Detailed guide on how to terminate 8-core network cables correctly with little-known techniques

Nowadays, the outdated Cat5e network cable is gradually becoming obsolete, replaced by Cat6 and Cat7 cables with 8 wire configurations that are widely applied. However, not everyone knows how to properly terminate an 8-wire network cable. Therefore, this article will provide detailed instructions on how to terminate an 8-wire network cable in the simplest and most practical way for you to do it yourself at home.

What are 8-wire network cables?

8-wire network cables are commonly known as Cat5, Cat5e, Cat6, or Cat6a cables… They are commonly used cables in setting up Local Area Network (LAN) connections. These cables consist of 8 small copper wires, usually divided into 4 pairs and twisted together. Each pair of wires is coated with an insulating sheath and all are enclosed in an outer sheath.

In the structure of an 8-wire network cable, each pair of wires is color-coded to facilitate identification and termination into RJ45 connectors. The specific arrangement of the wires in accordance with the T568A or T568B standards ensures compatibility and transmission performance.

What are the advantages of 8-wire network cables?

8-wire network cables offer many benefits to network users. Some notable advantages include:

• High Performance: 8-wire network cables (especially Cat6 and Cat7 types) are capable of providing high-speed data transmission up to 10 Gbps under certain conditions. This makes them an ideal choice for modern networks with high bandwidth requirements.
• Noise Reduction: Thanks to their twisted pair structure, 8-wire network cables help minimize interference from external signal sources, ensuring stable and accurate data transmission.
• Flexibility and Variety: These types of network cables are available in many different types, from Cat5e to Cat7a. Each type has its own characteristics and application range, from home use to enterprise networks and data centers.
• Wide Compatibility: 8-wire network cables are compatible with most modern network devices, from computers to printers, switches, and routers.
• Easy Installation and Maintenance: These network cables can be cut and terminated according to specific network system requirements, making installation and maintenance easy and flexible.

Therefore, 8-wire network cables not only provide an efficient solution for network data transmission but also ensure stability and compatibility in various applications.

What are the termination standards for 8-wire network cables?

When terminating an 8-wire network cable, two main standards are widely used: T568A and T568B. Each standard has a different color coding scheme for the wires to ensure compatibility and transmission performance.

T568A Standard

The T568A standard arranges the wires in the following order:

• White/Green
• Green
• White/Orange
• Blue
• White/Blue
• Orange
• White/Brown
• Brown

This standard is commonly used in basic network applications and is popular in some regions.

T568B Standard

The T568B standard arranges the wires as follows:

• White/Orange
• Orange
• White/Green
• Blue
• White/Blue
• Green
• White/Brown
• Brown

The T568B standard is more widely used and commonly found in commercial and enterprise network applications.

Due to the existence of these two different standards, it is important to choose the appropriate termination standard to ensure stable and efficient network connectivity. Both T568A and T568B provide equivalent performance, but it is important to maintain consistency within the entire network system. If a network system uses both standards, it can cause connection issues or reduce transmission performance.

Properly terminating an 8-wire network cable

Properly terminating a network cable is important to ensure stable and efficient network connectivity. Let’s explore the most standard steps for terminating an 8-wire network cable.

Prepare the tools

First, you need to prepare the following tools:

• 8-wire network cable (Cat5e, Cat6, Cat6a, Cat7, or Cat7a)
• RJ45 connectors
• Network cable crimping tool
• Wire cutter or wire stripper

Termination steps

Step 1: Strip the cable jacket

First, use a wire cutter or wire stripper to remove the outer jacket of the network cable for a length of about 3-4 cm. Be careful not to damage the inner wires during the stripping process.

Step 2: Arrange the wires

After stripping the outer jacket of the network cable, sort and arrange the wires according to the T568A or T568B standard:

• T568A Standard: White/Green, Green, White/Orange, Blue, White/Blue, Orange, White/Brown, Brown.
• T568B Standard: White/Orange, Orange, White/Green, Blue, White/Blue, Green, White/Brown, Brown.

Step 3: Cut the wires evenly

After arranging the wires in the correct order, cut the wires evenly so that they are of equal length at the ends.

Step 4: Insert the wires into the RJ45 connector

Next, insert the arranged and cut wires into the RJ45 connector. During the insertion process, make sure that the wires are fully pushed into the connector and the connector is straight.

Step 5: Crimp the connector

Once the wires are properly positioned inside the RJ45 connector, you can use the network cable crimping tool to crimp and secure the wires. Afterwards, double-check to ensure that all the wires are crimped tightly and in the correct position.

Step 6: Test the connection

After crimping, you can use a network cable tester to ensure that all the wires are properly connected without any issues.