[gr8fl4porsche]

I make all my own cables, patch cords - everything in my home and work network. I use the B standard but have always heard it really doesn't matter - ends just have to match.

I found the 3 piece ends with the little slip on collar work well. I use a stripping tool and crimping tool from the Depot that works very well. For punching down into a phone jack I also use a cheap tool from HD that works great.


Just finished installing about 14 cat-6 ends last couple of weeks.

Best tip I found is to strip about 2.5 inches of casing as it makes the unwinding and straightening of the wires much easier. Get them in the right order and perfectly straight and flat and your connections will work great the first time.

Wish I could report that I never cut off a freshly installed end but we all make mistakes.