Extend high-speed network smart jacks without stp

Gary Bowers, Communications Cabling Concepts Inc.

problem

The service provider has installed a "smart jack" for a high-speed data circuit at the wrong location. The customer wants the job completed right away, and the service provider requires a 2-pair individually shielded cable to extend it. The biggest problem is shielded twisted-pair is not in your truck.

solution

Use two Category 5 cables instead of shielded cable. Use one pair from one cable for transmitting signals and another pair from a second cable for receiving signals.

procedure

1) Install two Category 5 cables from the demarcation point`s smart jack to the equipment room.

2) Terminate any one pair from each cable to an 8-pin modular jack at each end. Use pins 1 and 2 for one cable and pins 4 and 5 for the other. This method shields the pairs from one another. The remaining pairs from each cable can be trimmed at the jacket.

3) Use a Category 5 patch cord to connect the equipment smart jack to the new 8-pin modular jack at the demarcation point.

4) Use equipment cord to connect the digital service unit, channel service unit, or router to the new 8-pin modular jack in the equipment room.

Gary Bowers is a registered communications distribution designer (rcdd) and president of Communications Cabling Concepts Inc. (Strongsville, OH). This tip was submitted for the Cabling Installer Tips` Contest at Cabling Installation Expo `98, held last October in Atlanta.