What's a cheap way to efficiently extend a CAT5 RJ45 network cable?

[Trevelyan]

Ok, here's what happened:

I ran a CAT5 RJ45 cable through my attic, but, alas, it is too short. I need to add about 10-15 feet to one end to make it be able to run along the ground and reach my router.

So, my question is, how can I extend the RJ45 cable another 15ft? I don't want to put another hub there or anything, and uplink it to the router. I was thinking more along the lines of a coupler... BUT, I definately don't want to lose any signal quality because of a coupler.... I've heard those things can really ruin the signal in RJ45 cables, especially long ones. The cable I have in now is about 75 feet.

Would it work to just cut the end off another cable and twist all the wires together, or would that ruin the cable too?

Any and all advice would be appreciated.

 

[ScottMac]

A cut & splice would foul things up more than a coupler.

Use a coupler, and make sure it Category rated.

75 feet is well with the ~100 meter guidelines, you have some signal to spare, as long as you follow the rules (sorta)

Good Luck

Scott

 

[Paulson]

300 feet (100 meters) is the limit for a cat5 cable... after that you get signal degration and such...

You'd be fine just getting the ethernet jack back to back with another ethernet jack thingy ... haha... sorry, I know the cable tester I've got has it...

 

[lobadobadingdong]

run along the ground? I'm guessing you just have either a hole in the ceiling or the wall, if your drop comes out of a wall, why not get a wall jack/plate combo they're pretty cheap ($3-6) depending on where you buy them, and get a patch cable long enough to reach your router, this is basically the same as using a biscut(coupler) but looks a whole lot nicer, for about the same cost.

 

[Trevelyan]

Yeah, the cable runs along the floor and connects to a router... that's the only way for it to work, since the only way into the room is through a hole in the ceiling in the corner.

I guess I can just buy a coupler.... what kind would be the best to get? Someone please recommend one to me....

 

[SladeZero]

Hey there,

I picked mine up for $4.00 at Radio shack ( CAT 5 ) coupler. Had to extend some ENET cable for a lan party .
Of course this is in the USA, Texas. Don't know how much it would cost where you are at.
Coupler is a cheap fix without buying a new cable.

Hope this helps

SladeZero

 

[JackMDS]

Originally posted by: lobadobadingdong
run along the ground? I'm guessing you just have either a hole in the ceiling or the wall, if your drop comes out of a wall, why not get a wall jack/plate combo they're pretty cheap ($3-6) depending on where you buy them, and get a patch cable long enough to reach your router, this is basically the same as using a biscut(coupler) but looks a whole lot nicer, for about the same cost.

This advice is the best solution for the price.

You can find on the following link How to install a Wall Plate; it is much easier then crimping, and superior quality over cheap coupler. You can find the parts in your local Home Depot.

Physical Home Networking: An Installation Guide