How to create/wire Cat6 network

[Jerrinst]

First off, I am a relative novice when it comes to networking. However, I am building my first house and I would like a simple home network. I'm looking to connect 2-3 computers, have a shared printer, and be able to connect my Xbox next or PS3 to the network as well. I bought some Cat6 cable from Newegg and I wanted to know what else I needed to buy in specific terms. I know I need connector jacks, faceplates probably a router and probably a testing tool, but what exactly do I need, and who has good prices on it? I'm looking to have a total of 9 drops or so.

Also, does anyone know where I can find a how-to for making/running the cables?

Thanks for all of your help,

Jerrin

 

[Kelemvor]

I would first figure out where the Cable/DSL/whatever line will be entering your house. (Most likely in the back somewhere). If you want to have an actual network closet, you could put it somewhere near this point. Otherwise what I did was just take the cable modem and my router and attach them to the floor josts (ceiling in the basement) right at that spot. Then I ran cabling from that central location to each room I wanted the network in. You only have to run one cable to each room because if you need multiple connections in a room you can just plop down a small hub to get you the extra connections.

If you want wireless in your house, it's always best to have the wireless router located in some sort of central location to get the best coverage.

Here's my setup in a nutshell.

4 port Router in ceiling of basement near wall where cable comes in.
1 cable going to each of 3 bedrooms and 1 going towards the center of the basement.

4 port Hub in the main bedroom used as the computer room. 3 computers plugged into this hub.
4 port wireless router in center of basement (in ceiling) to provide maximum coverage
1 cable from this router going to far wall of basement where the XBox is (opposite end of house from first router.

I have no problems at all with this setup. I can easily add more ports if I ever needed to. I can go wireless with my laptop when I want, etc.

The main thing is you have to have to pick where your main router is going to go and run all the cabling back to that point.

For wall plates and such, I got all my stuff from http://www.lanshack.com because they had the best prices by far. All the items I got from there worked flawlessly as well. As for making cables you'll need cable (duh), plastic ends, and a crimper tool. Its very simple. Might see if you know anyone that has the tool you can just borrow.

 

[Jerrinst]

That's a really good idea. I was planning on running three drops (out of the 9) into my den, so I could hook up the Xbox, PS3 and my receiver to the network. However, due to the fact that I'll only have one TV in there, a hub might be the best way to do it since I won't be using more than one at the same time. I won't be using any wireless with this network though and I do have a closet set aside for the router and cables. Thanks for the info!

What kind of tool and jacks do I need for the Cat6? Is all I need the jacks, tool for the jacks and a router (perhaps a hub also)? Anyone know of a good place to get what I need? Also, anyone know of a diagram for wiring Cat6?

Thanks all!

Jerrin

 

[Kelemvor]

The only tools you should need are a crimper tool to make the physical cables and a punch down tool to attach the ends of the cable to the in wall keystone jacks. You can probably get one at any local hardware type store

 

[Jerrinst]

Not to seem too slow here, but I need:

Cat 6, 8 Conductor Modular Plugs and also keystone jacks? As well as a punch down tool and the crimper tool?

Am I basically making a patch cable to each room that connects to the router and the DSL modem?

My understanding is that I am running a cable or two to each room which will terminate in my closet and eventually be connected to the router, which will be connected to the DSL modem. Is that right?

I apologize for the need for explanations, but while I know a fair amount about PC's, I know very little about networks.

Thanks again,

Jerrin