DIY Installation Guide for Cat 7 Shielded Ethernet Cables
If you’re looking to upgrade your home network or install a new one from scratch, Cat 7 shielded Ethernet cables are a great option. They offer superior performance over Cat 5e and Cat 6 cables, and they’re relatively easy to install yourself.
This DIY installation guide will show you everything you need to know to install Cat 7 shielded Ethernet cables in your home. We’ll cover everything from choosing the right cables to terminating the ends and testing your installation.
Let’s get started!
Choosing the Right Cables
The first step is to choose the right Cat 7 shielded Ethernet cables for your needs. There are a few things to consider when making your choice:
Length: Choose cables that are the right length for your needs. You don’t want to have too much excess cable, but you also don’t want the cables to be too short.
Category: Cat 7 cables are available in two categories: unshielded (UTP) and shielded (STP). STP cables offer better performance than UTP cables, but they’re also more expensive.
Shielding: Shielded Cat 7 cables are protected from electromagnetic interference (EMI). This can be important if you’re running the cables near other electrical devices.
Installing the Cables
Once you’ve chosen the right cables, it’s time to install them. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
1. Plan your cable runs. Before you start running the cables, take some time to plan your cable runs. This will help you avoid running the cables through areas where they could be damaged or interfere with other devices.
2. Run the cables. Once you’ve planned your cable runs, it’s time to run the cables. Be careful not to damage the cables as you’re running them.
3. Terminate the ends. Once you’ve run the cables, it’s time to terminate the ends. This involves crimping RJ-45 connectors onto the ends of the cables.
4. Test your installation. Once you’ve terminated the ends of the cables, it’s time to test your installation. This can be done using a cable tester.
Troubleshooting
If you’re having problems with your Cat 7 shielded Ethernet cable installation, there are a few things you can try:
Check the cable connections. Make sure that the RJ-45 connectors are properly crimped onto the ends of the cables.
Check for damage. Inspect the cables for any damage. If you find any damage, replace the cable.
Test the cables. Use a cable tester to test the cables. This will help you identify any problems with the cables.
Conclusion
Installing Cat 7 shielded Ethernet cables is a relatively easy DIY project. By following the steps in this guide, you can install a high-performance network in your home.