Coupler for Cat5e. Will I notice problems?

RC7

Senior member
Apr 1, 2001
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Ok, I have to drive upto philly today to network my sister's and her roommate's computer. They want to go with a cross over cable because it cheaper than a hub (atleast at any B&M store). Problem is, staples only carries a 10ft crossover; they need atleast 30. I was planning on coupling the crossover with a regular patch cable. Would they notice any speed problems, or worse?
 

ojai00

Diamond Member
Sep 29, 2001
3,291
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i'm not sure if you can couple crossover cables or not. i currently use 2 couplers to network my 2 computers at home, but they are going into a router. i dont really notice any speed differences, but i have never tested. good luck.
 

RC7

Senior member
Apr 1, 2001
521
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I read on a different post that it was ok to couple a crossover with a patch. If you don't notice any issues with the coupler, they sure won't ^_-. Seems to be the best last minute solution. If i had gotten around to ordering a cable i coulda got a 50ft one for the price of a 10ft at staples, oh well.
 

ScottMac

Moderator<br>Networking<br>Elite member
Mar 19, 2001
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TO my knowledge, there are no Cat5e rated couplers. There are Cat5 rated couplers, and they would be jus' fine for 100 meg Ethernet. If you buy an unlabled / unrated coupler, chances are it's not a Cat 5 capable device, and may degrade performance.

Check Radio Shack, CompUSA, Circuit City, or many electrical/electronic parts supply stores. I think they have rated couplers. They may also have longer jumpers (straight through and crosover).

Good Luck

Scott
 

RC7

Senior member
Apr 1, 2001
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I called radio shack last night, and asked for a cat5 coupler. They said they had it, so I assume it should work out ok.
 

nightowl

Golden Member
Oct 12, 2000
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BlackBox carries Cat5(e) rated couplers. They run about $15 though, but they do exist.
 

Eltano1

Golden Member
Aug 6, 2000
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If a coupler cost $15.00, why no put $5.00 more and go for a hub. I think that it will be a better setup.

Best regards

Eltano