cable, one of the most important things is to get the length of wire you need correct. Measure how much you need and then add 3-4 inches to each end. This will give you enough room to terminate your plugs and to give you some wiggle room if you have to run the cable over something.

Remember Network cables have a maximum length, stranded cable should not exceed 10 meters and solid cable should not be longer than 100 meters.

Once you have determined your length you can strip the cable on both ends. A general guideline is about 2" from the end of your cable. Separate the twisted pairs into individual wires. There are two configurations for this the most common is T-568B the other configuration is T-568A.

T-568B is configured like this:
β€’ White-Orange
β€’ Orange
β€’ White-Green
β€’ Blue
β€’ White-Blue
β€’ Green
β€’ White-Brown
β€’ Brown
image
Photo courtesy of Fluke

T-568A is configured like this
β€’ White-Green
β€’ Green
β€’ White-Orange
β€’ Blue
β€’ White-Blue
β€’ Orange
β€’ White-Brown
β€’ Brown
image
Photo courtesy of Fluke

When you have them in order straighten them out the best you can and then trim the tips so they are all the same length. Insert the cables in the connector. The tab on the connector should be facing down and White-Orange (or White-Green if you are using T568A) cable should be the furthest left in the connector. When inserted, the sheathing should be just inside the end of the data plug.

If the outer cable jacket is outside or just inside the plug you can squeeze the cable about 2-3" down and it will push the jacket into the connector. Be careful not to pull the cables away from the end of the plug.

Now you will repeat the process on the other side. Once both sides are finished you can hook them up to your tester.

1 Like