Patch Cords

Patch cords make the connection from your computer to the horizontal cabling in the wall. Patch cords are one of the most important parts of a cabling infrastructure, yet they are often overlooked in the day to day use of the network.

cord cord

What NOT to do with your patch cords

Never pull your patch cord with more than 25 pounds of force
Never step on or otherwise crush, kink, or crimp the wire
Don't use plastic wire ties (use velcro's if needed)
Never use staples to secure a cable
Never run the wire parallel to power wiring nearer than 6" away
Never bend your cable tightly around a corner (min 2" bend radius)
Never tie up your cable like a rock climbing rope

Buying a Cord

When it comes to patch cords, you ALWAYS want to buy cords from a reputable manufacturer. No mater how good you are crimping UTP cable, you can rarely beat a machine. It's almost impossible to crimp your own CAT 5e cable (since most components, such as RJ-45 ends are not certified to the CAT 5e spec). In the long run, you are better off buying pre-terminated cords from reputable manufacturers such as the following:

Appropriate Lengths: 5, 7, 10 and 15 foot cables

It's not a good idea to buy cables longer than 25' because you run the risk of going over the 100 meter limit for CAT 5/5e (your horizontal cable could already be near the limit depending on how far away you are from the closest TR).