Chapter 15 - Installing a network. Chapter summary: External unshielded twisted pair (UTP) cable installations use prefabricated cables to connect computers directly to hubs; internal cable installations use bulk cable, which you pull through walls, ceilings, or floors; to connect two computers without a hub, you must use a crossover cable connection, which reverses the transmit and receive signals;. | Chapter Overview Pulling Cable Making Connections External Installations An external installation is one in which you use prefabricated unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cables and run them from each computer to the hub. You do not have to run cables through walls or ceilings, attach connectors to bulk cable, or purchase additional hardware. Advantage: external installations are portable; you can coil up the cables and take them with you if you have to move the network. Disadvantages: Cables are often visible. Obstacles between the pieces of network equipment can make running the cable difficult. External Installation Procedure 1. Select the locations for the computers and hub. 2. Plan the exact route for each cable from the computer to the hub. 3. Measure the entire path of each cable route from the computer to the hub. 4. Buy prefabricated cables of the appropriate lengths. 5. Lay out the cable loosely for each cable run without connecting or securing them. 6. Starting at one . | Chapter Overview Pulling Cable Making Connections External Installations An external installation is one in which you use prefabricated unshielded twisted-pair (UTP) cables and run them from each computer to the hub. You do not have to run cables through walls or ceilings, attach connectors to bulk cable, or purchase additional hardware. Advantage: external installations are portable; you can coil up the cables and take them with you if you have to move the network. Disadvantages: Cables are often visible. Obstacles between the pieces of network equipment can make running the cable difficult. External Installation Procedure 1. Select the locations for the computers and hub. 2. Plan the exact route for each cable from the computer to the hub. 3. Measure the entire path of each cable route from the computer to the hub. 4. Buy prefabricated cables of the appropriate lengths. 5. Lay out the cable loosely for each cable run without connecting or securing them. 6. Starting at one end of each cable run, secure the cable to the walls, floor, or woodwork, working your way to the other end. 7. When the cables are secured, plug one end of each cable run into the hub and the other end into the computer or other device. Running Cables Next to Walls Running Cables Across Floors Individual Staples Cable Stapler Stapling Cables Stapling cables is the simplest and usually the least expensive solution. Do not use the standard square staples used in most staple guns; they can crush the cable and damage the wires. You can use individual staples or a cable holder. Individual staples have a cap at the top that simplifies the task of hammering it into the wall. A cable holder consists of a semicircular plastic sleeve with a wire brad through it. You can also use a staple gun designed specifically for cable installations that shoots round-headed staples and has an adjustable depth setting. Staples should be secured well in the wall but should allow the cable to
