Post your answers to the questions (question followed by your answer in separate paragraphs).
- Why is stranded rather than solid cable used for patch cables?
Stranded cable is used more than solid cable for patch cables for multiple reasons. Stranded cable is more flexible and durable than solid cable with bending, making it easier for use in places that require it frequently. They can take more damage and have a longer life span as well.
- Why is it critical not to score the jacket too deeply when stripping the cable?
It’s important not to score a jacket too deeply to prevent the internal wires from being cut as well, damaging the cable. Slightly cut wires lead to more noise when patch cables are used, which causes connection issues.
- Why is it recommended to expose more than .5 inches of the wire pairs?
Exposing more than 0.5 inches of the wire pairs allows for proper measurements when cutting excess wire and sliding a connector onto the straightened wire pairs for a patch cable.
- Why is it critical to use the proper pin colors in order?
The standard pin color order is used to ensure that there isn’t crosstalk and worse data transmission between wires. Furthermore, having the pin colors in the correct order allows the cable to function and effectively connect to the network.
- Why is it critical to cut the wire pairs off .5 inches or less before inserting into the connector?
Having the wire pairs untwisted and straightened for more than 0.5 inches will significantly reduce the performance of the cable. It increases the likelihood of crosstalk and performance issues.
- Why is it critical to make sure that all of the wires are pushed to the end of the connector?
If the wires are not pushed to the end of a connector, then it is likely there will be no connection.
- Why is it recommended to double check the wire order and make sure the wires are to the end before crimping?
Double checking the wires before crimping confirms that the wires are in the proper place and that there is no poor crimping as a result. There is also the potential for poor connectivity from incorrect wire pair order and loose crimping.
- How is a continuity tester different from a certification tester?
The difference between a continuity tester and a certification tester is the extent of their verification. A continuity tester simply checks to see if the circuit’s connection is or isn’t connected, while the certification tester checks for that, but also checks if the implemented cabling itself is up to standard.