Haydon Cat5e Patch Lead, Blue 2m, Pack of 5 HAY-RJ45BL2MCAT5

Overview

A patch lead is the short cable that makes the last connection in a network. It joins equipment to a wall outlet, or a patch panel to a network switch.

This Haydon lead comes ready-made with a plug at each end, so no crimping is needed. Buying a pack means the leads in a cabinet all match.

Where to use it

Two metres suits medium hops, such as a wall outlet to a device across a desk, or between equipment in a tall cabinet. Coil any slack neatly so it cannot be trodden on.

Longer room-to-room runs belong in fixed cable. If the job specifies a low smoke sheath, this PVC lead is not the one to use.

What the figures mean in practice

• 26 AWG: AWG is American Wire Gauge, a measure of conductor size. A higher number means a thinner conductor.
• 350 Mhz: this is a frequency figure, not a data speed.
• 568B: one of the two common colour orders for wiring a network plug. It matters when a lead is joined to something wired by hand.
• Snaggless boot: the moulded sleeve at the plug. It helps stop the plug catching when a lead is pulled through a bundle.

Installing it

• Handling: as a rule, avoid tight bends and do not pull on the cable to free the plug. Press the latch, then lift it out.
• Tidying: as a rule, leave a little slack so the plug is not under strain, and do not overtighten cable ties.

Planning your system

Count one lead for each connection at both ends of a fixed run. A typical link uses a lead from the patch panel to the network switch, and another from the wall outlet to the device.

Colour helps when a cabinet fills up. Many installers give each colour one job, such as cameras, phones or uplinks.