How to Terminate Cat5e / Cat6

Video on how to terminate Cat5e Wire

Step 1: Gather Tools

You will need a Crimper, Wire Stripper, Cat5e Connector, and a Cat5e Wire.

Crimper - I like the EZ-RJ45 tool from Platinum Tools.

Wire Stripper - I use Platinum Tool's Part #15015 Stripper.

Cat5e Connector - Again, I use a Platinum Tools connector. When used with the EZ-RJ45 Installation goes very smoothly (as you will see).

Step 2: Strip the Cat5e Wire

Normally you would need to strip off as little wire as possible.

With this system, you can strip off 3 inches and still be fine.

Once you have the wire in the stripper (notice how my wire extends well past the tool), twist the stripper around the wire about 20 times.

Step 3: Remove Cat5e Wire Shell

You now pull the stripper off the end of the wire.

Do not release the stripper, rather pull it off bringing the wire shell with the tool.

Step 4: Untwist the wires

Untwist the wire pairs. You want to arrange the wires in this order (from left to right):

White/Green, Green, White Orange, Blue, White Blue, Orange, White Brown, Brown

Step 5: Align the Wires

We now need to get the wires close enough together that they will fit into the connector.

Be sure the wires stay in the correct location.

Step 6: Cut the Wires

We now must cut the wires so the tips are even.

With the wires in the right order, use the crimper (the side with part number facing us) to cut the wires.

Step 7: Insert wires into connector

With the connector tab facing down, slide the wires into the connector.

The wires should go through the end of the connect and out the other side (as pictured).

Push the connector all the way down until the it covers the outer shell.

Step 8: Crimp & Cut

Insert the connector into the back of the tool in the "8P" port.

The wires will stick out the front of the tool (as pictured).

Squeeze the handles to crimp the connector and cut the excess wire.