Analyzing network connections: exploring various ways to connect network cables

Explore the secrets of network cables

Network cables, the link in the online world, can transmit various information depending on the materials they are made of. There are three main types of common network cables: twisted pair, coaxial cable, and fiber optic cable (fiber optic). Twisted pair wire consists of multiple pairs of twisted wires and is widely used because of its economical price. It is often used to connect to RJ45 crystal heads. There are two types: STP and UTP, of which UTP is the more common.

Connecting a network with coaxial cable is relatively simple, just connect each computer or device in series. However, maintenance work is cumbersome, and if something fails somewhere, the entire network may be paralyzed. In addition, adding or removing equipment requires suspending network operation until the operation is completed. In addition, this method is only suitable for bus topology and is rarely used now.

Twisted pair wire consists of four pairs of insulated copper wires covered with insulating material. It has the characteristics of reducing interference and signal attenuation, making network maintenance more convenient. Even if a network cable failure occurs, it will only affect the connected devices and will not paralyze the entire network. However, using twisted pair requires adding a hub or switch, which increases the cost.

Various network cable connection methods

(1) Winding method

The wrapping method is the simplest and original connection method:

1. Use network cable pliers to remove the outer sheath of the network cable, exposing 3-5 cm, and cut off the cross frame in the middle;
2. Peel off the outer sheath of the eight core wires to expose the copper wires;
3. Wrap each copper core wire of matching color together and secure with insulating tape.

However, this method is only suitable for emergency or temporary detection and is not suitable for long-term use. Because of its large signal loss and interference, the network is unstable.

(2) Wiring method

The wiring method is more cumbersome than the winding method and requires 8 adapters:

1. Peel off the outer sheath of two short network cables, exposing 3-5 cm. Pay attention to distinguish the colors;
2. Insert the same color cores of the two network cables into the 8 adapters;
3. After connection, use pliers to compress the top and secure with insulating tape.

This method is more common in broadband maintenance. Although it is simple to operate, it has a certain impact on network signal stability and propagation speed. In addition, there is a welding method that requires professional tools and should be used with caution by non-professionals.

(3) Network cable connector

If you have two short network cables with crystal heads, you only need to insert the two network cables into the network cable butt joint. Network cables without crystal heads can be processed according to the following steps:

1. Peel off the outer sheath of two short network cables and separate the eight core wires. According to the T568B international standard, the order is orange-white, orange, green-white, blue, blue-white, green, brown-white, and brown;
2. Use pliers to trim the core wire, leaving 1cm in length, and push the top of the network cable crystal head slot;
3. Use pliers to press the top. After you hear a "click" sound, insert the network cable connector.

Compared with the previous operations, connecting the network cable to the connector is more convenient and simple, ensuring signal stability and achieving high-speed transmission.

(4) Network cable extension cord

Different from the above, if you only have a short network cable but need to extend it, you can use a "network extension cable". It comes with a network cable, plug and play.

If the network cable does not have a crystal connector, follow the steps of "Connecting the network cable to the connector".

If the network cable has a crystal head, you only need to buy a female-to-female network extension cable and plug it in. Generally, there are options ranging from 0.5m to 5m.