Do's and Don'ts

CABLE INSTALLATION—DO'S AND DON'TS GUIDE

In order for unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cable (including Cat 5, Cat5e and Cat6) to deliver high-speed performance, it is manufactured to very tight specifications. In order to maintain UTP cabling system performance after manufacture, proper handling is essential. Damaging cable can greatly affect its ability to carry data at higher rates and once damaged, is not always readily 'fixable'. Many common occurrences, like over-stretching or over-bending, can permanently stretch the conductors or alter the insulation, thus affecting the transmission properties of the cable. For example, cable that has been kinked cannot just be straightened out and expected to provide the intended level of performance.Thus proper installation is one of the most important keys to cabling system performance. By heeding the following installation tips, and avoiding common handling mistakes, there is much greater assurance that the cabling system will perform as planned.

UNROLLNG CAT 5 CABLE DON'T allow the cable to kink, knot or snag while pulling it off the spool or out of the box, deforming the pair-twist will alter the performance of the cable. DO use a cable pulling accessory.

RUNNING & SUPPORTING CAT 5 CABLE DON'T overstress cables by overloading and DON'T allow the cable hook to rip or fray the cable support cables. DO use j-hooks or similar products designed to properly support cables.

RUNNING & SECURING CAT 5 CABLE   DON'T overstress cables by over-tightning cable ties,  especially to bundles to the point where crush-stress occurs. Do use velcro tie wraps to secure large cable bundles.

STAPLING CAT 5 CABLE   DON'T squish cables when securing DO staple by hand, or use staples DO use velcro to keep cables from them with depth stops. becoming over-cinched

REMOVING CAT5 CABLE JACKET DON'T remove too much cable jacket DO retain cable jacket as close to the termination point as possible

 

MAINTAINING PAIR TWISTS DURING TERMINATION OF CAT5 CABLE DON'T untwist the cable pairs more DO maintain pair twists to within 1/2 1/2 INCH GUIDE: The 110 termination deck than 1/2 inch and DON'T strip cable inch of the termination point, and the on Leviton jacks is 1/2" long, making it easy jacket back any more than you need. cable jacket is maintained as close to to assure compliance withe the TIA-568-A the terminations as possible. 1/2" maximum untwisting rule for Cat5 cable & less than 1/2" maximum for Cat5e and Cat6.