Once you have placed the ends of the wires into the connector you'll need to use the crimping device. Simply insert the wire into the device, and pull down. Make sure that each metal connector has gone into the wire enough to make a connection, if not simply pull harder. Repeat this step for the other end of the cable.

Test the cable

If you're so inclined you can use a loop back tester (also known as a category 5 cable integrity tester) to check the cable for problems, though this will cost you some money. Using one of these is only recommended if you are going to be doing a large job involving A LOT of cable. One of these devices can run you upwards of $100.

Done

You may not be able to get this to work correctly the first time around, but don't fret. Make sure you do buy more cable than you actually need, as you'll want to leave room for error.

For more information on building your own home LAN you may want to check out the guide I wrote for Sharkyextreme.

by Ryan Wissman

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