Cat cables

[DaveGrohl]

Hi, probably a pretty basic question so apols for not stretching the mental hamstrings folks.

I'm installing a TP link wifi access point on a chimney in our yard to get wifi coverage outside. I need a cable of about 15m to get the ethernet connector into it. What Cat of cable do I need? First thing that came up on Amazon was Cat 7, is that ok? And what do all the Cat categories mean? I imagined Cat 5 would be ok in my head but I've no idea where I've got that from. I really can't be @rsed to look into it myself soz. TIA.

 

[TechWise]

Cat 5e or Cat 6 is what you're after. Lots of info here: https://www.cablematters.com/blog/Networking/cat5e-vs-cat6 Cat 6 is for super high speed stuff. Even if your router is capable of the super high speeds it supports, your broadband connection almost certainly isn't.

Cat 7 has never really caught on because it's not a standard cable type, more on that here: https://www.cablematters.com/blog/Networking/what-is-cat7-and-why-you-don-t-need-it

You can get the RJ45 crimpers for not very much money and the connectors themselves and the boots are pennies. If you can get away with a premade cable that will be even easier. I did a lot of wiring here using a drum of Cat 6 and crimped the ends myself, mostly because I had to feed the cable through a lot of small holes and I got the drum of cable for nothing!

You can also buy a little gadget that you plug onto the ends of your newly crimped cable and it checks you've done it right. It's not really necessary if you take your time and you've only got a couple to do.

 

[rollestonpark]

Outdoor grade cat 6 (or 5e) , regular stuff and the UV will eventually destroy it and you'll have to change it again.

 

[Netherfield]

5e is all I have round here, works fine, as above make sure it's outdoor grade.

 

[rollestonpark]

I will just add, if your going to start installing Cat 5/6 yourself (recommended) then personally I'd spent a few extra quid and buy the connectors that let the wires go right through and out the other side of the connectors.
Along with the special crimper that goes with them. Since using this I have almost no miss wires/mistakes.
It's all I use now.

 

[DaveGrohl]

Thanks for all the replies. I'm just going pre-made cable, I have a hole in the wall big enough to fit the cable ends through anyway so no need to dabble in the world of connectors. I was defo gonna order outdoor cable so all good thanks.

 

[Timbo]

+1 for outdoor UV resistant cable - as said the indoor sort will rot in under 12months and you'll be up there again.

 

[Y Fan Wen]

I will just add, if your going to start installing Cat 5/6 yourself (recommended) then personally I'd spent a few extra quid and buy the connectors that let the wires go right through and out the other side of the connectors.
Along with the special crimper that goes with them. Since using this I have almost no miss wires/mistakes.
It's all I use now.

I would appreciate it if you would post a link to a supplier and product so I can see exactly what you are suggesting. Thanks.

 

[Timbo]

Cat5 pass through plugs: 100Pcs RJ45 Network Modular Plug 8P8C CAT5e Cable Connector End Pass Through | eBay

Crimper: EZ-RJPRO HD Crimp Tool Easy Pass Through Tool CAT5e CAT6 & 100 Free Connectors | eBay

Or pre made cables: 5m - 100m Black External PE Outdoor Network Ethernet Cable Cat5e 100% Copper Lot | eBay

 

[upnortheast]

I use cable monkey for cat5 stuff
This post explains my prefered method of running cat cable

Calving cameras and wifi etc

The unit at the shed will have a setting so it gives a wifi signal . Fit it high up as possible for good coverage while still having clear line of sight to your house bridge unit. . Ours is good for about 100metres. If you can not get it in a position where it gives you good wifi coverage it`s...

thefarmingforum.co.uk

 

[Y Fan Wen]

Great. Thank you both.