Stripping a LAN cable involves carefully removing the outer insulation to expose the internal wires for termination. Here's a breakdown of how to do it correctly, drawing from the provided reference:
Tools Needed
- Ring Slit Tool: This tool is specifically designed to safely score and remove the outer jacket of the cable without damaging the internal wires.
- Alternatively, Wire Strippers: If a ring slit tool is unavailable, you can use wire strippers with the correct gauge setting.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Prepare the Cable: Ensure the LAN cable is clean and free of any obstructions.
- Using a Ring Slit Tool:
- Open the ring slit tool.
- Place the cable inside the tool's opening.
- Close the tool around the cable.
- Rotate the tool several times around the cable. This will score the outer insulation.
- Carefully pull away the scored insulation. The insulation should come off easily, exposing the inner wires.
- Using Wire Strippers (Alternative):
- Set the wire strippers to the correct gauge for the outer jacket of the LAN cable.
- Place the cable within the strippers, and firmly squeeze the handles to cut around the insulation.
- Pull away the cut insulation to reveal the internal wires.
Important Considerations
- Be Gentle: Avoid cutting too deeply into the cable. You only want to cut through the outer jacket, not the internal wires.
- Proper Tool: Using the correct tool will prevent damaging the twisted pairs, ensuring optimal network performance.
- Gauge: Match the strippers to the right gauge to prevent damage to wires.
- Safety: Always handle tools with care and avoid working with live cables.
| Tool | Description | Use |
|---|---|---|
| Ring Slit Tool | Designed to score the outer insulation of a cable | Safely remove the outer jacket of a cable without damaging inner wires. |
| Wire Strippers | Tool designed to cut through cable jackets. | An alternative, but requires more care. |
By following these steps, you can strip a LAN cable effectively and safely.
