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 Computer Networking Example

Network Premise Cabling:

One the key components of any computer or communication network is the actual cable wiring that connects all of the computers together.

Today most office and home networks use network cabling called CAT 5 twisted-pair cabling. CAT 5 twisted-pair cabling is composed of 8 separate copper wires, twisted together into pairs, all wrapped together into a bundle. Perhaps a picture will make it more clear for you.

twisted-pair cabling

There are differing grades of CAT 5 cabling. CAT 5 is actually an abbreviation for the label "Category 5" which means wire or cabling made to meet a particular electrical standard specified by the IEEE people (Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers).

Differences in CAT 5 cabling relate to the gauge (thickness) of the wire, the materials used to wrap the wire and the number of twists per inch in each pair of wires.

CAT 5 cabling has standardized color coding to assist the installer in properly identifying and connecting the cable. The colors used in the pairs are as follows:

Orange/White - Orange, Green/White - Green, Blue/White - Blue, and Brown/White - Brown.

Depending what you are connecting up with the wire, there are industry standards for using the colored pairs.

There are two primary color standards used today in network cabling. They are T-568A and T-568B. They are similar in purpose and function, but they differ in color usage.

It is important that when you are wiring something you choose one or the other and stick with it to avoid confusion.

Currently the most popular standard being used for computer cabling is T-568B.

T-568A and T-568B Color Wiring Codes

Network cables from the wall to your computer can be made from either standard provided that both ends of the cable are wired the same.

Each end can be either a T-568A or a T-568B connection, but they must be the same.

If you have a cable which is wired T-568A on one end and T-568B on the end then you have what is commonly called a "crossover cable".

A crossover cable is useful for connecting two computers directly together without a switch or a hub device, but it will not work to connect your computer to a switch unless the switch is an auto-sensing, auto-correcting "smart switch" which can figure out that you are using a crossover cable.

Many people run their own network cabling at home and at the office. A high percentage of connection problems are due to improper or incorrect cable wiring.

We suggest that if you wish to wire your home or office that you first purchase a good instructional book and read it so that you can do the job corectly. Here is a link to a book which can get you started down the correct path:

If you should decide to have your building or your home professionally wired to minimize future network cabling problems we recommend that you call Grant County Communications and ask for John Abens, (509) 766-7185. John has been doing professional wiring for over twenty years and you can trust his skill at getting you properly connected.